Maldives Parliament will become the first parliament in the world to conduct its proceedings via video conference as social distancing becomes norm&nbsp;to fight COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The rehearsals for the same was held on Saturday during which the Speaker of the House Mohamed Nasheed participated.&nbsp;

The actual sessions will start from Monday and will continue till health emergency is lifted.

Nasheed speaking to WION from Male said, "One-quarter of humanity under de facto house arrest or some other form of isolation, including countless lawmakers. But the world’s parliaments cannot just stop representing their people during this crisis. The institutions of democracy must continue to function. The Maldivian parliament will go on, meeting online, and all its work will continue unimpeded."

&nbsp;"The crisis will change the world order; how we live; and how we produce and consume goods and services" and his country "has always managed to overcome challenges, no matter how big," adding that he is "confident we will emerge from this one, and prosper once more," he added.

Director of Media and Communications of the Maldives Parliament, Hassan Ziyau elaborating further said, " Despite Members not being physically present in the parliamentary chambers, the work of the parliament will continue as normal, with all parliamentary functions, such as votes, debates, and committee meetings, taking place online.”

Last week leaders of the 20 biggest economies--the G20 meet virtually and discussed a joint strategy to fight the coronavirus crisis. Before that PM Modi had proposed a SAARC summit to deal with COVID crisis.

Maldives Parliament will become the first parliament in the world to conduct its proceedings via video conference as social distancing becomes norm to fight COVID-19 pandemic.

Maldives Parliament will become the first parliament in the world to conduct its proceedings via video conference as social distancing becomes norm to fight COVID-19 pandemic. The rehearsals for the same was held on Saturday during which the Speaker of the House Mohamed Nasheed participated. The actual sessions will start from Monday and will continue till health emergency is lifted. Nasheed speaking to WION from Male said, "One-quarter of humanity under de facto house arrest or some other form of isolation, including countless lawmakers. But the world’s parliaments cannot just stop representing their people during this crisis. The institutions of democracy must continue to function. The Maldivian parliament will go on, meeting online, and all its work will continue unimpeded." "The crisis will change the world order; how we live; and how we produce and consume goods and services" and his country "has always managed to overcome challenges, no matter how big," adding that he is "confident we will emerge from this one, and prosper once more," he added. Director of Media and Communications of the Maldives Parliament, Hassan Ziyau elaborating further said, " Despite Members not being physically present in the parliamentary chambers, the work of the parliament will continue as normal, with all parliamentary functions, such as votes, debates, and committee meetings, taking place online.” Last week leaders of the 20 biggest economies--the G20 meet virtually and discussed a joint strategy to fight the coronavirus crisis. Before that PM Modi had proposed a SAARC summit to deal with COVID crisis.

Maldives Parliament goes virtual as social distancing becomes norm to fight coronavirus 

India has asked its citizens to stay put in Iran wherever they are as the situation remains precarious in the west Asian country. Iran along with Spain and Italy remains the epicentre of the corona crisis, which began in China.

Sources told WION, while the Indian mission is in touch with Indians in across Iran since sampling facility is not present in Tehran, swab samples cant be collected to check if they are COVID positive. The swab samples are tested for COVID-19 by ICMR in India, and only those Indian nationals who test negative finally board specially arranged flights to India.&nbsp;

Number of Indians are stranded in Kish island is affected by the virus but the situation in Tehran is far worse. While Indian government beliefs that keeping them at a specific location is not a solution but circumstances are completely adverse on the ground. &nbsp;

219 Indian students in Iran, primarily from Tehran and Shiraz, have already returned to India. India plans to evacuate another batch of more than 200 Indians from Iran on March 28.&nbsp;

New Delhi has evacuated more than 1700 of its citizens from China, Japan, Iran and Italy since the pandemic began. This includes 48 foreign citizens.

India has asked its citizens to stay put in Iran wherever they are as the situation remains precarious in the west Asian country. Iran along with Spain and Italy remains the epicentre of the corona crisis, which began in China.

India has asked its citizens to stay put in Iran wherever they are as the situation remains precarious in the west Asian country. Iran along with Spain and Italy remains the epicentre of the corona crisis, which began in China. Sources told WION, while the Indian mission is in touch with Indians in across Iran since sampling facility is not present in Tehran, swab samples cant be collected to check if they are COVID positive. The swab samples are tested for COVID-19 by ICMR in India, and only those Indian nationals who test negative finally board specially arranged flights to India. Number of Indians are stranded in Kish island is affected by the virus but the situation in Tehran is far worse. While Indian government beliefs that keeping them at a specific location is not a solution but circumstances are completely adverse on the ground. 219 Indian students in Iran, primarily from Tehran and Shiraz, have already returned to India. India plans to evacuate another batch of more than 200 Indians from Iran on March 28. New Delhi has evacuated more than 1700 of its citizens from China, Japan, Iran and Italy since the pandemic began. This includes 48 foreign citizens.

Situation in Iran remains precarious, India asks citizens to stay put

Speaking at the virtual G20 summit on Thursday, Indian PM Modi has said that the world has taken time to respond to the Coronavirus crisis even as he has called on a new concept of globalisation in which collective well-being of humankind is the focus.&nbsp;

"Even 3 months after the crisis, we are trying to find a coordinated response," PM Said, saying "G20 meeting shows international community has come together" but it has "taken some time to respond to the crisis with this magnitude and dimension".

