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India's national capital on Monday reported 805 coronavirus cases and 17 deaths taking the total number of cases in the city to 1,38,482.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/masks-face-covers-mandatory-in-yoga-institutes-and-gyms-health-ministry-317865">Also Read:&nbsp;Masks, face covers 'mandatory' in yoga institutes and gyms: Health ministry</a>

The death toll due to the virus in the city has crossed 4021.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh reported 4,473 new coronavirus cases and 50 death in the last 24 hours taking the total death toll in the state to 1,778. The number of active cases in the state has risen to 40,191, according to the state health department.

Tamil Nadu which is one of the worst-hit state with the virus reported 5,609 new coronavirus cases and 109 deaths taking the total number of cases to 2,63,222. The death toll due to the virus in the state has risen to 4,241.

Meanwhile, ICMR said it was difficult to predict if India will witness a second wave of coronavirus.

Amid the rising coronavirus cases, the Puducherry government informed that 178 new coronavirus cases were reported taking the total number of cases to &nbsp;3,982 in the union territory

In Rajasthan, 565 new coronavirus cases were reported along with 9 deaths with the total number of cases rising to 44,975 including 12,802 active cases. The death toll due to the virus in the state has risen to 715.

The rise in cases comes as the country reported 52,972 cases &amp; 771 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 18,03,696 including 5,79,357 active cases. The death toll due to the virus in the country has risen to 38,135.

India's national capital on Monday reported 805 coronavirus cases and 17 deaths taking the total number of cases in the city to 1,38,482. Also Read: Masks, face covers 'mandatory' in yoga institutes and gyms: Health ministry The death toll due to the virus in the city has crossed 4021.

India's national capital on Monday reported 805 coronavirus cases and 17 deaths taking the total number of cases in the city to 1,38,482. Also Read: Masks, face covers 'mandatory' in yoga institutes and gyms: Health ministry The death toll due to the virus in the city has crossed 4021. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh reported 4,473 new coronavirus cases and 50 death in the last 24 hours taking the total death toll in the state to 1,778. The number of active cases in the state has risen to 40,191, according to the state health department. Tamil Nadu which is one of the worst-hit state with the virus reported 5,609 new coronavirus cases and 109 deaths taking the total number of cases to 2,63,222. The death toll due to the virus in the state has risen to 4,241. Meanwhile, ICMR said it was difficult to predict if India will witness a second wave of coronavirus. Amid the rising coronavirus cases, the Puducherry government informed that 178 new coronavirus cases were reported taking the total number of cases to 3,982 in the union territory In Rajasthan, 565 new coronavirus cases were reported along with 9 deaths with the total number of cases rising to 44,975 including 12,802 active cases. The death toll due to the virus in the state has risen to 715. The rise in cases comes as the country reported 52,972 cases & 771 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 18,03,696 including 5,79,357 active cases. The death toll due to the virus in the country has risen to 38,135.

COVID-19: Death in Delhi toll rises to over 4,000; Tamil Nadu reports over 5,600 cases

A day after the chief minister of the Southern Indian state tested positive for novel coronavirus, six employees of the CM office has also been infected, official sources on Monday said.&nbsp;

On Sunday, Karnataka CM BS Yediyurappa confirmed his infection and earlier another set of sources said one of her daughters has also contracted the disease.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/yediyurappas-daughter-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-son-under-home-quarantine-317840">Yediyurappa's daughter tests positive for coronavirus, son under home quarantine</a>

Sources on Monday told news agency PTI that after Yediyurappa tested positive, contact tracing was done, which revealed that six of his staff members got infected by COVID-19, which includes a gunman, a driver, and house-keeping staff.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-cm-yediyurappa-tests-positive-for-covid-19-317707">Karnataka CM Yediyurappa tests positive for COVID-19</a>

However, Governor Vajubhai Vala and Home Minister Basavaraj Bommai, both of whom met the CM on July 31 have tested negative.&nbsp;

The chief minister's house has been sanitised and entry will be restricted to his home and office.&nbsp;

Yediyurappa, who is admitted in Manipal hospital, on Monday said, "there is no need to worry" for him and he will recover soon and carry out his duties.

