India has declared a total lockdown for its 1.3 billion residents, in an effort to combat the spread of the deadly coronavirus. The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, announced the strict measures during a live televised address, stating that the lockdown would be enforced for 21 days and apply to all 36 states and territories of India.
The Prime Minister emphasized the necessity of the measures to protect the vast population from the virus, citing the experiences of other countries and the advice of experts. He highlighted the importance of social distancing and staying confined to homes as the only effective way to combat the virus.
Under the lockdown, only essential services such as water, electricity, health services, and groceries will remain operational, while all other commercial establishments, factories, offices, and places of worship will be closed. The country currently has 519 confirmed cases of coronavirus, with 10 reported deaths and 39 patients who have recovered.
The nationwide lockdown aims to combat the spread of the virus and protect the citizens of India during this critical time.