Singapore has recorded 447 new positive coronavirus cases, Singapore's health ministry on Saturday confirmed.&nbsp;This is the country's smallest rise in the past two weeks.&nbsp;

Following the decline in number of cases, the country is set to ease down some restrictions during the partial lockdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-remdesivir-as-several-states-ease-lockdown-296248">Also read:&nbsp;US approves Remdesivir as several states ease lockdown</a>

Few selected activities such as small home-based businesses, laundry services and barbers will be allowed to operate from May 12.&nbsp; The step has been taken to tackle the economic crisis that is overshadowing the whole world right now.

Singapore is facing the deepest recession in its 55-year history, compounded by restrictions called 'circuit breakers' due to last until June 1, which include the closure of most workplaces and shops.

"We are preparing for the safe and gradual resumption of economic and community activities after the end of the circuit breaker period on 1 June 2020," the ministry of health said in a statement.

Unlike other countries, Singapore will also allow some students to return back to school from May 19. However, only small groups will be allowed and all precautions of social distancing will have to be followed.

"Even as we ease and adjust some of these measures, the bottom line is this - this is not the time to slacken and let our guard down," Singapore minister Lawrence Wong, who co-heads the country's virus fighting taskforce, told a media briefing.

Singapore's total tally of cases now stands at&nbsp;17,548 with 16 virus-related deaths.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Singapore has recorded 447 new positive coronavirus cases, Singapore's health ministry on Saturday confirmed. This is the country's smallest rise in the past two weeks.

Singapore has recorded 447 new positive coronavirus cases, Singapore's health ministry on Saturday confirmed. This is the country's smallest rise in the past two weeks. Following the decline in number of cases, the country is set to ease down some restrictions during the partial lockdown. Also read: US approves Remdesivir as several states ease lockdown Few selected activities such as small home-based businesses, laundry services and barbers will be allowed to operate from May 12. The step has been taken to tackle the economic crisis that is overshadowing the whole world right now. Singapore is facing the deepest recession in its 55-year history, compounded by restrictions called 'circuit breakers' due to last until June 1, which include the closure of most workplaces and shops. "We are preparing for the safe and gradual resumption of economic and community activities after the end of the circuit breaker period on 1 June 2020," the ministry of health said in a statement. Unlike other countries, Singapore will also allow some students to return back to school from May 19. However, only small groups will be allowed and all precautions of social distancing will have to be followed. "Even as we ease and adjust some of these measures, the bottom line is this - this is not the time to slacken and let our guard down," Singapore minister Lawrence Wong, who co-heads the country's virus fighting taskforce, told a media briefing. Singapore's total tally of cases now stands at 17,548 with 16 virus-related deaths. (With inputs from Reuters)

'We are not out of the woods': Singapore government warns people

Out of 15 coronavirus-related deaths in Bhopal, 13 deceased were survivors of Bhopal gas tragedy.&nbsp;

Organisations working for the wellbeing of Bhopal gas tragedy survivors claim they had informed the government that these survivors could be badly affected by the coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/total-coronavirus-cases-in-india-rise-to-35043-death-toll-stands-at-1147-295969">Also read:&nbsp;Total coronavirus cases in India rise to 35,043, death toll stands at 1,147</a>

"We had informed the government on March 21 only that if special attention was not given to the victims of the tragedy then people would die. It is because most of the victims have problems related to lungs, kidney and heart," said Rachna Dhingra, Bhopal Group for Information and Action.

"What`s shocking is that none of them were provided their reports regarding COVID-19 and all reporting was done after deaths. This means that it was too late when they reached hospital and they died in less time," she added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nearly-one-million-workers-will-need-transport-to-go-back-to-their-states-punjab-chief-minister-writes-to-narendra-modi-296001">Also read: Nearly one million workers will need transport to go back to their states: Punjab Chief Minister writes to Narendra Modi</a>

Few days ago, some organisations had also filed a petition in the Madhya Pradesh High Court, requesting that a dedicated medical facility should be provided for the treatment of these&nbsp;victims. However, the organisations feel not much has been provided by the government. Rachna informed the media that the government converted super-speciality Bhopal Memorial Hospital and Research Center (BMHRC) for gas victims, and turned it into a medical facility for COVID-19 patients, which has caused increased problems for the victims.

Explaining how they deduced the 13 deaths were of gas tragedy victims, she said, "We have interacted with the families of all of them. We tried to find out few things - if they were gas tragedy victims, then we found their IDs and other related documents; second we found out their age and what problems they were suffering from."

Madhya Pradesh has a total of&nbsp;2,660 positive coronavirus cases, and 130 deaths.&nbsp;Indore has been reported as&nbsp;the worst-affected district.