Sources said PM's focus was the need to "look at the collective interest of all humankind" and "human aspects of our global collective conscious has been subsumed by economic and financial focus".

Calling COVID crisis "challenge and an opportunity for the grouping to look at a new concept of globalisation which looks at humanity and collective interest of all humankind".

PM noted the "alarming social and economic costs of the pandemic". 90% of the COVID-19 cases and 88% of deaths are from G20 countries.

India also called for reform of the world health organisation (WHO) at the G20 virtual summit that took place on Thursday evening.&nbsp;

Sources said, "PM highlighted that International Organizations like WHO need to be strengthened and reformed. WHO initially did not have the mandate to deal with the pandemic of this sort, which is why empowering of WHO is necessary be it in terms of its capacity of early warning or development of effective vaccines, or capacity building." 
&nbsp; 
New Delhi also called for the need to "freely and openly share" the benefits of medical research and development and "develop adaptive, responsive and humane health care systems".

Sources said "the fact that leaders met is significant" and the "inspiration for the global collective response to the COVID crisis came from India and PM Modi in particular"

This is for the first time G20 summit took place on issues which are not economic but humanitarian. &nbsp;G20, formed after the 2008 financial crisis, has 20 of the world's largest economies and contributed 80% of the world's GDP and 60% of the world population.&nbsp;

Speaking at the virtual G20 summit on Thursday, Indian PM Modi has said that the world has taken time to respond to the Coronavirus crisis even as he has called on a new concept of globalisation in which collective well-being of humankind is the focus.

Speaking at the virtual G20 summit on Thursday, Indian PM Modi has said that the world has taken time to respond to the Coronavirus crisis even as he has called on a new concept of globalisation in which collective well-being of humankind is the focus. "Even 3 months after the crisis, we are trying to find a coordinated response," PM Said, saying "G20 meeting shows international community has come together" but it has "taken some time to respond to the crisis with this magnitude and dimension". Sources said PM's focus was the need to "look at the collective interest of all humankind" and "human aspects of our global collective conscious has been subsumed by economic and financial focus". Calling COVID crisis "challenge and an opportunity for the grouping to look at a new concept of globalisation which looks at humanity and collective interest of all humankind". PM noted the "alarming social and economic costs of the pandemic". 90% of the COVID-19 cases and 88% of deaths are from G20 countries. India also called for reform of the world health organisation (WHO) at the G20 virtual summit that took place on Thursday evening. Sources said, "PM highlighted that International Organizations like WHO need to be strengthened and reformed. WHO initially did not have the mandate to deal with the pandemic of this sort, which is why empowering of WHO is necessary be it in terms of its capacity of early warning or development of effective vaccines, or capacity building." New Delhi also called for the need to "freely and openly share" the benefits of medical research and development and "develop adaptive, responsive and humane health care systems". Sources said "the fact that leaders met is significant" and the "inspiration for the global collective response to the COVID crisis came from India and PM Modi in particular" This is for the first time G20 summit took place on issues which are not economic but humanitarian. G20, formed after the 2008 financial crisis, has 20 of the world's largest economies and contributed 80% of the world's GDP and 60% of the world population.

World took time to respond to corona crisis, says PM Modi

China's role, when it comes Coronavirus crisis was not discussed at the G20 virtual summit that took place on Thursday evening.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/g20-nations-to-inject-5-trillion-into-global-economy-as-they-pledge-united-front-against-coronavirus-threat-288725">Also read: G20 nations to inject $5 trillion into global economy as they pledge 'united front' against coronavirus threat</a> 
 
A source who was present at the meet, when asked if G20 countries, questioned China said, "spirit of the meet was cooperative, did not see reference to origin or crisis and who was responsible, but on mitigating the hardship due to crisis."

The first case of the coronavirus was reported in Wuhan, the capital of China's Hubei province. In a matter of 3 months, more than 5 lac people globally have got the coronavirus infection.

The source said, " No effort to blame" anyone but to "deal with the issue". Adding, "individual leaders spoke but spoke in one voice."

China is being criticised for cover-ups initially that led things to go out of control. China has been miffed over the use of the word "Chinese virus", made more popular by US President who has been using the term in his twitter posts.&nbsp; 
 
The G20 countries met on Thursday evening for the first time via video conference to come up with a joint action plan to deal with the coronavirus issue. During the emergency meeting, it was decided that G20 countries will inject $5 trillion into the global economy to deal with the social, economic and financial impacts of the crisis.

China's role, when it comes Coronavirus crisis was not discussed at the G20 virtual summit that took place on Thursday evening. Also read: G20 nations to inject $5 trillion into global economy as they pledge 'united front' against coronavirus threat A source who was present at the meet, when asked if G20 countries, questioned China said, "spirit of the meet was cooperative, did not see reference to origin or crisis and who was responsible, but on mitigating the hardship due to crisis.

