India's health ministry said that as per revised policy, mild, very mild, pre-symptomatic cases admitted in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-total-covid-19-cases-top-67000-more-than-2200-dead-297885">coronavirus </a>care facility can be discharged after ten days of symptom onset and if there is no fever for three days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-deputy-cm-sushil-modi-writes-to-sitharaman-seeking-grants-for-bihar-297866">Also Read:&nbsp;Bihar deputy CM Sushil Modi writes to Sitharaman seeking grants for Bihar</a>

"Discharge policy has been changed because several countries have changed their policy from test-based strategy to symptom and time-based strategy," India's health ministry official Lav Agarwal said, adding,"we have also changed it based on it."

India's health ministry said today that in the last 24 hours there have been 4,213 new coronavirus cases and 1,559 recoveries with the total number of cases rising to 67,152.

44,029 people are under active medical supervision, the health ministry official said while asserting that the recovery rate is now at 31.15 per cent.

India's Home Ministry said that around 4,000 Indians have been brought back by 23 flights under the Vande Bharat&nbsp;mission and over 5 lakh migrant workers have been sent to their home states by 468 special trains.

The empowered committee on COVID-19 informed in the press conference that the Aarogya Setu app has been downloaded in 9.8 crore smartphones so far.&nbsp;

"We have worked a lot on data privacy of Aarogya Setu users and made sure that user data are not compromised," Ajay Sahni, chairman of Empowered Group, said. 
&nbsp; 
Meanwhile, with the Railway online booking window set to open, the ministry said that there will be no catering charges included in the fare with provision for prepaid meal booking, e-catering disabled.

The booking of train tickets will begin at 6pm today.

India's health ministry said that as per revised policy, mild, very mild, pre-symptomatic cases admitted in the coronavirus care facility can be discharged after ten days of symptom onset and if there is no fever for three days.

India's health ministry said that as per revised policy, mild, very mild, pre-symptomatic cases admitted in the coronavirus care facility can be discharged after ten days of symptom onset and if there is no fever for three days. Also Read: Bihar deputy CM Sushil Modi writes to Sitharaman seeking grants for Bihar "Discharge policy has been changed because several countries have changed their policy from test-based strategy to symptom and time-based strategy," India's health ministry official Lav Agarwal said, adding,"we have also changed it based on it." India's health ministry said today that in the last 24 hours there have been 4,213 new coronavirus cases and 1,559 recoveries with the total number of cases rising to 67,152. 44,029 people are under active medical supervision, the health ministry official said while asserting that the recovery rate is now at 31.15 per cent. India's Home Ministry said that around 4,000 Indians have been brought back by 23 flights under the Vande Bharat mission and over 5 lakh migrant workers have been sent to their home states by 468 special trains. The empowered committee on COVID-19 informed in the press conference that the Aarogya Setu app has been downloaded in 9.8 crore smartphones so far. "We have worked a lot on data privacy of Aarogya Setu users and made sure that user data are not compromised," Ajay Sahni, chairman of Empowered Group, said. Meanwhile, with the Railway online booking window set to open, the ministry said that there will be no catering charges included in the fare with provision for prepaid meal booking, e-catering disabled. The booking of train tickets will begin at 6pm today.

4,213 new coronavirus cases in India, 1,559 recoveries in last 24 hours: Government

After easing the lockdown a fortnight ago, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern announced on Monday that the government would be phasing out the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-covid-19-cases-surge-past-4-million-mark-death-toll-at-282700-297872"> lockdown </a>but asked citizens to be vigilant.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnsons-speech-on-measures-for-england-to-lift-lockdown-stirs-confusion-internet-reacts-297951">Also Read:&nbsp;Johnson's speech on measures for England to lift lockdown stirs 'confusion'</a>

In a televised address to the nation, the New Zealand PM said: "Your efforts New Zealand have got us to this place ahead of most of the world and without the carnage that COVID-19 has inflicted in many other places."

Authorities had allowed easing of the lockdown earlier allowing food takeaways, but this time Ardern asserted that there would be much more freedom. New Zealand has recorded just over 1,140 cases of the virus with 21 deaths.

"This is a transition out of our bubbles, you can see people you haven't seen in a while, you just can't do it all at once," Ardern said, adding:"At Level Two we are out and about again, just about all parts of the economy are opening up again."

Schools is set to be reopened next week, however, international borders continue to remain closed.

Although domestic travel would be allowed, but bars are not set to be reopened until later this month. In another move, the government is also set to allow domestic Super Rugby next month.

After easing the lockdown a fortnight ago, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern announced on Monday that the government would be phasing out the lockdown but asked citizens to be vigilant.

After easing the lockdown a fortnight ago, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern announced on Monday that the government would be phasing out the lockdown but asked citizens to be vigilant. Also Read: Johnson's speech on measures for England to lift lockdown stirs 'confusion' In a televised address to the nation, the New Zealand PM said: "Your efforts New Zealand have got us to this place ahead of most of the world and without the carnage that COVID-19 has inflicted in many other places." Authorities had allowed easing of the lockdown earlier allowing food takeaways, but this time Ardern asserted that there would be much more freedom. New Zealand has recorded just over 1,140 cases of the virus with 21 deaths. "This is a transition out of our bubbles, you can see people you haven't seen in a while, you just can't do it all at once," Ardern said, adding:"At Level Two we are out and about again, just about all parts of the economy are opening up again." Schools is set to be reopened next week, however, international borders continue to remain closed. Although domestic travel would be allowed, but bars are not set to be reopened until later this month. In another move, the government is also set to allow domestic Super Rugby next month.