The hospital officials have also said that he is doing well and clinically stable.&nbsp;

Yediyurappa is the second chief minister of an Indian state that has contracted the disease. Recently, Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan also was hospitalised following the confirmation of infection and is currently getting treated.&nbsp;

A day after the chief minister of the Southern Indian state tested positive for novel coronavirus, six employees of the CM office has also been infected, official sources on Monday said.

A day after the chief minister of the Southern Indian state tested positive for novel coronavirus, six employees of the CM office has also been infected, official sources on Monday said. On Sunday, Karnataka CM BS Yediyurappa confirmed his infection and earlier another set of sources said one of her daughters has also contracted the disease. Also read | Yediyurappa's daughter tests positive for coronavirus, son under home quarantine Sources on Monday told news agency PTI that after Yediyurappa tested positive, contact tracing was done, which revealed that six of his staff members got infected by COVID-19, which includes a gunman, a driver, and house-keeping staff. Also read | Karnataka CM Yediyurappa tests positive for COVID-19 However, Governor Vajubhai Vala and Home Minister Basavaraj Bommai, both of whom met the CM on July 31 have tested negative. The chief minister's house has been sanitised and entry will be restricted to his home and office. Yediyurappa, who is admitted in Manipal hospital, on Monday said, "there is no need to worry" for him and he will recover soon and carry out his duties. The hospital officials have also said that he is doing well and clinically stable. Yediyurappa is the second chief minister of an Indian state that has contracted the disease. Recently, Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan also was hospitalised following the confirmation of infection and is currently getting treated.

Six staff members of CM Yediyurappa's office test positive for COVID-19

As the government allowed gyms and yoga institutes to reopen in Unlock 3.0 from August 5, India's health and family welfare ministry today issued guidelines which included social distancing measures and use of masks.

The ministry said that the use of masks and face covers is "mandatory" at all times. However, during yoga exercise and exercising in gyms as far as possible only a viser is to be used as use of masks during exercise may cause difficulty in breathing.

As a preventive measure, yoga institutes and gyms in containment areas have been ordered to remain shut. The guidelines have been aimed to minimize "all possible physical contact between staff members and members".

The ministry urged people above the age of 65, co-morbidities, pregnant women and children below 10 not to use gyms in closed spaces.

Meanwhile, Telangana reported 983 coronavirus cases and 11 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases in the state rising to 67,660, including 18,500 active cases. There have been 551 deaths so far due to the virus in the state.&nbsp;

As the number of coronavirus crisis continues to rise, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) today gave approval to Serum Institute of India, Pune to conduct Phase II+III clinical trials of Oxford University's Astra Zeneca vaccine in India.

In Odisha, 1,384 fresh coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases in the state to 36,297 including 14,095 active cases.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said that the number of coronavirus tests crossed 2 crore mark in India till August 2. &nbsp;

As the government allowed gyms and yoga institutes to reopen in Unlock 3.0 from August 5, India's health and family welfare ministry today issued guidelines which included social distancing measures and use of masks.

As the government allowed gyms and yoga institutes to reopen in Unlock 3.0 from August 5, India's health and family welfare ministry today issued guidelines which included social distancing measures and use of masks. The ministry said that the use of masks and face covers is "mandatory" at all times. However, during yoga exercise and exercising in gyms as far as possible only a viser is to be used as use of masks during exercise may cause difficulty in breathing. As a preventive measure, yoga institutes and gyms in containment areas have been ordered to remain shut. The guidelines have been aimed to minimize "all possible physical contact between staff members and members". The ministry urged people above the age of 65, co-morbidities, pregnant women and children below 10 not to use gyms in closed spaces. Meanwhile, Telangana reported 983 coronavirus cases and 11 deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases in the state rising to 67,660, including 18,500 active cases. There have been 551 deaths so far due to the virus in the state. As the number of coronavirus crisis continues to rise, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) today gave approval to Serum Institute of India, Pune to conduct Phase II+III clinical trials of Oxford University's Astra Zeneca vaccine in India. In Odisha, 1,384 fresh coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases in the state to 36,297 including 14,095 active cases. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said that the number of coronavirus tests crossed 2 crore mark in India till August 2.

