New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked high focus states to assess if such steps are hindering restoration of economic activities while proving to be of little use. He indicated his skepticism over local lockdowns imposed for a day or two incombating Covid-19.

In his interaction with chief ministers and health ministers from seven high burden states on Wednesday, he strongly highlighted the crucial role of masks incombating Covid-19, saying it may be difficult to make this a habit but positive outcomes cannot be achieved without adopting the protective measure in daily lives.

Urging states to weigh the impact local lockdowns, Modi stressed the need to focus on “Micro Containment Zones” to curb Covid-19 spread and allow usual activities to go on. With arbitrary local lockdowns in July and August seen to hurt economy, the center had directed states to avoid such steps unless MHA cleared it.

Modi interacted with Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Delhi and Punjab states chief ministers that account for more than 63% of active cases in the country. These states also account for 65.5 % of cumulative cases and 77% of total deaths, a government statement had said earlier. There are more than 700 districts in the country but only 60 districts in seven states are a cause of worry, said PM.

I suggest CMs hold virtual conference with people at district or block level for seven days, said Modi. W’ve to learn from the best practices from across states said PM during the meeting. Modi stressed the need to enhance focus on effective testing, tracing, treatment, surveillance and clear messaging. Effective messaging is also necessary because most Covid-19 infections are asymptomatic.

In such a situation, rumor may rise. It might raise doubts in the minds of the people that testing is bad. Some people also make the mistake of under estimating the severity of infection, Modi added.