Lockdown must be the last resort, says Modi as India grapples with Covid-19

Modi asks migrants to stay where they are, tells states to instil confidence

As the country grapples with a worrying second wave of coronavirus infections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to states that lockdowns should be the last option. In a hurriedly called address to the nation late Tuesday evening, the PM said economic activity and livelihood must remain least impacted. His call for patience during the crisis period came in the backdrop of several states rushing to announce curfews and severe restrictions in different ways.    

“We have to save the country from lockdown...States should focus on micro-containment zones,” Modi said.

The PM asked state governments to urge migrant workers to stay