Land degradation, wildlife exploitation, intensive farming and climate change are driving the rise in diseases that, like the coronavirus, are passed from animals to humans,&nbsp;United&nbsp;Nations&nbsp;experts said on Monday.

The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) jointly identified seven trends responsible for such diseases, known as zoonotic, calling on governments to take steps to stop future pandemics.

These are: rising demand for animal protein, extraction of natural resources and urbanization, intensive and unsustainable farming, exploitation of wildlife, increased travel and transportation, food supply changes and climate change, it said.

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"The science is clear that if we keep exploiting wildlife and destroying our ecosystems, then we can expect to see a steady stream of these diseases jumping from animals to humans in the years ahead," said UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen.

"Pandemics are devastating to our lives and our economies, and as we have seen over the past months, it is the poorest and the most vulnerable who suffer the most.

"To prevent future outbreaks, we must become much more deliberate about protecting our natural environment."

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About 60 per cent&nbsp;of known infectious diseases in humans and 75 per cent&nbsp;of all emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic, she said, largely due to the increased interaction between humans, animals and the environment.

The new coronavirus, which is most likely to have originated in bats, has infected more than 11 million people and killed over half a million people globally, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

But it is just one in a growing number of diseases – including Ebola, MERS, West Nile fever, Zika, SARS and Rift Valley fever – that have jumped from animal hosts into the human population in recent years, said the report.

Around two million people, mostly in developing&nbsp;nations, die from neglected zoonotic diseases every year. These outbreaks not only cause severe illness and deaths, but also result in major economic losses for some of the world's poorest.

In the last two decades alone, zoonotic diseases have caused economic losses of more than $100 billion. This does not include the cost of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is expected to reach $9 trillion over the next few years, said the report.

Most efforts to control zoonotic diseases have been reactive rather than proactive, say experts. They want governments to invest in public health, farm sustainability, end over-exploitation of wildlife and reduce climate change.

Africa - home to a large portion of the world’s remaining intact rainforests as well as fast-growing human population - is at high risk of the increased emergence of zoonotic diseases - but could also provide solutions, said experts.

"The situation on the continent today is ripe for intensifying existing zoonotic diseases and facilitating the emergence and spread of new ones," said ILRI Director General Jimmy Smith.

"But with their experiences with Ebola and other emerging diseases, African countries are demonstrating proactive ways to manage disease outbreaks."

He said some African&nbsp;nations&nbsp;had adopted a "One Health" approach - uniting public health, veterinary and environmental expertise which can help to identify and treat outbreaks in animals before they pass to humans.

The experts urged governments to provide incentives for sustainable land use and animal husbandry and to develop strategies for producing food that do not rely on the destruction of habitats and biodiversity.

Monday was&nbsp;World Zoonoses Day, which commemorates the work of French biologist Louis Pasteur, who successfully administered the first vaccine against rabies, a zoonotic disease, on July 6 1885.

Land degradation, wildlife exploitation, intensive farming and climate change are driving the rise in diseases that, like the coronavirus, are passed from animals to humans, United Nations experts said on Monday.

Land degradation, wildlife exploitation, intensive farming and climate change are driving the rise in diseases that, like the coronavirus, are passed from animals to humans, United Nations experts said on Monday. The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) jointly identified seven trends responsible for such diseases, known as zoonotic, calling on governments to take steps to stop future pandemics. These are: rising demand for animal protein, extraction of natural resources and urbanization, intensive and unsustainable farming, exploitation of wildlife, increased travel and transportation, food supply changes and climate change, it said. In pics: 7 killer viruses that emerged in China and ravaged the world "The science is clear that if we keep exploiting wildlife and destroying our ecosystems, then we can expect to see a steady stream of these diseases jumping from animals to humans in the years ahead," said UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen. "Pandemics are devastating to our lives and our economies, and as we have seen over the past months, it is the poorest and the most vulnerable who suffer the most. "To prevent future outbreaks, we must become much more deliberate about protecting our natural environment." Also read: Mediterranean marine life flourished during lockdown: Italian coastguard About 60 per cent of known infectious diseases in humans and 75 per cent of all emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic, she said, largely due to the increased interaction between humans, animals and the environment. The new coronavirus, which is most likely to have originated in bats, has infected more than 11 million people and killed over half a million people globally, according to the Johns Hopkins University. But it is just one in a growing number of diseases – including Ebola, MERS, West Nile fever, Zika, SARS and Rift Valley fever – that have jumped from animal hosts into the human population in recent years, said the report. Around two million people, mostly in developing nations, die from neglected zoonotic diseases every year. These outbreaks not only cause severe illness and deaths, but also result in major economic losses for some of the world's poorest. In the last two decades alone, zoonotic diseases have caused economic losses of more than $100 billion. This does not include the cost of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is expected to reach $9 trillion over the next few years, said the report. Most efforts to control zoonotic diseases have been reactive rather than proactive, say experts. They want governments to invest in public health, farm sustainability, end over-exploitation of wildlife and reduce climate change. Africa - home to a large portion of the world’s remaining intact rainforests as well as fast-growing human population - is at high risk of the increased emergence of zoonotic diseases - but could also provide solutions, said experts. "The situation on the continent today is ripe for intensifying existing zoonotic diseases and facilitating the emergence and spread of new ones," said ILRI Director General Jimmy Smith. "But with their experiences with Ebola and other emerging diseases, African countries are demonstrating proactive ways to manage disease outbreaks." He said some African nations had adopted a "One Health" approach - uniting public health, veterinary and environmental expertise which can help to identify and treat outbreaks in animals before they pass to humans. The experts urged governments to provide incentives for sustainable land use and animal husbandry and to develop strategies for producing food that do not rely on the destruction of habitats and biodiversity. Monday was World Zoonoses Day, which commemorates the work of French biologist Louis Pasteur, who successfully administered the first vaccine against rabies, a zoonotic disease, on July 6 1885.

