COVID-19 Economic Response Task Force: How Will it Fight Coronavirus in India? | Read Here

New Delhi: As the country reported its fourth death from the coronavirus, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the nation and announced to set up of a ‘COVID-19 Economic Response Task Force’ to decide on relief package for sectors which are affected by the coronavirus outbreak.

To be headed by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the task will look at measures to limit economic hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The statement from PM Modi comes as a number of sectors, ranging from tourism to aviation to certain segments, have been severely affected as countries have closed borders, restricted air travel and industries went into complete lockdown.

“In view of the economic challenges posed by coronavirus pandemic, the government has decided to set up a Covid-19 Economic Response Task Force under Finance Minister Sitharaman,” PM Modi said.

In his address, PM Modi said that the task force will decide on steps to be taken to overcome economic hardships.

He also asked the members of the business community as well as the affluent to look after the interest of their employees and not penalise them for being unable to attend work due to travel and other restrictions.

PM Modi further added that Finance Minister Sitharaman will hold a meeting with MSME Minister Nitin Gadkari, Animal Husbandry Minister Giriraj Singh, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Tourism Minister Prahlad Singh Patel on Friday to assess the situation in order to work out the package.

“The task force will also ensure that all decisions taken to tide over the economic crisis are effectively implemented,” PM Modi said, adding, “The pandemic has greatly impacted the economic wellbeing of the middle, lower-middle and the poor sections of the society.”

India on Thursday reported its fourth death due to coronavirus. As per updates, more than 170 people have tested positive so far in the country.