Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 12th May went on television for the fourth time in recent months; to talk about the novel coronavirus pandemic. PM Modi’s address to the nation came a day after a six-hour meeting with Chief Ministers. He also hinted in yesterday’s meeting that the lockdown would continue. However, with fewer restrictions. Modi further emphasised that India needs to achieve “self-reliance” and announced a Rs 20 lakh crore economic package.
The Special Economic Package of 20 Lakh Crore is 10 per cent of India’s GDP. The special economic package is for the labourers, farmers, honest taxpayers, MSMEs and cottage industry to help them battle the economic crisis that has followed the nationwide lockdown. Modi further said that rules about an extended nationwide lockdown would be announced well before May 18; when the current phase of restrictions ends.
PM Modi concluded his address by saying, In our culture, it is said what is in our control, is happiness. Self-reliance leads to happiness, satisfaction and empowerment. Our responsibility to make the 21st century, the century of India, will be fulfilled by the pledge of self-reliant India. The PM claimed that this responsibility will only get energy from the life force of 130 crore citizens.
The PM said, “When ethics are filled with duty, the culmination of diligence, the capital of skills, then who can stop India from becoming self-reliant? We can make India a self-reliant nation. We will make India self-reliant. With this resolve, with this belief, I wish you the very best.” The PM added that the era of self-reliant India will be a new vow for every Indian as well as a new festival. That we have to move forward with a new resolve and determination.