Curb climate change, protect environment to prevent more outbreaks: United Nations

At least six tribal activists were shot dead Tuesday in an ambush by a rival group in&nbsp;Bangladesh's restive Chittagong Hill Tracts, where scores have died in an insurgency in recent years, police said.

Gunmen attacked supporters of a splinter group off the Jan Sanhati Samiti (JSS) insurgent movement at Bagmara in Bandarban district, about 400 kilometres southeast of the capital Dhaka, according to officeArs.

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The splinter group's district head was among the dead and three other people were critically wounded, S.M. Mobassher Hossain, deputy head of the Bandarban police, told AFP.

The JSS is the main insurgent group in&nbsp;Bangladesh's three Chittagong hill districts that include Bandarban.

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It fought a battle with government forces that claimed about 2,500 lives in the area from the early 1980s until a peace treaty was signed in 1997.

Despite the accord and withdrawal of most troops from the region, unrest has continued as tribal groups demand key clauses of the deal be implemented, including dismantling the villages of Bengali settlers and army camps.

In recent years insurgent groups have splintered, setting off in-fighting that has claimed scores of lives including several faction leaders.

In March last year seven people were killed during a battle in Bandarban.

At least six tribal activists were shot dead Tuesday in an ambush by a rival group in Bangladesh's restive Chittagong Hill Tracts, where scores have died in an insurgency in recent years, police said.

At least six tribal activists were shot dead Tuesday in an ambush by a rival group in Bangladesh's restive Chittagong Hill Tracts, where scores have died in an insurgency in recent years, police said. Gunmen attacked supporters of a splinter group off the Jan Sanhati Samiti (JSS) insurgent movement at Bagmara in Bandarban district, about 400 kilometres southeast of the capital Dhaka, according to officeArs. Also read| COVID-19: Bangladesh resumes international flights The splinter group's district head was among the dead and three other people were critically wounded, S.M. Mobassher Hossain, deputy head of the Bandarban police, told AFP. The JSS is the main insurgent group in Bangladesh's three Chittagong hill districts that include Bandarban. Also read: Bangladesh doctors claim to have found effective drug combination to cure COVID-19 patients It fought a battle with government forces that claimed about 2,500 lives in the area from the early 1980s until a peace treaty was signed in 1997. Despite the accord and withdrawal of most troops from the region, unrest has continued as tribal groups demand key clauses of the deal be implemented, including dismantling the villages of Bengali settlers and army camps. In recent years insurgent groups have splintered, setting off in-fighting that has claimed scores of lives including several faction leaders. In March last year seven people were killed during a battle in Bandarban.

Six shot dead in Bangladesh's restive southeastern hills: Police

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani warned Monday that Taliban violence is threatening the country's peace process, as he briefed the international community on Kabul's preparations for peace talks with the militant group.

Afghan authorities and the Taliban are preparing to engage in negotiations aimed at ending the nearly two-decade-old war in the impoverished country.

But violence, which had briefly reduced after a surprise ceasefire offer by the Taliban in May, has again spiked with officials blaming the insurgents for killing hundreds of security personnel and civilians in recent weeks.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-will-cooperate-to-bring-back-peace-in-afghanistan-khalilzad-310750">Taliban will cooperate to bring back peace in Afghanistan: Khalilzad</a>

Ghani on Monday hosted the first of three online conferences aimed at briefing the global community on the expected peace talks.

"If the Taliban continue fighting, the Afghan peace process will face serious challenges," he told online attendees from several nations.

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"Unfortunately, the current level of violence is higher compared to last year," Ghani said, according to a statement issued by his office. He is hosting two other video conferences later this week.

The United States and Russia along with some international organisations such as the United Nations are joining the video conferences, officials said.

Other countries participating include Pakistan, India, Iran, China, Egypt and Qatar.

Earlier Monday, just hours ahead of the first online meeting, Ghani's spokesman also slammed the Taliban for an uptick in violence.

"There is no obstacle on our side for the peace process, but we see that the Taliban are not serious," Sediq Sediqqi told reporters.

"The government of&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;released a large number of Taliban in order to reduce violence in the country, but the violence has not decreased."

Afghan authorities have released more than 4,000 Taliban prisoners out of 5,000 demanded by the insurgents in a deal with Washington signed in February.