New Zealand set to phase out lockdown

India's national capital Delhi reported 338 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-190000-indians-will-be-brought-home-civil-aviation-minister-to-wion-297492">coronavirus</a> cases reported taking the total number of COVID-19 cases to 6,318.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-records-600-new-cases-madras-high-court-orders-closure-of-all-liquor-shops-297499">Also Read:&nbsp;Tamil Nadu records 600 new cases; Madras High Court orders closure of all liquor shops</a>

There are now 2,020 people who have recovered from the virus in Delhi with 4,230 active cases. 68 people have died due to the virus in India's capital.

Amid the growing number of cases, the Delhi government directed all the district magistrates to strictly enforce lockdown measures and the national directives for coronavirus management for the public and workplaces.&nbsp;

In Jammu and Kashmir, 30 new positive cases were reported as authorities declared all educational institutions in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to remain closed till May 31.

In Uttar Pradesh, 155 new COVID-19 cases were reported in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 3,214 including 1,387 patients who have been discharged. Sixty-six people have died due to the virus in the state with the number of active cases at 1,761.

The Haryana government reported 22 new cases with the total number of cases rising to 647 in the state. However, no positive cases was reported in Jharkhand today with the total number of cases at 132.

India's national capital Delhi reported 338 new coronavirus cases reported taking the total number of COVID-19 cases to 6,318. Also Read: Tamil Nadu records 600 new cases; Madras High Court orders closure of all liquor shops There are now 2,020 people who have recovered from the virus in Delhi with 4,230 active cases.

India's national capital Delhi reported 338 new coronavirus cases reported taking the total number of COVID-19 cases to 6,318. Also Read: Tamil Nadu records 600 new cases; Madras High Court orders closure of all liquor shops There are now 2,020 people who have recovered from the virus in Delhi with 4,230 active cases. 68 people have died due to the virus in India's capital. Amid the growing number of cases, the Delhi government directed all the district magistrates to strictly enforce lockdown measures and the national directives for coronavirus management for the public and workplaces. In Jammu and Kashmir, 30 new positive cases were reported as authorities declared all educational institutions in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to remain closed till May 31. In Uttar Pradesh, 155 new COVID-19 cases were reported in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 3,214 including 1,387 patients who have been discharged. Sixty-six people have died due to the virus in the state with the number of active cases at 1,761. The Haryana government reported 22 new cases with the total number of cases rising to 647 in the state. However, no positive cases was reported in Jharkhand today with the total number of cases at 132.

Delhi reports 338 new coronavirus cases; over 6,000 patients infected

As Italy reported more deaths due to the coronavirus pandemic, European Commission urged EU member states to extend the temporary ban on non-essential travel into union by one month until June 15.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-the-covid-19-pandemic-is-over-ready-for-review-under-who-china-297447">Also Read: After the COVID-19 pandemic is over, ready for review under WHO, says China</a>

The European Union said "the situation remains fragile both in Europe and in the world".

"We will have to gradually put an end to restrictions on free movement and internal border controls, before we can lift entry restrictions at the external borders and guarantee access to the EU for third country nationals," the EU's Home Affairs European Commissioner Ylva Johansson said.

Health officials in Italy said that 30,201 people had died of the virus with 217,185 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The United Kindom also witnessed a surge in the death toll with over 31,000 fatalities.

There are currently 212,626 cases of the virus in the United Kingdom which is next only to Spain and Italy in Europe. The United States has the most number of COVID-19&nbsp;cases with over 1.2 million cases.

France has witnessed 174, 918 cases of the virus with over 25,000 deaths. In Spain over 26,000 people have died due to the virus with the country still grappling with more than 221, 447 infected cases which is the highest in Europe.

As Italy reported more deaths due to the coronavirus pandemic, European Commission urged EU member states to extend the temporary ban on non-essential travel into union by one month until June 15.

As Italy reported more deaths due to the coronavirus pandemic, European Commission urged EU member states to extend the temporary ban on non-essential travel into union by one month until June 15. Also Read: After the COVID-19 pandemic is over, ready for review under WHO, says China The European Union said "the situation remains fragile both in Europe and in the world". "We will have to gradually put an end to restrictions on free movement and internal border controls, before we can lift entry restrictions at the external borders and guarantee access to the EU for third country nationals," the EU's Home Affairs European Commissioner Ylva Johansson said. Health officials in Italy said that 30,201 people had died of the virus with 217,185 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The United Kindom also witnessed a surge in the death toll with over 31,000 fatalities. There are currently 212,626 cases of the virus in the United Kingdom which is next only to Spain and Italy in Europe. The United States has the most number of COVID-19 cases with over 1.2 million cases. France has witnessed 174, 918 cases of the virus with over 25,000 deaths. In Spain over 26,000 people have died due to the virus with the country still grappling with more than 221, 447 infected cases which is the highest in Europe.