Out of 15 coronavirus-related deaths in Bhopal, 13 deceased were survivors of Bhopal gas tragedy. Organisations working for the wellbeing of Bhopal gas tragedy survivors claim they had informed the government that these survivors could be badly affected by the coronavirus.

Out of 15 coronavirus-related deaths in Bhopal, 13 deceased were survivors of Bhopal gas tragedy. Organisations working for the wellbeing of Bhopal gas tragedy survivors claim they had informed the government that these survivors could be badly affected by the coronavirus. Also read: Total coronavirus cases in India rise to 35,043, death toll stands at 1,147 "We had informed the government on March 21 only that if special attention was not given to the victims of the tragedy then people would die. It is because most of the victims have problems related to lungs, kidney and heart," said Rachna Dhingra, Bhopal Group for Information and Action. "What`s shocking is that none of them were provided their reports regarding COVID-19 and all reporting was done after deaths. This means that it was too late when they reached hospital and they died in less time," she added. Also read: Nearly one million workers will need transport to go back to their states: Punjab Chief Minister writes to Narendra Modi Few days ago, some organisations had also filed a petition in the Madhya Pradesh High Court, requesting that a dedicated medical facility should be provided for the treatment of these victims. However, the organisations feel not much has been provided by the government. Rachna informed the media that the government converted super-speciality Bhopal Memorial Hospital and Research Center (BMHRC) for gas victims, and turned it into a medical facility for COVID-19 patients, which has caused increased problems for the victims. Explaining how they deduced the 13 deaths were of gas tragedy victims, she said, "We have interacted with the families of all of them. We tried to find out few things - if they were gas tragedy victims, then we found their IDs and other related documents; second we found out their age and what problems they were suffering from." Madhya Pradesh has a total of 2,660 positive coronavirus cases, and 130 deaths. Indore has been reported as the worst-affected district.

Out of 15, 13 deaths are victims of Bhopal gas tragedy

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has requested the Prime Minister to start special trains for the stranded migrant labours.

The request came after guidelines were issued in which the government stated that it will allow the stranded migrant labourers and students to go back to their hometown. the inter-state movement will be allowed only by buses which will ave to properly sanitised before use, and everyone will have to follow the protocols of social distancing.

"Estimates indicate that nearly one million workers will need transport to go back to their states. The only feasible option in the circumstances was to arrange special trains, which the Railways may run from point to point, keeping in view the number of persons to be transported to a given destination," Punjab CM wrote in a&nbsp;letter to Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Talking specifically about the migrant labourers from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and other states who are stranded in Punjab, he wrote, "These workers are engaged both in agriculture and industries. However most of them either lost their jobs or could not find employment/work due to curfew imposed in the state to contain coronavirus."

Singh conducted a video call with his state officials and informed everyone that he has requested the Prime Minister to ask the Railway Ministry to start special trains for such labourers and students.

He has asked the District Collectors (DCs) to prepare state-wise data of migrant labourers to coordinate their movement, and has&nbsp;assigned one officer for each state to coordinate the return of stranded migrants.

During the video call, he pointed out that Ludhiana alone had over seven lakh migrant labourers, with the whole of Punjab having over a million of them. He also added that 70 per cent labourers belong to bihar.

As the number of stranded labourers is huge, Singh feels transportation through trains will be easier and faster, when compared to buses.

Also, to make sure nobody in the state stays hungry, he has also ordered the Food Department to increase the quota of rations to be distributed to migrants and non-smart cardholders.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has requested the Prime Minister to start special trains for the stranded migrant labours. The request came after guidelines were issued in which the government stated that it will allow the stranded migrant labourers and students to go back to their hometown.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has requested the Prime Minister to start special trains for the stranded migrant labours. The request came after guidelines were issued in which the government stated that it will allow the stranded migrant labourers and students to go back to their hometown. the inter-state movement will be allowed only by buses which will ave to properly sanitised before use, and everyone will have to follow the protocols of social distancing. "Estimates indicate that nearly one million workers will need transport to go back to their states. The only feasible option in the circumstances was to arrange special trains, which the Railways may run from point to point, keeping in view the number of persons to be transported to a given destination," Punjab CM wrote in a letter to Narendra Modi. Talking specifically about the migrant labourers from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and other states who are stranded in Punjab, he wrote, "These workers are engaged both in agriculture and industries. However most of them either lost their jobs or could not find employment/work due to curfew imposed in the state to contain coronavirus." Singh conducted a video call with his state officials and informed everyone that he has requested the Prime Minister to ask the Railway Ministry to start special trains for such labourers and students. He has asked the District Collectors (DCs) to prepare state-wise data of migrant labourers to coordinate their movement, and has assigned one officer for each state to coordinate the return of stranded migrants. During the video call, he pointed out that Ludhiana alone had over seven lakh migrant labourers, with the whole of Punjab having over a million of them. He also added that 70 per cent labourers belong to bihar. As the number of stranded labourers is huge, Singh feels transportation through trains will be easier and faster, when compared to buses. Also, to make sure nobody in the state stays hungry, he has also ordered the Food Department to increase the quota of rations to be distributed to migrants and non-smart cardholders.