China's role, when it comes Coronavirus crisis was not discussed at the G20 virtual summit that took place on Thursday evening. Also read: G20 nations to inject $5 trillion into global economy as they pledge 'united front' against coronavirus threat A source who was present at the meet, when asked if G20 countries, questioned China said, "spirit of the meet was cooperative, did not see reference to origin or crisis and who was responsible, but on mitigating the hardship due to crisis." The first case of the coronavirus was reported in Wuhan, the capital of China's Hubei province. In a matter of 3 months, more than 5 lac people globally have got the coronavirus infection. The source said, " No effort to blame" anyone but to "deal with the issue". Adding, "individual leaders spoke but spoke in one voice." China is being criticised for cover-ups initially that led things to go out of control. China has been miffed over the use of the word "Chinese virus", made more popular by US President who has been using the term in his twitter posts. The G20 countries met on Thursday evening for the first time via video conference to come up with a joint action plan to deal with the coronavirus issue. During the emergency meeting, it was decided that G20 countries will inject $5 trillion into the global economy to deal with the social, economic and financial impacts of the crisis.

Coronavirus crisis: China's role at G20 emergency summit not raised

Indian army's field hospitals have been instructed by the Army Chief to be ready to set up a 45-bed isolation facility and create 10 bed ICU facility exclusively forCOVID patients at six hours notice.&nbsp;

About 30% of Field Hospitals have been put on standby for constructing COVID-19 hospitals in coronavirus hotspots. These are part of the Indian army's measures to deal with the crisis, which is a global pandemic.&nbsp;

Speaking in response to several media questions via emails, Army chief Gen Manoj Mukund Naravane &nbsp;said, "Next few weeks will be crucial to prevent negative effects of this deadly mutant virus."

He said that the Covid crisis in a preparatory stage in India and the Indian army has the "inherent capability to rise to various emergency situations by virtue of organizational structure and training."

Army's QuickReaction Medical Teams (QRMTs) will be ready to mobilize at six hours notice to meet the requirements of the hospitals/ civil administration.&nbsp;

COAS also said, "There is likely to be an increase in demand for medical services for both infected/ suspected cases within the Indian Army as also requisition from civil administration in the coming days. Necessary instructions have been passed to Command Headquarters to augment medical facilities"

Army has established quarantine facilities at Manesar, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur for the evacuees from China, Italy and Iran and additional four locations have been earmarked for setting up of wellness/ quarantine facilities. Till now 372 evacuees have been treated at Manesar and currently, 82 are under quarantine. At Jaisalmer 484 citizens who were evacuated from Iran are under quarantine and another 277 at Jodhpur.

Indian army's field hospitals have been instructed by the Army Chief to be ready to set up a 45-bed isolation facility and create 10 bed ICU facility exclusively forCOVID patients at six hours notice.

Indian army's field hospitals have been instructed by the Army Chief to be ready to set up a 45-bed isolation facility and create 10 bed ICU facility exclusively forCOVID patients at six hours notice. About 30% of Field Hospitals have been put on standby for constructing COVID-19 hospitals in coronavirus hotspots. These are part of the Indian army's measures to deal with the crisis, which is a global pandemic. Speaking in response to several media questions via emails, Army chief Gen Manoj Mukund Naravane said, "Next few weeks will be crucial to prevent negative effects of this deadly mutant virus." He said that the Covid crisis in a preparatory stage in India and the Indian army has the "inherent capability to rise to various emergency situations by virtue of organizational structure and training." Army's QuickReaction Medical Teams (QRMTs) will be ready to mobilize at six hours notice to meet the requirements of the hospitals/ civil administration. COAS also said, "There is likely to be an increase in demand for medical services for both infected/ suspected cases within the Indian Army as also requisition from civil administration in the coming days. Necessary instructions have been passed to Command Headquarters to augment medical facilities" Army has established quarantine facilities at Manesar, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur for the evacuees from China, Italy and Iran and additional four locations have been earmarked for setting up of wellness/ quarantine facilities. Till now 372 evacuees have been treated at Manesar and currently, 82 are under quarantine. At Jaisalmer 484 citizens who were evacuated from Iran are under quarantine and another 277 at Jodhpur.

Field hospitals can create 10 bed ICU facility in 6-hour notice: Indian Army chief

Indian has handed over 30,000 surgical masks and 15,000 head covering paraphernalia to Bangladesh in a bid to resolve the coronavirus crisis in South Asia.

The life-saving gear was given to Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Dr Ak Abdul Momen by Indian envoy Riva Ganguly Das today.&nbsp;

"As a friend and neighbour, India is ready to stand with Bangladesh in times of challenge. Working together, India, Bangladesh and other South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Countries can overcome the extraordinary situation created by the spread of COVID-19", Indian mission in Bangladesh expressed in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-cases-in-india-shoot-up-to-645-74-new-cases-registered-today-288531" hreflang="en">COVID-19 cases in India shoot up to 645; 74 new cases registered today</a>

The statement further added, "The assistance is intended to support the efforts of Government of Bangladesh in tackling the spread of COVID-19" .

So far, India has extended help to various South Asian countries including the Maldives, Nepal, and Bhutan.

New Delhi dispatched over 5.5 tonnes of essential medicines and rapid response medical teams to the Maldives recently.