As Italy reports new deaths, European Commission urges member states to extend temporary non-essential travel ban

Mumbai reported 748 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-reports-45-new-covid-19-cases-andhra-pradesh-reports-54-cases-in-24-hours-297457">coronavirus</a> cases in the last 24 hours taking total number of cases in the city to the 11,967.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-records-600-new-cases-madras-high-court-orders-closure-of-all-liquor-shops-297499">Also Read: Tamil Nadu records 600 new cases</a>

Maharashtra which is now the worst-hit state due to the virus has 19,063 cases of COVID-19 with 1,089 more people testing positive today. 37 people have lost their lives due to the virus in the last 24 hours taking the total death toll in the state to 731.

3,470 patients have recovered from the virus, according to the state health department

The Odisha government said 25 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state today with the total number of cases in the state rising to 271.

Tamil Nadu health minister C. Vijayabaskar said that 600 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state today with 399 in capital Chennai.

The number of coronavirus cases in Tamil Nadu has risen to 6,009 which includes 1,605 who have been discharged. Forty people have died due to the virus in the state with the number of active cases at 4,631.

The Ludhiana district magistrate said that restaurants, eateries, ice-cream shops, sweet shops and juice shops in the district are allowed to open from 7am to 7pm only for home delivery even as West Bengal reported 130 new coronavirus cases with the number of cases climbing to 1678. The death toll due to the virus has risen to 88 in the state.

Mumbai reported 748 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours taking total number of cases in the city to the 11,967. Also Read: Tamil Nadu records 600 new cases Maharashtra which is now the worst-hit state due to the virus has 19,063 cases of COVID-19 with 1,089 more people testing positive today.

Mumbai reported 748 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours taking total number of cases in the city to the 11,967. Also Read: Tamil Nadu records 600 new cases Maharashtra which is now the worst-hit state due to the virus has 19,063 cases of COVID-19 with 1,089 more people testing positive today. 37 people have lost their lives due to the virus in the last 24 hours taking the total death toll in the state to 731. 3,470 patients have recovered from the virus, according to the state health department The Odisha government said 25 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state today with the total number of cases in the state rising to 271. Tamil Nadu health minister C. Vijayabaskar said that 600 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state today with 399 in capital Chennai. The number of coronavirus cases in Tamil Nadu has risen to 6,009 which includes 1,605 who have been discharged. Forty people have died due to the virus in the state with the number of active cases at 4,631. The Ludhiana district magistrate said that restaurants, eateries, ice-cream shops, sweet shops and juice shops in the district are allowed to open from 7am to 7pm only for home delivery even as West Bengal reported 130 new coronavirus cases with the number of cases climbing to 1678. The death toll due to the virus has risen to 88 in the state.

COVID-19: Maharashtra reports 37 deaths in one-day; 748 new cases in Mumbai

So international courts may not be up to the task but the world cannot look the other way as China and its accomplices break the rules like the World <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-closes-bars-and-clubs-fears-second-wave-of-covid-19-297461">Health </a>Organization(WHO).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-the-covid-19-pandemic-is-over-ready-for-review-under-who-china-297447">Also Read:&nbsp;After the COVID-19 pandemic is over, ready for review under WHO, says&nbsp;China</a>

Could that be India? there's a good chance. India will be taking up the leadership role at the WHO on May 22. New Delhi's nominee is expected to be appointed the chairperson of the WHO's executive board. It is the WHO wing responsible for executing decisions and implementing policies of the health assembly.

India's nomination was unanimously upheld by the WHO's South-East Asia group last year. India will be replacing Japan which will complete its one-year-term and it will hold the post for at least three years.

It implies that the Director-General of the WHO will have to get the chairperson - India &nbsp;- on board for all important decisions. Here are five things that India can and must do to fix the broken system of the&nbsp;UN health body.

Start by asking questions, push for accountability from WHO leadership, why did it buy China's word on the human transmission? Did it downplay or blatantly lie about how lethal the coronavirus was? Why did it declare a pandemic only after the virus had reached 85 countries?&nbsp;

Dr. Tedros sent a WHO delegation to China? what again did it achieve? and why can't the world talk about the place of origin of this virus?

India must begin by asking these questions without hesitation. Second, demand transparency from member countries. Starting with the one that gave the world this virus- China.

Why and on what basis should we trust China's recovery? Why won't it share research with and initial test samples as a WHO member nation? What evidence does Cina have to claim that this virus did not originate in the Wuhan lab? &nbsp;Why shouldn't global experts have access to this lab?

And most importantly, the wet markets - are they back? if they are what are they selling? under what conditions? and what assurance can China give the world that another disease is not waiting to explode? India must insist on the financial independence of the World Health Organization. How much does money talk at this body?

Reports say that contribution by countries in lieu of their membership to the WHO is extremely low. The WHO budget is mostly financed by voluntary contributions. Donations and grants that come from public and private sources. How much does the WHO depend on these 'extra-budgetary resources'? and which private sources are sending money to this body? are they from China?...

Also how much influence do they wield? India must push for Taiwan's inclusion at the World Health Organization. The WHO labels parts of India as Chinese territory but when it comes to Taiwan this body adheres to the One-China principle. Forget praising Taiwan's success story, it doesn't even acknowledge its existence.

India must rally support for Taiwan's observer status at the WHO. Taiwan must be permitted to share its expertise on the pandemic for the simple reason that its response has been the best.

And lastly, conduct an independent international probe on the outbreak which China says it is ready but with "close co-operation with the WHO". A body it already controls.&nbsp;

India must push for a transparent and crystal clear probe on the coronavirus outbreak and the world must not waste time mourning missed chances.

India must take the lead and WHO member nations must extend their support.