&nbsp;

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani warned Monday that Taliban violence is threatening the country's peace process, as he briefed the international community on Kabul's preparations for peace talks with the militant group.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani warned Monday that Taliban violence is threatening the country's peace process, as he briefed the international community on Kabul's preparations for peace talks with the militant group. Afghan authorities and the Taliban are preparing to engage in negotiations aimed at ending the nearly two-decade-old war in the impoverished country. But violence, which had briefly reduced after a surprise ceasefire offer by the Taliban in May, has again spiked with officials blaming the insurgents for killing hundreds of security personnel and civilians in recent weeks. Also read| Taliban will cooperate to bring back peace in Afghanistan: Khalilzad Ghani on Monday hosted the first of three online conferences aimed at briefing the global community on the expected peace talks. "If the Taliban continue fighting, the Afghan peace process will face serious challenges," he told online attendees from several nations. Also read: Shallow 4.6-magnitude earthquake strikes Kabul "Unfortunately, the current level of violence is higher compared to last year," Ghani said, according to a statement issued by his office. He is hosting two other video conferences later this week. The United States and Russia along with some international organisations such as the United Nations are joining the video conferences, officials said. Other countries participating include Pakistan, India, Iran, China, Egypt and Qatar. Earlier Monday, just hours ahead of the first online meeting, Ghani's spokesman also slammed the Taliban for an uptick in violence. "There is no obstacle on our side for the peace process, but we see that the Taliban are not serious," Sediq Sediqqi told reporters. "The government of Afghanistan released a large number of Taliban in order to reduce violence in the country, but the violence has not decreased." Afghan authorities have released more than 4,000 Taliban prisoners out of 5,000 demanded by the insurgents in a deal with Washington signed in February.

Taliban violence pose 'serious challenges' to Afghan peace process: Ghani

Emergency services in western Japan were "racing against time" Tuesday to rescue people stranded by devastating floods and landslides that have killed at least 52, as the country braced for more torrential downpours.

Japan's Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued its second-highest emergency warning for heavy rain and landslides over vast swathes of the country's southwest and said "risks are rising" nationwide.

Television footage showed swollen rivers breaking their banks and sweeping away bridges while landslides destroyed roads and buried houses, complicating access for the 80,000 rescue personnel battling to save lives.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/torrential-rains-trigger-floods-landslide-in-southern-islands-of-japan-310773/amp/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

At least 52&nbsp;deaths have been confirmed in the rains that began early Saturday, top government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said, but the toll is expected to rise, with four more feared dead and over a dozen reported missing.

He warned that more heavy rain was forecast over the next two days, saying: "Even a small amount of rainfall could cause a disaster. I would like people to be on full alert against landslides and floods."

In the hardest-hit region of Kumamoto, on the southwest tip of Japan, disaster management official Yutaro Hamasaki said: "We are racing against time."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pictures%3A-battling-the-deadly-japan-floods--149908">In pictures: Battling the deadly Japan floods</a>

"We have not set any deadline or time to end the operation, but we really need to speed up our search as time is running out. We won't give up to the end," Hamasaki said.

Fourteen of the dead were wheelchair-bound residents of a nursing home unable to escape to higher ground as the waters rose.

A rescue worker who searched the facility told NHK: "The ground floor was filled with water and we couldn't get into it. Some people managed to evacuate to the first floor. I've never experienced anything like this in my life."

Further complicating evacuation efforts was the fear of spreading the coronavirus.

Japan has been relatively lightly affected by the pandemic, with just under 20,000 cases and fewer than 1,000 deaths.

But the need to maintain social distancing has reduced capacity at evacuation shelters.

The disaster has also compounded problems for businesses already hard hit by the pandemic.

Japan is in the middle of its annual rainy season, which frequently unleashes deadly floods and landslides. Climate change has intensified the risks of heavy rains, because a warmer atmosphere holds more water.

In 2018, more than 200 people died in devastating floods in the same region of Japan.

Emergency services in western Japan were "racing against time" Tuesday to rescue people stranded by devastating floods and landslides that have killed at least 52, as the country braced for more torrential downpours.

Emergency services in western Japan were "racing against time" Tuesday to rescue people stranded by devastating floods and landslides that have killed at least 52, as the country braced for more torrential downpours. Japan's Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued its second-highest emergency warning for heavy rain and landslides over vast swathes of the country's southwest and said "risks are rising" nationwide. Television footage showed swollen rivers breaking their banks and sweeping away bridges while landslides destroyed roads and buried houses, complicating access for the 80,000 rescue personnel battling to save lives. At least 52 deaths have been confirmed in the rains that began early Saturday, top government spokesman Yoshihide Suga said, but the toll is expected to rise, with four more feared dead and over a dozen reported missing. He warned that more heavy rain was forecast over the next two days, saying: "Even a small amount of rainfall could cause a disaster. I would like people to be on full alert against landslides and floods." In the hardest-hit region of Kumamoto, on the southwest tip of Japan, disaster management official Yutaro Hamasaki said: "We are racing against time." In pictures: Battling the deadly Japan floods "We have not set any deadline or time to end the operation, but we really need to speed up our search as time is running out. We won't give up to the end," Hamasaki said. Fourteen of the dead were wheelchair-bound residents of a nursing home unable to escape to higher ground as the waters rose. A rescue worker who searched the facility told NHK: "The ground floor was filled with water and we couldn't get into it. Some people managed to evacuate to the first floor. I've never experienced anything like this in my life." Further complicating evacuation efforts was the fear of spreading the coronavirus. Japan has been relatively lightly affected by the pandemic, with just under 20,000 cases and fewer than 1,000 deaths. But the need to maintain social distancing has reduced capacity at evacuation shelters. The disaster has also compounded problems for businesses already hard hit by the pandemic. Japan is in the middle of its annual rainy season, which frequently unleashes deadly floods and landslides. Climate change has intensified the risks of heavy rains, because a warmer atmosphere holds more water. In 2018, more than 200 people died in devastating floods in the same region of Japan.

