Second Covid-19 wave testing India's 'capacity to bear pain': Modi

India on Sunday reported 349,691 new coronavirus infections, taking the total to 16,960,172.

A second wave of Covid-19 infections is testing Indians' "patience and capacity to bear pain", said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday when the country recorded a record number of fresh infections for the fourth consecutive day.

"Many of our near and dear ones have left us untimely. After successfully confronting the first wave of Corona, the country was full of enthusiasm, full of self-confidence, but this storm has shaken the country,” said Modi on 'Mann Ki Baat', his monthly radio programme.

India this morning reported 349,691 new coronavirus infections, taking the total to 16,960,172. The country had 2,767 deaths--the highest single-day spike—and taking total casualties to 1,92,311..

"I'm speaking to you at a time when Covid-19 is testing our patience and capacity to bear pain,” ANI quoted Modi as saying.

Two doctors and two nurses invited to speak on Modi’s programme urged people to take Covid-19 vaccines and not heed rumours. "At this time, to win this battle, priority must be given to experts and scientific advice. The Government of India is fully engaged in taking forward the efforts of the state governments. The state governments are also trying their best to fulfill their responsibilities,” said Modi.

As India reports the biggest surge of Covid-19 cases globally, Bloomberg reports that the bullish view about the country’s economic recovery is looking increasingly in doubt. Narendra has shunned a nationwide lockdown and encouraging states to keep their economies open. 

“This second wave of virus cases may delay the recovery, but it is unlikely in Fitch’s view to derail it,” the ratings company said in an April 22 statement. It stuck to its 12.8% GDP growth forecast for the 12 months through March 2022.

The Reserve Bank of India this month also retained its growth estimate of 10.5% for the current fiscal year. But Governor Shaktikanta Das said the surge in infections impart greater uncertainty and could delay economic activity from returning to normalcy.

"Today, our biggest priority is to defeat this disease. I once again urge all of you to get vaccinated and to take full care," said Modi on Sunday.