The Madras High Court has asked the Tamil Nadu government to reconsider its decision to convert late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s Poes garden Residence in Chennai into a memorial. Instead, the Court suggested that it be converted into the official residence-cum-office of the Chief Minister, as it has all the necessary facilities and infrastructure. &nbsp;

The court added that a part of the property could be used to construct a memorial for the former four-time Chief Minister. The Court has also said that Deepa and Deepak Jayakumar,(Jayalalithaa’s niece and nephew) are Class-II legal heirs of Jayalalithaa.

Justices N. Kirubakaran and Abdul Quddhose had delivered their verdict via video-conferencing, on an application made by Jayalalithaa’s nephew Deepak and his sister J. Deepa to administer the properties left behind by their aunt. The Bench adjourned the case by eight weeks and has sought the response of the Tamil Nadu government.

The Court order stated that, If the Government intends to make the residence of the Late Chief Minister as a memorial, there will be no end to such proposals. Every government would like to make the residence of their leaders who were Chief Ministers as memorials and unnecessarily, the public money would be utilized for setting up memorials alone.&nbsp;

“If the state government is particular that the property should be made as a memorial, instead of making the entire property as a ‘memorial”, the government may consider making use of a portion of the property to set up a memorial and the rest of the property as “Official residence-cum-Office of the Chief Minister of the State” instead of converting the property as a “memorial” as desired by the Government.

The order also noted that instead of acquiring the property that is valued over Rs.100cr and paying heavy compensation, the said amount could be used for developmental purposes such as building infrastructure, providing potable drinking water, cleaning of water bodies etc. “The real tribute to any leader should be paid by following his/her principles and working for the benefit of the people and development of the society”

This recommendation comes barely a week after Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit had promulgated an ordinance that allowed the State Government to take temporary possession of the AIADMK leader’s Poes Garden property. The residence is a sprawling bungalow measuring over 21000 sq ft and stands on ten grounds of prime real estate, at the heart of Chennai city.&nbsp;

“The building “Veda Nilayam” including the movable items such as furniture, books, jewels are in a state of disuse for more than three years. So, the government decided to transfer all the immovable and movable properties to the government for its upkeep until the acquisition process is complete” read a statement issued on May 22nd.&nbsp;

This ordinance was meant to enable the government to establish “Puratchi Thalaivi Dr J. Jayalalithaa Memorial foundation’ for making long term arrangements to convert Veda Nilayam as a memorial.&nbsp;

After her demise, there was a lot of controversy surrounding her property, as attempts were being made by her acquaintance Sasikala to acquire the property. Besides her long term-aide Sasikala who had been living in the same residence, Jayalalithaa’s nephew and niece, Deepak and Deepa have also laid claim to the property on the premise that they were her only legal heirs.

After a power struggle within her party, the AIADMK, it was in August 2017 that Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami announced that the residence of the Late CM would be converted into a memorial and opened to the public.

Following the announcement in August, an administrative sanction was issued by the Tamil Development and Information Department in October 2017 for the acquisition of the residence. Action for the same had been initiated to acquire the land and building, preliminary notification was published in July 2019 and a declaration has been published in May 2020.&nbsp;

Besides the memorial that is planned at her residence, the State Government has also been constructing a ‘Phoenix-themed’ memorial costing about 50 crores, by her resting place on the iconic Marina beach in Chennai.

The Madras High Court has asked the Tamil Nadu government to reconsider its decision to convert late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s Poes garden Residence in Chennai into a memorial.

The Madras High Court has asked the Tamil Nadu government to reconsider its decision to convert late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s Poes garden Residence in Chennai into a memorial. Instead, the Court suggested that it be converted into the official residence-cum-office of the Chief Minister, as it has all the necessary facilities and infrastructure. The court added that a part of the property could be used to construct a memorial for the former four-time Chief Minister. The Court has also said that Deepa and Deepak Jayakumar,(Jayalalithaa’s niece and nephew) are Class-II legal heirs of Jayalalithaa. Justices N. Kirubakaran and Abdul Quddhose had delivered their verdict via video-conferencing, on an application made by Jayalalithaa’s nephew Deepak and his sister J. Deepa to administer the properties left behind by their aunt. The Bench adjourned the case by eight weeks and has sought the response of the Tamil Nadu government. The Court order stated that, If the Government intends to make the residence of the Late Chief Minister as a memorial, there will be no end to such proposals. Every government would like to make the residence of their leaders who were Chief Ministers as memorials and unnecessarily, the public money would be utilized for setting up memorials alone. “If the state government is particular that the property should be made as a memorial, instead of making the entire property as a ‘memorial”, the government may consider making use of a portion of the property to set up a memorial and the rest of the property as “Official residence-cum-Office of the Chief Minister of the State” instead of converting the property as a “memorial” as desired by the Government. The order also noted that instead of acquiring the property that is valued over Rs.100cr and paying heavy compensation, the said amount could be used for developmental purposes such as building infrastructure, providing potable drinking water, cleaning of water bodies etc. “The real tribute to any leader should be paid by following his/her principles and working for the benefit of the people and development of the society” This recommendation comes barely a week after Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit had promulgated an ordinance that allowed the State Government to take temporary possession of the AIADMK leader’s Poes Garden property. The residence is a sprawling bungalow measuring over 21000 sq ft and stands on ten grounds of prime real estate, at the heart of Chennai city. “The building “Veda Nilayam” including the movable items such as furniture, books, jewels are in a state of disuse for more than three years. So, the government decided to transfer all the immovable and movable properties to the government for its upkeep until the acquisition process is complete” read a statement issued on May 22nd. This ordinance was meant to enable the government to establish “Puratchi Thalaivi Dr J. Jayalalithaa Memorial foundation’ for making long term arrangements to convert Veda Nilayam as a memorial. After her demise, there was a lot of controversy surrounding her property, as attempts were being made by her acquaintance Sasikala to acquire the property. Besides her long term-aide Sasikala who had been living in the same residence, Jayalalithaa’s nephew and niece, Deepak and Deepa have also laid claim to the property on the premise that they were her only legal heirs. After a power struggle within her party, the AIADMK, it was in August 2017 that Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami announced that the residence of the Late CM would be converted into a memorial and opened to the public. Following the announcement in August, an administrative sanction was issued by the Tamil Development and Information Department in October 2017 for the acquisition of the residence. Action for the same had been initiated to acquire the land and building, preliminary notification was published in July 2019 and a declaration has been published in May 2020. Besides the memorial that is planned at her residence, the State Government has also been constructing a ‘Phoenix-themed’ memorial costing about 50 crores, by her resting place on the iconic Marina beach in Chennai.

Make it Chief Minister residence cum office, use a portion for a memorial: Madras high court on Jayalalithaa’s residence

India is fast nearing 1.50 lakh total <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/6535-new-positive-cases-146-deaths-in-the-last-24-hours-india-continues-its-high-daily-spikes-301062">COVID-19</a> cases, the country has seen a steady increase of 6,000 cases over the last few days.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-fatality-rate-at-287-among-lowest-in-the-world-health-ministry-301149">Also Read:&nbsp;Coronavirus fatality rate at 2.87% among lowest in the world, says&nbsp;Health ministry</a>

While India has tested over 31 lakh samples, only about 4.65 per cent of them have returned positive. Therfore, Health experts point out that India must immediately implement "pooled testing on a larger scale", which would enable the laboratories to test five times as many samples.&nbsp;

Pooled testing could save costs, time and avoid the shortage of expensive, scarce testing kits.

