As Malaysia is under a partial lockdown, palm exports from Malaysia's biggest producer of the edible oil, Sabah State, will be hit by a closure of private jetties due to coronavirus-related curbs, an industry body said on Saturday.

The company&nbsp;accounts for about a quarter of the total palm oil produced in Malaysia, which, after Indonesia,&nbsp;is the second biggest&nbsp;producer and exporter of vegetable oil in the world.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-agrees-to-export-hcq-to-malaysia-to-help-fight-covid-19-292634">Also read:&nbsp;India agrees to export HCQ to Malaysia to help fight COVID-19</a>

Malaysia initiated a partial lockdown on March 18 and will be continuing it till May 12. There are a total of 5,742 reported&nbsp;positive cases, with 98 deaths and 3,762 recovered patients. The lockdown has affected a lot of businesses.

There are more than 16 jetties that were used&nbsp;to ship fresh fruit bunches, crude palm oils and palm kernels. However, since the April 17 order of partial lockdown, these jetties&nbsp;have been temporarily closed.

"The downstream sector in Sabah which includes the refineries and kernel crushing plants will see their raw materials reduce, thus affecting their production and ability to fulfil the committed supply contracts. "Important of all, they are not able to carry out shipments of finished products for exports to other countries." the Malaysian Palm Oil Association (MPOA) said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stop-bullying-behaviour-in-south-china-sea-us-to-china-293325">Also read:&nbsp;Stop 'bullying behaviour' in South China Sea: US to China</a>

On the other hand, Petronas, a leading oil and gas company of Malaysia, has said that all its domestic projects have either already resumed or will be resuming soon.

Petronas is striving to minimise the impact to its planned domestic CAPEX programme in the face of the current challenges," the company said in a statement.

"However, we do expect that some projects will be naturally delayed due to the prolonged lockdowns implemented globally and the movement control order in Malaysia, and further disruptions anticipated to the global supply chain."

As Malaysia is under a partial lockdown, palm exports from Malaysia's biggest producer of the edible oil, Sabah State, will be hit by a closure of private jetties due to coronavirus-related curbs, an industry body said on Saturday.

As Malaysia is under a partial lockdown, palm exports from Malaysia's biggest producer of the edible oil, Sabah State, will be hit by a closure of private jetties due to coronavirus-related curbs, an industry body said on Saturday. The company accounts for about a quarter of the total palm oil produced in Malaysia, which, after Indonesia, is the second biggest producer and exporter of vegetable oil in the world. Also read: India agrees to export HCQ to Malaysia to help fight COVID-19 Malaysia initiated a partial lockdown on March 18 and will be continuing it till May 12. There are a total of 5,742 reported positive cases, with 98 deaths and 3,762 recovered patients. The lockdown has affected a lot of businesses. There are more than 16 jetties that were used to ship fresh fruit bunches, crude palm oils and palm kernels. However, since the April 17 order of partial lockdown, these jetties have been temporarily closed. "The downstream sector in Sabah which includes the refineries and kernel crushing plants will see their raw materials reduce, thus affecting their production and ability to fulfil the committed supply contracts. "Important of all, they are not able to carry out shipments of finished products for exports to other countries." the Malaysian Palm Oil Association (MPOA) said. Also read: Stop 'bullying behaviour' in South China Sea: US to China On the other hand, Petronas, a leading oil and gas company of Malaysia, has said that all its domestic projects have either already resumed or will be resuming soon. Petronas is striving to minimise the impact to its planned domestic CAPEX programme in the face of the current challenges," the company said in a statement. "However, we do expect that some projects will be naturally delayed due to the prolonged lockdowns implemented globally and the movement control order in Malaysia, and further disruptions anticipated to the global supply chain."

Palm exports from Malaysia's biggest producer of the edible oil, Sabah State, will be hit by closure

A request for resuming peace talks was made in a joint video call between the foreign ministers of Germany, France and Italy and the EU`s top diplomat on. The video call took place on Saturday and a humanitarian truce was called by the officials.

"We want to unite our voices to those of the U.N. Secretary-General (Antonio) Guterres and his Acting Special Representative for Libya, Stephanie Turco Williams, in their call for a humanitarian truce in Libya," the statement said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-impact-is-covid-19-having-on-war-torn-areas-like-yemen-syria-libya-290652">Also read: What impact is COVID-19 having on worn-torn areas like Yemen, Syria, Libya</a>

"We call on all the Libyan actors to get inspired by the spirit of the Holy Ramadan, engage in resuming talks for a genuine ceasefire," said the statement, signed by the EU`s Josep Borrell, France`s Jean-Yves Le Drian, Italy`s Luigi di Maio and Heiko Maas of Germany.

The conflicts in conflicts in the western areas of Libya had escalated this month, despite several urgent calls from the U.N. for a truce.&nbsp;

While the European Union has been able to stop the transportation of artillery from eastern Mediterranean side, it has not been able to stop the transfer from the Egypt-Libya land border.

