‘Life-&-death’ matter, apology to countrymen: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the first Mann ki Baat amid the 21-day-long COVID-19 lockdown, on Sunday, March 29.

"Today,there is only one issue that is gripping the world. I apologise to thecountrymen and my conscience says you will forgive me.

When I look at the poor people, they must be thinking what kind of the Prime Minister is this who has put you through this hardship. Some of you may be unhappy with the lockdown.

Therewas only this option. It is a battle for life and death.

Ourscriptures say diseases must be controlled before they go out of check.Coronavirus has imprisoned everyone.

Itis challenging everyone and everything.

Ourscriptures say our good health is our great fortune. Those who are breakingrules are playing with their life.

Wehave to take inspiration from our frontline soldiers, our nurses and doctorswho are battling this coronavirus."

ThePM speaks to Mr. Ram, an IT professional from Hyderabad, who recently recoveredfrom COVID-19. Mr. Ram narrates his experience after contracting COVID-19 onhis return from Dubai.

Next,he speaks to Ashok Kapur (73). "My sons, who have a shoes business, hadgone to Italy. And there they got COVID-19. My son in law, who had gone too,tested positive at Ram Monahar Lohia hospital. Then we were advised test andall of us, six of our family members, tested positive. We were transferred toSafdarjung hospital. We are thankful to the doctors, nurses and staff,"says Mr. Kapur.

PMModi asks Mr. Kapur to create awareness, and if possible, feed those who arehungry. He also urges him to popularise their experience on social media.

ThePM now speaks to doctors, who are the first line of attack against COVID-19.

Dr.Nitish Gupta says: "Just as the Army fights on the borders, we are alsofighting. We have to inspire people that they will be well in 14 days and willgo home. People get worried by seeing the figures of expired people abroad."

Mr.Modi says: "This is the year for the nurses. I salute them for their senseof dedication."

ThePM also thanks the heroes in our daily lives — those who ensure water supply orelectricity, the neighborhood grocers, or the delivery boys of the e-commerceplatforms.

"Maintainsocial distancing but increase social interaction," he says whilediscussing the issue of instances of ill treatment  of those who are in quarantine. "Don'tgo outside and but use this opportunity to look within yourself," he says.

The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented situation and that's why some of the decisions are also unprecedented, he says. "This is an opportunity to display your humanity. Think of feeding the poor. Our culture advocates this and I am sure we can do this. Next time we when meet again over Mann Ki Baat, I hope we will be able to get over the challenges we face now. Thank you," says Mr. Modi as he concludes his address.