coronavirus.

Here are highlights of what PM Modi said:

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Full speech: PM Narendra Modi addresses nation on coronavirus outbreak

NEW DELHI: In wake of the coronavirus epidemic, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation to assure the citizens on the steps being taken by the government to battle the disease. The PM made a fervent appeal to all Indians to stay indoors as much as possible to avoid getting infected by* The whole world is going through a very serious phase of crisis at this time. Generally, whenever a natural crisis hits, it is limited to a few countries or states. But this time this crisis is such that it has put the entire human race in danger around the world.* The whole world is collectively facing this dilemma; even during World War 1 and 2, this many countries weren't affected. coronavirus and no vaccine has been developed yet. In such a situation, it is natural to worry.* In the past two months, 130 crore Indians fought this pandemic together but we must not feel that we are safe from this pandemic and get complacent.* You should not lower your guards vis a vis coronavirus. All Indians should be alert.* Some countries have managed well by isolating their citizens. These citizens have played a big role in containing the spread. We are keeping a close eye on the track record of these nations.* For a developing country like India with a huge population, coronavirus poses an even a bigger challenge. Believing that India won't be affected by this pandemic is wrong.* Resolution and restraint are very important to combat this global epidemic. As citizens, people need to strengthen their resolve to follow the advisories issued by the state and central government to fight coronavirus.* Restrain is compulsory to protect ourselves and remain healthy. I request you that for the coming weeks, people should go out of their homes only if it is essential. We all must isolate ourselves.* On March 22, from 7am to 9pm, all countrymen will have to follow 'Janta Curfew'. During this period, no one should go out of their homes. Only those who are involved in providing essential services can go out.* March 22 will be a test of our efforts to protect our nation from the virus. This Janta Curfew will also show the world how ready we are to tackle this virus.* If possible, please call at least 10 people every day and tell them about the 'Janta Curfew' as well as the measures to prevent coronavirus.* At tough times such as these, ensure that our essential services, our hospitals do not get unnecessarily pressured. I request all to avoid going to hospitals for routine checkups.* If you have taken a date for elective surgery, please try to postpone it if it is not urgent.* This virus is also impacting our economy. Under finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the government has decided to form a Covid-19 economic recovery task force. The task force will listen to all stakeholders and states to take steps to minimise the impact of Covid-19 on the economy.* We have also taken measures to ensure that the supply of essential commodities like milk, medicine and food won't be impacted. Hence, I urge all not to hoard these commodities and avoid panic buying.* We must dedicate all our efforts to save ourselves from this contagion. Everybody must play their role in safeguarding themselves and the people.* Humanity must win. India must win.Earlier in the meeting, the Prime Minister emphasised on actively engaging with individuals, local communities and organisations in chalking out mechanisms to fight the pandemic. He also urged officials and technical experts to deliberate on the steps to be taken next.The Prime Minister has been regularly taking to social media, urging people to prepare themselves but not panic. He has supported the idea of avoiding non-essential travel and limiting gatherings to check the spread of the virus.The total number of coronavirus cases rose to 173 in the country on Thursday.