So international courts may not be up to the task but the world cannot look the other way as China and its accomplices break the rules like the World Health Organization(WHO).

So international courts may not be up to the task but the world cannot look the other way as China and its accomplices break the rules like the World Health Organization(WHO). Also Read: After the COVID-19 pandemic is over, ready for review under WHO, says China Could that be India? there's a good chance. India will be taking up the leadership role at the WHO on May 22. New Delhi's nominee is expected to be appointed the chairperson of the WHO's executive board. It is the WHO wing responsible for executing decisions and implementing policies of the health assembly. India's nomination was unanimously upheld by the WHO's South-East Asia group last year. India will be replacing Japan which will complete its one-year-term and it will hold the post for at least three years. It implies that the Director-General of the WHO will have to get the chairperson - India - on board for all important decisions. Here are five things that India can and must do to fix the broken system of the UN health body. Start by asking questions, push for accountability from WHO leadership, why did it buy China's word on the human transmission? Did it downplay or blatantly lie about how lethal the coronavirus was? Why did it declare a pandemic only after the virus had reached 85 countries? Dr. Tedros sent a WHO delegation to China? what again did it achieve? and why can't the world talk about the place of origin of this virus? India must begin by asking these questions without hesitation. Second, demand transparency from member countries. Starting with the one that gave the world this virus- China. Why and on what basis should we trust China's recovery? Why won't it share research with and initial test samples as a WHO member nation? What evidence does Cina have to claim that this virus did not originate in the Wuhan lab? Why shouldn't global experts have access to this lab? And most importantly, the wet markets - are they back? if they are what are they selling? under what conditions? and what assurance can China give the world that another disease is not waiting to explode? India must insist on the financial independence of the World Health Organization. How much does money talk at this body? Reports say that contribution by countries in lieu of their membership to the WHO is extremely low. The WHO budget is mostly financed by voluntary contributions. Donations and grants that come from public and private sources. How much does the WHO depend on these 'extra-budgetary resources'? and which private sources are sending money to this body? are they from China?... Also how much influence do they wield? India must push for Taiwan's inclusion at the World Health Organization. The WHO labels parts of India as Chinese territory but when it comes to Taiwan this body adheres to the One-China principle. Forget praising Taiwan's success story, it doesn't even acknowledge its existence. India must rally support for Taiwan's observer status at the WHO. Taiwan must be permitted to share its expertise on the pandemic for the simple reason that its response has been the best. And lastly, conduct an independent international probe on the outbreak which China says it is ready but with "close co-operation with the WHO". A body it already controls. India must push for a transparent and crystal clear probe on the coronavirus outbreak and the world must not waste time mourning missed chances. India must take the lead and WHO member nations must extend their support.

India to assume WHO leadership role; five things to fix

On the occassion of National Day of Prayer in the United States, a Hindu priest was invited by US President Trump as he recited Vedic prayer derived from the Yajurveda at the White House as the country battles the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-undergo-covid-19-test-every-day-as-military-aide-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-297381">coronavirus</a> pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/75000-americans-at-risk-of-dying-from-coronavirus-despair-says-study-297460">Also Read:&nbsp;75,000 Americans at risk of dying from 'coronavirus despair', says study</a>

The Vedic prayer derived from the Yajurveda, goes like this: Om Dyau Shanti, Rantariksha Gwam Shanti, Prithvi Shanti, Rapah Shanti, Roshadhayah Shanti, Vanas Patayah Shanti, Vishwed Devah Shanti, Brahma Sarvag Wam Shanti, Shanti Reva Shanti Sa Ma Shanti, RedhiOm Shanti Shanti Shanti..

During his address from the White House, the US President said: "May we never forget that prayer guides and empowers our nation and that all things are possible with God."

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As a Nation, we rely on God to guide us through this time and raise our Country to even greater heights. <a href="https://t.co/asDVFHLGqM">pic.twitter.com/asDVFHLGqM</a>
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1258503172127145986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"As a nation, we rely on God to guide us through this time and raise our country to even greater heights," the US president said during his address, adding, "in every age and in every generation, the prayers of our people and the faith of our families has willed us on to victory."

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Our Country has endured a grave hardship—but your faith and prayers are bringing us strength. <a href="https://t.co/y8Jkqd5jDP">pic.twitter.com/y8Jkqd5jDP</a>
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1258496084600672266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Our country has endured a grave hardship - but your faith and prayers are bringing us strength. In every part of our country, we've seen the grace of God through the love of our fellow citizens."

President&nbsp;Trump's message was quite clear in keeping with America's struggle against coronavirus which has already claimed over 75,000 lives and has infected over one million patients impacting jobs and shutting down large cities with New York being the hardest hit due to the virus.

The US recorded a record 20.5 million job losses in April which was the worst since the Great Depression of 1929 as economic activity has come to a virtual halt with the shutdown in place.

On the occassion of National Day of Prayer in the United States, a Hindu priest was invited by US President Trump as he recited Vedic prayer derived from the Yajurveda at the White House as the country battles the coronavirus pandemic.