Japan : Atleast 52 dead in floods and landslides as rescuers 'race against time'

As many as 872 employees of the Central Railway and Western Railway, their family members and retired personnel have so far tested positive for coronavirus and 86 of them have died, officials said.

All of them were admitted to the Western Railways Jagjivan Ram Hospital here which was in April declared as a facility to treat COVID-19 patients, they said.

Of the total cases, 559 were reported from the Central Railway and 313 from the Western Railway, officials said.

Out of the 86 patients who died of COVID-19, 22 were existing railway employees (14 of the Central Railway and eight of the Western Railway) and the others included their family members and retired personnel.

As of now, 132 railway employees, besides their family members and retired personnel, are undergoing treatment at the hospital, officials said.

Currently, some special trains, goods trains and 700 local train services with limited number of passengers are being operated here by both the Central Railway and Western Railway.

Some railway unions claimed that since the resumption of local train services from June 15, there has been a rise in COVID-19 cases among railway employees.

"The state government allowed only 15 to 30 per cent attendance in offices, but in the railways nearly 100 per cent field staff personnel are working since the resumption of suburban train services, National RailwayMazdoor Union president Venu Nair said.

The zonal railways, however, said there is no connection between the rise in COVID-19 cases and resumption of services.

Central Railway's Chief Public Relations Officer Shivaji Sutar said they are taking utmost care to prevent the spread of COVID-19 among railway personnel and passengers.

"We are taking every possible step for the safety of railway employees and passengers and ensuring social distancing. We are providing masks, sanitisers and all other safety equipment to our employees," he said.

After the outbreak of COVID-19, the Central Railway launched a 'Rail Parivar Dekhrekh' drive to ensure the safety of the railway employees, he added.

The Western Railway's Mumbai division DRM did not respond to queries on this.

As many as 872 employees of the Central Railway and Western Railway, their family members and retired personnel have so far tested positive for coronavirus and 86 of them have died, officials said.

As many as 872 employees of the Central Railway and Western Railway, their family members and retired personnel have so far tested positive for coronavirus and 86 of them have died, officials said. All of them were admitted to the Western Railways Jagjivan Ram Hospital here which was in April declared as a facility to treat COVID-19 patients, they said. Of the total cases, 559 were reported from the Central Railway and 313 from the Western Railway, officials said. Out of the 86 patients who died of COVID-19, 22 were existing railway employees (14 of the Central Railway and eight of the Western Railway) and the others included their family members and retired personnel. As of now, 132 railway employees, besides their family members and retired personnel, are undergoing treatment at the hospital, officials said. Currently, some special trains, goods trains and 700 local train services with limited number of passengers are being operated here by both the Central Railway and Western Railway. Some railway unions claimed that since the resumption of local train services from June 15, there has been a rise in COVID-19 cases among railway employees. "The state government allowed only 15 to 30 per cent attendance in offices, but in the railways nearly 100 per cent field staff personnel are working since the resumption of suburban train services, National RailwayMazdoor Union president Venu Nair said. The zonal railways, however, said there is no connection between the rise in COVID-19 cases and resumption of services. Central Railway's Chief Public Relations Officer Shivaji Sutar said they are taking utmost care to prevent the spread of COVID-19 among railway personnel and passengers. "We are taking every possible step for the safety of railway employees and passengers and ensuring social distancing. We are providing masks, sanitisers and all other safety equipment to our employees," he said. After the outbreak of COVID-19, the Central Railway launched a 'Rail Parivar Dekhrekh' drive to ensure the safety of the railway employees, he added. The Western Railway's Mumbai division DRM did not respond to queries on this.

Exiled Uighurs approach ICC for seeking justice against Chinese 'genocide'

Amid rapid surge in coronavirus cases, monuments re-open in Delhi

&nbsp;As many as 11,300 'Made in India'&nbsp;ventilators have been dispatched so far and 6,154 have been delivered to the hospitals, said Dr Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-highest-single-day-spike-of-22771-new-covid-19-cases-310629" hreflang="en">India records highest single-day spike of 22,771 new COVID-19 cases</a>

"So far, 11,300 `Make In India` ventilators have been dispatched; 6,154 delivered to hospitals. Ministry of Health is also supplying 1.02 lakh oxygen cylinders across India; 72,293 delivered," Dr Harsh Vardhan tweeted on Saturday.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
So far, 11,300 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MakeInIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MakeInIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ventilators?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ventilators</a> have been dispatched; 6154 delivered to hospitals. <a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoHFW_INDIA</a> is also supplying 1.02 lakh <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/oxygen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#oxygen</a> cylinders across India; 72,293 delivered. <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a> <a href="https://t.co/3WwcrgmkgF">pic.twitter.com/3WwcrgmkgF</a>
— Dr Harsh Vardhan (@drharshvardhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/drharshvardhan/status/1279256409062834176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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.<a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoHFW_INDIA</a> is relentlessly working to strengthen the health infrastructure in line with our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtmaNirbharBharat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtmaNirbharBharat</a> resolve. Since 1st April 2020, over 2.02 crore <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/N95?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#N95</a> masks &amp; more than 1.18 crore <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PPE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PPE</a> kits have been distributed to States/UTs, free of cost for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> prevention. <a href="https://t.co/ugwebfd74D">pic.twitter.com/ugwebfd74D</a>
— Dr Harsh Vardhan (@drharshvardhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/drharshvardhan/status/1279255835126796288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Over 6.12 crore HCQ (Hydroxychloroquine) tablets distributed," read an infographic shared by Dr. Harsh Vardhan.