A request for resuming peace talks was made in a joint video call between the foreign ministers of Germany, France and Italy and the EU`s top diplomat on. The video call took place on Saturday and a humanitarian truce was called by the officials.

A request for resuming peace talks was made in a joint video call between the foreign ministers of Germany, France and Italy and the EU`s top diplomat on. The video call took place on Saturday and a humanitarian truce was called by the officials. "We want to unite our voices to those of the U.N. Secretary-General (Antonio) Guterres and his Acting Special Representative for Libya, Stephanie Turco Williams, in their call for a humanitarian truce in Libya," the statement said. Also read: What impact is COVID-19 having on worn-torn areas like Yemen, Syria, Libya "We call on all the Libyan actors to get inspired by the spirit of the Holy Ramadan, engage in resuming talks for a genuine ceasefire," said the statement, signed by the EU`s Josep Borrell, France`s Jean-Yves Le Drian, Italy`s Luigi di Maio and Heiko Maas of Germany. The conflicts in conflicts in the western areas of Libya had escalated this month, despite several urgent calls from the U.N. for a truce. While the European Union has been able to stop the transportation of artillery from eastern Mediterranean side, it has not been able to stop the transfer from the Egypt-Libya land border.

Europe calls for humanitarian truce in Libya

As coronavirus cases on a rise in Tamil Nadu,&nbsp;Chief Minister K Palaniswami ordered a complete lockdown in five cities -- Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem and Madurai. The lockdown will&nbsp;be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai, and for the same timings from April 26 to April 28 in&nbsp;Tiruppur and Salem.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-government-announces-complete-lockdown-in-five-cities-including-chennai-and-coimbatore-294568">Also read:&nbsp;Tamil Nadu government announces complete lockdown in five cities, including Chennai and Coimbatore</a>

The decision of the complete lockdown was taken in a review meeting after the coronavirus cases toll crossed 1,600.&nbsp;After the announcement was made on Friday, people flocked to the markets from early morning on Saturday. Long queues were spotted outside various supermarkets and vegetable markets. People rushed to stock up on enough groceries and dairy items to sustain them for the next four days.&nbsp;People hoping to stay at home and order through food delivery apps were unable to do so due to the long queues and unavailability of essentials.

The online vegetable and food delivery apps will be allowed to home deliver groceries and food, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys. However, people, who have till now been used to going to the market anytime between 6am-1pm, panicked fearing uncertainty about the lockdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1684-more-cases-reported-in-last-24-hours-taking-indias-covid-19-tally-to-23077-294444">Also read:&nbsp;1,684 more cases reported in last 24 hours taking India's COVID-19 tally to 23,077</a>

The idea of the lockdown was to contain the spread of the virus by completely shutting down the movement of public in the streets. However, as people rushed to the markets on Saturday morning, the crowded streets did not see a lot of precautions related to social distancing.

According to the data released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 72 new coronavirus cases were reported as of April&nbsp;25 morning in the state. This brings the total reported positive cases of coronavirus&nbsp;to 1,755 in Tamil Nadu, with 22 deaths and 886 recovered patients.

As Tamil Nadu is one of the worst-hit states in the country, the state has identified hotspots.&nbsp;As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu.

As coronavirus cases on a rise in Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister K Palaniswami ordered a complete lockdown in five cities -- Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem and Madurai.

As coronavirus cases on a rise in Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister K Palaniswami ordered a complete lockdown in five cities -- Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem and Madurai. The lockdown will be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai, and for the same timings from April 26 to April 28 in Tiruppur and Salem. Also read: Tamil Nadu government announces complete lockdown in five cities, including Chennai and Coimbatore The decision of the complete lockdown was taken in a review meeting after the coronavirus cases toll crossed 1,600. After the announcement was made on Friday, people flocked to the markets from early morning on Saturday. Long queues were spotted outside various supermarkets and vegetable markets. People rushed to stock up on enough groceries and dairy items to sustain them for the next four days. People hoping to stay at home and order through food delivery apps were unable to do so due to the long queues and unavailability of essentials. The online vegetable and food delivery apps will be allowed to home deliver groceries and food, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys. However, people, who have till now been used to going to the market anytime between 6am-1pm, panicked fearing uncertainty about the lockdown. Also read: 1,684 more cases reported in last 24 hours taking India's COVID-19 tally to 23,077 The idea of the lockdown was to contain the spread of the virus by completely shutting down the movement of public in the streets. However, as people rushed to the markets on Saturday morning, the crowded streets did not see a lot of precautions related to social distancing. According to the data released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 72 new coronavirus cases were reported as of April 25 morning in the state. This brings the total reported positive cases of coronavirus to 1,755 in Tamil Nadu, with 22 deaths and 886 recovered patients. As Tamil Nadu is one of the worst-hit states in the country, the state has identified hotspots. As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu.

Panic buying reported in Tamil Nadu ahead of complete lockdown; 72 new cases

Air India earned praises from all over the country for operating several rescue missions of bringing stranded Indians back home when coronavirus hit the country.