The pooled testing method involves pooling swab samples from five different persons and testing the combined sample using a single RT-PCR test. If the combined sample returns negative, all five patients are COVID-19 negative and safe. In case the result is positive, all five must undergo individual tests to identify the positive cases.

“Pooled testing in an old method that can be highly useful presently. Currently our positivity rate is low and now is the time to use it, as pooled tests are of no use when a larger share of the population is positive. Local authorities can decide where to use or not use this method, but it must be used and also the ICMR has released an advisory on it” Infectious Diseases Specialist Dr. Subramanian Swaminathan, told WION.&nbsp;

There are reports that the Chinese city of Wuhan where the outbreak began used this method to conduct 6.57 million tests in a span of 10 days between May 14-23. The Chinese city launched the campaign to test nearly its entire population, after a cluster of asymptomatic cases were reported earlier this month.&nbsp;

“A lab that can test 100 samples can test 500 with this method. It is particularly useful in rural areas and districts with lesser cases and low exposure risk. But when pooled samples from high risk areas test positive, we might have to do six tests(one combined and five individual) in place of five. However, Pooled testing can save money, time and test five times as many samples” Dr. K Kolandaiswamy, who retired as Director of Public Health and Preventive medicine, said.

“Samples have to be carefully pooled at collection point based on the risk category and the history of the person. When we pool samples from the collection point instead of the lab, then the pooled testing in the labs can be more effective,” Kolandaiswamy added.

India is fast nearing 1.50 lakh total COVID-19 cases, the country has seen a steady increase of 6,000 cases over the last few days. Also Read: Coronavirus fatality rate at 2.

India is fast nearing 1.50 lakh total COVID-19 cases, the country has seen a steady increase of 6,000 cases over the last few days. Also Read: Coronavirus fatality rate at 2.87% among lowest in the world, says Health ministry While India has tested over 31 lakh samples, only about 4.65 per cent of them have returned positive. Therfore, Health experts point out that India must immediately implement "pooled testing on a larger scale", which would enable the laboratories to test five times as many samples. Pooled testing could save costs, time and avoid the shortage of expensive, scarce testing kits. The pooled testing method involves pooling swab samples from five different persons and testing the combined sample using a single RT-PCR test. If the combined sample returns negative, all five patients are COVID-19 negative and safe. In case the result is positive, all five must undergo individual tests to identify the positive cases. “Pooled testing in an old method that can be highly useful presently. Currently our positivity rate is low and now is the time to use it, as pooled tests are of no use when a larger share of the population is positive. Local authorities can decide where to use or not use this method, but it must be used and also the ICMR has released an advisory on it” Infectious Diseases Specialist Dr. Subramanian Swaminathan, told WION. There are reports that the Chinese city of Wuhan where the outbreak began used this method to conduct 6.57 million tests in a span of 10 days between May 14-23. The Chinese city launched the campaign to test nearly its entire population, after a cluster of asymptomatic cases were reported earlier this month. “A lab that can test 100 samples can test 500 with this method. It is particularly useful in rural areas and districts with lesser cases and low exposure risk. But when pooled samples from high risk areas test positive, we might have to do six tests(one combined and five individual) in place of five. However, Pooled testing can save money, time and test five times as many samples” Dr. K Kolandaiswamy, who retired as Director of Public Health and Preventive medicine, said. “Samples have to be carefully pooled at collection point based on the risk category and the history of the person. When we pool samples from the collection point instead of the lab, then the pooled testing in the labs can be more effective,” Kolandaiswamy added.

India urgently needs pooled testing, 5 samples can be tested with a single kit, say experts

Worried about having to hide behind a mask and not being recognized by friends and colleagues? The latest offering that has sprung up in the market during the COVID-19&nbsp;crisis are printed face masks. What’s more? They’re printed with our faces on them. They’re said to be the first of its kind as well.&nbsp;

We’ve seen masks with pictures of movie stars, emoticons and pop-culture references, its these unique masks that partly-inspired the new kind of masks that are being made by a chain of studios in Kochi and Kottayam districts of Kerala.&nbsp;

“We own a photo studio and have been doing sublimation printing that is a process to print faces and other pictures on gift items such as mugs, pens, T-shirts are keychains, so we thought why not print on a cloth mask ?” Mithra Baven, partner Bavens told WION.&nbsp;

It's barely been a handful of days since the studio started printing these customized masks and the viral trend has brought them orders from as far as Delhi and Pune. The printing is done on two-layered cloth masks and are also said to be washable.

“The process for printing a mask takes barely 20 minutes, this includes the time to process the photo and get it printed. Customers can either send us a high-quality full frontal selfie or come here and get a professional studio picture clicked and have it printed. Right now these masks are priced at 50.Rs and we’re even sending them by courier” Mithra added.

Worried about having to hide behind a mask and not being recognized by friends and colleagues? The latest offering that has sprung up in the market during the COVID-19 crisis are printed face masks.

Worried about having to hide behind a mask and not being recognized by friends and colleagues? The latest offering that has sprung up in the market during the COVID-19 crisis are printed face masks. What’s more? They’re printed with our faces on them. They’re said to be the first of its kind as well. We’ve seen masks with pictures of movie stars, emoticons and pop-culture references, its these unique masks that partly-inspired the new kind of masks that are being made by a chain of studios in Kochi and Kottayam districts of Kerala. “We own a photo studio and have been doing sublimation printing that is a process to print faces and other pictures on gift items such as mugs, pens, T-shirts are keychains, so we thought why not print on a cloth mask ?” Mithra Baven, partner Bavens told WION. It's barely been a handful of days since the studio started printing these customized masks and the viral trend has brought them orders from as far as Delhi and Pune. The printing is done on two-layered cloth masks and are also said to be washable. “The process for printing a mask takes barely 20 minutes, this includes the time to process the photo and get it printed. Customers can either send us a high-quality full frontal selfie or come here and get a professional studio picture clicked and have it printed. Right now these masks are priced at 50.Rs and we’re even sending them by courier” Mithra added.

Hide no more, get protective masks with your face printed on them

The Tamil Nadu Government has permitted the resumption of filming television serials and other programmes, on the condition that stipulated restrictions are strictly followed. This announcement comes after the relevant industry bodies have requested the State Information and broadcasting minister to ease the lockdown restrictions.

An official statement from the Government said that indoor shooting alone would be permitted, but will not be allowed in containment zones across the state.&nbsp;

While filming in open/public spaces is not permitted in urban areas. There is no restriction on filming in rural areas (except in containment zones).&nbsp;

It has been stated that shootings must be conducted with no more than 20 people including the actors and technicians and also spectators cannot be allowed to witness the shooting. Disinfection of shooting venue before and after filming, besides the disinfection vehicles used for logistics, camera equipment and cranes have also been mentioned.&nbsp;

Except for actors, all on set must wear masks and maintain social distancing and actors must wear masks during the breaks. Persons with cough, cold, fever and breathlessness must not be allowed on set. If such symptoms are noticed, they must immediately be taken for a medical check.&nbsp;

To shoot in Chennai the crew must obtain the permission from the Corporation and in the case of other districts, the permission can be sought from the relevant district authorities.

All guidelines as stated by Central and State Government are to be followed. While the Government's go-ahead has brought cheer to thousands of workers who are dependent on the industry, it remains to see when the full-fledged shooting would begin.

