Watch: People across India observe Janta Curfew; clap, bang thalis to appreciate corona warriors

After the novel coronavirus or Covid-19 claimed four lives in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed Janata Curfew, urging citizens across India to stay indoors till 9 pm on Sunday, March 22. The 14-hour long curfew is observed today to limit the fast-spreading coronavirus pandemic in the country, where more than 300 people have so far been found to have contracted the deadly virus.

In an address to the nation last week, PM Modi asked everyone to stay indoors from 0130 GMT to 1530 GMT - a move that he said would be a crucial test for a nation to assess its abilities to fight Covid-19. Taking to Twitter earlier, PM Modi said, "Let us all be a part of this curfew, which will add tremendous strength to the fight against the COVID-19 menace." "The steps we take now will help in the times to come," read Modi's tweet.

Follow the LIVE BLOG of ibtimes.co.in to get the latest updates on the Janta Curfew.

People come out on their terraces and balconies to clap, clang utensils and ring bells to express their gratitude to those providing essential services in Uttarakhand amid coronavirus pandemic. 

To curb the spread of coronavirus, PM Modi has called for a 'Janta curfew', or a self-imposed lock down on Sunday. To this, senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has urged for an immediate lockdown.

"Italy reported 793 #COVID19 deaths yesterday, the most in one day. W/more than 53,000 recorded infections &nearly 5,000 dead (more deaths than China), Italy's mistakes have underlined the importance of early, strict isolation measures. One #JanataCurfew isn't enough. #LockdownNow," tweeted the Congress leader.

Indian Railways cancels all passenger trains till March 31 in the wake of coronavirus pandemic.

Streets of Jaipur city remain empty as citizens observe Janta Curfew in their fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

BBMP Mayor Goutham Kumar shared pictures of how Bengalureans responded to PM Modi's appeal for the Janata Curfew.

Bollywood actor Aamir Khan asked people to stay at home and keep themselves and others safe while doing so. He tweeted, "Lets all do ourselves a favour by staying at home tomorrow - Janta Curfew Day - and until such time as things settle down. Lets pray for the safety of all those working day and night to keep the rest of us safe. Love. a. (sic)."

Lauding PM Narendra Modi's speech, Deepika Padukone said, "A mature and comforting address by our Honourable Prime Minister! @narendramodi. I pledge to support the #JantaCurfew on Sunday #22ndMarch 7AM-9PM and also join in acknowledging the selfless and untiring efforts of our nation's medical fraternity at 5PM! (sic.)"

"Guys im all ready for the janta curfew initiated by our honourable PM @narendramodi ji...pls follow it guys....STAY HOME from 7am to 9pm trrw...and i will be in my balcony at 5pm to clap for the people giving their best to fight the situation for us...lets all be together and fight corona virus", says Maniesh Paul.

Mumbai's Juhu Beach wears a deserted look as people observe Janta Curfew amid rising coronavirus cases in India.

The special Air India flight carrying 263 Indian students that took off from Rome in Italy has landed at Delhi airport today morning as the Covid-19 cases continue to surge globally.

Indian Embassy in Italy tweeted: "263 Indian students and compassionate cases departed for India by special Air India flight from Rome fulfilling our commitment to ensure their safe return home. Sincere folded hands to Air India and Italian authorities."

Janta Curfew underway in Chennai as coronavirus cases rises to 315.

The Majestic bus station in Bengaluru stood empty today morning as people observe Janta Curfew to fight the coronavirus pandemic.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation is taking some rest and social distancing themselves on Janata Curfew. "We're taking some rest and social distancing ourselves today," DMRC said in a tweet.

"In a few minutes from now, the #JantaCurfew commences. Let us all be a part of this curfew, which will add tremendous strength to the fight against COVID-19 menace. The steps we take now will help in the times to come," Modi said in a tweet.

"Stay indoors and stay healthy. #IndiaFightsCorona," read PM Modi's tweet.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh took to Twitter saying that he will do work from home today. "I appeal to everyone that except those working in emergencies and critical areas to stay home or work from home and support the Prime Minister's call for Janta Curfew," Rajnath Singh tweeted.