For a country so vast and diverse with high population density, meeting the challenge of COVID-19 required super-human efforts, said President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday. Addressing the nation on the eve of the 74th Independence Day, Kovind, however, added that India has succeeded in containing the magnitude of the pandemic and saving a large number of lives.
Observing that the COVID-19 has altered the world we lived in before the pandemic, the president noted that the government, while anticipating the tremendous challenge, responded effectively and well in time.
“All state governments took measures in accordance with local circumstances. People also supported whole-heartedly. With our committed efforts, we have succeeded in containing the magnitude of the pandemic and saving a large number of lives. This is worth emulating by the wider world,” he said.
Read: Full text of President Kovind's address to nation on eve of I-Day
Kovind said the nation is indebted to doctors, nurses and other health workers who have been continuously on the forefront of our fight against this virus.
“Unfortunately, many of them have lost their lives battling the pandemic. They are our national heroes. All corona warriors deserve high praise. They go much beyond their call of duty to save lives and ensure essential services,” the president said.
He said the frontline workers have been scripting inspiring stories of courage and selfless service.
“When cities and towns go quiet and roads are deserted, they work tirelessly to ensure that people are not deprived of health care and relief, water and electricity, transport and communication facilities, milk and vegetables, food and groceries, medicine and other essentials. They risk their own lives to save our life and livelihood,” Kovind said.
The president in his speech also touched upon the Cyclone Amphan which hit West Bengal and Odisha and the flood situation in northeast states.
“Amid such onslaughts of disasters, it is gratifying to see all sections of society coming together to help those in distress,” he added.
