Omicron variant: PM Modi discusses travel curbs as world races to fight new Covid-19 strain

In the light of a new Covid-19 variant found in South Africa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday chaired a top level meet to take stock of the coronavirus pandemic in the country.

The Prime Minister's Office said that the officials briefed PM Modi about the new Variant of Concern ‘Omicron’ along with its characteristics & impact seen in various countries.

Its implications for India were also discussed. The PM's office said that Modi spoke about the need to be proactive in light of the new variant.

The PM highlighted need for monitoring all international arrivals, their testing as per guidelines, with a specific focus on countries identified ‘at risk’.

ALSO READ: 'May have greater reinfection risk': WHO says new Covid strain 'variant of concern', names it Omicron

Modi also asked officials to review plans for easing international travel restrictions in light of the emerging new evidence.