Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the country on the occasion of Buddha Purnima and urged people to take motivation from each other and stay determined in the battle against the novel coronavirus.

He paid his tribute to coronavirus' frontline workers who are fighting the outbreak.

"India is under lockdown amid the COVID-19, and there are many people are working 24x7 to cure infected patients, maintain law and order and those who maintain cleanliness by surrendering their own comforts. All such people deserve gratitude and honour," PM Modi added.

In the address, PM Modi also said, "I extend my wishes to all on the occasion of Buddha Purnima. I can't participate in programs today physically. It would have been my pleasure to be with you all in the celebrations, but conditions dominant today does not permit us."

He said that Lord Buddha donated his life to the enhancement of civilisation and tradition of India. Lord Buddha became his own light and also ignited the lives of others in his drive of life.

On the virtual event, he also noted that India's growth will always support global growth. "India is constantly working to help other countries around the world and will continue the good work. To stop after getting tired cannot be an answer for any problem. All of us have to fight together to thump coronavirus."

PM Modi while concluding said that Lord Buddha is the symbol of realisation and as well as self-realisation and with this self-realisation, our country is working in the interest of the humanity and the globe and will continue to do so.

Remembering the noble teachings of Lord Buddha. https://t.co/nQWoa5qNX0

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 7, 2020