“We need to get permission from the Corporation and it depends on the producers who are ready. We need to get together all the artists, serial artists and others who have to arrive from other states. We need to talk it out with producers. We thank the government on behalf of our association for having permitted the resumption of work” J. Sridhar, Vice President of FEFSI and Joint Secy AIFEC told WION.&nbsp;

However, he added that a lot needs to be worked out over the coming days, regarding how the crew can work with 20 members, given that bigger shows require over 50-100 people. Also, immediate resumption of shooting would be challenging as there are permissions required and a lot of logistics would have to be worked out.&nbsp;

The Film Employees Federation fo South India (FEFSI) has over 25000 members, who belong to the entire spectrum of crafts. The industry has been facing a tough time over the last two months, as a good number of them are daily wagers.

Sridhar said that so far, the industry body has been able to help its members tide over the crisis but even reopening would be with utmost caution as life and livelihood are equally important.

“For a large number of our members, we have been able to provide aid, in the form of essential supplies or via cash benefits as our president Selvamani has been in touch with all stakeholders. We are grateful to veteran actors Prabhu and Amitabh Bachchan and also leading brands like Kalyan Jewellers and Sony who helped us with getting aid via various ways and means” Sridhar told WION.

The Tamil Nadu Government has permitted the resumption of filming television serials and other programmes, on the condition that stipulated restrictions are strictly followed.

The Tamil Nadu Government has permitted the resumption of filming television serials and other programmes, on the condition that stipulated restrictions are strictly followed. This announcement comes after the relevant industry bodies have requested the State Information and broadcasting minister to ease the lockdown restrictions. An official statement from the Government said that indoor shooting alone would be permitted, but will not be allowed in containment zones across the state. While filming in open/public spaces is not permitted in urban areas. There is no restriction on filming in rural areas (except in containment zones). It has been stated that shootings must be conducted with no more than 20 people including the actors and technicians and also spectators cannot be allowed to witness the shooting. Disinfection of shooting venue before and after filming, besides the disinfection vehicles used for logistics, camera equipment and cranes have also been mentioned. Except for actors, all on set must wear masks and maintain social distancing and actors must wear masks during the breaks. Persons with cough, cold, fever and breathlessness must not be allowed on set. If such symptoms are noticed, they must immediately be taken for a medical check. To shoot in Chennai the crew must obtain the permission from the Corporation and in the case of other districts, the permission can be sought from the relevant district authorities. All guidelines as stated by Central and State Government are to be followed. While the Government's go-ahead has brought cheer to thousands of workers who are dependent on the industry, it remains to see when the full-fledged shooting would begin. “We need to get permission from the Corporation and it depends on the producers who are ready. We need to get together all the artists, serial artists and others who have to arrive from other states. We need to talk it out with producers. We thank the government on behalf of our association for having permitted the resumption of work” J. Sridhar, Vice President of FEFSI and Joint Secy AIFEC told WION. However, he added that a lot needs to be worked out over the coming days, regarding how the crew can work with 20 members, given that bigger shows require over 50-100 people. Also, immediate resumption of shooting would be challenging as there are permissions required and a lot of logistics would have to be worked out. The Film Employees Federation fo South India (FEFSI) has over 25000 members, who belong to the entire spectrum of crafts. The industry has been facing a tough time over the last two months, as a good number of them are daily wagers. Sridhar said that so far, the industry body has been able to help its members tide over the crisis but even reopening would be with utmost caution as life and livelihood are equally important. “For a large number of our members, we have been able to provide aid, in the form of essential supplies or via cash benefits as our president Selvamani has been in touch with all stakeholders. We are grateful to veteran actors Prabhu and Amitabh Bachchan and also leading brands like Kalyan Jewellers and Sony who helped us with getting aid via various ways and means” Sridhar told WION.

Tamil Nadu Government allows TV serials to resume shooting; Industry welcomes move

Even during normal times, there are hardly any direct flights from India to Australia, save for a lone Air India from Delhi. But for the first time ever, Australia’s flag carrier Qantas, known widely by its moniker ‘Flying Kangaroo’ landed in Chennai as a part of the repatriation efforts by the Australian Government. The flight departed for Sydney carrying Australian nationals who were based out of all five Southern Indian states.&nbsp;

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Consul General of Australia in Chennai, Ms Susan Grace, said it was “great to see the ‘Flying Kangaroo’ back in India, and in Chennai for the first time. Aviation links between Australia and India can be a great enabler of stronger trade, investment and people-to-people links in the post-COVID world.

The crew of the Qantas Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner that landed at the Chennai International Airport was led by Captain Lisa Norman who also captained the record-breaking first flight from Perth to London in 2018. After landing on Tuesday, the aircraft departed at 2:55 pm Wednesday carrying 210 Australians to Sydney in what is a direct flight.&nbsp;

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Notably, most flights from India to Australia are operated by carriers who are based out of East Asia and they have a transit at one of the East Asian cities. This flight that departed from Chennai marks the 18th repatriation flight that the Australian government has flown or facilitated to bring their citizens back home.&nbsp;

Thus far, these 18 flights have repatriated 4702 Australian nationals from major Indian cities such as Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai to six cities in Australia.

“This is a special charter by the Australian government and we’ve never had regular flights to Chennai. Qantas flights connecting Australia and India are very rare and today’s is a non-stop flight to Sydney and we had passengers from all five Southern Indian states. We worked closely with the Indian Government and the State Governments to get all movements passes cleared and our citizens stayed at a Chennai hotel on Tuesday, before their departure this afternoon” an Official from the Australian Consulate-General Chennai told WION.

Even during normal times, there are hardly any direct flights from India to Australia, save for a lone Air India from Delhi. But for the first time ever, Australia’s flag carrier Qantas, known widely by its moniker ‘Flying Kangaroo’ landed in Chennai as a part of the repatriation efforts by the Australian Government.

Even during normal times, there are hardly any direct flights from India to Australia, save for a lone Air India from Delhi. But for the first time ever, Australia’s flag carrier Qantas, known widely by its moniker ‘Flying Kangaroo’ landed in Chennai as a part of the repatriation efforts by the Australian Government. The flight departed for Sydney carrying Australian nationals who were based out of all five Southern Indian states. Consul General of Australia in Chennai, Ms Susan Grace, said it was “great to see the ‘Flying Kangaroo’ back in India, and in Chennai for the first time. Aviation links between Australia and India can be a great enabler of stronger trade, investment and people-to-people links in the post-COVID world. The crew of the Qantas Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner that landed at the Chennai International Airport was led by Captain Lisa Norman who also captained the record-breaking first flight from Perth to London in 2018. After landing on Tuesday, the aircraft departed at 2:55 pm Wednesday carrying 210 Australians to Sydney in what is a direct flight. Notably, most flights from India to Australia are operated by carriers who are based out of East Asia and they have a transit at one of the East Asian cities. This flight that departed from Chennai marks the 18th repatriation flight that the Australian government has flown or facilitated to bring their citizens back home. Thus far, these 18 flights have repatriated 4702 Australian nationals from major Indian cities such as Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai to six cities in Australia. “This is a special charter by the Australian government and we’ve never had regular flights to Chennai. Qantas flights connecting Australia and India are very rare and today’s is a non-stop flight to Sydney and we had passengers from all five Southern Indian states. We worked closely with the Indian Government and the State Governments to get all movements passes cleared and our citizens stayed at a Chennai hotel on Tuesday, before their departure this afternoon” an Official from the Australian Consulate-General Chennai told WION.