Sadly, the Air India crew has been subjected to societal problems since the start of the virus in India. As Air India employes have had to write a letter to the authorities again, this time the problem is not from the society. Air India employees write a letter to the Minister of Civil Aviation, Hardeep Singh Puri, requesting him to intervene and stop the salary cuts of the employees.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exemplary-act-spicejet-to-airlift-boxer-dingko-singh-from-imphal-to-delhi-for-cancer-treatment-receives-plaudits-from-kiren-rijiju-294502">Also read:&nbsp;Exemplary act': SpiceJet to airlift boxer Dingko Singh from Imphal to Delhi for cancer treatment; receives plaudits from Kiren Rijiju</a>

"We the employees of Air India and its subsidiaries are writing to you at the backdrop of unilateral pay cut imposed on employees of Air India Ltd for three months against the government's instructions. While all the PSU's are following the directions of the Government, it is agonizing to note Air India has imposed pay cut in wake of COVID- 19 crisis. It is explicitly reflected as COVID-19 pay cut in March 2020 salary slip," the letter reads.

The letter was written as the employees received a 10 per cent&nbsp;salary cut in the salary that was credited to their accounts on April 18. The employees believe that after running several relief flights for the nation, this&nbsp;pay cut, in such tough times,&nbsp;will negatively affect their morale.&nbsp;

"In spite of instructions from the Government of India, concerning the welfare of the employees and directions to make payment of wages on the due date, the management of Air India defaulted on timely payment of salary which was paid on 18th April 2020 with a 10 percent pay cut. The Flying crew are yet to receive 70 percent of their wages for the work done in the month of February 2020," the letter reads.

"We request you to countermand Air India Committee's decision on COVID pay cut which is against the Government Directives and also treat us at par with other PSU's during lockdown," requested the employees. They also requested for government support on all fronts so that they employees can keep continuing helping the nation through their relief missions.

Air India earned praises from all over the country for operating several rescue missions of bringing stranded Indians back home when coronavirus hit the country.

Air India earned praises from all over the country for operating several rescue missions of bringing stranded Indians back home when coronavirus hit the country. Sadly, the Air India crew has been subjected to societal problems since the start of the virus in India. As Air India employes have had to write a letter to the authorities again, this time the problem is not from the society. Air India employees write a letter to the Minister of Civil Aviation, Hardeep Singh Puri, requesting him to intervene and stop the salary cuts of the employees. Also read: Exemplary act': SpiceJet to airlift boxer Dingko Singh from Imphal to Delhi for cancer treatment; receives plaudits from Kiren Rijiju "We the employees of Air India and its subsidiaries are writing to you at the backdrop of unilateral pay cut imposed on employees of Air India Ltd for three months against the government's instructions. While all the PSU's are following the directions of the Government, it is agonizing to note Air India has imposed pay cut in wake of COVID- 19 crisis. It is explicitly reflected as COVID-19 pay cut in March 2020 salary slip," the letter reads. The letter was written as the employees received a 10 per cent salary cut in the salary that was credited to their accounts on April 18. The employees believe that after running several relief flights for the nation, this pay cut, in such tough times, will negatively affect their morale. "In spite of instructions from the Government of India, concerning the welfare of the employees and directions to make payment of wages on the due date, the management of Air India defaulted on timely payment of salary which was paid on 18th April 2020 with a 10 percent pay cut. The Flying crew are yet to receive 70 percent of their wages for the work done in the month of February 2020," the letter reads. "We request you to countermand Air India Committee's decision on COVID pay cut which is against the Government Directives and also treat us at par with other PSU's during lockdown," requested the employees. They also requested for government support on all fronts so that they employees can keep continuing helping the nation through their relief missions.

Air India employees receive 10% salary cut; request Minister of Civil Aviation to intervene

Pakistan on Friday extended the partial lockdown imposed in the country by another two weeks as the number of people affected by the deadly virus rose to over 11,000.

About 79 per cent of the total coronavirus cases in Pakistan are now locally transmitted, health authorities said.

According to the Ministry of National Health Services, 13 more patients died due to the novel coronavirus, taking the toll to 237 and another 2,527 recovered.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-pakistan-prepares-for-ramazan-coronavirus-cases-surge-to-over-11500-242-dead-294577">Also read:&nbsp;As Pakistan prepares for Ramazan, coronavirus cases surge to over 11,500; 242 dead</a>

In the last 24 hours, 642 new cases were reported, taking the tally to 11,155 in the country, health officials said.

Punjab reported 4,767 patients, Sindh 3,671, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 1,541, Balochistan 607, Gilgit-Baltistan 300, Islamabad 214 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 55 patients.

So far, 13,365 tests have been done in the country, including 6,839 in the last 24 hours.

The confirmed cases are steadily increasing and the officials have warned that the peak would reach by the end of May or beginning of June.

Addressing the media in Islamabad, Planning Minister Asad Umar said, 'It has been decided that the ongoing restrictions will continue till May 9.' He said the decision was taken in a meeting of the National Coordination Committee, which was chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-to-keep-mosques-open-during-ramzan-pak-govt-acts-against-doctors-advice-294628">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan to keep mosques open during Ramzan: Pak govt acts against doctor's advice</a>

The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Friday said that 79 per cent of all cases in the country were due to local transmissions.