Masks, face covers 'mandatory' in yoga institutes and gyms: Health ministry

The International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) has asked the Indian government to be cautious about unsolicited mail packages containing seeds. This comes in the wake of several people in the USA and Canada receiving such packages in the past week.&nbsp;

K Keshavulu, vice president of ISTA, has issued the high alert in Hyderabad, as it considered to be the seed capital of the country.

State authorities, farmers and seed companies have hence been asked to be vigilant of this brushing scam.&nbsp;

It's feared that these seed packets may spread crop diseases.

Enquiries by US Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed that such seed packets were coming from China.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-identifies-mystery-seeds-from-china-as-tomato-pips-317760">Also read |&nbsp;US identifies 'mystery seeds' from China as tomato pips</a>

The International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) has asked the Indian government to be cautious about unsolicited mail packages containing seeds. This comes in the wake of several people in the USA and Canada receiving such packages in the past week.

The International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) has asked the Indian government to be cautious about unsolicited mail packages containing seeds. This comes in the wake of several people in the USA and Canada receiving such packages in the past week. K Keshavulu, vice president of ISTA, has issued the high alert in Hyderabad, as it considered to be the seed capital of the country. State authorities, farmers and seed companies have hence been asked to be vigilant of this brushing scam. It's feared that these seed packets may spread crop diseases. Enquiries by US Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed that such seed packets were coming from China. Also read | US identifies 'mystery seeds' from China as tomato pips

International body warns Indian government against planting unsolicited seeds

One of the daughters of Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa has tested positive for COVID-19 and has been admitted to the same hospital, where her father is undergoing treatment for the infection, hospital sources said.

Yediyurappa was hospitalised last night after testing positive for coronavirus.

The Chief Minister's younger son BY Vijayendra said he was going in for seven days of home quarantine as a precautionary measure.

"Thank you all for your messages and prayers. My father Shri B S Yediyurappa ji is doing fine and under observation of doctors who said there is no need to worry. As a precaution, I will observe home quarantine for next 7 days," Vijayendra tweeted.

Vijayendra was on Friday appointed as the Karnataka BJP Vice-President, after which he had tweeted a picture of him seeking the blessing of his father.

The Chief Minister last night tweeted informing that he had tested positive for coronavirus.

"I have tested positive for coronavirus. Whilst I am fine, I am being hospitalised as a precaution on the recommendation of doctors. I request those who have come in contact with me recently to be observant and exercise self quarantine," Yediyurappa had said in his tweet.

Manipal Hospital, where Yediyurappa has been admitted said that the Chief Minister was "doing well" and is "clinically stable" and will be monitored closely by our team.

Authorities are tracing all those who came in contact with Yediyurappa for the last three or four days and have asked all those who met him to quarantine.

One of the daughters of Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa has tested positive for COVID-19 and has been admitted to the same hospital, where her father is undergoing treatment for the infection, hospital sources said.