India on Friday reported its highest single-day spike of COVID-19 cases with 22,771 cases reported in the last 24 hours, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

With these new cases, India`s coronavirus cases tally has gone up to 6,48,315, out of which there are 2,35,433 active cases in the country and 3,94,227 cases have been cured/discharged or migrated.&nbsp;

As many as 11,300 'Made in India' ventilators have been dispatched so far and 6,154 have been delivered to the hospitals, said Dr Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare.

As many as 11,300 'Made in India' ventilators have been dispatched so far and 6,154 have been delivered to the hospitals, said Dr Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare. Also read: India records highest single-day spike of 22,771 new COVID-19 cases "So far, 11,300 `Make In India` ventilators have been dispatched; 6,154 delivered to hospitals. Ministry of Health is also supplying 1.02 lakh oxygen cylinders across India; 72,293 delivered," Dr Harsh Vardhan tweeted on Saturday. So far, 11,300 #MakeInIndia #ventilators have been dispatched; 6154 delivered to hospitals. @MoHFW_INDIA is also supplying 1.02 lakh #oxygen cylinders across India; 72,293 delivered. @PMOIndia @HMOIndia #IndiaFightsCorona pic.twitter.com/3WwcrgmkgF — Dr Harsh Vardhan (@drharshvardhan) July 4, 2020 × .@MoHFW_INDIA is relentlessly working to strengthen the health infrastructure in line with our #AtmaNirbharBharat resolve. Since 1st April 2020, over 2.02 crore #N95 masks & more than 1.18 crore #PPE kits have been distributed to States/UTs, free of cost for #COVID19 prevention. pic.twitter.com/ugwebfd74D — Dr Harsh Vardhan (@drharshvardhan) July 4, 2020 × "Over 6.12 crore HCQ (Hydroxychloroquine) tablets distributed," read an infographic shared by Dr. Harsh Vardhan. India on Friday reported its highest single-day spike of COVID-19 cases with 22,771 cases reported in the last 24 hours, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. With these new cases, India`s coronavirus cases tally has gone up to 6,48,315, out of which there are 2,35,433 active cases in the country and 3,94,227 cases have been cured/discharged or migrated.

11,300 'Made in India' ventilators dispatched so far: Dr Harsh Vardhan

The girlfriend of President Donald Trump's eldest son has tested positive for coronavirus, US media reported Friday.

Kimberly Guilfoyle, a former&nbsp;television personality who is dating Donald Trump Junior, had traveled to South Dakota to see the US president’s Fourth of July speech and celebration fireworks at Mount Rushmore.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blasts-left-wing-cultural-revolution-rails-against-removal-of-statues-at-mount-rushmore-310621">Trump uses Mount Rushmore address to blast 'left wing cultural revolution'</a>

Guilfoyle was immediately isolated after the positive result to limit exposure said Sergio Gor, chief of staff to the Trump campaign’s finance committee.

"She's doing well, and will be retested to ensure the diagnosis is correct since she's asymptomatic.''

"As a precaution (she) will cancel all upcoming events. Donald Trump Jr was tested negative, but as a precaution is also self-isolating and is canceling all public events."

Guilfoyle is the third person close to the US president to return a positive COVID-19 test, US media reported. Others include Trump's personal valet and the US vice president's press secretary.

Trump has presided over a several large-crowd events, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and at an Arizona megachurch despite health officials warning against large gatherings and recommending face masks and social distancing.

He plans a July Fourth celebration on the National Mall in Washington despite health concerns from DC’s mayor. Trump and Melania Trump plan to host events from the White House South Lawn and from the Ellipse.

The pandemic has claimed nearly 130,000 American lives and a recent resurgence "puts the entire country at risk," top infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci has said.

&nbsp;

The girlfriend of President Donald Trump's eldest son has tested positive for coronavirus, US media reported Friday. Kimberly Guilfoyle, a former television personality who is dating Donald Trump Junior, had traveled to South Dakota to see the US president’s Fourth of July speech and celebration fireworks at Mount Rushmore.

The girlfriend of President Donald Trump's eldest son has tested positive for coronavirus, US media reported Friday. Kimberly Guilfoyle, a former television personality who is dating Donald Trump Junior, had traveled to South Dakota to see the US president’s Fourth of July speech and celebration fireworks at Mount Rushmore. Also read: Trump uses Mount Rushmore address to blast 'left wing cultural revolution' Guilfoyle was immediately isolated after the positive result to limit exposure said Sergio Gor, chief of staff to the Trump campaign’s finance committee. "She's doing well, and will be retested to ensure the diagnosis is correct since she's asymptomatic.'' "As a precaution (she) will cancel all upcoming events. Donald Trump Jr was tested negative, but as a precaution is also self-isolating and is canceling all public events." Guilfoyle is the third person close to the US president to return a positive COVID-19 test, US media reported. Others include Trump's personal valet and the US vice president's press secretary. Trump has presided over a several large-crowd events, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and at an Arizona megachurch despite health officials warning against large gatherings and recommending face masks and social distancing. He plans a July Fourth celebration on the National Mall in Washington despite health concerns from DC’s mayor. Trump and Melania Trump plan to host events from the White House South Lawn and from the Ellipse. The pandemic has claimed nearly 130,000 American lives and a recent resurgence "puts the entire country at risk," top infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci has said.

