Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said that concern about the health of the people shall take precedence over stabilization of economy.
In his assessment of the completion of two weeks of lock down and the way forward, Mr. Naidu said, the next week will be critical for deciding the exit from the present nation-wide restrictions. He said, the data regarding the extent and rate of spread of virus infection will have a bearing on exit strategy.
Referring to the consultations between the Prime Minister and Chief Ministers on the exit strategy, Mr. Naidu urged the people to abide by the decisions and co-operate with the same spirit that has so far been demonstrated even if hardship were to continue after 14th April. He said
that government will ensure smooth functioning of supply chains and adequate relief and support for the vulnerable sections.
Recalling the overwhelming response of the people to the various appeals of the Prime Minister, Mr. Naidu said, it is an indication of the virtue of spirituality that forms the core of Indian ethos. He said, people of the country have demonstrated this core value in abundance.
Alluding to the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in the national capital, Mr Naidu said, it was an avoidable aberration and an eye opener to others. The Vice President urged the global community to draw right lessons from the present crisis by addressing the inadequacies.