Dynamic strategy needed to tackle mutating virus: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has underlined the need to adopt a “dynamic, innovative” strategy to beat the ever mutating Sars-Cov-2 virus. In his second interaction with state and district officials on Thursday, he said specific tactics suited to rural environment should be put in place to curb Covid-19 spread to the hinterland.

Addressing a video conference with district magistrates and state officials from West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Kerala, Odisha and Puducherry on Thursday, Modi said there was no space for complacency though the number of Covid-19 cases has declined in several places. “Every epidemic has taught us the importance of continuous innovation and change in our ways of dealing with epidemics,” he said.

He said strategy will require constant upgradation as the virus mutates. Modi said as the virus mutates it was likely to attack the youth and children and stressed on making the vaccination drive more robust. Modi reiterated that DMs should feel free to innovate and adopt solutions suited to their local needs and challenges in dealing with the pandemic.


As the virus spreads to villages, a more rural specific strategy will have to be followed. Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities will require a tailor-made approach. Even in places where cases are declining, Covid-19 appropriate behaviour should be the norm. He said the experience of the last one-and-a-half years has taught us not to let one’s guard down.

DMs shared their experiences in dealing with Covid-19. This included harnessing technology for real-time monitoring and capacity building. A DM of 24 North Parganas was scheduled to speak during the meeting, but West Bengal chief minister got it cancelled, central government sources said.

Modi said states were informed about vaccine availability a fortnight in advance for planning. He underlined the importance of checking wastage, saying each dose wasted meant depriving one of much-need protection. DMs have a significant impact on the people as they look up to them for support and security.