Nearly one million workers will need transport to go back to their states: Punjab Chief Minister writes to Narendra Modi

Preparations are in their final stage for the opening of the portals of Shri Badrinath Dham on May 15.

Snow has been removed from the temple premises. And the water and power system has been restored. Special attention is also being given to social distancing and wearing masks has been made mandatory, informed Uttarakhand Chardham Devasthanam Board.

The media in-charge of Uttarakhand Chardham Devasthanam Board said that the staff officers of the Devasthanam Board had reached Badrinath Dham for preparations.

Raman Ravinath, the Garhwal Commissioner and CEO of Devasthanam Board, had ordered the preparations.

The Chardham Yatra is expected to begin soon after the nationwide lockdown ends.The portals of Shri Gangotri-Yamunotri Dham`s were opened on Akshaya Tritiya on April 26 and the doors of Shri Kedarnath Dham were opened on April 29.

According to a government advisory, pilgrims are not allowed to visit these religious places in view of the coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

Preparations are in their final stage for the opening of the portals of Shri Badrinath Dham on May 15. Snow has been removed from the temple premises. And the water and power system has been restored.

Preparations are in their final stage for the opening of the portals of Shri Badrinath Dham on May 15. Snow has been removed from the temple premises. And the water and power system has been restored. Special attention is also being given to social distancing and wearing masks has been made mandatory, informed Uttarakhand Chardham Devasthanam Board. The media in-charge of Uttarakhand Chardham Devasthanam Board said that the staff officers of the Devasthanam Board had reached Badrinath Dham for preparations. Raman Ravinath, the Garhwal Commissioner and CEO of Devasthanam Board, had ordered the preparations. The Chardham Yatra is expected to begin soon after the nationwide lockdown ends.The portals of Shri Gangotri-Yamunotri Dham`s were opened on Akshaya Tritiya on April 26 and the doors of Shri Kedarnath Dham were opened on April 29. According to a government advisory, pilgrims are not allowed to visit these religious places in view of the coronavirus outbreak.

Preparations on for opening of Badrinath Dham portals on May 15

The Haryana government on Thursday decided to partially restore the VAT rate on the sale of diesel and petrol in view of the decrease in the price of nearly Rs. 15 per litre compared with their prices in October 2018.

The increase in the rate of tax would be Rs.1 per litre in the case of petrol and Rs. 1.1 per litre in case of diesel, the state government said.

As per the proposed amendment, the rate of tax will be restored to 25 per cent (effective rate 26.25 per cent including surcharge) on petrol and 16.40 per cent (effective rate 17.22 per cent including surcharge) on diesel, that is pre-October, 4, 2018 levels and a fixed rate of tax per litre may be increased from Rs. 8.15 (effective rate Rs. 8.56 including surcharge) per litre to Rs. 9.20 per litre (effective rate Rs.9.66 including surcharge) in case of diesel and from Rs.14.25 (effective rate Rs. 14.96 including surcharge) per litre to Rs. 15.20 per litre (effective rate Rs. 15.96 including surcharge) in case of petrol.

It is also proposed that the condition of the legal notice of 10 days may also be dispensed with as huge financial implications are involved, the state government added.

As per proposed amendments, the ad valorem rate of 17.22 percent will trigger, when Retail Sale Price (RSP) is more than Rs. 65.75 in case of diesel and ad valorem rate of 26.25 percent will trigger when RSP is more than Rs.76.76 in case of Petrol.

With the proposed increase, the state will be able to garner additional tax of Rs.49 crore per month from diesel and Rs. 12 crores per month from petrol making it approximately Rs. 61 crore per month, presuming that the present volume of sales will remain unaffected.

The Haryana government on Thursday decided to partially restore the VAT rate on the sale of diesel and petrol in view of the decrease in the price of nearly Rs. 15 per litre compared with their prices in October 2018.

