Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a video message to the nation on Friday, started his address by thanking the people for coming together on 22 March to appreciate the workers involved in essential services. The PM acknowledged the unity shown by the citizens of the country who came out to their balconies and clapped for workers in the forefront of the battle against Covid-19. He then requested all citizens of the country to switch off the lights in their homes for 9 minutes on April 5 at 9 pm and light candles and diyas to display solidarity in the fight againt coronavirus.

"Switch off every light in the house, reach to your main gate or balcony and light a candle, diya, torch or your mobile's flash for 9 minutes," prime minister Modi said.