The government has decided to introduce a track and trace system under which random testing of people will start in a few days.

The whole situation has changed due to local transmission, it had been decided to change the policy to tackle the issue, Executive Director of the National Institute of Health Professor Aamer Ikram was quoted as saying by the Dawn.

'Earlier most of the cases were being reported in those people who were coming from abroad and even cases of local transmission were being reported among those who had come into contact with foreign travellers. However now a majority of cases are being attributed to local transmission of the virus,' he said.

Authorities also urged people to offer prayers at home on Friday when big congregations are held in mosques.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-79-covid-19-cases-in-pakistan-caused-by-local-transmission-294427">Also read:&nbsp;At least 79% COVID-19 cases in Pakistan caused by local transmission</a>

Pakistan has allowed conditional congregational prayers in mosques during Ramzan, endangering the drive to curb the spread of coronavirus.

Minister Umar asked the people to follow the restrictions during Ramzan which will start from Saturday. “The month of Ramzan will be decisive and if succeeded in reinforcing restrictions, the situation could get better after Eid,' he said.

The minister said that the Army was helping the government to tackle the COVID-19 situation. He said cash was being distributed to the poor under the Ehsaas program and it will continue during Ramazan.

'At least Rs 69 billion have been distributed among deserving people under the Ehsaas program,' he said, adding Rs 144 billion will be distributed to the poor.

Meanwhile, Asian Development Bank assured to provide 1.7 billion dollars to Pakistan to fight the impacts of coronavirus.

The assurance was given by the President of the bank during a virtual meeting with Minister for Economic Affairs Khusro Bakhtiar.

Radio Pakistan reported that the bank will approve USD 800 budget support by June this year.

It will provide the next tranche of USD 900 million by the end of this year.

The budget support will be provided to Pakistan on special concessionary basis.

The Minister for Economic Affairs thanked the Asian Development Bank for extending the financial cooperation to Pakistan.

Earlier, the International Monetary Fund provided USD 1.4 billion under an emergency arrangement to help Pakistan.

Pakistan on Friday extended the partial lockdown imposed in the country by another two weeks as the number of people affected by the deadly virus rose to over 11,000.

Pakistan on Friday extended the partial lockdown imposed in the country by another two weeks as the number of people affected by the deadly virus rose to over 11,000. About 79 per cent of the total coronavirus cases in Pakistan are now locally transmitted, health authorities said. According to the Ministry of National Health Services, 13 more patients died due to the novel coronavirus, taking the toll to 237 and another 2,527 recovered. Also read: As Pakistan prepares for Ramazan, coronavirus cases surge to over 11,500; 242 dead In the last 24 hours, 642 new cases were reported, taking the tally to 11,155 in the country, health officials said. Punjab reported 4,767 patients, Sindh 3,671, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 1,541, Balochistan 607, Gilgit-Baltistan 300, Islamabad 214 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 55 patients. So far, 13,365 tests have been done in the country, including 6,839 in the last 24 hours. The confirmed cases are steadily increasing and the officials have warned that the peak would reach by the end of May or beginning of June. Addressing the media in Islamabad, Planning Minister Asad Umar said, 'It has been decided that the ongoing restrictions will continue till May 9.' He said the decision was taken in a meeting of the National Coordination Committee, which was chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan. Also read: Pakistan to keep mosques open during Ramzan: Pak govt acts against doctor's advice The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Friday said that 79 per cent of all cases in the country were due to local transmissions. The government has decided to introduce a track and trace system under which random testing of people will start in a few days. The whole situation has changed due to local transmission, it had been decided to change the policy to tackle the issue, Executive Director of the National Institute of Health Professor Aamer Ikram was quoted as saying by the Dawn. 'Earlier most of the cases were being reported in those people who were coming from abroad and even cases of local transmission were being reported among those who had come into contact with foreign travellers. However now a majority of cases are being attributed to local transmission of the virus,' he said. Authorities also urged people to offer prayers at home on Friday when big congregations are held in mosques. Also read: At least 79% COVID-19 cases in Pakistan caused by local transmission Pakistan has allowed conditional congregational prayers in mosques during Ramzan, endangering the drive to curb the spread of coronavirus. Minister Umar asked the people to follow the restrictions during Ramzan which will start from Saturday. “The month of Ramzan will be decisive and if succeeded in reinforcing restrictions, the situation could get better after Eid,' he said. The minister said that the Army was helping the government to tackle the COVID-19 situation. He said cash was being distributed to the poor under the Ehsaas program and it will continue during Ramazan. 'At least Rs 69 billion have been distributed among deserving people under the Ehsaas program,' he said, adding Rs 144 billion will be distributed to the poor. Meanwhile, Asian Development Bank assured to provide 1.7 billion dollars to Pakistan to fight the impacts of coronavirus. The assurance was given by the President of the bank during a virtual meeting with Minister for Economic Affairs Khusro Bakhtiar. Radio Pakistan reported that the bank will approve USD 800 budget support by June this year. It will provide the next tranche of USD 900 million by the end of this year. The budget support will be provided to Pakistan on special concessionary basis. The Minister for Economic Affairs thanked the Asian Development Bank for extending the financial cooperation to Pakistan. Earlier, the International Monetary Fund provided USD 1.4 billion under an emergency arrangement to help Pakistan.