‘Flying Kangaroo’ makes maiden landing in Chennai; evacuates Aussies from all Southern States

In a heartbreaking case, a girl-baby, merely 4-days old was killed by her father and grandmother, as they were irked over the birth of the fourth girl child in their house.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/donald-trump-honours-indian-girl-for-gesture-towards-coronavirus-heroes-299385" hreflang="en">Donald Trump honours Indian girl for gesture towards coronavirus heroes</a>

Thavamani and Chitra are residents of Chozhavandhan in Madurai and the couple have three daughters. It was only last week that the Chitra had given birth to a baby girl at the primary health center in what was a normal delivery.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mask-of-stars-in-cinema-crazy-tamil-nadu-protective-masks-get-a-filmy-face-299377" hreflang="en">Mask of stars: In cinema-crazy Tamil Nadu protective masks get a filmy face</a>

Few days later the family claimed that the baby had died of some unknown illness and a hushed burial was conducted at a graveyard in Mutputhur. The circumstances surrounding the death, barely four days after the infant was born, led to suspicion among the neighbors who tipped off the Police.&nbsp;

The police, district officials and a medical team visited the site and exhumed the mortal remains to perform tests. It was then made clear that the baby was poisoned.&nbsp;

The cops have arrested the girl’s father Thavamani and grandmother Pandiyammal. Initially, the father and grandmother pleaded innocence and tried to mislead the investigation, but eventually they budged and confessed to the crime. The crime is said to have been perpetrated without the knowledge of the baby’s mother, that too at a time when she was away.

The father and Grandmother have been booked under Sections 201(causing disappearance of evidence of offence) and 302 (whoever commits murder shall be punished with death or imprisonment for life) of the IPC. The sections pertaining to female infanticide also would be added.&nbsp;

Earlier in March, a similar incident of female infanticide had been reported from Madurai.

In a heartbreaking case, a girl-baby, merely 4-days old was killed by her father and grandmother, as they were irked over the birth of the fourth girl child in their house.

In a heartbreaking case, a girl-baby, merely 4-days old was killed by her father and grandmother, as they were irked over the birth of the fourth girl child in their house. Also read: Donald Trump honours Indian girl for gesture towards coronavirus heroes Thavamani and Chitra are residents of Chozhavandhan in Madurai and the couple have three daughters. It was only last week that the Chitra had given birth to a baby girl at the primary health center in what was a normal delivery. Also read: Mask of stars: In cinema-crazy Tamil Nadu protective masks get a filmy face Few days later the family claimed that the baby had died of some unknown illness and a hushed burial was conducted at a graveyard in Mutputhur. The circumstances surrounding the death, barely four days after the infant was born, led to suspicion among the neighbors who tipped off the Police. The police, district officials and a medical team visited the site and exhumed the mortal remains to perform tests. It was then made clear that the baby was poisoned. The cops have arrested the girl’s father Thavamani and grandmother Pandiyammal. Initially, the father and grandmother pleaded innocence and tried to mislead the investigation, but eventually they budged and confessed to the crime. The crime is said to have been perpetrated without the knowledge of the baby’s mother, that too at a time when she was away. The father and Grandmother have been booked under Sections 201(causing disappearance of evidence of offence) and 302 (whoever commits murder shall be punished with death or imprisonment for life) of the IPC. The sections pertaining to female infanticide also would be added. Earlier in March, a similar incident of female infanticide had been reported from Madurai.

Father, grandmother held in female infanticide case in Tamil Nadu’s Madurai

When remaining glued to the news and social media feeds on Covid-19 can be emotionally draining even for commoners, how about the condition of our frontline warriors who are physically and mentally leading the fight against Coronavirus? Over 100 leading Doctors from various hospitals in Chennai have made a dance video of theirs to relieve the mental stress of serving during the times of Coronavirus. Besides rendering their selfless service to the patients, they also wish to spread positivity amongst the medical fraternity and their families to overcome these unprecedented, testing times.&nbsp;

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“We initially held an assumption that India would be spared, but as it started spreading, our worries started multiplying. We were tensed about the possibility of getting infected, thereby infecting others and our families. There’s also the uncertainty that comes with job loss and pay cuts. And our fraternity too needed a way to deal with this. Two make matters worse, there were cases of attacks against medical professionals” Dr Sai Surender, Clinical Lead, Emergency Medicine Rela Institute and Medical Centre told WION.&nbsp;

The idea of the video was born when three doctors got together on a WhatsApp group and decided to add more of their colleagues and friends from the fraternity. But they had one strict rule on the group- No posts on Covid-19 at all costs. In no time, the group had grown to over 100 members. They were all working for top private and government hospitals in Chennai and Vellore. It was agreed upon to film a quick dance video from wherever they were and share it on the group, to make a compilation.&nbsp;

“We wanted to come up with something that would help relieve the stress. Music was a common healer and stress buster and that’s how it began. People have got this perception that we doctors are serious persons and that we can’t express ourselves, but in the end, we are human beings too and we need a vent for our emotions. We decided that we’d pick only positive songs and that each doctor or his/her team should provide a 30sec-1min clip” Dr Deepashree, Clinical lead, Interventional Radiology told WION.&nbsp;

The mash-up video that has now garnered about 30K views on Youtube features senior-doctors, hospital owners among others showcasing their dance moves to popular tracks of Michael Jackson, Bobby Mcferrin, A.R Rahman and Anirudh Ravichander. While some of them filmed the videos while at their hospitals, few had also filmed them from their residences and temporary hotel rooms.&nbsp;

“Everyone one of us is tired of speaking about Corona and many are missing their families. It’s sweet that all agreed to come together for a dance video for the sake of motivating each other and keeping us happy. Some of us way of thanking the housekeeping and paramedical staff who are tirelessly supporting us, as always” Dr Meena, Senior Consultant, Emergency Medicine told WION.&nbsp;

But beyond the dance video on their Youtube channel, the groups of doctors now want to step up their efforts and conduct interactive sessions with the general public. They wish to reach out on topics such as general health tips and also on specific issues such as cancer, diabetes, cardiology etc. in line with their expertise and specialization.

When remaining glued to the news and social media feeds on Covid-19 can be emotionally draining even for commoners, how about the condition of our frontline warriors who are physically and mentally leading the fight against Coronavirus?