On the occassion of National Day of Prayer in the United States, a Hindu priest was invited by US President Trump as he recited Vedic prayer derived from the Yajurveda at the White House as the country battles the coronavirus pandemic. Also Read: 75,000 Americans at risk of dying from 'coronavirus despair', says study The Vedic prayer derived from the Yajurveda, goes like this: Om Dyau Shanti, Rantariksha Gwam Shanti, Prithvi Shanti, Rapah Shanti, Roshadhayah Shanti, Vanas Patayah Shanti, Vishwed Devah Shanti, Brahma Sarvag Wam Shanti, Shanti Reva Shanti Sa Ma Shanti, RedhiOm Shanti Shanti Shanti.. During his address from the White House, the US President said: "May we never forget that prayer guides and empowers our nation and that all things are possible with God." As a Nation, we rely on God to guide us through this time and raise our Country to even greater heights. pic.twitter.com/asDVFHLGqM — The White House (@WhiteHouse) May 7, 2020 × "As a nation, we rely on God to guide us through this time and raise our country to even greater heights," the US president said during his address, adding, "in every age and in every generation, the prayers of our people and the faith of our families has willed us on to victory." Our Country has endured a grave hardship—but your faith and prayers are bringing us strength. pic.twitter.com/y8Jkqd5jDP — The White House (@WhiteHouse) May 7, 2020 × "Our country has endured a grave hardship - but your faith and prayers are bringing us strength. In every part of our country, we've seen the grace of God through the love of our fellow citizens." President Trump's message was quite clear in keeping with America's struggle against coronavirus which has already claimed over 75,000 lives and has infected over one million patients impacting jobs and shutting down large cities with New York being the hardest hit due to the virus. The US recorded a record 20.5 million job losses in April which was the worst since the Great Depression of 1929 as economic activity has come to a virtual halt with the shutdown in place.

Hindu priest recites Vedic prayer from Yajurveda at White House on National Day of Prayer

US labour Department said today that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/75000-americans-at-risk-of-dying-from-coronavirus-despair-says-study-297460">coronavirus</a> pandemic led to wiping out of 20.5 million jobs last month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whistleblower-complaint-draws-attention-to-trump-administrations-flawed-covid-19-response-297366">Also Read:&nbsp;Whistleblower complaint draws attention to Trump administration's flawed COVID-19 response</a>

The unemployment rate crashed 14.7 per cent amid COVID-19 outbreak in April compared to 4.4 per cent in March. The unemployment rate is well beyond the peak of the 2008 financial crisis.&nbsp;

Job losses in the US in March was 870,000 even as the country was closing down due to the virus in the second half of the month.&nbsp;During the economic collapse 12 years ago, the US lost 8.6 million jobs in a two year period.

President Trump while talking to a US television channel said "It's fully expected, there's no surprise", adding,"I'll bring it back".&nbsp;

The virus has already claimed over 75,000 lives leading to large scale closure of business&nbsp;and lockdowns which has hampered economic activity with some categorising it as the "largest collapse in history."

Amid the breakdown in economic activity, US and China decided to create favourable conditions for the phase one trade deal which has been in the works despite tensions between the two countries over the coronavirus outbreak.

"Both sides said they should strengthen macroeconomic and public health cooperation, strive to create a favourable atmosphere and conditions for the implementation of the phase one US-China economic and trade agreement, promoting positive results," a notice from China's Ministry of Commerce said.

US trade representative said: "They also agreed that in spite of the current global health emergency, both countries fully expect to meet their obligations under the agreement in a timely manner."

&nbsp;

US labour Department said today that the coronavirus pandemic led to wiping out of 20.5 million jobs last month. Also Read: Whistleblower complaint draws attention to Trump administration's flawed COVID-19 response The unemployment rate crashed 14.

US labour Department said today that the coronavirus pandemic led to wiping out of 20.5 million jobs last month. Also Read: Whistleblower complaint draws attention to Trump administration's flawed COVID-19 response The unemployment rate crashed 14.7 per cent amid COVID-19 outbreak in April compared to 4.4 per cent in March. The unemployment rate is well beyond the peak of the 2008 financial crisis. Job losses in the US in March was 870,000 even as the country was closing down due to the virus in the second half of the month. During the economic collapse 12 years ago, the US lost 8.6 million jobs in a two year period. President Trump while talking to a US television channel said "It's fully expected, there's no surprise", adding,"I'll bring it back". The virus has already claimed over 75,000 lives leading to large scale closure of business and lockdowns which has hampered economic activity with some categorising it as the "largest collapse in history." Amid the breakdown in economic activity, US and China decided to create favourable conditions for the phase one trade deal which has been in the works despite tensions between the two countries over the coronavirus outbreak. "Both sides said they should strengthen macroeconomic and public health cooperation, strive to create a favourable atmosphere and conditions for the implementation of the phase one US-China economic and trade agreement, promoting positive results," a notice from China's Ministry of Commerce said. US trade representative said: "They also agreed that in spite of the current global health emergency, both countries fully expect to meet their obligations under the agreement in a timely manner."

US records 20.5 million job losses in April; no surprise, will bring it back, says Trump

India's health ministry said today that 3,390 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/consider-home-delivery-of-liquor-to-maintain-social-distancing-supreme-court-to-states-297422">coronavirus</a> cases were reported in the last 24 hours in the country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-reports-45-new-covid-19-cases-andhra-pradesh-reports-54-cases-in-24-hours-297457">Also Read:&nbsp;Karnataka reports 45 new COVID-19 cases, Andhra Pradesh reports 54 cases in 24 hours</a>

"The recovery percentage is now 29.36%. Till now, 16,540 patients have been cured and 37,916 patients are under active medical supervision," India's health ministry official Lav Agrawal said.