Additionally, India has promised to send over 75,000 tonnes&nbsp;wheat to Afghanistan in case they witness shortage in the coming weeks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-records-five-new-covid-19-cases-total-in-nct-now-at-35-288482" hreflang="en">Delhi records five new COVID-19 cases, total in NCT now at 35</a>

Earlier this month, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed a SAARC video conference to conjure a joint strategy which would solve the regional&nbsp;COVID-19 crisis.

In the meeting, India had proposed the establishment of a COVID-19 Emergency Fund.

Barring Pakistan, all South Asian countries have announced a contribution to the fund whose total corpus stands at USD 18.3 million.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India have shot up to 645, with the addition of&nbsp;74 new cases registered today.

Indian has handed over 30,000 surgical masks and 15,000 head covering paraphernalia to Bangladesh in a bid to resolve the coronavirus crisis in South Asia. The life-saving gear was given to Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Dr Ak Abdul Momen by Indian envoy Riva Ganguly Das today.

Indian has handed over 30,000 surgical masks and 15,000 head covering paraphernalia to Bangladesh in a bid to resolve the coronavirus crisis in South Asia. The life-saving gear was given to Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Dr Ak Abdul Momen by Indian envoy Riva Ganguly Das today. "As a friend and neighbour, India is ready to stand with Bangladesh in times of challenge. Working together, India, Bangladesh and other South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Countries can overcome the extraordinary situation created by the spread of COVID-19", Indian mission in Bangladesh expressed in a statement. Also read: COVID-19 cases in India shoot up to 645; 74 new cases registered today The statement further added, "The assistance is intended to support the efforts of Government of Bangladesh in tackling the spread of COVID-19" . So far, India has extended help to various South Asian countries including the Maldives, Nepal, and Bhutan. New Delhi dispatched over 5.5 tonnes of essential medicines and rapid response medical teams to the Maldives recently. Additionally, India has promised to send over 75,000 tonnes wheat to Afghanistan in case they witness shortage in the coming weeks. Also read: Delhi records five new COVID-19 cases, total in NCT now at 35 Earlier this month, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed a SAARC video conference to conjure a joint strategy which would solve the regional COVID-19 crisis. In the meeting, India had proposed the establishment of a COVID-19 Emergency Fund. Barring Pakistan, all South Asian countries have announced a contribution to the fund whose total corpus stands at USD 18.3 million. The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India have shot up to 645, with the addition of 74 new cases registered today.

India lends a helping hand to Bangladesh, hands over 30,000 face masks

United Nations is still to discuss Covid crisis, several diplomatic sources have confirmed. Both the 15 member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and 193 strong United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) haven't taken the matter up formally.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cure-cant-be-worse-than-problem-announces-trump-as-he-vows-to-reopen-us-economy-amid-covid-19-crisis-288294" hreflang="en">'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy amid COVID-19 crisis</a>

The epidemic that began in China has killed 17000 people globally and infected 4,00000&nbsp;people according to data by John Hopkins University.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-original-epicentre-of-coronavirus-wuhan-really-recovered-288306">Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered?</a> 
 
The world body, based out of New York has moved its operations virtually and is meeting through video conference now due to the COVID crisis.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-united-states-become-the-next-epicentre-of-covid-19-288258" hreflang="en">Could United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19?</a>

It is interesting to know that Chair for UNSC for March is China. The monthly chair of the UNSC decides what is on the agenda and guides the body. Earlier this month, when asked about will UNSC discuss COVID Zhang Jun, China's envoy to UN said, "Council members generally feel there is no reason to panic at the moment and plan to monitor the situation....(with) COVID-19 currently not on the organ’s agenda."

Explaining, "The virus falls under the umbrella of global public health and security, rather than the Council’s geopolitical scope", which is the mandate of the body.&nbsp;

The body is also divided over a resolution on the crisis, with China particularly having issues with the phrasing of the documents on COVID.

United Nations' health body--world health organisation (WHO) has itself come under much criticism in the delay to declare it a pandemic. The pandemic has accelerated fast and according to WHO's estimates, it took 67 days from the first reported case to reach the first 100,000 cases, 11 days for the second 100,000 cases and just 4 days for the third 100,000 cases.

The UNSC last met on 12 March &amp; before that discussed "peace and security in Africa: countering terrorism and extremism in Africa" and the situation in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the President of the General Assembly Tijjani Muhammad-Bande has presented a proposal on how General assembly can take essential decisions related to the organisation in the current situation.&nbsp;

Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General said, "He submitted a draft decision that would enable the General Assembly to adopt essential decisions under a silence procedure. If a plenary meeting of the General Assembly is not practicable due to the pandemic, the proposal would authorize the President of the GA to circulate, after consultation with the General Committee, draft decisions of the Assembly to all Member States under a silence procedure of at least 72 hours. If the silence is not broken, the decision shall be considered adopted. "

Meanwhile, G20 has moved fast with G20 video meet all set to happen on Thursday. This is for the first time G20 leaders will be meeting via video conference. The group., that emerged after the 2008 global financial crisis has emerged as a major political-economic forum to discuss global issues and crisis in last one decade.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has written to G20 leaders urging them to take concerted and decisive action on the current global health crisis. Calling for a “war-time” plan, Guterres urged G20 leaders to step forward with a "strong response package" to address the various threats posed by COVID.

