PM Modi urges people for switching off lights for 9 minutes at 2100 hrs IST on April 5

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to the 130 crore  Indian nation to switch off their lights at home and light candles, diyas or display mobile phone torches for nine minutes at 9 pm   IST on Sunday, April 5, to demonstrate the country’s “collective resolve” to defeat COVID -19 has received overwhelming support notwithstanding cynics mocking the initiative. Recalling the overenthusiastic response to his earlier appeal to people to show their appreciation for doctors, health workers and other essential services’ personnel by clapping, clanging plates and blowing conches during the March 22 “Janata Curfew”, PM Modi asked people in his 11-minute video message to maintain the “Lakshman Rekha” of social distancing by staying indoors and not gather in groups, and to light the candles or lamps only from their balconies or doorsteps. The PM told the nation that many people must feel alone over being at home during the lockdown, but they must realise the collective strength of 130 crore Indians was with each one of them. Once people everywhere light lamps or display mobile phone flashlights at their doorsteps or balconies, they will realise “we are all fighting with a collective resolve. we are not alone”. In his message to the nation Modi, who is being praised by several overseas leaders, said the move is intended to send out a message that no Indian is fighting singlehandedly the dreaded Novel Coronavirus. The entire nation is involved in the war on the virus.  “I have one more prayer to all of you, nobody has to gather at any place during this event. Everyone will light a Diya only at their doors, windows or balconies. The Laxman Rekha of social distancing must be followed,” Modi sins off.