Daily Times

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked citizens Thursday to show patience and observe a self-imposed “public curfew” Sunday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

In a 30-minute address, broadcast nationwide at 8pm, he asked citizens to draw upon their resolve and urged their restraint in these testing times. Modi assured there was no need to panic as the country had the resources and will to combat Covid-19.

The address was an attempt to curb an atmosphere of fear about the coronavirus outbreak that has affected 173 people, including four deaths in India.

Modi requested Indians not to panic and hoard groceries as he said the government will ensure daily essentials are available to all. He asked consumers to stop panic buying.

Modi further appealed to citizens to show gratitude towards delivery workers, doctors, nurses, medical staff, and other individuals who cannot afford to stay indoors in these circumstances. “On March 22, at 5pm on our doors, balconies or wherever, for five minutes, we should express our gratitude for these workers by clapping, or by ringing a bell,” he said. “I request the local administration to blow a siren to inform everyone about this in their respective areas.”

Appealing to traders to look after the welfare of their staff, he asked them to not cut wages. He assured the nation that India has enough stock of essential goods and medicines and requested citizens not to hoard provisions out of panic.