Coronavirus | Death Count Mounts To 56 In India, Number Of Cases Increases To 2,301: Health Ministry

The Union health ministry on Friday said there are 2,301 cases so far, and 56 people have died till date. As many as 336 cases have been reported in last 24 hours. Several states are still identifying and tracing people linked to a religious event held at the Nizamuddin Markaz in Delhi last month. Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation through a video message where he urged the countrymen to switch off all the lights of their house on 5th April at 9 PM for 9 minutes, and just light a candle, 'diya', or mobile's flashlight, to mark the fight against coronavirus pandemic.

However, this time, he requested people not to come out from their house and maintain social distancing. "We have to move towards the light from the darkness created by coronavirus. No force stronger than our spirit and enthusiasm," the prime minister said, adding that social distancing is essential on April 5.

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In his 11-minute addressed, PM Modi thanked the peoeple for adhering to the lockdown rules and said that unity shown by the nation to fight the pandemic is exemplary. "The lockdown has completed nine days today. During this time, the way you have followed the guidelines is exemplary. The way you thanked the health workers on March 22 during Janata curfew has become an example worldwide. Many are following this across the globe," the prime minister said.

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PM Modi also said, amid the nationwide lockdown to fight coronavirus, no one should feel alone, the massive collective power of 130 crore people was with everyone. "We are not alone during lockdown, the collective strength of 130 crore Indians is with every citizen," PM Modi said.