The Haryana government on Thursday decided to partially restore the VAT rate on the sale of diesel and petrol in view of the decrease in the price of nearly Rs. 15 per litre compared with their prices in October 2018. The increase in the rate of tax would be Rs.1 per litre in the case of petrol and Rs. 1.1 per litre in case of diesel, the state government said. As per the proposed amendment, the rate of tax will be restored to 25 per cent (effective rate 26.25 per cent including surcharge) on petrol and 16.40 per cent (effective rate 17.22 per cent including surcharge) on diesel, that is pre-October, 4, 2018 levels and a fixed rate of tax per litre may be increased from Rs. 8.15 (effective rate Rs. 8.56 including surcharge) per litre to Rs. 9.20 per litre (effective rate Rs.9.66 including surcharge) in case of diesel and from Rs.14.25 (effective rate Rs. 14.96 including surcharge) per litre to Rs. 15.20 per litre (effective rate Rs. 15.96 including surcharge) in case of petrol. It is also proposed that the condition of the legal notice of 10 days may also be dispensed with as huge financial implications are involved, the state government added. As per proposed amendments, the ad valorem rate of 17.22 percent will trigger, when Retail Sale Price (RSP) is more than Rs. 65.75 in case of diesel and ad valorem rate of 26.25 percent will trigger when RSP is more than Rs.76.76 in case of Petrol. With the proposed increase, the state will be able to garner additional tax of Rs.49 crore per month from diesel and Rs. 12 crores per month from petrol making it approximately Rs. 61 crore per month, presuming that the present volume of sales will remain unaffected.

Haryana accords approval to partially restore VAT on sale of diesel and petrol

Jakarta has a total of&nbsp;4,317 positive coronavirus cases, with a death toll of 375. However, it is being speculated that the number of coronavirus cases, especially the death toll, might be higher than what is being reported.

The burials in Jakarta were close to record high in the last month. According to a report filed by Reuters, there have been 4,377 burials in the last one month, and 4,422 burials in March. Thus, indicating that&nbsp;2,500 more people have died in the city in the past two months than the average for the period. However, the burials data on the website of the city's parks and cemeteries department does not identify a reason for these deaths.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-claims-hes-seen-evidence-coronavirus-originated-in-chinese-lab-295950">Also read:&nbsp;Trump claims he's seen evidence coronavirus originated in Chinese lab</a>

Overall, Indonesia has had 800 deaths from the disease, Health Ministry official Achmad Yurianto said on Friday. He also told&nbsp;Reuters&nbsp;that the death toll only reveals the number of people who died after being tested for coronavirus.&nbsp;Some people who died with COVID-19 symptoms were not tested at all, while others had their samples collected "incorrectly", Yurianto said. He did not elaborate on what the incorrect samples meant.

"I'm struggling to find another reason than unreported COVID-19 deaths," City Governor Anies Baswedan was quoted by Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/keen-to-work-with-international-partners-at-chinas-invitation-to-investigate-animal-origins-of-virus-who-296083">Also read:&nbsp;Keen to work with partners at China's invitation to investigate COVID-19: WHO</a>

While a slight decline was observed in the burials i. the month of April, the reason behind that can also be that some people left for their hometown before the borders were sealed on April 24. However, the government has not commented on it.

"We don't have daily data to get a precise trend. However, deducting for out-migration, it's not slowing down yet," an anonymous source told&nbsp;Reuters.

A Reuters review of data from 16 of Indonesia`s 34 provinces showed this week that more than 2,200 people have died with acute symptoms of COVID-19 but were not recorded as victims of the disease.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Jakarta has a total of 4,317 positive coronavirus cases, with a death toll of 375. However, it is being speculated that the number of coronavirus cases, especially the death toll, might be higher than what is being reported.

Jakarta has a total of 4,317 positive coronavirus cases, with a death toll of 375. However, it is being speculated that the number of coronavirus cases, especially the death toll, might be higher than what is being reported. The burials in Jakarta were close to record high in the last month. According to a report filed by Reuters, there have been 4,377 burials in the last one month, and 4,422 burials in March. Thus, indicating that 2,500 more people have died in the city in the past two months than the average for the period. However, the burials data on the website of the city's parks and cemeteries department does not identify a reason for these deaths. Also read: Trump claims he's seen evidence coronavirus originated in Chinese lab Overall, Indonesia has had 800 deaths from the disease, Health Ministry official Achmad Yurianto said on Friday. He also told Reuters that the death toll only reveals the number of people who died after being tested for coronavirus. Some people who died with COVID-19 symptoms were not tested at all, while others had their samples collected "incorrectly", Yurianto said. He did not elaborate on what the incorrect samples meant. "I'm struggling to find another reason than unreported COVID-19 deaths," City Governor Anies Baswedan was quoted by Reuters. Also read: Keen to work with partners at China's invitation to investigate COVID-19: WHO While a slight decline was observed in the burials i. the month of April, the reason behind that can also be that some people left for their hometown before the borders were sealed on April 24. However, the government has not commented on it. "We don't have daily data to get a precise trend. However, deducting for out-migration, it's not slowing down yet," an anonymous source told Reuters. A Reuters review of data from 16 of Indonesia`s 34 provinces showed this week that more than 2,200 people have died with acute symptoms of COVID-19 but were not recorded as victims of the disease. (With inputs from Reuters)

