Covid-19: Can feel your pain and suffering, PM Modi tells people in online address

"Due to the coronavirus, we have suffered the loss of people close to us. The pain that people have been through, that many felt, I am feeling it equally," PM Modi said in an online address after releasing the 8th instalment of financial benefit under PM-KISAN.

"As your Pradhan Sevak, I share your every sentiment."

The country is facing an invisible enemy that is changing itself rapidly, he said of the virus that has created multiple mutant strains including the double mutant variant that has pushed India's deadly second wave, he said.

The Prime Minister said that this once in a century pandemic is challenging the world, as it is an invisible enemy in front of us.

"The hinderances in our resources are being eliminated on a war-footing," PM Modi said.

PM Modi remarked that Central and all the state governments together, are making continuous efforts to enable more and more countrymen to get vaccinated at a rapid pace.

"So far, around 18 crore vaccine doses have been given across the country. Free vaccination is being done in government hospitals across the country," he said.

The Prime Minister urged everyone to register for the vaccine when their turn comes  and ensure Covid appropriate behaviour at all times.

He added that this vaccine is an important means of protection against corona and will reduce the risk of serious illness.

Prime Minister said Armed forces are working with full strength to ensure oxygen supply in these tough times. Railways are also running oxygen express trains.

The pharma sector of the country is manufacturing and delivering medicines at a large scale and he requested the state governments to ensure strict laws to counter black marketing of medicines and medical supplies.

"India is not a nation that loses hope in tough times and hoped that this challenge would be overcome with strength and dedication," he stated.

The Prime Minister warned about the spread of COVID-19 in rural areas as well and urged the village panchayats to ensure proper awareness and sanitation in their respective areas.