As India has reported over 5000 cases of the novel coronavirus as of April 8, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has suggested in a meeting conducted over an hour ago that it will not be possible to lift the nationwide lockdown on April 14.

The meeting was held via a video conference with the floor leaders of political parties represented in Parliament. PM Modi also mentioned that life will not be the same following the COVID-19 period and there would be pre-corona and post-corona periods for years to come. "Massive behavioral, social and personal changes will have to take place," Modi reportedly stated. He further added, "The priority of the government is to save each and every life. The situation in the country is akin to a 'social emergency', it has necessitated tough decisions and we must continue to remain vigilant."

Before he takes an official decision on the nationwide lockdown that ends on April 14, PM Modi will hold a second meeting with Chief Ministers through a video conference on Saturday. The government imposed a nationwide lockdown that came into effect on March 25 at 12.00 am and will be enforced for 21 days, in an attempt to contain the spread of COVID-19.