Coronavirus: Pakistan extends partial lockdown till May 9

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, has banned all kinds of public gathering till June end. The order was directed to the officials in a meeting chaired by the chief minister. The meeting followed the protocols of social distancing.

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मुख्यमंत्री श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/myogiadityanath?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@myogiadityanath</a> जी ने अपने सरकारी आवास, लखनऊ पर प्रदेश में <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> के संबंध में गठित समितियों के अध्यक्षों के साथ समीक्षा बैठक की। <a href="https://t.co/5CXOofcO0m">pic.twitter.com/5CXOofcO0m</a>
— CM Office, GoUP (@CMOfficeUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOfficeUP/status/1253938523696017410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The decision has been made to contain the spread of coronavirus, which has been rising rapidly in the state. Uttar Pradesh is one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus cases in the country. As of Saturday morning, total positive coronavirus cases in the state are 1,621, while 247 patients have recovered.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-health-officials-to-set-camp-in-worst-hit-15-districts-to-oversee-coronavirus-response-294296">Also read:&nbsp;UP health officials to set camp in worst-hit 15 districts to oversee coronavirus response</a>

He further instructed all the officials to make sure that the rules of lockdown are properly implemented and proper precautions are being taken.

The situation in Agra, one of the most affected cities in the state, has not shown any signs of improvement as the cases have been on a constant rise. A special team, sent to the city to read the situation, has blamed the local administration for late implementation of lockdown rules.

Following the rise in number is positive cases, he has also ordered the health officials to set up camp in the districts where there are more than 20 positive cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-adityanath-pulls-up-officials-in-gautam-buddh-nagar-hotspot-of-covid-19-cases-in-up-289508">Watch: Adityanath pulls up officials in Gautam Buddh Nagar, hotspot of COVID-19 cases in UP</a>

While the Yogi Adityanath&nbsp;issued a directive for the officials to implement the precautionary measures in a better way, videos of a group of 69 coronavirus patients seen waiting on a footpath took over the internet. The patients, who were being transferred from Agra to Etawah in a city bus, had to wait on the footpath outside the locked doors of a government medical college.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, has banned all kinds of public gathering till June end. The order was directed to the officials in a meeting chaired by the chief minister.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, has banned all kinds of public gathering till June end. The order was directed to the officials in a meeting chaired by the chief minister. The meeting followed the protocols of social distancing. मुख्यमंत्री श्री @myogiadityanath जी ने अपने सरकारी आवास, लखनऊ पर प्रदेश में #COVID19 के संबंध में गठित समितियों के अध्यक्षों के साथ समीक्षा बैठक की। pic.twitter.com/5CXOofcO0m — CM Office, GoUP (@CMOfficeUP) April 25, 2020 × The decision has been made to contain the spread of coronavirus, which has been rising rapidly in the state. Uttar Pradesh is one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus cases in the country. As of Saturday morning, total positive coronavirus cases in the state are 1,621, while 247 patients have recovered. Also read: UP health officials to set camp in worst-hit 15 districts to oversee coronavirus response He further instructed all the officials to make sure that the rules of lockdown are properly implemented and proper precautions are being taken. The situation in Agra, one of the most affected cities in the state, has not shown any signs of improvement as the cases have been on a constant rise. A special team, sent to the city to read the situation, has blamed the local administration for late implementation of lockdown rules. Following the rise in number is positive cases, he has also ordered the health officials to set up camp in the districts where there are more than 20 positive cases. Watch: Adityanath pulls up officials in Gautam Buddh Nagar, hotspot of COVID-19 cases in UP While the Yogi Adityanath issued a directive for the officials to implement the precautionary measures in a better way, videos of a group of 69 coronavirus patients seen waiting on a footpath took over the internet. The patients, who were being transferred from Agra to Etawah in a city bus, had to wait on the footpath outside the locked doors of a government medical college.

Yogi Adityanath bans all public gatherings in UP till June 30

Expressing concerns over the Centre's decision to stop the hike in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief to all government employees and pensioners, Congress leader and former PM Manmohan Singh on Saturday said that it is not necessary to impose hardships on government servants.

"I sincerely believe it is not necessary at this stage to impose hardships on government servants and also on the armed forces people," said the former Prime Minister in a video message put out on Congress' Twitter handle.

