PM Modi to hold video conference with nine states today

New Delhi : At least nine Chief Ministers of Indian states will be taking part in the video conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday. This is the fourth time PM Modi is holding a video conference with the states since lockdown began on March 14.

During the video conference, which starts at 10 am, the leaders are likely to discuss the extension of lockdown in India. A clear exit plan and how it should be implemented in a phased manner will also be discussed.

The states are likely to discuss the partial relaxations given to some sectors from April 20, the usage of fast test kits and protection of doctors from the attack.

The states are also expected to demand a financial package from the Centre, and an amendment to the FRBM (Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management) Act.

This time, it is the turn of the Chief Ministers from Bihar, Odisha, Gujarat, Haryana, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh and the Union Territory of Puducherry. From the northeast, the Chief Ministers of Meghalaya and Mizoram will speak.

In the first meeting on March 20, eight states have put forward their views on containment of the virus, upgrade of medical infrastructure and training local health resources.

In the second meet on April 2 - around eight states had discussed an exit strategy once the lockdown ends.

In the third meeting on April 11, at least 13 Chief Ministers had asked for an extension of the lockdown.