One of the daughters of Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa has tested positive for COVID-19 and has been admitted to the same hospital, where her father is undergoing treatment for the infection, hospital sources said. Yediyurappa was hospitalised last night after testing positive for coronavirus. The Chief Minister's younger son BY Vijayendra said he was going in for seven days of home quarantine as a precautionary measure. "Thank you all for your messages and prayers. My father Shri B S Yediyurappa ji is doing fine and under observation of doctors who said there is no need to worry. As a precaution, I will observe home quarantine for next 7 days," Vijayendra tweeted. Vijayendra was on Friday appointed as the Karnataka BJP Vice-President, after which he had tweeted a picture of him seeking the blessing of his father. The Chief Minister last night tweeted informing that he had tested positive for coronavirus. "I have tested positive for coronavirus. Whilst I am fine, I am being hospitalised as a precaution on the recommendation of doctors. I request those who have come in contact with me recently to be observant and exercise self quarantine," Yediyurappa had said in his tweet. Manipal Hospital, where Yediyurappa has been admitted said that the Chief Minister was "doing well" and is "clinically stable" and will be monitored closely by our team. Authorities are tracing all those who came in contact with Yediyurappa for the last three or four days and have asked all those who met him to quarantine.

Yediyurappa's daughter tests positive for coronavirus, son under home quarantine

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has given nod to the Serum Institute of India (SII) for conducting phase 2 and 3 human clinical trials of a COVID-19 vaccine candidate, developed by the University of Oxford, in the country.

Government officials told PTI that the approval for conducting phase 2 and 3 clinical trials by the SII was granted by DCGI Dr V G Somani late Sunday night after a thorough evaluation based on the recommendations of the Subject Expert Committee on COVID-19.

As a rapid regulatory response, the expert panel at the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) on Friday, after a detailed deliberation and considering the data generated on the vaccine candidate in phase 1 and 2 of the Oxford University trial, had recommended granting permission for phase 2 and 3 clinical trials of the potential vaccine, "Covishield", on healthy adults in India, the officials said.

"The firm has to submit safety data, evaluated by the Data Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB), to the CDSCO before proceeding to phase 3 clinical trials," a senior official said.

"As per the study design, each subject will be administered two doses four weeks apart (first dose on day one and second dose on day 29) following which the safety and immunogenicity will be assessed at predefined intervals," the official said.

Currently, phase 2 and 3 clinical trials of the Oxford vaccine candidate is going on in the United Kingdom, phase 3 clinical trial in Brazil and phase 1 and 2 clinical trials in South Africa.

The officials said that the SII had submitted a revised proposal on Wednesday after the expert panel on Tuesday, following deliberation over its application, had asked it to revise its protocol for the phase 2 and 3 clinical trials besides seeking some additional information.

The panel has also recommended that the clinical trial sites which have been proposed for the study be distributed across India.

According to the revised proposal, 1,600 people aged above 18 years will participate in the trials across 17 selected sites, including AIIMS Delhi, B J Medical College in Pune, Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences (RMRIMS) in Patna, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research in Chandigarh, AIIMS-Jodhpur, Nehru Hospital in Gorakhpur, Andhra Medical College in Visakhapatnam and JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research in Mysore.

"According to the application, it would conduct an observer-blind, randomised controlled study to determine the safety and immunogenicity of ''Covishield'' on healthy Indian adults," the official said.

The SII, which has partnered with AstraZeneca, for manufacturing the Oxford vaccine candidate for COVID-19 had submitted its first application to the DCGI on July 25 seeking permission for conducting the phase 2 and 3 trials of the potential vaccine.

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has given nod to the Serum Institute of India (SII) for conducting phase 2 and 3 human clinical trials of a COVID-19 vaccine candidate, developed by the University of Oxford, in the country.

