India goes on Complete LOCKDOWN to fight COVID-19; allocates Rs 15,000 crores

On March 24, 2020, PM Modi announced that Government of India has allocated Rs 15,000 crores to fight against Corona Virus. The Fund is to be used to increase health infrastructure in the country. This includes testing kits, beds and training professionals to combat the disease.

Highlights

The allocated funds are also to be used in procurement of personal protective equipment for health care workers. The Prime Minister has also announced complete lock down of the country for 21 days.

What are excluded in the Lock Down?

The Union Home Ministry has listed the commercial establishments that will continue to operate during the lock down. It includes power generation units, petrol pumps, cold storage units, private security agencies, food, medical equipment and pharmaceuticals.

Recent GoI Measures

The GoI has taken several measures to contain the spread of the virus. It had invoked the Disaster Management Act, 2005. The COVID-19 was listed as “notified Disaster”. Also, the Epidemics Diseases Act, 1897 was invoked. Ban on exports of sanitizers, face masks were imposed.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2020