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As <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID</a> spreads, Modi Govt hurts 1.1cr Central Govt employees instead of providing relief. Withdrawing DA instead of cutting wasteful expenditure like Central Vista project is insensitive &amp; inhumane. Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh, Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> &amp; others express deep concern. <a href="https://t.co/M6WQ0tojxG">pic.twitter.com/M6WQ0tojxG</a>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1253877689926193153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Ministry of Finance on Thursday stopped a hike in dearness allowance (DA) for the central government employees and dearness relief (DR) for the central government pensioners till July next year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-sonia-gandhi-urges-government-to-provide-relief-package-for-msme-sector-294217">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus: Sonia Gandhi urges government to provide relief package for MSME sector</a>

According to the order issued, no arrears will be paid for the period from January 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021.

"In view of the crisis arising out of COVID-19, it has been decided that the additional instalment of dearness allowance payable to Central Government employees and dearness relief to Central Government pensioners, due from January 1, 2020, shall not be paid," the order said.

Expressing concerns over the Centre's decision to stop the hike in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief to all government employees and pensioners, Congress leader and former PM Manmohan Singh on Saturday said that it is not necessary to impose hardships on government servants.

Expressing concerns over the Centre's decision to stop the hike in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief to all government employees and pensioners, Congress leader and former PM Manmohan Singh on Saturday said that it is not necessary to impose hardships on government servants. "I sincerely believe it is not necessary at this stage to impose hardships on government servants and also on the armed forces people," said the former Prime Minister in a video message put out on Congress' Twitter handle. As #COVID spreads, Modi Govt hurts 1.1cr Central Govt employees instead of providing relief. Withdrawing DA instead of cutting wasteful expenditure like Central Vista project is insensitive & inhumane. Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh, Shri @RahulGandhi & others express deep concern. pic.twitter.com/M6WQ0tojxG — Congress (@INCIndia) April 25, 2020 × The Ministry of Finance on Thursday stopped a hike in dearness allowance (DA) for the central government employees and dearness relief (DR) for the central government pensioners till July next year. Also read: Coronavirus: Sonia Gandhi urges government to provide relief package for MSME sector According to the order issued, no arrears will be paid for the period from January 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021. "In view of the crisis arising out of COVID-19, it has been decided that the additional instalment of dearness allowance payable to Central Government employees and dearness relief to Central Government pensioners, due from January 1, 2020, shall not be paid," the order said.

No need to halt DA/DR hikes at this stage, says Manmohan Singh in a video message

Spain officials reported 367 deaths in the past 24 hours, on Friday. The officials said that the number of daily coronavirus-related fatalities fell to its lowest level in more than a month, with 367 deaths in the previous 24 hours.

That took the total number of positive cases 22,524 from 22,157 the day before, the health ministry said. The overall number of coronavirus cases rose to 219,764 with&nbsp;Community of Madrid being a hotspot for coronavirus in the country.

These figures revealed Spain to be the worst-hit country by coronavirus in Europe, and second in the world, first being the US.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-rush-to-restart-la-liga-bale-warns-294432">Also read:&nbsp;Don't rush to restart La Liga, Bale warns</a>

Considering the tough times, Spain also suspended the tradition of exchanging books on&nbsp;the death anniversary of William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes. To keep up the spirits of people, Red Cross Barcelona&nbsp;delivered books to hundreds of children.

Spain officials reported 367 deaths in the past 24 hours, on Friday. The officials said that the number of daily coronavirus-related fatalities fell to its lowest level in more than a month, with 367 deaths in the previous 24 hours.

Spain officials reported 367 deaths in the past 24 hours, on Friday. The officials said that the number of daily coronavirus-related fatalities fell to its lowest level in more than a month, with 367 deaths in the previous 24 hours. That took the total number of positive cases 22,524 from 22,157 the day before, the health ministry said. The overall number of coronavirus cases rose to 219,764 with Community of Madrid being a hotspot for coronavirus in the country. These figures revealed Spain to be the worst-hit country by coronavirus in Europe, and second in the world, first being the US. Also read: Don't rush to restart La Liga, Bale warns Considering the tough times, Spain also suspended the tradition of exchanging books on the death anniversary of William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes. To keep up the spirits of people, Red Cross Barcelona delivered books to hundreds of children.

Spain reports lowest number of coronavirus-related deaths in the past month

After a review meeting, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, orders have been issued for a complete lockdown in five cities of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur and Salem.

The lockdown will be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai. Tiruppur and Salem, however, will be on the lockdown from April 26 to April 28 between&nbsp;6 a.m. to 9 p.m.&nbsp;

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Complete lockdown to be enforced in Chennai, Coimbatore &amp; Madurai from April 26 to April 29 between 6 AM&amp;9PM. In Salem&amp;Tiruppur, complete lockdown will be enforced from April 26 &amp; April 28 between 6 AM &amp; 9 PM. Online food delivery to be allowed: Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi Palaniswami <a href="https://t.co/vJnGL8ZUef">pic.twitter.com/vJnGL8ZUef</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1253619843762454529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, food delivery will be allowed through food delivery apps during the lockdown, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys.

