Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address to the nation five days prior to the end of the third nationwide lockdown, expressed condolences to the families of the people who died of Corona virus. Reiterating the need to become self-reliant despite the devastating virus. He urged country men to turn adversity into opportunity and reminded people of the existing narrative of 21^st Century as India’s Century.

Instead of getting bogged down by the health crisis, he appealed that India must make best out of this health emergency. Apprising the countrymen of India’s success story of manufacturing 2 lakh PPE per day from zero, he stressed the need to become self-reliant. The Concept of “Vasudaivakutumbakam” (world is one family) has been integral to India’s world view. Hence, India’s attempts to achieve self-sufficiency will eventually bode well for the prosperity of the World at large. India’s generous gifts of International Solar Alliance, Yoga are well received by the World. The World believes that India can contribute towards the welfare of humanity.

Indians have always displayed tremendous grit and determination to overcome hurdles. Rebuilding the Kutch region after the devastating 2001 earthquake stands as a tall example to India’s resilience. Inspiring Indians to build a strong economy, he launched the 'Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan' or 'self-reliant India campaign'. He announced an economic stimulus package worth Rs 20 lakh crore (approximately 10% of country's GDP) to kick start and rejuvenate the economy reeling under the onslaught of the Corona pandemic. This special stimulus package is aimed at offering immediate support, relief and assistance to MSMEs, labourers, farmers, middle class and cottage industries. Finer details of package will be announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in coming days.

Prime Minister enunciated about the five pillars of the ambitious 'Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan'-Economy, Infrastructure, technologically driven System, Demography and Demand. He lauded the endeavors of the local suppliers who met the demands during the global health emergency. He urged citizens to empower local manufacturers, markets and supply chain as a whole and be 'vocal about local'.

Given the unabated viral spread, the virus is here to stay and the country must learn to live with it. He indicated that nation must exercise caution and that the fourth phase of lockdown will be different from the previous phases and the details will be made public before May 18^th.