In the last few weeks, I have emphasised on the importance of extensive testing to isolate Covid19. In fact, I have written to the central govt time & again expressing the need.

The same has been raised by @INCIndia @RahulGandhi ji & @priyankagandhi ji multiple times. (1/5)

On 27th March, the total number of tests done in Chhattisgarh was 289 and as of yesterday, we are now standing at 2303 tests.

On 16th March & then again on 1st April, I wrote to Hon'ble Union Minister of Health seeking better ICMR guidelines in order to increase testing. (2/5)

As new guidelines have now been put in place we are ordering 75000 rapid kits to diagnose Covid19 & we are aiming to carry out 1000 tests per day in Chhattisgarh, in the coming few weeks. Our strategy is completely based on testing. Test — Contact Trace — Isolate — Cure. (3/5)

In addition to the 75000 rapid kits, we are also issuing short tender to procure:

2,50,000 PPE kits
25,00,000 triple-layer medical mask
2,50,000 N95 masks
1,00,000 gloves
10,000 goggles
10,000 face shield

(4/5)

Extensive testing and providing the best possible facilities to our healthcare workers, who are putting their lives on the line to protect us, are the only way forward in the war against this pandemic. (5/5)