UN will on Wednesday launch the COVID-19 Global Humanitarian Response Plan, which will assist people in vulnerable countries. 
 
The Estonian Mission to the UN was preparing a Security Council statement on Covid-19 but sources told, it had to put in on hold as not all Council members agreed to do a statement.&nbsp;

But sources were optimistic that "as things progress quite fast, let’s wait and see how we will go from here."

United Nations is still to discuss Covid crisis, several diplomatic sources have confirmed. Both the 15 member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and 193 strong United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) haven't taken the matter up formally.

United Nations is still to discuss Covid crisis, several diplomatic sources have confirmed. Both the 15 member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and 193 strong United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) haven't taken the matter up formally. Also read: 'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy amid COVID-19 crisis The epidemic that began in China has killed 17000 people globally and infected 4,00000 people according to data by John Hopkins University. Also read: Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered? The world body, based out of New York has moved its operations virtually and is meeting through video conference now due to the COVID crisis. Also read: Could United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19? It is interesting to know that Chair for UNSC for March is China. The monthly chair of the UNSC decides what is on the agenda and guides the body. Earlier this month, when asked about will UNSC discuss COVID Zhang Jun, China's envoy to UN said, "Council members generally feel there is no reason to panic at the moment and plan to monitor the situation....(with) COVID-19 currently not on the organ’s agenda." Explaining, "The virus falls under the umbrella of global public health and security, rather than the Council’s geopolitical scope", which is the mandate of the body. The body is also divided over a resolution on the crisis, with China particularly having issues with the phrasing of the documents on COVID. United Nations' health body--world health organisation (WHO) has itself come under much criticism in the delay to declare it a pandemic. The pandemic has accelerated fast and according to WHO's estimates, it took 67 days from the first reported case to reach the first 100,000 cases, 11 days for the second 100,000 cases and just 4 days for the third 100,000 cases. The UNSC last met on 12 March & before that discussed "peace and security in Africa: countering terrorism and extremism in Africa" and the situation in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, the President of the General Assembly Tijjani Muhammad-Bande has presented a proposal on how General assembly can take essential decisions related to the organisation in the current situation. Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General said, "He submitted a draft decision that would enable the General Assembly to adopt essential decisions under a silence procedure. If a plenary meeting of the General Assembly is not practicable due to the pandemic, the proposal would authorize the President of the GA to circulate, after consultation with the General Committee, draft decisions of the Assembly to all Member States under a silence procedure of at least 72 hours. If the silence is not broken, the decision shall be considered adopted. " Meanwhile, G20 has moved fast with G20 video meet all set to happen on Thursday. This is for the first time G20 leaders will be meeting via video conference. The group., that emerged after the 2008 global financial crisis has emerged as a major political-economic forum to discuss global issues and crisis in last one decade. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has written to G20 leaders urging them to take concerted and decisive action on the current global health crisis. Calling for a “war-time” plan, Guterres urged G20 leaders to step forward with a "strong response package" to address the various threats posed by COVID. UN will on Wednesday launch the COVID-19 Global Humanitarian Response Plan, which will assist people in vulnerable countries. The Estonian Mission to the UN was preparing a Security Council statement on Covid-19 but sources told, it had to put in on hold as not all Council members agreed to do a statement. But sources were optimistic that "as things progress quite fast, let’s wait and see how we will go from here."

United Nations still to discuss Covid-19 crisis formally

The Government of India on Monday informed that three Indians died outside India due to novel coronavirus infection. &nbsp;The deaths were reported from Iran, Egypt and Sweden, according to the government.&nbsp;

70-year-old Indian died in Iran while the Indian who lost his life in Egypt was a 52- year-old man. In Sweden, a 42-year-old Indian committed suicide after he was diagnosed with coronavirus.&nbsp;

A total of 276 cases of Indias infected with the deadly virus have been reported with a substantial number of 255 from Iran's central city of Qom. 12 Indians from the UAE and five from Italy are the other two countries with most infected cases. Hong Kong, Kuwait, Rwanda and Sri Lanka has one case each.

India has been focusing on getting its nationals back from countries worst-hit and Indians stranded in transit in countries like Malaysia, UK.&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is in the process of bringing back 113 Indian citizens stuck in transit at Kuala Lumper Airport. 
&nbsp;

The Government of India on Monday informed that three Indians died outside India due to novel coronavirus infection. The deaths were reported from Iran, Egypt and Sweden, according to the government.

The Government of India on Monday informed that three Indians died outside India due to novel coronavirus infection. The deaths were reported from Iran, Egypt and Sweden, according to the government. 70-year-old Indian died in Iran while the Indian who lost his life in Egypt was a 52- year-old man. In Sweden, a 42-year-old Indian committed suicide after he was diagnosed with coronavirus. A total of 276 cases of Indias infected with the deadly virus have been reported with a substantial number of 255 from Iran's central city of Qom. 12 Indians from the UAE and five from Italy are the other two countries with most infected cases. Hong Kong, Kuwait, Rwanda and Sri Lanka has one case each. India has been focusing on getting its nationals back from countries worst-hit and Indians stranded in transit in countries like Malaysia, UK. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is in the process of bringing back 113 Indian citizens stuck in transit at Kuala Lumper Airport.