When remaining glued to the news and social media feeds on Covid-19 can be emotionally draining even for commoners, how about the condition of our frontline warriors who are physically and mentally leading the fight against Coronavirus? Over 100 leading Doctors from various hospitals in Chennai have made a dance video of theirs to relieve the mental stress of serving during the times of Coronavirus. Besides rendering their selfless service to the patients, they also wish to spread positivity amongst the medical fraternity and their families to overcome these unprecedented, testing times. × “We initially held an assumption that India would be spared, but as it started spreading, our worries started multiplying. We were tensed about the possibility of getting infected, thereby infecting others and our families. There’s also the uncertainty that comes with job loss and pay cuts. And our fraternity too needed a way to deal with this. Two make matters worse, there were cases of attacks against medical professionals” Dr Sai Surender, Clinical Lead, Emergency Medicine Rela Institute and Medical Centre told WION. The idea of the video was born when three doctors got together on a WhatsApp group and decided to add more of their colleagues and friends from the fraternity. But they had one strict rule on the group- No posts on Covid-19 at all costs. In no time, the group had grown to over 100 members. They were all working for top private and government hospitals in Chennai and Vellore. It was agreed upon to film a quick dance video from wherever they were and share it on the group, to make a compilation. “We wanted to come up with something that would help relieve the stress. Music was a common healer and stress buster and that’s how it began. People have got this perception that we doctors are serious persons and that we can’t express ourselves, but in the end, we are human beings too and we need a vent for our emotions. We decided that we’d pick only positive songs and that each doctor or his/her team should provide a 30sec-1min clip” Dr Deepashree, Clinical lead, Interventional Radiology told WION. The mash-up video that has now garnered about 30K views on Youtube features senior-doctors, hospital owners among others showcasing their dance moves to popular tracks of Michael Jackson, Bobby Mcferrin, A.R Rahman and Anirudh Ravichander. While some of them filmed the videos while at their hospitals, few had also filmed them from their residences and temporary hotel rooms. “Everyone one of us is tired of speaking about Corona and many are missing their families. It’s sweet that all agreed to come together for a dance video for the sake of motivating each other and keeping us happy. Some of us way of thanking the housekeeping and paramedical staff who are tirelessly supporting us, as always” Dr Meena, Senior Consultant, Emergency Medicine told WION. But beyond the dance video on their Youtube channel, the groups of doctors now want to step up their efforts and conduct interactive sessions with the general public. They wish to reach out on topics such as general health tips and also on specific issues such as cancer, diabetes, cardiology etc. in line with their expertise and specialization.

Watch: Doctors in Chennai dance their Covid-19 stress away and spread positivity

Protective face masks tend to hide one's identity and facial features, but in Tamil Nadu masks themselves are having a face of their own. Mask wearers are now sporting printed masks of their favourite stars such as Rajinikanth, Vijay, Ajith and Surya.

This trend has caught up over the last few days after textile exporters in the state’s knitwear and textile export hub Tiruppur decided to give masks a new face.&nbsp;

<img alt="Mask" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="793b4a72-7817-473e-89e2-5015f7c58bde" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_38.jpg" />

With protective face masks becoming an inseparable accessory since the start of the countrywide lockdown in late March, textile manufacturers and exporters from Tamil Nadu’s Tirupur have started making cloth masks. While the mainstay of the textile industry is export-quality garments, the lockdown has given rise to more makers of cloth masks.&nbsp;

“We have been in the garments export business for about 24 years, but this during this lockdown with the limited staff we started making cloth masks to cater to the rising demand. For about 45 days now we’ve been making PPE and masks. We initially supplied it to a few government staff and later on, we turned it into a business opportunity” Chandrakumar, CEO Sentinel clothing told WION.&nbsp;

With sales and export of garments having nearly dried up during the lockdown, the garment industries have been churning out masks and PPEs in a few thousand every day, with the help of limited staff who are turning up for work. The same equipment that are used for garment manufacturing are now being re-assigned to make masks.

<img alt="Mask" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="31151f75-d088-4d05-9b74-672230a0d2dc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_22.jpg" />

“We were initially making masks with zodiac signs printed on them and also 7-color sets for a week, but what really was a hit among the masses was the masks with actors faces on them. Right from masks with prints of evergreen comedian Vadivelu to the action heroes, the demand soared over the last week as we were the only ones experimenting with this. While the plain masks cost 10.Rs apiece the printed ones cost 15, but people prefer the fashionable ones” Chandrakumar added.&nbsp;

In recent times the orders for customized masks have piled up from various corporates, schools and even political parties. Suppliers in Tirupur have received orders from the AIADMK and Kamal Haasan’s Makkal Needhi Maiam, both of whom chose to have their party logo and flag printed on the masks. &nbsp;

While their factory has the capacity to make about 50,000 masks a day, Chadrakumar’s factory makes only about 5000 due to the less availability of workers. However, he feels that the high demand for masks would last for at least 3 months from now.

Over 30 textile units in Tiruppur alone are involved in making masks using the cloth materials.

With the increasing Covid-19 cases in India and the WHO reports that mention about the virus being here to stay, masks are likely to play a greater role in coming times- that of a fashion accessory and a personal statement.

Protective face masks tend to hide one's identity and facial features, but in Tamil Nadu masks themselves are having a face of their own. Mask wearers are now sporting printed masks of their favourite stars such as Rajinikanth, Vijay, Ajith and Surya.

Protective face masks tend to hide one's identity and facial features, but in Tamil Nadu masks themselves are having a face of their own. Mask wearers are now sporting printed masks of their favourite stars such as Rajinikanth, Vijay, Ajith and Surya. This trend has caught up over the last few days after textile exporters in the state’s knitwear and textile export hub Tiruppur decided to give masks a new face. With protective face masks becoming an inseparable accessory since the start of the countrywide lockdown in late March, textile manufacturers and exporters from Tamil Nadu’s Tirupur have started making cloth masks. While the mainstay of the textile industry is export-quality garments, the lockdown has given rise to more makers of cloth masks. “We have been in the garments export business for about 24 years, but this during this lockdown with the limited staff we started making cloth masks to cater to the rising demand. For about 45 days now we’ve been making PPE and masks. We initially supplied it to a few government staff and later on, we turned it into a business opportunity” Chandrakumar, CEO Sentinel clothing told WION. With sales and export of garments having nearly dried up during the lockdown, the garment industries have been churning out masks and PPEs in a few thousand every day, with the help of limited staff who are turning up for work. The same equipment that are used for garment manufacturing are now being re-assigned to make masks. “We were initially making masks with zodiac signs printed on them and also 7-color sets for a week, but what really was a hit among the masses was the masks with actors faces on them. Right from masks with prints of evergreen comedian Vadivelu to the action heroes, the demand soared over the last week as we were the only ones experimenting with this. While the plain masks cost 10.Rs apiece the printed ones cost 15, but people prefer the fashionable ones” Chandrakumar added. In recent times the orders for customized masks have piled up from various corporates, schools and even political parties. Suppliers in Tirupur have received orders from the AIADMK and Kamal Haasan’s Makkal Needhi Maiam, both of whom chose to have their party logo and flag printed on the masks. While their factory has the capacity to make about 50,000 masks a day, Chadrakumar’s factory makes only about 5000 due to the less availability of workers. However, he feels that the high demand for masks would last for at least 3 months from now. Over 30 textile units in Tiruppur alone are involved in making masks using the cloth materials. With the increasing Covid-19 cases in India and the WHO reports that mention about the virus being here to stay, masks are likely to play a greater role in coming times- that of a fashion accessory and a personal statement.

Mask of stars: In cinema-crazy Tamil Nadu protective masks get a filmy  face

In what comes as a relief to tipplers in Tamil Nadu, the state-run TASMAC(Tamil Nadu state Marketing Corporation) liquor stores are all set to open in non-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-reports-425-coronavirus-cases-in-the-last-24-hours-298862">containment</a> zones across the state from Saturday, May 16.

Liquor stores, however, will remain closed in Chennai city police limits and in the neighboring Tiruvallur district.&nbsp;Liquor is a major source of revenue for Tamil Nadu and estimates suggest that the state earns over Rs 90 crore a day from liquor sales alone. The sale of booze has been a state monopoly in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

The state government has said that the TASMAC liquor outlets will remain closed in malls and other commercial establishments&nbsp;while standalone shops can still function. The stores will remain open from 10 am to 5pm&nbsp;with only 500 tokens being provided at the store everyday. Also, it has been made mandatory for customers to wear masks.&nbsp;

The decision to re-open the liquor outlets came after the Supreme Court had stayed the Madras High Court’s decision to shut the shops during the lockdown period in the state. On May 8, just a day after the stores had opened for the first time in over 40 days, the High Court had directed the state government to shutter the outlets and allow liquor sales only via online mode.

