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Covid-19: PM Modi interacts with print media heads via video conferencing

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday praised the print media for its role in spreading awareness to every nook and cranny of the country. Modi acknowledged the reach of print media and said its pan-India reach made it all the more important in fighting the coronavirus pandemic and disseminating the right information , even at the micro level.In a video interaction with publishers and editors of leading dailies from across the country, Modi said print media carried tremendous credibility. Observing that the local pages were widely read, he said they could be a useful platform for spreading awareness about the coronavirus. He said it was essential to inform people about the location of testing centres, who should get tested, who should be contacted for getting tested, and about home isolation protocols.This in formation should be shared in newspapers and web portals of the paper, Modi said. The PM also suggested that information about say, the availability of essential items during lockdown could be shared in the regional pages. With secretaries of the health and I&B ministry in attendance, Modi asked the media to act as a link between government and the people, and to provide continuous feedback at both national and regional levels. Underlining the importance of social distancing, Modi asked media to generate awareness about its need and highlight the impact of the spread of the virus.Modi emphasised the need to avoid negativity and rumour-mongering, and keep people’s fighting spirits up. Representatives of the print media appreciated the PM’s efforts and thanked him for reinforcing the credibility of newspapers.