According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Tamil Nadu has 1,629 coronavirus cases, including 662 cured and 18 deaths.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-social-distancing-encouraged-at-tamil-nadu-ministers-event-in-madurai-293995">Also read:&nbsp;No social distancing encouraged at Tamil Nadu Minister’s event in Madurai</a>

With such a high number of&nbsp;positive coronavirus cases, Tamil Nadu is one of the worst coronavirus-hit state in the country. To contain the spread of the virus, Tamil Nadu government identified hotspots in the state.&nbsp;As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu. Some hotspots have also been identified within Chennai and Coimbatore. While there are&nbsp;13 urban red zones in Chennai, Coimbatore has 10 urban and 8 rural red zones.

After a review meeting, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, orders have been issued for a complete lockdown in five cities of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur and Salem.

After a review meeting, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, orders have been issued for a complete lockdown in five cities of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur and Salem. The lockdown will be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai. Tiruppur and Salem, however, will be on the lockdown from April 26 to April 28 between 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Complete lockdown to be enforced in Chennai, Coimbatore & Madurai from April 26 to April 29 between 6 AM&9PM. In Salem&Tiruppur, complete lockdown will be enforced from April 26 & April 28 between 6 AM & 9 PM. Online food delivery to be allowed: Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi Palaniswami pic.twitter.com/vJnGL8ZUef — ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2020 × However, food delivery will be allowed through food delivery apps during the lockdown, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys. According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Tamil Nadu has 1,629 coronavirus cases, including 662 cured and 18 deaths. Also read: No social distancing encouraged at Tamil Nadu Minister’s event in Madurai With such a high number of positive coronavirus cases, Tamil Nadu is one of the worst coronavirus-hit state in the country. To contain the spread of the virus, Tamil Nadu government identified hotspots in the state. As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu. Some hotspots have also been identified within Chennai and Coimbatore. While there are 13 urban red zones in Chennai, Coimbatore has 10 urban and 8 rural red zones.

Tamil Nadu government announces complete lockdown in five cities, including Chennai and Coimbatore

Two 60-year-old male patients, who died at a SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have tested positive for COVID-19&nbsp;taking the number of deaths due to coronavirus in the state to 32.

According to the state Health Department, a resident of Ramganj, who had&nbsp;comorbidity of coronary artery disease,&nbsp;was admitted to the SMS Hospital on April 22 and took his last breath on April 23. He was detected positive for COVID-19 on April 23.

Another patient, a resident of MD road, was brought dead to the SMS Hospital on April 22. As he was a suspected COVID-19 patient, a sample was taken which was reported positive on April 23.

Meanwhile, a 70-year-old female from Adarsh Nagar who tested positive for coronavirus on April 21 also succumbed to the infection today. She also had comorbidity of coronary artery disease, the health officials said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-couple-stranded-in-tripura-names-their-newborn-lockdown-293913">Also read:&nbsp;Rajasthan couple stranded in Tripura names their newborn 'Lockdown'</a>

These figures have taken the total number of positive cases in Rajasthan to 1,890, with 27 deaths in the state.&nbsp;

The department also shared the details of evacuees from Iran who were quarantined at the Army facility in Jaisalmer and now have been shifted to various places in Jammu and Kashmir. On April 21, 180 evacuees were rushed to Srinagar, while 225 were moved to Ladakh on April 22. On Friday, 52 were taken to Srinagar. With 44 fresh cases reported in Rajasthan today, 2,008 people are infected with virus in the state so far.&nbsp;

Two 60-year-old male patients, who died at a SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have tested positive for COVID-19 taking the number of deaths due to coronavirus in the state to 32.

Two 60-year-old male patients, who died at a SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have tested positive for COVID-19 taking the number of deaths due to coronavirus in the state to 32. According to the state Health Department, a resident of Ramganj, who had comorbidity of coronary artery disease, was admitted to the SMS Hospital on April 22 and took his last breath on April 23. He was detected positive for COVID-19 on April 23. Another patient, a resident of MD road, was brought dead to the SMS Hospital on April 22. As he was a suspected COVID-19 patient, a sample was taken which was reported positive on April 23. Meanwhile, a 70-year-old female from Adarsh Nagar who tested positive for coronavirus on April 21 also succumbed to the infection today. She also had comorbidity of coronary artery disease, the health officials said. Also read: Rajasthan couple stranded in Tripura names their newborn 'Lockdown' These figures have taken the total number of positive cases in Rajasthan to 1,890, with 27 deaths in the state. The department also shared the details of evacuees from Iran who were quarantined at the Army facility in Jaisalmer and now have been shifted to various places in Jammu and Kashmir. On April 21, 180 evacuees were rushed to Srinagar, while 225 were moved to Ladakh on April 22. On Friday, 52 were taken to Srinagar. With 44 fresh cases reported in Rajasthan today, 2,008 people are infected with virus in the state so far.

Two 60-year-old male patients test positive of coronavirus post-death

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;to intervene in bringing back bodies of the Keralites who died in Gulf countries of reasons other than COVID-19 infection.

"I would like to draw your attention to the grievances received from Non-resident Keralites Associations (NRKs) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries on the delay caused in bringing home the mortal remains of NRKs who had expired due to reasons other than the COVID-19 infection," read the letter by the CM.