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has given nod to the Serum Institute of India (SII) for conducting phase 2 and 3 human clinical trials of a COVID-19 vaccine candidate, developed by the University of Oxford, in the country. Government officials told PTI that the approval for conducting phase 2 and 3 clinical trials by the SII was granted by DCGI Dr V G Somani late Sunday night after a thorough evaluation based on the recommendations of the Subject Expert Committee on COVID-19. As a rapid regulatory response, the expert panel at the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) on Friday, after a detailed deliberation and considering the data generated on the vaccine candidate in phase 1 and 2 of the Oxford University trial, had recommended granting permission for phase 2 and 3 clinical trials of the potential vaccine, "Covishield", on healthy adults in India, the officials said. "The firm has to submit safety data, evaluated by the Data Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB), to the CDSCO before proceeding to phase 3 clinical trials," a senior official said. "As per the study design, each subject will be administered two doses four weeks apart (first dose on day one and second dose on day 29) following which the safety and immunogenicity will be assessed at predefined intervals," the official said. Currently, phase 2 and 3 clinical trials of the Oxford vaccine candidate is going on in the United Kingdom, phase 3 clinical trial in Brazil and phase 1 and 2 clinical trials in South Africa. The officials said that the SII had submitted a revised proposal on Wednesday after the expert panel on Tuesday, following deliberation over its application, had asked it to revise its protocol for the phase 2 and 3 clinical trials besides seeking some additional information. The panel has also recommended that the clinical trial sites which have been proposed for the study be distributed across India. According to the revised proposal, 1,600 people aged above 18 years will participate in the trials across 17 selected sites, including AIIMS Delhi, B J Medical College in Pune, Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences (RMRIMS) in Patna, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research in Chandigarh, AIIMS-Jodhpur, Nehru Hospital in Gorakhpur, Andhra Medical College in Visakhapatnam and JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research in Mysore. "According to the application, it would conduct an observer-blind, randomised controlled study to determine the safety and immunogenicity of ''Covishield'' on healthy Indian adults," the official said. The SII, which has partnered with AstraZeneca, for manufacturing the Oxford vaccine candidate for COVID-19 had submitted its first application to the DCGI on July 25 seeking permission for conducting the phase 2 and 3 trials of the potential vaccine.

Oxford COVID vaccine: Serum institute gets nod for Phase 2, 3 human trials

Samsung Electronics Co Ltd is forging a comeback in India's smartphone market with a new range of budget devices and a ramped-up online presence, aiming to recoup ground ceded to Chinese rivals such as Xiaomi Corp.&nbsp;

Samsung, the only major non-Chinese player in the country, has already begun to gain ground, and a surge in anti-China sentiment in India following a border clash in June is expected to provide a fresh boost.

Samsung jumped to the No. 2 spot with 26% market share in the second quarter behind Xiaomi's 29%, according to tech researcher Counterpoint, as the South Korean company's diverse and inhouse supply chain helped it avoid product delays suffered by rivals during coronavirus lockdowns.

It was in third position with a 16% share in the previous quarter.&nbsp;

Once the unrivalled leader in the world's second-biggest smartphone market, Samsung has over the past three years lost Indian customers to Chinese brands, whose devices are perceived as better value.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/taking-cue-from-public-indian-government-begins-mission-boycott-china-307805" hreflang="en">Taking cue from public, Indian government begins mission boycott China</a>

But India still accounts for some $7.5 billion in annual retail smartphone revenues for Samsung, according to Counterpoint, making it the company's biggest market outside the United States.&nbsp;

It has built what it has described as the world's largest mobile phone manufacturing plant on the outskirts of New Delhi, where it tests new devices and often assembles them for export.

That manufacturing power, and Samsung's ability to source many components internally, is helping it gain ground amid the pandemic. Chinese smartphone brands Xiaomi and Oppo suffered local production hiccups and product delays due to COVID-19, but Samsung was able to keep delivering phones smoothly.&nbsp;

Now it is building on the momentum. Samsung has launched seven new smartphones since June, three of them under 10,000 rupees ($133.63) including its cheapest Android offering at $75.

"The COVID crisis has pushed people to use smartphones for everything from online education to digital payments to even connecting with friends on video calls. That's why these budget phones are focused on the mass market," said a source familiar with Samsung's strategy in India.

In May, Samsung partnered with Facebook to train some 200,000 brick and mortar stores selling its phones to use social media for sales and marketing. It has also launched instalment-payment plans for customers and new incentive schemes, including one that gives student discounts on select devices.