The health ministry said that a revised list of red, orange and green zones will be circulated to the states soon after the analysis of data.

"In 29 districts no new cases have been detected in the last 21 days. In 36 districts, no new cases have been detected in the last 14 days," the health ministry official said, adding,"in 46 districts no new cases have been detected in the last 7 days."

The official said that in 216 districts nationwide no positive coronavirus cases were detected.

"Phase-II Open-Label Randomised Controlled Trial of ICMR has received the approval of the coronavirus national ethics committee. Under it, ICMR will conduct trial in 21 hospitals, to assess the safety and efficacy of convalescent plasma," the health ministry official added.

Meanwhile, the home ministry said that Railways has run 222 Shramik special trains for the movement of stranded persons with over 2.5 lakh people who have made use of the service.

Karnataka minister R Ashok said that 16 trains are ready to be sent to migrant workers.

"But consent is awaited from other state governments. Bihar has given one train permission every day. There is no fault of Karnataka," the state minister said.

As the virus continued to spread in the country, India's Border Security Force(BSF) said that 30 new coronavirus cases was detected among its personnel with six from&nbsp;Delhi and &nbsp;24 from Tripura.

(With ANI inputs) 
&nbsp;

India's health ministry said today that 3,390 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours in the country. Also Read: Karnataka reports 45 new COVID-19 cases, Andhra Pradesh reports 54 cases in 24 hours "The recovery percentage is now 29.

India's health ministry said today that 3,390 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours in the country. Also Read: Karnataka reports 45 new COVID-19 cases, Andhra Pradesh reports 54 cases in 24 hours "The recovery percentage is now 29.36%. Till now, 16,540 patients have been cured and 37,916 patients are under active medical supervision," India's health ministry official Lav Agrawal said. The health ministry said that a revised list of red, orange and green zones will be circulated to the states soon after the analysis of data. "In 29 districts no new cases have been detected in the last 21 days. In 36 districts, no new cases have been detected in the last 14 days," the health ministry official said, adding,"in 46 districts no new cases have been detected in the last 7 days." The official said that in 216 districts nationwide no positive coronavirus cases were detected. "Phase-II Open-Label Randomised Controlled Trial of ICMR has received the approval of the coronavirus national ethics committee. Under it, ICMR will conduct trial in 21 hospitals, to assess the safety and efficacy of convalescent plasma," the health ministry official added. Meanwhile, the home ministry said that Railways has run 222 Shramik special trains for the movement of stranded persons with over 2.5 lakh people who have made use of the service. Karnataka minister R Ashok said that 16 trains are ready to be sent to migrant workers. "But consent is awaited from other state governments. Bihar has given one train permission every day. There is no fault of Karnataka," the state minister said. As the virus continued to spread in the country, India's Border Security Force(BSF) said that 30 new coronavirus cases was detected among its personnel with six from Delhi and 24 from Tripura. (With ANI inputs)

3,390 new coronavirus cases in India; 16,540 patients cured: Government

Rajasthan on Friday reported 64 more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-the-covid-19-pandemic-deepens-virus-symptoms-multiply-297322">coronavirus </a>cases in the last 24 hours with the total number of positive cases rising to 3,491.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-lavish-weddings-go-online-amid-coronavirus-lockdown-297413">Also Read:&nbsp;India's lavish weddings go online amid coronavirus lockdown</a>

The Rajasthan health department said 1,475 cases are active in the state.

In Karnataka, 45 new cases were reported with the total number of cases at 750 with 30 deaths.

Andhra Pradesh reported 54 new positive cases with 3 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the number of COVID-19 cases to 1,887 in the state with the death toll at 41.

There were 3,390 coronavirus cases nationwide on Friday with 103 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of coronavirus cases in India has now risen to 56,342 including 37,916 active cases, the health ministry said.

16,539 people have been cured with 1,886 people who have died of the virus in India.

Uttarakhand reported no new cases for the fourth consecutive day with the total number of coronavirus cases at 61 with one death. There are 15 active cases in the state.

As the number of cases continued to rise in Maharashtra, reports said that there is a possibility of an extended lockdown. The number of cases in the state are near to the 17,000 mark with Pune and Mumbai being the worst affected with nearly 15,000 cases.

Rajasthan on Friday reported 64 more coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours with the total number of positive cases rising to 3,491. Also Read: India's lavish weddings go online amid coronavirus lockdown The Rajasthan health department said 1,475 cases are active in the state.

Rajasthan on Friday reported 64 more coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours with the total number of positive cases rising to 3,491. Also Read: India's lavish weddings go online amid coronavirus lockdown The Rajasthan health department said 1,475 cases are active in the state. In Karnataka, 45 new cases were reported with the total number of cases at 750 with 30 deaths. Andhra Pradesh reported 54 new positive cases with 3 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the number of COVID-19 cases to 1,887 in the state with the death toll at 41. There were 3,390 coronavirus cases nationwide on Friday with 103 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of coronavirus cases in India has now risen to 56,342 including 37,916 active cases, the health ministry said. 16,539 people have been cured with 1,886 people who have died of the virus in India. Uttarakhand reported no new cases for the fourth consecutive day with the total number of coronavirus cases at 61 with one death. There are 15 active cases in the state. As the number of cases continued to rise in Maharashtra, reports said that there is a possibility of an extended lockdown. The number of cases in the state are near to the 17,000 mark with Pune and Mumbai being the worst affected with nearly 15,000 cases.

