Narendra Modi speech highlights: PM extends free ration scheme till November, 80 cr to benefit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is addressing the nation at 4 pm today (June 30). The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) took to Twitter, saying: "Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 4 PM tomorrow."

PM Modi, in his speech, urged all to maintain physical distancing and to wear masks or face covers while out in public.

Earlier, a lot of speculations were doing the rounds on social media about what PM Modi will speak today, starting from the Unlock 2.0, economic measures or about the ongoing border tensions with China.

PM Modi addressed a day after the Central Government unveiled Unlock 2.0 guidelines, allowing greater economic activities in non-containment zones.

Once again, PM Modi urged everybody to maintain physical distancing and to wear masks or face covers while out in public areas.

PM Modi said that a scheme announced earlier to supply free ration to the poor has been extended till November this year. Around 80 crore poor people will benefit due to this, the PM said, adding that the Centre expects to spend around Rs 90,000 crore on this scheme.

Ever since Unlock 1.0 started in the country, negligence in personal and social behaviour has been increasing. Earlier, we were more cautious about the use of masks, 'do gaj doori' and washing hands several times a day for 20 seconds, says PM Modi.

Around Rs 31,000 crore have been deposited in the account of the poor during the coronavirus lockdown.

In comparison to other countries across the globe, India is still in a very stable situation, in the battle against the coronavirus pandemic. Timely decisions and measures have played a great role, says PM Modi.

We are entering Unlock 2.0 and the season of cough, fever and cold is also about to start. In such a situation, I urge countrymen to take care of themselves.

PM Narendra Modi has begun his speech. He is now talking about the novel coronavirus outbreak.