A spokesman for Samsung said the company was seeing high demand for its devices in India and expected its revenues to increase from last year. The company does not provide a breakdown of revenues from individual countries.

TOUGH COMPETITION

Competition from rivals such as Xiaomi, which is banking on a 'Made in India' image to beat the anti-China sentiment, remains stiff. A deal between India's Reliance Industries Ltd and Google to make a cheap Android phone could also pose a threat to Samsung's sales of lower-end devices.

Anti-China sentiment is nothing new in India, where the Chinese have a reputation for cheaper products. Samsung, despite a better brand reputation, has struggled to woo price-sensitive Indian customers.

But better low-end offerings and the new anti-China tide -New Delhi has banned 59 Chinese apps since the border skirmish and traders have called for a boycott of imported Chinese products - could help shift the market dynamics.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/apples-taiwan-suppliers-samsung-apply-for-indias-smartphone-scheme-317488" hreflang="en">Apple's Taiwan suppliers, Samsung apply for India's smartphone scheme</a>

"Samsung is India's No.2 smartphone brand after Apple by image," brand strategist Harish Bijoor said. "So a phone priced between 6,000 rupees to 15,000 rupees from Samsung is very well placed today to capture market share from Chinese rivals."

The cheapest iPhone in India costs around 31,500 rupees, while the cheapest Xiaomi phone costs around 7,500 rupees.

Ganesh Salvi, a private sector employee from Satara town in western Maharashtra state said he had bought a Chinese branded phone for his 16 year-old son's online classes last month, even though he dislikes buying Chinese products.

"I believe Samsung mobiles are more durable than Chinese phones and I'd certainly prefer them if they had more smartphones below 10,000 rupees," Salvi said.

Samsung Electronics Co Ltd is forging a comeback in India's smartphone market with a new range of budget devices and a ramped-up online presence, aiming to recoup ground ceded to Chinese rivals such as Xiaomi Corp.

Samsung Electronics Co Ltd is forging a comeback in India's smartphone market with a new range of budget devices and a ramped-up online presence, aiming to recoup ground ceded to Chinese rivals such as Xiaomi Corp. Samsung, the only major non-Chinese player in the country, has already begun to gain ground, and a surge in anti-China sentiment in India following a border clash in June is expected to provide a fresh boost. Samsung jumped to the No. 2 spot with 26% market share in the second quarter behind Xiaomi's 29%, according to tech researcher Counterpoint, as the South Korean company's diverse and inhouse supply chain helped it avoid product delays suffered by rivals during coronavirus lockdowns. It was in third position with a 16% share in the previous quarter. Once the unrivalled leader in the world's second-biggest smartphone market, Samsung has over the past three years lost Indian customers to Chinese brands, whose devices are perceived as better value. Also read: Taking cue from public, Indian government begins mission boycott China But India still accounts for some $7.5 billion in annual retail smartphone revenues for Samsung, according to Counterpoint, making it the company's biggest market outside the United States. It has built what it has described as the world's largest mobile phone manufacturing plant on the outskirts of New Delhi, where it tests new devices and often assembles them for export. That manufacturing power, and Samsung's ability to source many components internally, is helping it gain ground amid the pandemic. Chinese smartphone brands Xiaomi and Oppo suffered local production hiccups and product delays due to COVID-19, but Samsung was able to keep delivering phones smoothly. Now it is building on the momentum. Samsung has launched seven new smartphones since June, three of them under 10,000 rupees ($133.63) including its cheapest Android offering at $75. "The COVID crisis has pushed people to use smartphones for everything from online education to digital payments to even connecting with friends on video calls. That's why these budget phones are focused on the mass market," said a source familiar with Samsung's strategy in India. In May, Samsung partnered with Facebook to train some 200,000 brick and mortar stores selling its phones to use social media for sales and marketing. It has also launched instalment-payment plans for customers and new incentive schemes, including one that gives student discounts on select devices. A spokesman for Samsung said the company was seeing high demand for its devices in India and expected its revenues to increase from last year. The company does not provide a breakdown of revenues from individual countries. TOUGH COMPETITION Competition from rivals such as Xiaomi, which is banking on a 'Made in India' image to beat the anti-China sentiment, remains stiff. A deal between India's Reliance Industries Ltd and Google to make a cheap Android phone could also pose a threat to Samsung's sales of lower-end devices. Anti-China sentiment is nothing new in India, where the Chinese have a reputation for cheaper products. Samsung, despite a better brand reputation, has struggled to woo price-sensitive Indian customers. But better low-end offerings and the new anti-China tide -New Delhi has banned 59 Chinese apps since the border skirmish and traders have called for a boycott of imported Chinese products - could help shift the market dynamics. Also read: Apple's Taiwan suppliers, Samsung apply for India's smartphone scheme "Samsung is India's No.2 smartphone brand after Apple by image," brand strategist Harish Bijoor said. "So a phone priced between 6,000 rupees to 15,000 rupees from Samsung is very well placed today to capture market share from Chinese rivals." The cheapest iPhone in India costs around 31,500 rupees, while the cheapest Xiaomi phone costs around 7,500 rupees. Ganesh Salvi, a private sector employee from Satara town in western Maharashtra state said he had bought a Chinese branded phone for his 16 year-old son's online classes last month, even though he dislikes buying Chinese products. "I believe Samsung mobiles are more durable than Chinese phones and I'd certainly prefer them if they had more smartphones below 10,000 rupees," Salvi said.