Increased number of burials hint towards a higher death toll in Jakarta

A clash broke out between police and locals at Panchmahal in Godhra on Thursday night when the police were barricading the containment zone as a measure to curtail the coronavirus.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Leena Patil said: "The barricading of the containment area was being done by the civic authorities and the police. Some locals protested and pelted stones at them."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-not-man-made-or-genetically-modified-us-intelligence-community-295906">Also read |&nbsp;Coronavirus not man-made or genetically modified: US intelligence community</a>

In a measure to control the situation, the authorities resorted to the use of tear gas. "We used tear gas as a measure to control the situation. At the moment, the situation is under control," added Patil.

A total of 313 new COVID-19 positive cases were reported in Gujarat on Thursday, taking the total number of cases to 4,395 in the State, said the Health Department.

According to the daily health bulletin issued by the State, the total number of cases includes 613 cured/discharged and 214 deaths.

A clash broke out between police and locals at Panchmahal in Godhra on Thursday night when the police were barricading the containment zone as a measure to curtail the coronavirus.

A clash broke out between police and locals at Panchmahal in Godhra on Thursday night when the police were barricading the containment zone as a measure to curtail the coronavirus. Superintendent of Police (SP) Leena Patil said: "The barricading of the containment area was being done by the civic authorities and the police. Some locals protested and pelted stones at them." Also read | Coronavirus not man-made or genetically modified: US intelligence community In a measure to control the situation, the authorities resorted to the use of tear gas. "We used tear gas as a measure to control the situation. At the moment, the situation is under control," added Patil. A total of 313 new COVID-19 positive cases were reported in Gujarat on Thursday, taking the total number of cases to 4,395 in the State, said the Health Department. According to the daily health bulletin issued by the State, the total number of cases includes 613 cured/discharged and 214 deaths.

Locals clash with police during containment zone sealing in Gujarat

Goa has been declared as a green-zone by the central government as the number of positive coronavirus cases decreased significantly, and all patients have fully recovered.

However, even after being declared a 'green zone', the Chief Minister&nbsp;Pramod Sawant has urged the locals to exercise caution and take all the instructed precautions even after the lockdown ends.

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With the efforts of our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronaWarriors?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronaWarriors</a> and support of the people of Goa, our state has now been classified as a green zone by the Govt of India. The war against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> is far from over. <a href="https://t.co/XaOSfgf3ej">pic.twitter.com/XaOSfgf3ej</a>
— Dr. Pramod Sawant (@DrPramodPSawant) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrPramodPSawant/status/1256117213456523265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Emphasising on the danger that lurks over the country, he said the war against coronavirus is far from over. "We must continue our fight against this virus by adopting a modified lifestyle which gives priority to safe health norms such as sanitization, wearing of face covers, social distancing and staying at home during the lockdown period," he added.

However, Goa, known for being a tourist hub, is now facing another issue. Due to the lockdown, the city could not generate tourist revenue, and has had one of its worst tourist seasons.

"The next tourism season is also looking bleak, even as Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said that the next season could start in December," says&nbsp;Manuel Cardozo, President of Traditional Shack Owners' Association. He also clarified that the setback has not only affected the shack owners, but everyone who is involved in the tourism industry.

He has requested the local government to waive off next season's fee, and has urged the government to allocate&nbsp;relief packages to make up for the losses. He also revealed that he will be writing to the government to compensate for all the expenses that the businesses have incurred due to the self-imposed lockdown of the state. Goa government closed down the beaches, restaurants and all tourist attractions even before any coronavirus case emerged. The state also sealed its border for non-locals.

Goa has been declared as a green-zone by the central government as the number of positive coronavirus cases decreased significantly, and all patients have fully recovered.