Donald Trump Junior's girlfriend Kimberly Guilfoyle tests positive for coronavirus

The statue of the 'Little Mermaid'&nbsp;on&nbsp;the entrance to Copenhagen harbour has been daubed with the words “racist fish”&nbsp;scrawled across the base

The 107-year-old&nbsp;bronze statue honours&nbsp;the famous fairy tale of Hans Christian Andersen's that perches on a rock in the sea off a pier in Copenhagen.

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Police said it had not yet identified the perpetrators. The sculpture&nbsp;designed by the sculptor Edvard Eriksen and modelled on his wife, Eline,&nbsp;is visited by one million tourists each year.

It has been vandalised several times before, by protesters, ranging from pro-democracy activists to anti-whaling campaigners,&nbsp;twice suffering decapitation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/im-pro-heritage-pm-boris-johnson-against-oxfords-decision-to-remove-rhodes-statue-310375" hreflang="en">'I’m pro-heritage': PM Boris Johnson against Oxford's decision to remove Rhodes statue</a>

"We consider it vandalism and have started an investigation," a spokesman for the Copenhagen police said.

Protesters of the Black Lives Matter movement around the world have in recent months rallied against statues of historical figures who played a role in racist oppression, such as slave traders and colonialists.

The&nbsp;Little&nbsp;Mermaid&nbsp;has not been part of this debate but last year a Disney live action remake of the 1989 animated film of the same name was the subject of a controversy after African American actress Halle Bailey was cast in the central role.

"I am having a hard time seeing what is particularly racist in the fairy tale "The&nbsp;Little&nbsp;Mermaid," Ane Grum-Schwensen, researcher at the H.C. Andersen Center at University of Southern Denmark, told local news wire Ritzau.

The statue of the 'Little Mermaid' on the entrance to Copenhagen harbour has been daubed with the words “racist fish” scrawled across the base The 107-year-old bronze statue honours the famous fairy tale of Hans Christian Andersen's that perches on a rock in the sea off a pier in Copenhagen.

The statue of the 'Little Mermaid' on the entrance to Copenhagen harbour has been daubed with the words “racist fish” scrawled across the base The 107-year-old bronze statue honours the famous fairy tale of Hans Christian Andersen's that perches on a rock in the sea off a pier in Copenhagen. Also read: Australian mountain range named after Belgium's King Leopold II re-christened Police said it had not yet identified the perpetrators. The sculpture designed by the sculptor Edvard Eriksen and modelled on his wife, Eline, is visited by one million tourists each year. It has been vandalised several times before, by protesters, ranging from pro-democracy activists to anti-whaling campaigners, twice suffering decapitation. Also read: 'I’m pro-heritage': PM Boris Johnson against Oxford's decision to remove Rhodes statue "We consider it vandalism and have started an investigation," a spokesman for the Copenhagen police said. Protesters of the Black Lives Matter movement around the world have in recent months rallied against statues of historical figures who played a role in racist oppression, such as slave traders and colonialists. The Little Mermaid has not been part of this debate but last year a Disney live action remake of the 1989 animated film of the same name was the subject of a controversy after African American actress Halle Bailey was cast in the central role. "I am having a hard time seeing what is particularly racist in the fairy tale "The Little Mermaid," Ane Grum-Schwensen, researcher at the H.C. Andersen Center at University of Southern Denmark, told local news wire Ritzau.

Denmark: Little Mermaid statue vandalised; branded 'racist fish' in graffiti attack

Three Colorado police officers were fired and a fourth resigned after they shared photographs they took of themselves re-enacting a chokehold officers used to subdue a Black man who later died, authorities said on Friday.

Vanessa Wilson, interim chief of police in the Denver suburb of Aurora, called the officers' actions surrounding the death of Elijah McClain, who was unarmed, "reprehensible."

"I am disgusted to my core," Wilson said at a news conference announcing the firings.

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The officers who were terminated were named as Jason Rosenblatt, Erica Marrero and Kyle Dittrich. The fourth officer, Jaron Jones, resigned on Tuesday.

<img alt="Colorado" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a1da98a0-c6bc-48fa-8764-26c72e6d1235" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2894%29_1.jpg" />

Aurora Police Department officers Erica Marrero, Jaron Jones and Kyle Dittrich pose near a memorial to Elijah McClain, in Aurora, Colorado, US&nbsp;October 2019. Aurora Police Department/Handout via REUTERS

One photo depicts Dittrich and Jones recreating a carotid neck hold, while a grinning Marrero stands nearby. The pictures, which were released on Friday by authorities, were taken near the site where the fatal struggle took place.

Rosenblatt, who was among the officers who subdued McClain, was fired for responding "HaHa" after receiving the photo, Wilson said.

The McClain family attorney, Mari Newman, said police not only killed an innocent man but felt empowered to make a "mockery" of the incident by re-enacting it.

McClain, 23, was walking along a street in Aurora in August 2019 when he was approached by three officers on reports of a man acting suspiciously, although he had not committed any crimes.

During the confrontation, McClain said he could not breathe, according to audio recordings released by police.

The officers subdued McClain with the carotid chokehold, and paramedics later injected him with the sedative ketamine. He then went into cardiac arrest and was taken off life support days later.