Indian government says three Indians died outside India due to coronavirus 

G20 leaders will meet via video conference on Thursday to discuss the coronavirus crisis. The idea of the summit was discussed by Indian PM Modi with other G20 leaders like Australian PM Scott Morrison &amp; Chair of G20 Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman Al Saud.&nbsp;

The meet will happen from 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Arabian Standard Time (AST) and before that on Wednesday G20 Sherpas will meet.&nbsp;

The Sherpa meet that will take place from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM, AST. India will be represented by its G20 Sherpa Suresh Prabhu.

Speaking to WION last week, Suresh Prabhu said, "Our honourable Prime Minister has always taken a lead in dealing with global issues.&nbsp;

G20, the grouping, representing 86% of the global GDP is a forum that can play a leadership role. Coronavirus has become one of the most destabilising factors, economically, socially, politically all over the world. A situation like this must have prevailed during the 2nd-second world war, businesses are shutting down, people are apprehensive."

Other G20 member countries have lauded India's role at the grouping regarding the need for a summit via video conference on coronavirus outbreak.

French envoy Emmanuel Lenain asked about the initiative had said, "We expect a lot from India, India is going to be the chair of G20 in 2022. In the run-up to this big year, we expect India to be very dynamic in raising the issue within G20."

PM Modi had also called for a SAARC video conference on the crisis which took place earlier this month. New Delhi announced a COVID emergency fund and said its rapid response teams are at the disposal of all SAARC countries.

All SAARC countries, barring Pakistan have announced contribution for SAARC COVID Fund. Total contribution by COVID SAARC Fund by India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Afghanistan, Maldives &amp; Bhutan stands at $18.3 million.

G20 leaders will meet via video conference on Thursday to discuss the coronavirus crisis. The idea of the summit was discussed by Indian PM Modi with other G20 leaders like Australian PM Scott Morrison & Chair of G20 Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman Al Saud.

G20 leaders will meet via video conference on Thursday to discuss the coronavirus crisis. The idea of the summit was discussed by Indian PM Modi with other G20 leaders like Australian PM Scott Morrison & Chair of G20 Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman Al Saud. The meet will happen from 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Arabian Standard Time (AST) and before that on Wednesday G20 Sherpas will meet. The Sherpa meet that will take place from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM, AST. India will be represented by its G20 Sherpa Suresh Prabhu. Speaking to WION last week, Suresh Prabhu said, "Our honourable Prime Minister has always taken a lead in dealing with global issues. G20, the grouping, representing 86% of the global GDP is a forum that can play a leadership role. Coronavirus has become one of the most destabilising factors, economically, socially, politically all over the world. A situation like this must have prevailed during the 2nd-second world war, businesses are shutting down, people are apprehensive." Other G20 member countries have lauded India's role at the grouping regarding the need for a summit via video conference on coronavirus outbreak. French envoy Emmanuel Lenain asked about the initiative had said, "We expect a lot from India, India is going to be the chair of G20 in 2022. In the run-up to this big year, we expect India to be very dynamic in raising the issue within G20." PM Modi had also called for a SAARC video conference on the crisis which took place earlier this month. New Delhi announced a COVID emergency fund and said its rapid response teams are at the disposal of all SAARC countries. All SAARC countries, barring Pakistan have announced contribution for SAARC COVID Fund. Total contribution by COVID SAARC Fund by India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Afghanistan, Maldives & Bhutan stands at $18.3 million.

Emergency G20 summit on Covid-19 on Thursday via video conference

As India is preparing to retrieve&nbsp;400 of its citizens from Iran in the coming days, diplomats at the Indian Mission in Iran are leaving no stone unturned to help stranded Indians. From Tehran to Qom city, Indian diplomats are reaching out to many Indians - from students to pilgrims stuck in the country in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

Sources in the Iranian Indian Mission&nbsp;told WION, "These are unusual times and the COVID-19 crisis is unprecedented in its scope and impact. We recognise that this requires that we put in all our efforts."

Adding, "We manage the enormous pressure we are under because we understand the gravity of the situation and we’re fully committed to helping each and every one of our people. All of us in the embassy are in good spirits and we back each other. "

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-set-to-evacuate-400-citizens-from-iran-as-coronavirus-death-toll-accelerates-288135" hreflang="en">India set to evacuate 400 citizens from Iran as coronavirus death toll accelerates</a>

Over 600 Indian nationals, including students, pilgrims and others, have been assisted and returned home.&nbsp;All Indians&nbsp;have been advised to restrict their movement.

The source further said, "Embassy officials worked tirelessly to make this happen. We are planning for the return of more pilgrims especially from Ladakh who are presently in Qom. This is a priority."