Goa has been declared as a green-zone by the central government as the number of positive coronavirus cases decreased significantly, and all patients have fully recovered. However, even after being declared a 'green zone', the Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has urged the locals to exercise caution and take all the instructed precautions even after the lockdown ends. With the efforts of our #CoronaWarriors and support of the people of Goa, our state has now been classified as a green zone by the Govt of India. The war against #COVID19 is far from over. pic.twitter.com/XaOSfgf3ej — Dr. Pramod Sawant (@DrPramodPSawant) May 1, 2020 × Emphasising on the danger that lurks over the country, he said the war against coronavirus is far from over. "We must continue our fight against this virus by adopting a modified lifestyle which gives priority to safe health norms such as sanitization, wearing of face covers, social distancing and staying at home during the lockdown period," he added. However, Goa, known for being a tourist hub, is now facing another issue. Due to the lockdown, the city could not generate tourist revenue, and has had one of its worst tourist seasons. "The next tourism season is also looking bleak, even as Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said that the next season could start in December," says Manuel Cardozo, President of Traditional Shack Owners' Association. He also clarified that the setback has not only affected the shack owners, but everyone who is involved in the tourism industry. He has requested the local government to waive off next season's fee, and has urged the government to allocate relief packages to make up for the losses. He also revealed that he will be writing to the government to compensate for all the expenses that the businesses have incurred due to the self-imposed lockdown of the state. Goa government closed down the beaches, restaurants and all tourist attractions even before any coronavirus case emerged. The state also sealed its border for non-locals.

The war against coronavirus is far from over: Goa CM tells the locals

Scientists of Institut Pasteur in Paris have recently published a study that concludes that the coronavirus, infamously being called 'the China virus', may not have originated from Wuhan (China).

The research, which has not been peer-reviewed yet, was led by virologists Dr Sylvie van der Werf and Etienne Simon-Loriere.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-claims-hes-seen-evidence-coronavirus-originated-in-chinese-lab-295950">Also read:&nbsp;Trump claims he's seen evidence coronavirus originated in Chinese lab</a>

This study puts&nbsp;France on the list of countries where&nbsp;no direct link between China and local outbreaks could be established. Genetic analysis shows that the dominant stains did not come from the clade,&nbsp;a group of organisms believed to comprise all the evolutionary descendants of a common ancestor, could not be traced back to China or Italy.

The scientists&nbsp;collected more than 90 samples of patients across the county and found out that their genetic sequences could&nbsp;not be connected with the cases imported from China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-not-man-made-or-genetically-modified-us-intelligence-community-295906">Also read |&nbsp;Coronavirus not man-made or genetically modified: US intelligence community</a>

This became clearer as they found out that the first patient of coronavirus in France was tested on&nbsp;February 19, and he had no travel history to China, and had not even come in contact with any of the recent travellers too. Thus, the researchers believe that&nbsp;the virus was circulating undetected through local transmission in France in February.

The researchers told a media organization, "The hypothesis is: compatible with the large proportion of mild or asymptomatic diseases and observations in other European countries."

Benjamin Neuman, professor and chair of biological sciences with the Texas A&amp;M University-Texarkana, believes, "Since the earliest European strains of Sars-CoV-2 seem to be associated with Belgium, the idea that the virus spread from Belgium to both Italy and France at around the same time seems plausible, as this paper contends."

Scientists of Institut Pasteur in Paris have recently published a study that concludes that the coronavirus, infamously being called 'the China virus', may not have originated from Wuhan (China).

Scientists of Institut Pasteur in Paris have recently published a study that concludes that the coronavirus, infamously being called 'the China virus', may not have originated from Wuhan (China). The research, which has not been peer-reviewed yet, was led by virologists Dr Sylvie van der Werf and Etienne Simon-Loriere. Also read: Trump claims he's seen evidence coronavirus originated in Chinese lab This study puts France on the list of countries where no direct link between China and local outbreaks could be established. Genetic analysis shows that the dominant stains did not come from the clade, a group of organisms believed to comprise all the evolutionary descendants of a common ancestor, could not be traced back to China or Italy. The scientists collected more than 90 samples of patients across the county and found out that their genetic sequences could not be connected with the cases imported from China. Also read | Coronavirus not man-made or genetically modified: US intelligence community This became clearer as they found out that the first patient of coronavirus in France was tested on February 19, and he had no travel history to China, and had not even come in contact with any of the recent travellers too. Thus, the researchers believe that the virus was circulating undetected through local transmission in France in February. The researchers told a media organization, "The hypothesis is: compatible with the large proportion of mild or asymptomatic diseases and observations in other European countries." Benjamin Neuman, professor and chair of biological sciences with the Texas A&M University-Texarkana, believes, "Since the earliest European strains of Sars-CoV-2 seem to be associated with Belgium, the idea that the virus spread from Belgium to both Italy and France at around the same time seems plausible, as this paper contends."

Coronavirus may not have originated from Wuhan, study finds

Spain's&nbsp;Economy Minister Nadia Calvino reported that country's economy is expected to see a huge dip in the current year.