Karnataka reports 45 new COVID-19 cases, Andhra Pradesh reports 54 cases in 24 hours

China on Friday said it was ready for "open, transparent and inclusive" panel under the World Health Organization&nbsp;to review the global response to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-cases-surge-to-38-million-death-toll-at-269584-297351">coronavirus</a> pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-undergo-covid-19-test-every-day-as-military-aide-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-297381">Also Read:&nbsp;Trump to undergo COVID-19 test every day as military aide tests positive for coronavirus</a>

"The review should be conducted in an open, transparent and inclusive manner at an appropriate time after the pandemic is over," foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said.

Hua said the review should be conducted under the leadership of WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

China has been under global pressure to allow a transparent investigation into the origins of COVID-19 after the virus became a global pandemic leading to deaths of over two million with several European nations including America being the hardest hit.

President Trump has repeatedly called for an investigation, calling in "Wuhan virus" and alleging that WHO has a "China bias". Trump has said the virus originated from a lab in Wuhan, a claim repeated by US secretary of state Mike Pompeo, however, China has dismissed the allegation outright.

Australia, Canada, the UK and Germany have also called for independent investigation in the virus with several experts speculating that the virus may originated much earlier than China announced on December 31, 2019 to the WHO.

The virus has claimed 4,633 lives in China with 82,886 cases of infection, even as the global death toll has climbed to over 269,584 and over 3.8 million infections with the United States being the hardest hit with over 75,000 fatalities and over a million infection cases.

China on Friday said it was ready for "open, transparent and inclusive" panel under the World Health Organization to review the global response to the coronavirus pandemic.

China on Friday said it was ready for "open, transparent and inclusive" panel under the World Health Organization to review the global response to the coronavirus pandemic. Also Read: Trump to undergo COVID-19 test every day as military aide tests positive for coronavirus "The review should be conducted in an open, transparent and inclusive manner at an appropriate time after the pandemic is over," foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said. Hua said the review should be conducted under the leadership of WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. China has been under global pressure to allow a transparent investigation into the origins of COVID-19 after the virus became a global pandemic leading to deaths of over two million with several European nations including America being the hardest hit. President Trump has repeatedly called for an investigation, calling in "Wuhan virus" and alleging that WHO has a "China bias". Trump has said the virus originated from a lab in Wuhan, a claim repeated by US secretary of state Mike Pompeo, however, China has dismissed the allegation outright. Australia, Canada, the UK and Germany have also called for independent investigation in the virus with several experts speculating that the virus may originated much earlier than China announced on December 31, 2019 to the WHO. The virus has claimed 4,633 lives in China with 82,886 cases of infection, even as the global death toll has climbed to over 269,584 and over 3.8 million infections with the United States being the hardest hit with over 75,000 fatalities and over a million infection cases.

After the COVID-19 pandemic is over, ready for review under WHO: China

A journalist should never become the story. One of the first rules you're taught in journalism but times have changed and sometimes, rules must too.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-china-censors-european-unions-friendship-letter-297279">Also Read:&nbsp;Now, China censors European Union's 'friendship letter'</a>

In today's times shooting the messenger is fashionable. So, invariably, journalists end up becoming part of the story that they document.&nbsp;

It has been happening to WION since we started exposing China's lies. It happened again on Wednesday night. It is about Wondfo Biotech which is a Chinese company.

A company that supplied rapid antibody test kits to India. India found that the testing kits were faulty. So orders were cancelled and licenses were revoked. Wondfo Biotech also lost its import license for India. The story should have ended there.

But the Chinese didn't let it end. Wondfo biotech and the government of China are in no mood to put the matter to rest. So Wondfo biotech issued a statement. The company has singled out WION with our name and pictures and the press release was emailed by the Chinese embassy which is peculiar. Why should the embassy be sending press releases of a company?

The press release is four pages long. It bears the stamp of the company. It begins with denial, followed by a long list of articles and links. These are international media reports about Wondfo Biotech. Almost all reports say that Wondfo's testing kits work but, the last page is different.

It features a clip from Gravitas. A story from our broadcast on April 21 which was the day when the Indian Council of Medical Research(ICMR) had asked Indian states to stop using the Chinese test kit.&nbsp;

WION had reported the story in detail with facts. Now Wondfo says we got it wrong. We welcome the feedback but they say nothing about our reportage.

They&nbsp;mention one particular video clip. A file shot of coronavirus testing in India. Wondfo says the right procedure of blood collection wasn't followed by the medical worker. At least that is what we understood from their statement.

It says: "Users are supposed to collect specific blood samples with Wondfo made capillary straws". The fact is that our report in April had nothing to do with that!

Our story was how Chinese testing kits turned out to be faulty and we stand by it. On Gravitas, we have reported extensively on how different countries have complained about Chinese coronavirus supplies.

India's story is no different. India reportedly procured five lakh rapid testing kits from two Chinese companies - Wondfo Biotech and Livzon Diagnostics.

ICMR, the agency leading India's coronavirus response wanted to use these kits to check the trend but, they found that the kits are not working. In the state of Rajasthan, only 5.4 per cent of the results were accurate. In other words, more than 94 per cent were inaccurate.

Wondfo biotech says their kits worked in the United States and the United Kingdom. It didn't work in&nbsp;India, so, India stopped using Chinese testing kits.

The import license issued to Wondfo was revoked. India had not paid for the kits, the government just cancelled the entire order.

