More on Covid-19

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday invoked "seven vows" that he asked people to take in their battle against coronavirus and the call came along with him announcing an extension of the nationwide lockdown till May 3. He concluded with the ‘ Saptapadi ', the seven principles, that should guide people in dealing with the impact of Covid-19 pandemic.The PM first referred to care of senior citizens and elderly at home, especially those with pre-existing ailments. He also advocated a stringent practice of lockdown and social distancing norms, while also emphasising the need to use home-made masks to protect oneself. He began his address with a cotton muffler around his face which he then removed.Modi said people across the country should boost their immunity through guidelines issued by the AYUSH ministry, which include drinking warm water throughout the day, practising Yoga, Pranayama and meditation for 30 minutes daily, and using spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander and garlic in cooking.The AYUSH ministry’s immunity boosting measures advise people to consume Chyavanprash, drink herbal teas and decoctions made out of basil, cinnamon, black pepper, dry ginger and raisins, apart from consuming turmeric-infused milk and following Ayurvedic procedures like application of coconut or sesame oil to the nose, and inhaling steam to rid oneself of dry cough.In his Tuesday message to the nation, the PM also urged more people to download the Aarogya Setu App to assist the government in tracing contacts of those who have tested positive for coronavirus, and said every person should assist the poor and needy families by providing them with food and shelter.Modi also said despite the difficulties faced by them, industries should be compassionate towards their colleagues and avoid job cuts and pay cuts at this time. The last of the seven vows, Modi said, should be for every Indian to show respect to corona warriors including doctors, healthcare workers, sanitation workers and police personnel, among others. Watch Covid-19 lockdown extended: PM Narendra Modi wants your support on these 7 things