Country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) might contract 9.2 per cent in the year of pandemic. She further explained that the unemployment will increase to 19 per cent in the country. She said the crippling condition of the economy is due to the&nbsp;pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-claims-hes-seen-evidence-coronavirus-originated-in-chinese-lab-295950">Also read:&nbsp;Trump claims he's seen evidence coronavirus originated in Chinese lab</a>

In a press conference, she explained that the Bank of Spain expected "asymmetric V-shape recovery, with the deepest decrease in the second quarter and then a strong and gradual recovery in the second half of the year," she said. "Forecasts are prudent and consistent."

She assured people that GDP is expected to recover in 2021 and expand 6.8 per cent. Before the pandemic hit the country, Calvino has forecasted a growth if 1.6 per cent in country's GDP. The government has also forecasted 2020 deficit forecast to 10.34 per cent and a 2020 debt to GDP ratio at 115.5 per cent now.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-coronavirus-impact-may-be-catastrophic-for-children-296055">Also read:&nbsp;Why coronavirus impact may be catastrophic for children</a>

"This is the widest deficit since 2012 when Spain reached 10.7%," explained Budget Minister Maria Jesus Montero.&nbsp;

In its forecasts to the European Commission, the government sees GDP moving from two percent growth in 2019 to a 9.2 percent drop this year, while unemployment would jump to 19 percent from 13.8 percent at the end of 2019, Economy Minister Nadia Calvino told a press conference.

Spain was one of the worst-hit countries with more 24,000 positive coronavirus cases. However, the country has seen some relief in the cases now, and is expecting to ease the strict lockdown more in the coming weeks.

(With inputs from agencies)

Spain's Economy Minister Nadia Calvino reported that country's economy is expected to see a huge dip in the current year. Country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) might contract 9.

Spain's Economy Minister Nadia Calvino reported that country's economy is expected to see a huge dip in the current year. Country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) might contract 9.2 per cent in the year of pandemic. She further explained that the unemployment will increase to 19 per cent in the country. She said the crippling condition of the economy is due to the pandemic. Also read: Trump claims he's seen evidence coronavirus originated in Chinese lab In a press conference, she explained that the Bank of Spain expected "asymmetric V-shape recovery, with the deepest decrease in the second quarter and then a strong and gradual recovery in the second half of the year," she said. "Forecasts are prudent and consistent." She assured people that GDP is expected to recover in 2021 and expand 6.8 per cent. Before the pandemic hit the country, Calvino has forecasted a growth if 1.6 per cent in country's GDP. The government has also forecasted 2020 deficit forecast to 10.34 per cent and a 2020 debt to GDP ratio at 115.5 per cent now. Also read: Why coronavirus impact may be catastrophic for children "This is the widest deficit since 2012 when Spain reached 10.7%," explained Budget Minister Maria Jesus Montero. In its forecasts to the European Commission, the government sees GDP moving from two percent growth in 2019 to a 9.2 percent drop this year, while unemployment would jump to 19 percent from 13.8 percent at the end of 2019, Economy Minister Nadia Calvino told a press conference. Spain was one of the worst-hit countries with more 24,000 positive coronavirus cases. However, the country has seen some relief in the cases now, and is expecting to ease the strict lockdown more in the coming weeks. (With inputs from agencies)

Spain's crippling economy to contract 9.2% in 2020, warns Spanish government

After some relief in country's coronavirus cases, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban lifted some restrictions in the country, except&nbsp;Budapest. However, the Prime Minister has now urged the public to exercise caution and has warned against a second-wave of the coronavirus.

"The virus has not gone away, we have only won some time," Orban told state radio. "We have to prepare for a second wave (of the epidemic) in October-November."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-global-death-toll-passes-230000-confirmed-recoveries-hit-1-million-295999">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus global death toll passes 230,000; confirmed recoveries hit 1mn</a>

The government&nbsp;has allowed shops and restaurant terraces to reopen, but has directed the owners to close all shops and restaurants by 3pm, except the medical shops.

After a few days of allowing the businesses to reopen to help the crippling economy, he has now warned the country about a second-wave of coronavirus in October and November.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-not-man-made-or-genetically-modified-us-intelligence-community-295906">Also read |&nbsp;Coronavirus not man-made or genetically modified: US intelligence community</a>

He also informed the citizens that the restrictions in Budapest will not be lifted till the number of coronavirus cases and death toll decreases, the prime minister told state radio on Friday.

In the speech, he also assured people that the government's focus will be on creating more jobs for people who have lost their livelihood during the lockdown.&nbsp;He said his government would offer paid training and widen the public works programme, and the army will also start its recruitment phase.