Samsung crafts India comeback as anti-China wave surges

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has cancelled his scheduled visit to Ayodhya trip on Sunday, following the demise of state minister for technical education Kamla Rani Varun.

Kamala Rani Varun, a legislator from Ghatampur Assembly segment, died after a prolonged illness. She had been hospitalised in the Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS).

The Chief Minister was scheduled to visit Ayodhya on Sunday to review the preparations and security arrangements being made for the 'bhumi pujan' of the Ram temple which is going to be held on August 5.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-decked-up-ahead-of-august-5-ram-temple-bhoomi-pujan-up-cm-to-visit-on-sunday-317559">Also read |&nbsp;Ayodhya decked up ahead of August 5 Ram temple 'bhoomi pujan', UP CM to visit on Sunday</a>

The 'bhumi pujan' ceremony will take place around noon on August 5 and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to participate in the function.

Meanwhile, the preparations for the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya are in full swing.&nbsp;

On Saturday, several areas of Ayodhya were illuminated with diyas (earthen lamps) and colourful lights.&nbsp;

'Akhand Ramayana Path' will be held in other holy cities including Mathura, Kashi, Prayagraj, Naimisharanya, Gorakhpur and Chitrakoot.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has cancelled his scheduled visit to Ayodhya trip on Sunday, following the demise of state minister for technical education Kamla Rani Varun.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has cancelled his scheduled visit to Ayodhya trip on Sunday, following the demise of state minister for technical education Kamla Rani Varun. Kamala Rani Varun, a legislator from Ghatampur Assembly segment, died after a prolonged illness. She had been hospitalised in the Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS). The Chief Minister was scheduled to visit Ayodhya on Sunday to review the preparations and security arrangements being made for the 'bhumi pujan' of the Ram temple which is going to be held on August 5. Also read | Ayodhya decked up ahead of August 5 Ram temple 'bhoomi pujan', UP CM to visit on Sunday The 'bhumi pujan' ceremony will take place around noon on August 5 and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to participate in the function. Meanwhile, the preparations for the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya are in full swing. On Saturday, several areas of Ayodhya were illuminated with diyas (earthen lamps) and colourful lights. 'Akhand Ramayana Path' will be held in other holy cities including Mathura, Kashi, Prayagraj, Naimisharanya, Gorakhpur and Chitrakoot.