The High Court had ordered the shops shut following rampant violations of social distancing norms and the other guidelines laid out by the court.

The case filed by the Tamil Nadu government came up for hearing in the Supreme Court before a bench of Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Justice BR Gavi and Justice Nageshwara Rao, who delivered the verdict staying the High Court order, via video conferencing.&nbsp;

The case was also simultaneously being heard at the Madras High Court, the state government has maintained that TASMAC was contributing a major share of the state’s revenue and that other departments will need 4-5 years to generate the same revenue. The State government also mentioned that the online sale of liquor was not possible in a large state such as Tamil Nadu.

Ironically, the announcement regarding the re-opening of liquor outlets has come on a day when the state has seen its total COVID-19 case count surpass 10,000. Tamil Nadu currently has 10,108 total cases of which 7.435 are active. There are a total of 5,946 cases recorded in Chennai, of which 5,114 are active. The state has so far seen 71 deaths and 2,599 recoveries.&nbsp;

In what comes as a relief to tipplers in Tamil Nadu, the state-run TASMAC(Tamil Nadu state Marketing Corporation) liquor stores are all set to open in non-containment zones across the state from Saturday, May 16.

In what comes as a relief to tipplers in Tamil Nadu, the state-run TASMAC(Tamil Nadu state Marketing Corporation) liquor stores are all set to open in non-containment zones across the state from Saturday, May 16. Liquor stores, however, will remain closed in Chennai city police limits and in the neighboring Tiruvallur district. Liquor is a major source of revenue for Tamil Nadu and estimates suggest that the state earns over Rs 90 crore a day from liquor sales alone. The sale of booze has been a state monopoly in Tamil Nadu. The state government has said that the TASMAC liquor outlets will remain closed in malls and other commercial establishments while standalone shops can still function. The stores will remain open from 10 am to 5pm with only 500 tokens being provided at the store everyday. Also, it has been made mandatory for customers to wear masks. The decision to re-open the liquor outlets came after the Supreme Court had stayed the Madras High Court’s decision to shut the shops during the lockdown period in the state. On May 8, just a day after the stores had opened for the first time in over 40 days, the High Court had directed the state government to shutter the outlets and allow liquor sales only via online mode. The High Court had ordered the shops shut following rampant violations of social distancing norms and the other guidelines laid out by the court. The case filed by the Tamil Nadu government came up for hearing in the Supreme Court before a bench of Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Justice BR Gavi and Justice Nageshwara Rao, who delivered the verdict staying the High Court order, via video conferencing. The case was also simultaneously being heard at the Madras High Court, the state government has maintained that TASMAC was contributing a major share of the state’s revenue and that other departments will need 4-5 years to generate the same revenue. The State government also mentioned that the online sale of liquor was not possible in a large state such as Tamil Nadu. Ironically, the announcement regarding the re-opening of liquor outlets has come on a day when the state has seen its total COVID-19 case count surpass 10,000. Tamil Nadu currently has 10,108 total cases of which 7.435 are active. There are a total of 5,946 cases recorded in Chennai, of which 5,114 are active. The state has so far seen 71 deaths and 2,599 recoveries.

Tamil Nadu to open liquor outlets as coronavirus cases surpass 10,000

In view of the rising <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/second-tranche-of-economic-stimulus-will-benefit-migrant-workers-small-farmers-nirmala-sitharaman-298657">coronavirus</a> cases in Tamil Nadu with total of 9,674 cases which is the second-highest in India after Maharashtra, the state government has issued a new set of guidelines for testing incoming travelers.&nbsp;

Considering the risk of increased transmission given the high number of inter-state, inter-district travelers (based on government issued e-passes) and ongoing repatriation of Indian nationals from foreign countries, the state government has issued guidelines for testing incoming travelers.&nbsp;

So far, nine persons who had landed in Chennai via "Vande Bharat" repatriation flights have tested positive for COVID-19.

 
Guidelines for incoming travelers:

Persons from Other Countries:

All persons to be tested on arrival and if tested positive the individual/s would be admitted in a hospital. In case of a negative result, they will be kept in government-provided institutional quarantine/hotels (on a paid-basis).

A follow-up test would be taken after the initial 7-day quarantine, and if that result is also found negative the person/s can be sent for home quarantine for the next 14 days.&nbsp;

 
Persons from Other States/Union Territories:&nbsp;

Tests will be conducted on all persons coming into Tamil Nadu from all states and Union territories. In case of a positive result they would be admitted in hospitals.

In case of a negative result, the passengers would have to be under government-provided institutional quarantine facility for 7days (for persons coming from hotspot states such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Delhi).

After seven&nbsp;days if they display no symptoms, they can be sent for home quarantine for seven&nbsp;days, or they can continue in government quarantine if they do not have facilities at home to be under quarantine.&nbsp;

Persons from non-hotspot states who test negative may be sent into a 14-day home quarantine or institutional quarantine (in case facilities are not available at home).

Persons traveling between Tamil Nadu’s districts:&nbsp;

Testing to be done only for those coming with symptoms, all individuals to undergo home quarantine for 14 days

Exemptions:&nbsp;

Terminally ill patients, individuals requiring immediate medical attention in a hospital.&nbsp;

Persons who are due to attend the funeral and ritual associated with death of an immediate family member

Pregnant women&nbsp;

Elderly persons over the age of 75 years and requiring assistance&nbsp;

All the above categories claiming medical emergency will be subjected to check up by a medical team to confirm the emergency. Relaxation will not be given for any other category. Persons who seek exemption in the above categories, must submit full detail along with their representation in advance to concerned authorities.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu COVID-19 data so far:&nbsp;

The mortality rate in Tamil Nadu is among the lowest in the country at about 0.67 per cent (66 deaths in 9674 cases). While there is a high rate of infection in the state, the significant rate of testing in Tamil Nadu must also be taken into account.&nbsp;

By April 1, the state had tested merely 2,700 odd samples in total which had resulted in criticism over under-reportage and fears of a very poor testing rate. As on May, the state has tested over 2.91 lakh samples, with over 10,000 tests being conducted only a daily basis in recent times.&nbsp;

Such a remarkable increase in testing can be owed to the rapid facilities across the state over the last one&nbsp;month. The testing facilities have gone up from 17 facilities on April 1&nbsp;to 56 (38 government and 18 private) testing facilities.

This three-fold increase in testing rate is also augmented by the state’s well developed public health infrastructure which has been able to maintain an encouraging 23.1 per cent&nbsp;(2240/9674) recovery rate for COVID-19 patients.

The state currently has recorded a total of 9674 coronavirus cases, of which 7,365 are active cases. 4,835 of the total active cases are in capital Chennai alone.

In view of the rising coronavirus cases in Tamil Nadu with total of 9,674 cases which is the second-highest in India after Maharashtra, the state government has issued a new set of guidelines for testing incoming travelers.