A local prosecutor declined to file charges against the officers or paramedics, citing an autopsy that listed the cause of death as undetermined.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis has appointed a special prosecutor to review the case, and this week the FBI and the U.S. Department of Justice said they are investigating whether McClain's civil rights were violated.

Three Colorado police officers were fired and a fourth resigned after they shared photographs they took of themselves re-enacting a chokehold officers used to subdue a Black man who later died, authorities said on Friday.

Three Colorado police officers were fired and a fourth resigned after they shared photographs they took of themselves re-enacting a chokehold officers used to subdue a Black man who later died, authorities said on Friday. Vanessa Wilson, interim chief of police in the Denver suburb of Aurora, called the officers' actions surrounding the death of Elijah McClain, who was unarmed, "reprehensible." "I am disgusted to my core," Wilson said at a news conference announcing the firings. Also read: Ex-Atlanta policeman charged with felony murder of Rayshard Brooks The officers who were terminated were named as Jason Rosenblatt, Erica Marrero and Kyle Dittrich. The fourth officer, Jaron Jones, resigned on Tuesday. Aurora Police Department officers Erica Marrero, Jaron Jones and Kyle Dittrich pose near a memorial to Elijah McClain, in Aurora, Colorado, US October 2019. Aurora Police Department/Handout via REUTERS One photo depicts Dittrich and Jones recreating a carotid neck hold, while a grinning Marrero stands nearby. The pictures, which were released on Friday by authorities, were taken near the site where the fatal struggle took place. Rosenblatt, who was among the officers who subdued McClain, was fired for responding "HaHa" after receiving the photo, Wilson said. The McClain family attorney, Mari Newman, said police not only killed an innocent man but felt empowered to make a "mockery" of the incident by re-enacting it. McClain, 23, was walking along a street in Aurora in August 2019 when he was approached by three officers on reports of a man acting suspiciously, although he had not committed any crimes. During the confrontation, McClain said he could not breathe, according to audio recordings released by police. The officers subdued McClain with the carotid chokehold, and paramedics later injected him with the sedative ketamine. He then went into cardiac arrest and was taken off life support days later. A local prosecutor declined to file charges against the officers or paramedics, citing an autopsy that listed the cause of death as undetermined. Colorado Governor Jared Polis has appointed a special prosecutor to review the case, and this week the FBI and the U.S. Department of Justice said they are investigating whether McClain's civil rights were violated.

Colorado police officers fired after photos mocking death of Black man surface

US President Donald Trump will rail against a "left wing mob" for seeking to "tear down" US&nbsp;history during a visit to Mount Rushmore on Friday amid concerns over holding a large gathering during a pandemic and criticism from Native Americans.

Trump will view a fireworks display as part of July 4 celebrations with thousands of people at the South Dakota landmark, which depicts the images of US presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln.

<img alt="Rushmore" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8093e842-90ad-4e39-abc4-741f47527b3b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2889%29_2.jpg" />

US&nbsp;presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln are sculpted on Mount Rushmore National Memorial in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, US&nbsp;in this US&nbsp;National Park Service|&nbsp;REUTERS

A Trump campaign official said the president, who has criticized protesters for tearing down statues during demonstrations against racial inequality, would criticize people who are trying to "tear down" the United States.

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"The left wing mob and those practicing cancel culture are engaging in totalitarian behavior that is completely alien to American life - and we must not accept it," the official said, paraphrasing Trump's expected remarks.

Trump sounded an optimistic note as he left Washington.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-visit-mount-rushmore-amid-controversy-coronavirus-concerns-310527">Trump to visit Mount Rushmore amid controversy, coronavirus concerns</a>

"A lot of good things are happening, a lot of very powerful things are happening, and our country is doing very well," Trump told reporters.

The president has come under criticism for his reaction to nationwide protests sparked by the death of George Floyd, a Black man who died in police custody in Minneapolis. Trump has emphasized a "law and order" response to the demonstrations.

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) tweeted at one point that Trump had disrespected Native Americans and that his South Dakota trip was "glorifying white supremacy." It later deleted the tweet.

Both Washington and Jefferson, revered for their roles in the founding of the nation, were slave owners.

Mount Rushmore has not had fireworks since 2009 because of environmental concerns.

Trump advocated for a resumption of the display, and the state says the surrounding Black Hills National Forest has "gained strength" since then and that fireworks technology has advanced.

US President Donald Trump will rail against a "left wing mob" for seeking to "tear down" US history during a visit to Mount Rushmore on Friday amid concerns over holding a large gathering during a pandemic and criticism from Native Americans.

US President Donald Trump will rail against a "left wing mob" for seeking to "tear down" US history during a visit to Mount Rushmore on Friday amid concerns over holding a large gathering during a pandemic and criticism from Native Americans. Trump will view a fireworks display as part of July 4 celebrations with thousands of people at the South Dakota landmark, which depicts the images of US presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. US presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln are sculpted on Mount Rushmore National Memorial in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, US in this US National Park Service| REUTERS A Trump campaign official said the president, who has criticized protesters for tearing down statues during demonstrations against racial inequality, would criticize people who are trying to "tear down" the United States. "The left wing mob and those practicing cancel culture are engaging in totalitarian behavior that is completely alien to American life - and we must not accept it," the official said, paraphrasing Trump's expected remarks. Trump sounded an optimistic note as he left Washington. Also read: Trump to visit Mount Rushmore amid controversy, coronavirus concerns "A lot of good things are happening, a lot of very powerful things are happening, and our country is doing very well," Trump told reporters. The president has come under criticism for his reaction to nationwide protests sparked by the death of George Floyd, a Black man who died in police custody in Minneapolis. Trump has emphasized a "law and order" response to the demonstrations. The Democratic National Committee (DNC) tweeted at one point that Trump had disrespected Native Americans and that his South Dakota trip was "glorifying white supremacy." It later deleted the tweet. Both Washington and Jefferson, revered for their roles in the founding of the nation, were slave owners. Mount Rushmore has not had fireworks since 2009 because of environmental concerns. Trump advocated for a resumption of the display, and the state says the surrounding Black Hills National Forest has "gained strength" since then and that fireworks technology has advanced.

