Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday annouced a complete lockdown in India for 21 days in order to help curb the spread of coronavirus. This led to panic-buying among citizens and they thronged the shops and medical stores to stock up. However, the ministry of home affairs has issued guidelines for the 21-day lockdown and the list of essential services that will remain open.

Modi said, "By converging around shops, you are risking the spread of COVID-19. No panic buying please. Please stay indoors. I repeat, Centre and State governments will ensure all essentials are available."