In view of the rising coronavirus cases in Tamil Nadu with total of 9,674 cases which is the second-highest in India after Maharashtra, the state government has issued a new set of guidelines for testing incoming travelers. Considering the risk of increased transmission given the high number of inter-state, inter-district travelers (based on government issued e-passes) and ongoing repatriation of Indian nationals from foreign countries, the state government has issued guidelines for testing incoming travelers. So far, nine persons who had landed in Chennai via "Vande Bharat" repatriation flights have tested positive for COVID-19. Guidelines for incoming travelers: Persons from Other Countries: All persons to be tested on arrival and if tested positive the individual/s would be admitted in a hospital. In case of a negative result, they will be kept in government-provided institutional quarantine/hotels (on a paid-basis). A follow-up test would be taken after the initial 7-day quarantine, and if that result is also found negative the person/s can be sent for home quarantine for the next 14 days. Persons from Other States/Union Territories: Tests will be conducted on all persons coming into Tamil Nadu from all states and Union territories. In case of a positive result they would be admitted in hospitals. In case of a negative result, the passengers would have to be under government-provided institutional quarantine facility for 7days (for persons coming from hotspot states such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Delhi). After seven days if they display no symptoms, they can be sent for home quarantine for seven days, or they can continue in government quarantine if they do not have facilities at home to be under quarantine. Persons from non-hotspot states who test negative may be sent into a 14-day home quarantine or institutional quarantine (in case facilities are not available at home). Persons traveling between Tamil Nadu’s districts: Testing to be done only for those coming with symptoms, all individuals to undergo home quarantine for 14 days Exemptions: Terminally ill patients, individuals requiring immediate medical attention in a hospital. Persons who are due to attend the funeral and ritual associated with death of an immediate family member Pregnant women Elderly persons over the age of 75 years and requiring assistance All the above categories claiming medical emergency will be subjected to check up by a medical team to confirm the emergency. Relaxation will not be given for any other category. Persons who seek exemption in the above categories, must submit full detail along with their representation in advance to concerned authorities. Tamil Nadu COVID-19 data so far: The mortality rate in Tamil Nadu is among the lowest in the country at about 0.67 per cent (66 deaths in 9674 cases). While there is a high rate of infection in the state, the significant rate of testing in Tamil Nadu must also be taken into account. By April 1, the state had tested merely 2,700 odd samples in total which had resulted in criticism over under-reportage and fears of a very poor testing rate. As on May, the state has tested over 2.91 lakh samples, with over 10,000 tests being conducted only a daily basis in recent times. Such a remarkable increase in testing can be owed to the rapid facilities across the state over the last one month. The testing facilities have gone up from 17 facilities on April 1 to 56 (38 government and 18 private) testing facilities. This three-fold increase in testing rate is also augmented by the state’s well developed public health infrastructure which has been able to maintain an encouraging 23.1 per cent (2240/9674) recovery rate for COVID-19 patients. The state currently has recorded a total of 9674 coronavirus cases, of which 7,365 are active cases. 4,835 of the total active cases are in capital Chennai alone.

Tamil Nadu issues new COVID-19 testing guidelines for incoming travellers amid spike in cases

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-new-covid-19-vulnerability-index-to-identify-districts-most-at-risk-in-india-298440">lockdown</a> in India has been in place over over 50 days and going by the Prime Minister’s speech, it is expected to continue with fewer restrictions.&nbsp;

However, a recent survey among parents has found out that 92 per cent of them are unwilling to send their wards back to school immediately after reopening.&nbsp;

Over 12,000 parents spread across all major Indian metro cities took part in this survey by Parent Circle, that covered key aspects of a child’s life such as schooling, playing with other children, birthday parties, visits to malls, movies and restaurants, activity classes, public transport, vacation etc.&nbsp;

Majority of the respondents are parents whose wards are in the primary and secondary school level. The survey conducted by leading parenting platform Parent Circle revealed that 56 per cent of surveyed parents across India preferred to monitor the situation for a month after school reopens, before sending their kids back to school.&nbsp;

About 21 per cent of parents opted to not send their wards to school for the next six months while a few others expressed interest in exploring home-schooling.&nbsp;

Commenting on the survey, Nalina Ramalakshmi, Founder &amp; Managing Director of ParentCircle, said, “An overwhelming majority of parents are worried and unsure. They are anxious and not ready to take any chances. Parents need assurance that their children will be safe in school, group activities, and other public places. They would prefer their children to stay home and be safe, rather than take any risks by letting them venture out till the COVID-19 crisis blows over."&nbsp;

The apprehension among parents was evident in various other categories as well, with 64 per cent parents opting to not send their kids to birthday parties for the rest of the year. The same is said about malls and movies with 50 per cent parents saying that they would not consider it for the rest of 2020.&nbsp;

83 per cent respondents also stated that they were not planning to visit any restaurant for at least 3 months after the lockdown.&nbsp;

Even family vacations are being viewed with utmost caution, with 57 per cent respondents expressing that vacations in the near future are too risky.&nbsp;

“As a society, we need to continue with physical distancing practices, washing of hands and wearing masks for the foreseeable future to ensure the health and safety of everyone, including our children. The onus is on schools and other public places to ensure that safety measures and physical distancing policies are in place before they open up for activities” Nalina added.&nbsp;

Health experts are of the opinion that parents fear are natural, but one must allow normalcy to return by following specific strategies.&nbsp;

“It is perfectly normal for parents to say this. I don’t think any of us are ready to take a decision, without the clear idea of how the situation would evolve 3 months from now. Neither do we know when the lockdown would be lifted. It would be safe to assume that they might consider opening schools only post-August. It is true that the infection in children is very mild and one need not worry about them, but however, parents would be parents! The more worrisome aspect is of the children going and hugging their grandparents(resulting in a possible infection of the senior citizen)” Dr. Ramasubramanian, Infectious Disease Consultant of Apollo Hospitals and the Medical Director of Capstone Clinic told WION.

Infectious Diseases Specialist Dr. Subramanian Swaminathan says that it is time for evolving strategies like odd-even and also implementing different school timings for students of different classes.&nbsp;

“In kindergartens social distancing is impossible and in most of our schools, the class strength would be higher. They could de-populate the schools by having a hybrid of physical and online classes. We have to face this reality together, see beyond the fear and workout solutions”, he told WION.

The lockdown in India has been in place over over 50 days and going by the Prime Minister’s speech, it is expected to continue with fewer restrictions. However, a recent survey among parents has found out that 92 per cent of them are unwilling to send their wards back to school immediately after reopening.