Qom is the epicentre of the crisis in the West Asian country. The Indian mission has been able to set up a quarantine centre in the city for the over 250 Indians infected with coronavirus, the largest such number anywhere outside India.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-flights-no-trains-and-no-buses-india-halts-its-transport-network-to-contain-coronavirus-288101" hreflang="en">No flights, no trains and no buses: India halts its transport network to contain coronavirus</a>

Explaining how Indian diplomats are reaching out to Indians in Qom, the source said, "In general, Mission’s officers are leading from the front and teams are deployed at&nbsp;various locations including the epicentre in Qom. We have in cooperation with the authorities in Qom, set up facilities for our pilgrims since lodges were ordered to close down. Government is bearing all the costs. We have also put in place help lines, advised and counselled people not to panic and to stay calm."

In Qom seminary students are helping Indian officials in rendering assistance to the stranded Indian pilgrims.

Asked about how diplomats are taking protection so that they don't get infected, the source said, "We do take care to adopt proper protection measures, take all precautions and bravely deal with the situation, day and night. Officers have made several visits to Qom, to meet local officials and comfort our citizens. We’ve been at this task without a break for over three weeks now. Our work goes on."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-scarcity-of-ventilators-could-be-coronaviruss-gateway-to-india-288070" hreflang="en">How scarcity of ventilators could be coronavirus's gateway to India</a>

Iran is among the worst impacted countries in the world due to coronavirus outbreak. Since the first two cases were announced on February 19, the number of infected cases has gone up to over 23,000&nbsp;with over 1800 deaths.

Iranian Government has imposed strict restrictions on public transportation, closed down malls , suspended football games, civil aviation and inter-province travel. Even mosques have been closed and Friday prayers suspended. On&nbsp;Nowruz or the Iranian New Year which was on March 20 and marks an important day for the country, celebrations were muted.

As India is preparing to retrieve 400 of its citizens from Iran in the coming days, diplomats at the Indian Mission in Iran are leaving no stone unturned to help stranded Indians.

As India is preparing to retrieve 400 of its citizens from Iran in the coming days, diplomats at the Indian Mission in Iran are leaving no stone unturned to help stranded Indians. From Tehran to Qom city, Indian diplomats are reaching out to many Indians - from students to pilgrims stuck in the country in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. Sources in the Iranian Indian Mission told WION, "These are unusual times and the COVID-19 crisis is unprecedented in its scope and impact. We recognise that this requires that we put in all our efforts." Adding, "We manage the enormous pressure we are under because we understand the gravity of the situation and we’re fully committed to helping each and every one of our people. All of us in the embassy are in good spirits and we back each other. " Also read: India set to evacuate 400 citizens from Iran as coronavirus death toll accelerates Over 600 Indian nationals, including students, pilgrims and others, have been assisted and returned home. All Indians have been advised to restrict their movement. The source further said, "Embassy officials worked tirelessly to make this happen. We are planning for the return of more pilgrims especially from Ladakh who are presently in Qom. This is a priority." Qom is the epicentre of the crisis in the West Asian country. The Indian mission has been able to set up a quarantine centre in the city for the over 250 Indians infected with coronavirus, the largest such number anywhere outside India. Also read: No flights, no trains and no buses: India halts its transport network to contain coronavirus Explaining how Indian diplomats are reaching out to Indians in Qom, the source said, "In general, Mission’s officers are leading from the front and teams are deployed at various locations including the epicentre in Qom. We have in cooperation with the authorities in Qom, set up facilities for our pilgrims since lodges were ordered to close down. Government is bearing all the costs. We have also put in place help lines, advised and counselled people not to panic and to stay calm." In Qom seminary students are helping Indian officials in rendering assistance to the stranded Indian pilgrims. Asked about how diplomats are taking protection so that they don't get infected, the source said, "We do take care to adopt proper protection measures, take all precautions and bravely deal with the situation, day and night. Officers have made several visits to Qom, to meet local officials and comfort our citizens. We’ve been at this task without a break for over three weeks now. Our work goes on." Also read: How scarcity of ventilators could be coronavirus's gateway to India Iran is among the worst impacted countries in the world due to coronavirus outbreak. Since the first two cases were announced on February 19, the number of infected cases has gone up to over 23,000 with over 1800 deaths. Iranian Government has imposed strict restrictions on public transportation, closed down malls , suspended football games, civil aviation and inter-province travel. Even mosques have been closed and Friday prayers suspended. On Nowruz or the Iranian New Year which was on March 20 and marks an important day for the country, celebrations were muted.

Unsung heroes! From Tehran to Qom, Indian diplomats in Iran are leaving no stone unturned

India will be evacuating 400 of its citizens from Iran on March 24 and 28 via Wuhan air. All people slated to be flown back&nbsp;are pilgrims and have been stranded in the West Asian country since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus which has now gripped entire world.

So far, India has evacuated 389 Indians from Iran in four&nbsp;batches. The last batch to fly into India from Iran arrived on March 16. This flight had 53 Indians on-board, out of whom 53 were students, along with a sole teacher.

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New Delhi has successfully evacuated 1500 of its citizens from countries that are the hardest hit by COVID-19 pandemic. These include China, Japan, Iran, and Italy. The pilot evacuations began in Wuhan, China, the initial epicentre of the virus earlier this year.&nbsp;

The first evacuation flight went to Wuhan on January 31. This was followed by two more evacuations, undertaken by India's flagship carrier Air India.&nbsp;More than 700 Indians were brought back to the country over time.