"It is learnt that a clearance certificate&nbsp;from the Indian Embassies is required to process the application of bringing home the mortal remains of the dead. The Embassies are insisting on the production of a no-objection certificate from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), New Delhi," it read.

The letter also pointed out that according to a notification by the government, no such certificate is needed to bring back&nbsp;the mortal remains of the deceased who died due to reasons other than coronavirus.

"To enable to bring back the bodies of the NRIs whose deaths occurred due to reasons other than COVID-19 infection, without necessary procedural hassles, I request your kind intervention," read the letter further.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-government-takes-30-per-cent-cut-in-salary-to-overcome-covid-19-induced-financial-crisis-294132">Also read:&nbsp;Kerala government takes 30 per cent cut in salary to overcome COVID-19-induced financial crisis</a>

The bodies are now being brought back to the country in cargo planes as passenger flights have been halted due to lockdown restrictions.

"They are already under tremendous stress and anxiety due to the lockdown imposed in those countries and the consequent stoppage of international flights", he said.

Meanwhile, 324 out of a total of 447 coronavirus cases have recovered, with only three reported deaths. The chief minister has asked the health officials to conduct more tests in the state.

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene in bringing back bodies of the Keralites who died in Gulf countries of reasons other than COVID-19 infection.

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene in bringing back bodies of the Keralites who died in Gulf countries of reasons other than COVID-19 infection. "I would like to draw your attention to the grievances received from Non-resident Keralites Associations (NRKs) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries on the delay caused in bringing home the mortal remains of NRKs who had expired due to reasons other than the COVID-19 infection," read the letter by the CM. "It is learnt that a clearance certificate from the Indian Embassies is required to process the application of bringing home the mortal remains of the dead. The Embassies are insisting on the production of a no-objection certificate from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), New Delhi," it read. The letter also pointed out that according to a notification by the government, no such certificate is needed to bring back the mortal remains of the deceased who died due to reasons other than coronavirus. "To enable to bring back the bodies of the NRIs whose deaths occurred due to reasons other than COVID-19 infection, without necessary procedural hassles, I request your kind intervention," read the letter further. Also read: Kerala government takes 30 per cent cut in salary to overcome COVID-19-induced financial crisis The bodies are now being brought back to the country in cargo planes as passenger flights have been halted due to lockdown restrictions. "They are already under tremendous stress and anxiety due to the lockdown imposed in those countries and the consequent stoppage of international flights", he said. Meanwhile, 324 out of a total of 447 coronavirus cases have recovered, with only three reported deaths. The chief minister has asked the health officials to conduct more tests in the state.

Kerala CM requests PM to help bring back the remains of NKRs who died due to non-COVID reasons in Gulf countries

India has built a new bridge in Arunachal Pradesh area, a region claimed by China. This can strain the relationship between China and India.

It is a new all-weather access point in the disputed part of Indo-China border. The bridge, which can bear 40 tons of weight, will enable faster movement of troops and artillery. This can be another reason for the Chinese government to object on the bridge.

It has been made at a time when the tension between the two nations is high as&nbsp;Beijing accused India of blocking its companies in the South Asian nation after New Delhi tightened laws for foreign investment.&nbsp;

While there has been no comment from the Chinese government yet,&nbsp;Indian Army spokesman Aman Anand said, “India and China have different perceptions of the border. Perceived transgressions are result of the perceived boundary.”

“That part of the border has always had a tendency to friction point between India and China. Lack of reliable and all weather connectivity was vulnerability,” said Nitin Gokhale, a New Delhi-based strategic affairs expert to a media organization. “The new bridge and improved road overcomes that and ensures uninterrupted supply to troops.”

The new bridge has been made under the initiative of ramping up its infrastructure along the border, but also strides one of the main access routes of the Chinese Army into India from Tibet.

India has built a new bridge in Arunachal Pradesh area, a region claimed by China. This can strain the relationship between China and India. It is a new all-weather access point in the disputed part of Indo-China border.

India has built a new bridge in Arunachal Pradesh area, a region claimed by China. This can strain the relationship between China and India. It is a new all-weather access point in the disputed part of Indo-China border. The bridge, which can bear 40 tons of weight, will enable faster movement of troops and artillery. This can be another reason for the Chinese government to object on the bridge. It has been made at a time when the tension between the two nations is high as Beijing accused India of blocking its companies in the South Asian nation after New Delhi tightened laws for foreign investment. While there has been no comment from the Chinese government yet, Indian Army spokesman Aman Anand said, “India and China have different perceptions of the border. Perceived transgressions are result of the perceived boundary.” “That part of the border has always had a tendency to friction point between India and China. Lack of reliable and all weather connectivity was vulnerability,” said Nitin Gokhale, a New Delhi-based strategic affairs expert to a media organization. “The new bridge and improved road overcomes that and ensures uninterrupted supply to troops.” The new bridge has been made under the initiative of ramping up its infrastructure along the border, but also strides one of the main access routes of the Chinese Army into India from Tibet.

India's new bridge along the Indo-China border can strain relationship with China

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