In his second address to the nation on March 24, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that starting midnight on March 24, the country will be under complete lockdown for the next 21 days, reiterating that the next 21 days are critical and crucial from the point of view of containing the spread of coronavirus in India, while requesting everyone to stay at home and not venture out on the streets.

"Lockdown of 21 days is a long time, but this is important for you and your family's safety. I believe that every Indian will not only successfully tackle this challenge but also emerge victorious in this time of crisis," PM Modi said.

PM adding said that several states have already announced a lockdown over the past few days and that this must be taken seriously by every Indian as social distancing is very important.

Reported cases in India rose to approximately 500 on March 24 as states and union territories across India announced lockdowns. All Domestic flights in the country have also been suspended from March 25 until March 31 to contain the spread of the outbreak.

Addressing fears that there could be a shortage of essential services and commodities the PM said that there is no need to panic as the center and states will work together to ensure availability of all essentials to the public.