Adopt ‘Jan Bhagidari’ approach to counter spread of coronavirus: PMO

NEW DELHI: The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has directed for further enhancing the effectiveness of the steps taken to counter the spread of Covid-19 by adopting a pan-government approach in partnership with the states, participation of communities and local bodies through a Jan Bhagidari approach and exploring greater involvement of private sector.

At an inter-ministerial review meeting chaired on Wednesday by PK Mishra, principal secretary to the Prime Minister, to review preparedness and response on the Covid-19 crisis, it was also decided to expand testing facilities and developing a GIS data-base for mapping disease hotspots and available medical facilities, the PMO said in a statement. The PMO has been constantly reviewing the situation through review meetings, which started on January 25. “The pro-active measures taken so far which have contained spread of the virus in India, despite a big population and geographical proximity to the epicentre of the disease, were appreciated by all,” the PMO statement said after the meeting.

PM Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that he has decided not to participate in any Holi Milan programme as experts across the world have advised to reduce mass gatherings to avoid the spread of Covid-19. The government is following suit. “In light of the public health experts’ recommendation to avoid big public gatherings, it was decided that all government departments and ministries shall consult Ministry of Health before organising conferences and international meetings in the country at present,” the PMO said after Wednesday’s review.