Besides bringing back its own citizens, India has extended a helping hand to neighbouring countries. 48 citizens belonging to ten countries other than India have been evacuated from virus-inflicted countries so far.&nbsp;

People from four South Asian countries - Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives were also evacuated.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-death-toll-rises-to-9-288093" hreflang="en">Coronavirus in India: Death toll rises to 9</a>

Bangladesh topped the list, with 23 of their nationals being flown back through Indian channels. Additionally, nine Maldivians, two Sri Lankans, and one Nepalese citizen were flown back by India.

Based on the numbers provided by India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the country currently has 424 active cases of the infection. Additionally, nine deaths have been reported so far. 34 patients have recovered after receiving treatment.

India continues to screen passengers flying into the country, with over 15,17,327 screenings done so far.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 300,000 people have been infected by the virus globally. 16,100 people have died so far.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-covid-19-response-operations-to-continue-without-hindrance-army-to-soldiers-288089" hreflang="en">All COVID 19 response operations to continue without hindrance: Army to soldiers</a>

India will be evacuating 400 of its citizens from Iran on March 24 and 28 via Wuhan air. All people slated to be flown back are pilgrims and have been stranded in the West Asian country since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus which has now gripped entire world.

India will be evacuating 400 of its citizens from Iran on March 24 and 28 via Wuhan air. All people slated to be flown back are pilgrims and have been stranded in the West Asian country since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus which has now gripped entire world. So far, India has evacuated 389 Indians from Iran in four batches. The last batch to fly into India from Iran arrived on March 16. This flight had 53 Indians on-board, out of whom 53 were students, along with a sole teacher. Also read: IndiGo claims its crew facing social ostracisation owing to their travel history New Delhi has successfully evacuated 1500 of its citizens from countries that are the hardest hit by COVID-19 pandemic. These include China, Japan, Iran, and Italy. The pilot evacuations began in Wuhan, China, the initial epicentre of the virus earlier this year. The first evacuation flight went to Wuhan on January 31. This was followed by two more evacuations, undertaken by India's flagship carrier Air India. More than 700 Indians were brought back to the country over time. Besides bringing back its own citizens, India has extended a helping hand to neighbouring countries. 48 citizens belonging to ten countries other than India have been evacuated from virus-inflicted countries so far. People from four South Asian countries - Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives were also evacuated. Also read: Coronavirus in India: Death toll rises to 9 Bangladesh topped the list, with 23 of their nationals being flown back through Indian channels. Additionally, nine Maldivians, two Sri Lankans, and one Nepalese citizen were flown back by India. Based on the numbers provided by India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the country currently has 424 active cases of the infection. Additionally, nine deaths have been reported so far. 34 patients have recovered after receiving treatment. India continues to screen passengers flying into the country, with over 15,17,327 screenings done so far. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 300,000 people have been infected by the virus globally. 16,100 people have died so far. Also read: All COVID 19 response operations to continue without hindrance: Army to soldiers

India set to evacuate 400 citizens from Iran as coronavirus death toll accelerates

India will be evacuating 400 of its citizens on 24th of March and 28th of March via Wuhan air. All these Indians are pilgrims and have been stranded in the west Asian country since the outbreak of the Corona Crisis. &nbsp;

India has so far evacuated 389 Indians from Iran in 4 batches. The last batch came from Iran on 16th March bringing 53 Indians—52 students and one teacher. 
&nbsp; 
New Delhi has so far evacuated 1500 of its citizens from China, Japan, Iran and Italy. The evacuations started from Wuhan, China, the epicentre of the crisis earlier this year. First evacuation flight went to Wuhan on 31st January and India carried out 2 more evacuations from the city later getting back more than 700 of its citizens.

India has also evacuated 48 citizens of 10 foreign countries during the various missions which include citizens of 4 South Asian countries—Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.&nbsp;

Bangladeshi citizens formed the largest group at 23, followed by the Maldives at 9, Sri Lanka at 2 and Nepal at one.

India will be evacuating 400 of its citizens on 24th of March and 28th of March via Wuhan air. All these Indians are pilgrims and have been stranded in the west Asian country since the outbreak of the Corona Crisis.

India will be evacuating 400 of its citizens on 24th of March and 28th of March via Wuhan air. All these Indians are pilgrims and have been stranded in the west Asian country since the outbreak of the Corona Crisis. India has so far evacuated 389 Indians from Iran in 4 batches. The last batch came from Iran on 16th March bringing 53 Indians—52 students and one teacher. New Delhi has so far evacuated 1500 of its citizens from China, Japan, Iran and Italy. The evacuations started from Wuhan, China, the epicentre of the crisis earlier this year. First evacuation flight went to Wuhan on 31st January and India carried out 2 more evacuations from the city later getting back more than 700 of its citizens. India has also evacuated 48 citizens of 10 foreign countries during the various missions which include citizens of 4 South Asian countries—Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Bangladeshi citizens formed the largest group at 23, followed by the Maldives at 9, Sri Lanka at 2 and Nepal at one.

India to evacuate 400 of its citizens from Iran

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Sidhant Sibal

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