Neither the Chinese companies nor the Chinese government has accepted India's assessment. The Chinese embassy in New Delhi issued a statement.

It said labeling Chinese products "faulty" is unfair and irresponsible. China says this is preemptive prejudice. Now, here's something interesting to note. As far as we know, Wondfo Biotech is a private company.

The Chinese embassy has been emailing and tweeting Wondfo's press releases which is strange. Most governments, most embassies, anywhere in the world, do not push the agenda of private companies.

But Chinese embassies have been at the forefront of fighting PR battles for private Chinese firms. What does this tell you? the line between private and government is blurred.

As for their defence and complaints, China has mastered how to play the victim card, while being the perpetrator. Question them, and they call you racist. Cancel orders, and they cry pre-emptive prejudice.

The fact is, it's not just India, which has complained, Spain, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Turkey, Finland and the United Kingdom also got faulty Chinese test kits.

The Netherlands recalled 600 thousand face masks purchased from China. They were N95 masks that did not fit properly and their filters didn't work.

Faulty kits are worse than no testing kits. Why should India use something that does not work? and also pay for it?

As for the Chinese companies best case scenario - this is a textbook case of a PR disaster &nbsp;- supplying a faulty product and then blaming the costumer.

The worst-case scenario backed by their government, and they targeting the media in a foreign land for exposing them. Their tactics, like their kits are sub-standard.

A journalist should never become the story. One of the first rules you're taught in journalism but times have changed and sometimes, rules must too. Also Read: Now, China censors European Union's 'friendship letter' In today's times shooting the messenger is fashionable.

A journalist should never become the story. One of the first rules you're taught in journalism but times have changed and sometimes, rules must too. Also Read: Now, China censors European Union's 'friendship letter' In today's times shooting the messenger is fashionable. So, invariably, journalists end up becoming part of the story that they document. It has been happening to WION since we started exposing China's lies. It happened again on Wednesday night. It is about Wondfo Biotech which is a Chinese company. A company that supplied rapid antibody test kits to India. India found that the testing kits were faulty. So orders were cancelled and licenses were revoked. Wondfo Biotech also lost its import license for India. The story should have ended there. But the Chinese didn't let it end. Wondfo biotech and the government of China are in no mood to put the matter to rest. So Wondfo biotech issued a statement. The company has singled out WION with our name and pictures and the press release was emailed by the Chinese embassy which is peculiar. Why should the embassy be sending press releases of a company? The press release is four pages long. It bears the stamp of the company. It begins with denial, followed by a long list of articles and links. These are international media reports about Wondfo Biotech. Almost all reports say that Wondfo's testing kits work but, the last page is different. It features a clip from Gravitas. A story from our broadcast on April 21 which was the day when the Indian Council of Medical Research(ICMR) had asked Indian states to stop using the Chinese test kit. WION had reported the story in detail with facts. Now Wondfo says we got it wrong. We welcome the feedback but they say nothing about our reportage. They mention one particular video clip. A file shot of coronavirus testing in India. Wondfo says the right procedure of blood collection wasn't followed by the medical worker. At least that is what we understood from their statement. It says: "Users are supposed to collect specific blood samples with Wondfo made capillary straws". The fact is that our report in April had nothing to do with that! Our story was how Chinese testing kits turned out to be faulty and we stand by it. On Gravitas, we have reported extensively on how different countries have complained about Chinese coronavirus supplies. India's story is no different. India reportedly procured five lakh rapid testing kits from two Chinese companies - Wondfo Biotech and Livzon Diagnostics. ICMR, the agency leading India's coronavirus response wanted to use these kits to check the trend but, they found that the kits are not working. In the state of Rajasthan, only 5.4 per cent of the results were accurate. In other words, more than 94 per cent were inaccurate. Wondfo biotech says their kits worked in the United States and the United Kingdom. It didn't work in India, so, India stopped using Chinese testing kits. The import license issued to Wondfo was revoked. India had not paid for the kits, the government just cancelled the entire order. Neither the Chinese companies nor the Chinese government has accepted India's assessment. The Chinese embassy in New Delhi issued a statement. It said labeling Chinese products "faulty" is unfair and irresponsible. China says this is preemptive prejudice. Now, here's something interesting to note. As far as we know, Wondfo Biotech is a private company. The Chinese embassy has been emailing and tweeting Wondfo's press releases which is strange. Most governments, most embassies, anywhere in the world, do not push the agenda of private companies. But Chinese embassies have been at the forefront of fighting PR battles for private Chinese firms. What does this tell you? the line between private and government is blurred. As for their defence and complaints, China has mastered how to play the victim card, while being the perpetrator. Question them, and they call you racist. Cancel orders, and they cry pre-emptive prejudice. The fact is, it's not just India, which has complained, Spain, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Turkey, Finland and the United Kingdom also got faulty Chinese test kits. The Netherlands recalled 600 thousand face masks purchased from China. They were N95 masks that did not fit properly and their filters didn't work. Faulty kits are worse than no testing kits. Why should India use something that does not work? and also pay for it? As for the Chinese companies best case scenario - this is a textbook case of a PR disaster - supplying a faulty product and then blaming the costumer. The worst-case scenario backed by their government, and they targeting the media in a foreign land for exposing them. Their tactics, like their kits are sub-standard.

China's Wondfo Biotech targets WION after producing faulty testing kits

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