The lockdown in India has been in place over over 50 days and going by the Prime Minister’s speech, it is expected to continue with fewer restrictions. However, a recent survey among parents has found out that 92 per cent of them are unwilling to send their wards back to school immediately after reopening. Over 12,000 parents spread across all major Indian metro cities took part in this survey by Parent Circle, that covered key aspects of a child’s life such as schooling, playing with other children, birthday parties, visits to malls, movies and restaurants, activity classes, public transport, vacation etc. Majority of the respondents are parents whose wards are in the primary and secondary school level. The survey conducted by leading parenting platform Parent Circle revealed that 56 per cent of surveyed parents across India preferred to monitor the situation for a month after school reopens, before sending their kids back to school. About 21 per cent of parents opted to not send their wards to school for the next six months while a few others expressed interest in exploring home-schooling. Commenting on the survey, Nalina Ramalakshmi, Founder & Managing Director of ParentCircle, said, “An overwhelming majority of parents are worried and unsure. They are anxious and not ready to take any chances. Parents need assurance that their children will be safe in school, group activities, and other public places. They would prefer their children to stay home and be safe, rather than take any risks by letting them venture out till the COVID-19 crisis blows over." The apprehension among parents was evident in various other categories as well, with 64 per cent parents opting to not send their kids to birthday parties for the rest of the year. The same is said about malls and movies with 50 per cent parents saying that they would not consider it for the rest of 2020. 83 per cent respondents also stated that they were not planning to visit any restaurant for at least 3 months after the lockdown. Even family vacations are being viewed with utmost caution, with 57 per cent respondents expressing that vacations in the near future are too risky. “As a society, we need to continue with physical distancing practices, washing of hands and wearing masks for the foreseeable future to ensure the health and safety of everyone, including our children. The onus is on schools and other public places to ensure that safety measures and physical distancing policies are in place before they open up for activities” Nalina added. Health experts are of the opinion that parents fear are natural, but one must allow normalcy to return by following specific strategies. “It is perfectly normal for parents to say this. I don’t think any of us are ready to take a decision, without the clear idea of how the situation would evolve 3 months from now. Neither do we know when the lockdown would be lifted. It would be safe to assume that they might consider opening schools only post-August. It is true that the infection in children is very mild and one need not worry about them, but however, parents would be parents! The more worrisome aspect is of the children going and hugging their grandparents(resulting in a possible infection of the senior citizen)” Dr. Ramasubramanian, Infectious Disease Consultant of Apollo Hospitals and the Medical Director of Capstone Clinic told WION. Infectious Diseases Specialist Dr. Subramanian Swaminathan says that it is time for evolving strategies like odd-even and also implementing different school timings for students of different classes. “In kindergartens social distancing is impossible and in most of our schools, the class strength would be higher. They could de-populate the schools by having a hybrid of physical and online classes. We have to face this reality together, see beyond the fear and workout solutions”, he told WION.

Parents in metros unwilling to send kids to school immediately after lockdown: Survey

A team of researchers in Chennai’s NHHID have come up with a Bluetooth-based thermometer that can not only detect fever but also communicate with a smartphone App and share the location.

It is meant to aid authorities in identifying and isolating clusters of cases where fever is prevalent. After development, prototyping, and preliminary testing, the initial batch of 1000 thermometers will be&nbsp;manufactured.&nbsp;

“With increasing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-recovered-covid-19-patients-donate-plasma-in-lucknow-298214">COVID-19 </a>cases the door-to-door screening campaigns become less practical and that’s where the smart thermometer comes into play. We can monitor the temperature of individuals and plan for further measures without any external help. On switching it on, it gets linked to the phone’s Bluetooth and the location will also show up on the App. Just like any thermometer, one can self-examine and the results would show on the smartphone, and if&nbsp;in case there is a fever the data and location is sent to the server” Dr. Senthilvelan an Orthopedic Surgeon who is behind this concept told WION.&nbsp;

The team of eight developers at Chennai’s National Hub for Healthcare Instrumentation Development, Centre for Biotechnology, Anna University(NHHID) have partnered with a Bengaluru-based firm Triphase technology for the manufacturing, following which extensive filed trials would be conducted.

According to the developers, the utility of this product must be seen even beyond the current COVID-19 situation, as there have always been such infections that result in fever as one of the major symptoms.

Dr. Senthilvelan added that this specific prototype could have been in the form of a watch or a bracelet or a necklace, but it was a conscious decision to shape it like a thermometer and recommend that the temperature be recorded from the axilla (armpit) due to the variations in skin temperature at different parts of the body.

“COVID-19 has changed our lifestyle&nbsp;and the future will become more online-oriented. We see this as an opportunity to enhance digitization in biomedical gadgets and develop apps for them as well. The patient can monitor the temperature and the doctor can consult based on the available information, while being far apart. We are also working on another bio-medical device prototype that can monitor vital signs and share the data to the server, thus enabling near-live consultancy” Prof S.Muttan, Coordinator, NHHID, Anna University told WION.&nbsp;

This development gains significance as states in India are recommending home-quarantine of asymptomatic COVID-19 positive patients, for optimal utilization of hospital beds for the critical patients.

With the all-India COVID-19 figures surpassing the 70,000-mark and most densely populated cities being among the worst hit, the fever tracker could prove to be a tool that enables more centralized, app-based fever tracking among users.

The current version of the thermometer is dependent on smartphones and the App is supported on both major mobile platforms, the developers said.

Prof Sankaran , Professor of Eminence, Anna University believes that internet-of-things concepts can be integrated with medical technology, it would go a long way in studying, identifying disease control measures.

“Since all major diseases are accompanied by a fever, the pattern can be used to understand the doctors can decide what fever pattern corresponds to which disease. While the initial unit cost is Rs.350, mass manufacturing can bring down the unit cost to about Rs.100-150. For the cost of the normal thermometer we hope to provide a remote temperature monitoring tool for households” he said.

A team of researchers in Chennai’s NHHID have come up with a Bluetooth-based thermometer that can not only detect fever but also communicate with a smartphone App and share the location.

A team of researchers in Chennai’s NHHID have come up with a Bluetooth-based thermometer that can not only detect fever but also communicate with a smartphone App and share the location. It is meant to aid authorities in identifying and isolating clusters of cases where fever is prevalent. After development, prototyping, and preliminary testing, the initial batch of 1000 thermometers will be manufactured. “With increasing COVID-19 cases the door-to-door screening campaigns become less practical and that’s where the smart thermometer comes into play. We can monitor the temperature of individuals and plan for further measures without any external help. On switching it on, it gets linked to the phone’s Bluetooth and the location will also show up on the App. Just like any thermometer, one can self-examine and the results would show on the smartphone, and if in case there is a fever the data and location is sent to the server” Dr. Senthilvelan an Orthopedic Surgeon who is behind this concept told WION. The team of eight developers at Chennai’s National Hub for Healthcare Instrumentation Development, Centre for Biotechnology, Anna University(NHHID) have partnered with a Bengaluru-based firm Triphase technology for the manufacturing, following which extensive filed trials would be conducted. According to the developers, the utility of this product must be seen even beyond the current COVID-19 situation, as there have always been such infections that result in fever as one of the major symptoms. Dr. Senthilvelan added that this specific prototype could have been in the form of a watch or a bracelet or a necklace, but it was a conscious decision to shape it like a thermometer and recommend that the temperature be recorded from the axilla (armpit) due to the variations in skin temperature at different parts of the body. “COVID-19 has changed our lifestyle and the future will become more online-oriented. We see this as an opportunity to enhance digitization in biomedical gadgets and develop apps for them as well. The patient can monitor the temperature and the doctor can consult based on the available information, while being far apart. We are also working on another bio-medical device prototype that can monitor vital signs and share the data to the server, thus enabling near-live consultancy” Prof S.Muttan, Coordinator, NHHID, Anna University told WION. This development gains significance as states in India are recommending home-quarantine of asymptomatic COVID-19 positive patients, for optimal utilization of hospital beds for the critical patients. With the all-India COVID-19 figures surpassing the 70,000-mark and most densely populated cities being among the worst hit, the fever tracker could prove to be a tool that enables more centralized, app-based fever tracking among users. The current version of the thermometer is dependent on smartphones and the App is supported on both major mobile platforms, the developers said. Prof Sankaran , Professor of Eminence, Anna University believes that internet-of-things concepts can be integrated with medical technology, it would go a long way in studying, identifying disease control measures. “Since all major diseases are accompanied by a fever, the pattern can be used to understand the doctors can decide what fever pattern corresponds to which disease. While the initial unit cost is Rs.350, mass manufacturing can bring down the unit cost to about Rs.100-150. For the cost of the normal thermometer we hope to provide a remote temperature monitoring tool for households” he said.

COVID-19: Researchers develop Bluetooth-based thermometer for fever monitoring

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Zee News Rajasthan

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