Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the 76th episode of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat' and stated that the Centre is "fighting with all its might to support states in the fight against coronavirus".
Speaking on the backdrop of the oxygen crisis in Delhi, Modi said that the government of India is dedicated to taking forward the efforts of the state governments to tackle the current coronavirus situation.
"After successfully tackling the first wave of COVID19, the country's morale was high but this storm has shaken the country. To tackle this wave of COVID, I have held meetings with experts from many fields like the pharma industry, oxygen production, etc,” Modi said.
The prime minister further added, "I'm speaking to you at a time when COVID-19 is testing our patience and capacity to bear the pain. Many of our loved ones left us untimely.”
"After successfully tackling the 1st wave, the nation's morale was high, it was confident but this storm (2nd wave) has shaken the nation," stated PM Modi.
Appealing to the citizens of India, Modi urged people to seek information on coronavirus and vaccines from reliable sources only. He said, "I am seeing many doctors have taken to social media to share information on COVID19 and are also offering consultations.”
"The government of India is dedicated to taking forward the efforts of the state governments to tackle the current COVID-19 situation," PM Modi said.
"I urge people to not fall prey to any rumour about the vaccine. You all must be aware that the Govt of India has sent free vaccines to all state governments. All people above 45 years of age can benefit from this. From May 1st, vaccines will be available for every person above 18 years of age," the prime minister said through Mann Ki Baat.
Modi said, "Country's corporate sector can also participate in the vaccine drive by getting their employees vaccinated. Govt of India's free vaccination program will continue in the future too. I request states to ensure benefits of this free vaccination program reach as many people as possible.”
On his previous Mann Ki Baat address, the Prime Minister lauded corona-warriors and the discipline of the people during last year's Janata curfew. He also talked about 'Amrit Mahotsav' and said that it will promote the country to newer heights and instil a passion to do something for the country.
"Mann ki Baat" is the Prime Minister's monthly radio address to the nation, which is broadcast on the last Sunday of every month.
Meanwhile, the national capital is crippling with a shortage of oxygen killing many people. The Delhi government has claimed that oxygen tankers are being stopped at the source or on the way to Delhi by the neighbouring states.
Also Read: India logs 3.49lakh Covid cases in last 24hrs amid continued oxygen shortage
On the other hand, the opposition has been demanding "one vaccine one price".
Taking a jibe at the prime minister, Congress's Raul Gandhi tweeted "System' failed, so it's important to do Jan ki Baat: In this crisis, the country needs responsible citizens. I request my Congress colleagues to leave all political work- just provide all help and ease the pain of our countrymen. This is the Dharma of the Congress family".