Trump to criticise 'cancel culture' during Mount Rushmore trip

President Donald Trump on Friday railed against "angry mobs" that tried to tear down statues of Confederate leaders and other historical figures, warning thousands of supporters at Mount Rushmore that protestors were trying to erase US&nbsp;history.

Speaking underneath a famed landmark that depicts four US&nbsp;presidents, Trump warned that the demonstrations over racial inequality in American society threatened the foundations of the US&nbsp;political system.

"Make no mistake, this left wing cultural revolution is designed to overthrow the American revolution," Trump said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-criticise-cancel-culture-during-mount-rushmore-trip-310591">Trump to criticise 'cancel culture' during Mount Rushmore trip</a>

"Our children are taught in school to hate their own country," he added.

The event drew an estimated 7,500 people, packed tightly into an amphitheater beneath the famed landmark that depicts the images of US&nbsp;presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. Masks were offered to attendees but many did not wear them.

Trump has held three public events that have drawn thousands of supporters over the past three weeks, despite warnings from public-health officials who have urged Americans to avoid large gatherings as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to ravage the country. Seven states posted a record number of new COVID-19 cases on Friday.

<img alt="Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0852928b-8ae8-4c19-a20c-b53c7223bc22" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2892%29_3.jpg" />

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump looks at US&nbsp;Navy Blue Angels aerial flypast as he and first lady Melania Trump attend South Dakota's US&nbsp;Independence Day Mount Rushmore fireworks celebrations at Mt. Rushmore|&nbsp;REUTERS

The virus has even reached Trump's inner circle. Kimberly Guilfoyle, a senior campaign official and the girlfriend of Donald Trump Jr., tested positive in South Dakota before attending the Mount Rushmore event, according to a source familiar with the situation. Trump Jr. has tested negative, the source said.

The president has come under criticism for his "law and order" reaction to nationwide protests sparked by the death of George Floyd, a Black man who died in police custody in Minneapolis.

Mount Rushmore has not hosted a fireworks spectacle since 2009 because of environmental concerns. Trump advocated for a resumption of the display, and the state says the surrounding Black Hills National Forest has "gained strength" since then and that fireworks technology has advanced.

Native American protesters were arrested after blocking a road to the South Dakota landmark, according to video livestreamed on social media. They have criticized Trump's visit for increasing the risk of spreading the COVID-19 virus and for celebrating U.S. independence in an area that is sacred to them.

President Donald Trump on Friday railed against "angry mobs" that tried to tear down statues of Confederate leaders and other historical figures, warning thousands of supporters at Mount Rushmore that protestors were trying to erase US history.

President Donald Trump on Friday railed against "angry mobs" that tried to tear down statues of Confederate leaders and other historical figures, warning thousands of supporters at Mount Rushmore that protestors were trying to erase US history. Speaking underneath a famed landmark that depicts four US presidents, Trump warned that the demonstrations over racial inequality in American society threatened the foundations of the US political system. "Make no mistake, this left wing cultural revolution is designed to overthrow the American revolution," Trump said. Also read: Trump to criticise 'cancel culture' during Mount Rushmore trip "Our children are taught in school to hate their own country," he added. The event drew an estimated 7,500 people, packed tightly into an amphitheater beneath the famed landmark that depicts the images of US presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. Masks were offered to attendees but many did not wear them. Trump has held three public events that have drawn thousands of supporters over the past three weeks, despite warnings from public-health officials who have urged Americans to avoid large gatherings as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to ravage the country. Seven states posted a record number of new COVID-19 cases on Friday. US President Donald Trump looks at US Navy Blue Angels aerial flypast as he and first lady Melania Trump attend South Dakota's US Independence Day Mount Rushmore fireworks celebrations at Mt. Rushmore| REUTERS The virus has even reached Trump's inner circle. Kimberly Guilfoyle, a senior campaign official and the girlfriend of Donald Trump Jr., tested positive in South Dakota before attending the Mount Rushmore event, according to a source familiar with the situation. Trump Jr. has tested negative, the source said. The president has come under criticism for his "law and order" reaction to nationwide protests sparked by the death of George Floyd, a Black man who died in police custody in Minneapolis. Mount Rushmore has not hosted a fireworks spectacle since 2009 because of environmental concerns. Trump advocated for a resumption of the display, and the state says the surrounding Black Hills National Forest has "gained strength" since then and that fireworks technology has advanced. Native American protesters were arrested after blocking a road to the South Dakota landmark, according to video livestreamed on social media. They have criticized Trump's visit for increasing the risk of spreading the COVID-19 virus and for celebrating U.S. independence in an area that is sacred to them.

Trump blasts 'left wing cultural revolution'; rails against removal of statues at Mount Rushmore

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