According to the official figures released on Friday,&nbsp;Hungary has reported 2,863 positive cases, and 323 deaths.

After some relief in country's coronavirus cases, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban lifted some restrictions in the country, except Budapest. However, the Prime Minister has now urged the public to exercise caution and has warned against a second-wave of the coronavirus.

After some relief in country's coronavirus cases, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban lifted some restrictions in the country, except Budapest. However, the Prime Minister has now urged the public to exercise caution and has warned against a second-wave of the coronavirus. "The virus has not gone away, we have only won some time," Orban told state radio. "We have to prepare for a second wave (of the epidemic) in October-November." Also read: Coronavirus global death toll passes 230,000; confirmed recoveries hit 1mn The government has allowed shops and restaurant terraces to reopen, but has directed the owners to close all shops and restaurants by 3pm, except the medical shops. After a few days of allowing the businesses to reopen to help the crippling economy, he has now warned the country about a second-wave of coronavirus in October and November. Also read | Coronavirus not man-made or genetically modified: US intelligence community He also informed the citizens that the restrictions in Budapest will not be lifted till the number of coronavirus cases and death toll decreases, the prime minister told state radio on Friday. In the speech, he also assured people that the government's focus will be on creating more jobs for people who have lost their livelihood during the lockdown. He said his government would offer paid training and widen the public works programme, and the army will also start its recruitment phase. According to the official figures released on Friday, Hungary has reported 2,863 positive cases, and 323 deaths.

The virus has not gone away, we have only won some time: Hungarian PM warns people

Three policemen from Delhi were suspended for one day as they were caught lying about coming in contact with other policemen who had tested positive for coronavirus, as reported by Delhi Police.

The policemen who were deployed at Shastri Park metro station claimed they came in contact with few other policemen who were tested positive, and asked for permission to self-quarantine themselves.

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The policemen, unlike their plan,&nbsp;have now returned to their duties.&nbsp;"3 policemen were suspended on 29 April for 1 day for lying to seniors that they came in contact with police personnel who tested positive for COVID-19. They were deployed at Shastri Park metro station. They have joined duty now," a statement from the Delhi Police said.

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3 policemen were suspended on 29 April for 1 day for lying to seniors that they came in contact with police personnel who tested positive for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>&amp;so,they must be sent for home-quarantine. They were deployed at Shastri Park metro station. They've joined duty now: Delhi Police <a href="https://t.co/2QHLHT71YD">pic.twitter.com/2QHLHT71YD</a>
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With a total of more than 3,500 positive cases and 59&nbsp;deaths,&nbsp;Delhi has been one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has urged people to stay calm and has assured that plasma therapy is helping patients recover.

“The 1,100 cured ppl are being contacted for plasma donation and most are willing to donate their plasma to help in the cure of positive patients,” he told the media..

“We were permitted by Centre for trial of plasma therapy at LNJP hospital. We administered it to a few patients. The first one among them was discharged after he made recovery. He was critical and in ICU, but was discharged. Initial results of the therapy are good,” he added.

Three policemen from Delhi were suspended for one day as they were caught lying about coming in contact with other policemen who had tested positive for coronavirus, as reported by Delhi Police.

Three policemen from Delhi were suspended for one day as they were caught lying about coming in contact with other policemen who had tested positive for coronavirus, as reported by Delhi Police. The policemen who were deployed at Shastri Park metro station claimed they came in contact with few other policemen who were tested positive, and asked for permission to self-quarantine themselves. Also read: Entire country suffering’: Supreme Court rules out separate funds for lawyers The policemen, unlike their plan, have now returned to their duties. "3 policemen were suspended on 29 April for 1 day for lying to seniors that they came in contact with police personnel who tested positive for COVID-19. They were deployed at Shastri Park metro station. They have joined duty now," a statement from the Delhi Police said. 3 policemen were suspended on 29 April for 1 day for lying to seniors that they came in contact with police personnel who tested positive for #COVID19&so,they must be sent for home-quarantine. They were deployed at Shastri Park metro station. They've joined duty now: Delhi Police pic.twitter.com/2QHLHT71YD — ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2020 × With a total of more than 3,500 positive cases and 59 deaths, Delhi has been one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has urged people to stay calm and has assured that plasma therapy is helping patients recover. “The 1,100 cured ppl are being contacted for plasma donation and most are willing to donate their plasma to help in the cure of positive patients,” he told the media.. “We were permitted by Centre for trial of plasma therapy at LNJP hospital. We administered it to a few patients. The first one among them was discharged after he made recovery. He was critical and in ICU, but was discharged. Initial results of the therapy are good,” he added.

Three policemen suspended for lying about coming in contact with coronavirus patients

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