UP minister dies, CM Adityanath cancels visit to Ayodhya

India and the United Kingdom have inked air bubble deal for internationals air connectivity as air travel shows signs of recovery amidst COVID-19 pandemic. The Government of India has given a permit to UK carriers to operate flights between both the countries.&nbsp;

A British High Commission Spokesperson told WION, “The Government of India has now permitted UK carriers to re-establish bilateral air routes. We are working closely with airlines to finalise details as soon as possible. More information will be announced in due course.”

Details are being worked out with the UK expected to announce details in due course.

India already has Transport Air Bubbles with US, France and Germany.

International air travel has been hit hard amidst the global pandemic. 
&nbsp;

India and the United Kingdom have inked air bubble deal for internationals air connectivity as air travel shows signs of recovery amidst COVID-19 pandemic. The Government of India has given a permit to UK carriers to operate flights between both the countries.

India and the United Kingdom have inked air bubble deal for internationals air connectivity as air travel shows signs of recovery amidst COVID-19 pandemic. The Government of India has given a permit to UK carriers to operate flights between both the countries. A British High Commission Spokesperson told WION, “The Government of India has now permitted UK carriers to re-establish bilateral air routes. We are working closely with airlines to finalise details as soon as possible. More information will be announced in due course.” Details are being worked out with the UK expected to announce details in due course. India already has Transport Air Bubbles with US, France and Germany. International air travel has been hit hard amidst the global pandemic.

India inks air bubble deal with United Kingdom

India's COVID-19 tally crossed the 17-lakh mark on Sunday, just two days after it went past 16 lakh, with 54,735 cases being reported in a day.

This is the fourth consecutive day that COVID-19 cases have increased by more than 50,000.

The total coronavirus cases surged to 17,50,723, while the death toll due to the COVID-19 climbed to?37,364 with 853 people succumbing to the disease in a day.

According to official data, the recoveries have mounted to 11,45,629, while there are 5,67,730 active cases of coronavirus infection in the country presently.

The recovery rate among COVID-19 patients has risen to 65.44 per cent, while the fatality rate has further dropped to 2.13 pc, the data stated.

The total number of confirmed cases also includes foreigners.

According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 1,98,21,831 samples have been tested up to August 1 with 4,63,172 samples being tested on Saturday.

India's COVID-19 tally crossed the 17-lakh mark on Sunday, just two days after it went past 16 lakh, with 54,735 cases being reported in a day. This is the fourth consecutive day that COVID-19 cases have increased by more than 50,000.

India's COVID-19 tally crossed the 17-lakh mark on Sunday, just two days after it went past 16 lakh, with 54,735 cases being reported in a day. This is the fourth consecutive day that COVID-19 cases have increased by more than 50,000. The total coronavirus cases surged to 17,50,723, while the death toll due to the COVID-19 climbed to?37,364 with 853 people succumbing to the disease in a day. According to official data, the recoveries have mounted to 11,45,629, while there are 5,67,730 active cases of coronavirus infection in the country presently. The recovery rate among COVID-19 patients has risen to 65.44 per cent, while the fatality rate has further dropped to 2.13 pc, the data stated. The total number of confirmed cases also includes foreigners. According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 1,98,21,831 samples have been tested up to August 1 with 4,63,172 samples being tested on Saturday.

India adds 54,735 fresh COVID cases in one day, tally crosses 17-lakh mark

Indian and Chinese military commanders are scheduled to hold a fresh round of negotiations on Sunday to finalise modalities for taking forward the disengagement process on friction points like Pangong Tso in eastern Ladakh.

The meeting will be held&nbsp;at a designated meeting point in Moldo on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control.

The key focus of the fifth round of corps commander-level talks is expected to be finalising a framework for total disengagement of troops from friction points besides withdrawal of forces and weapons from the rear bases of the two militaries in a time-bound manner, the sources said.

Meanwhile, China has reportedly moved a battalion strength of People's Liberation Army (PLA) soldiers near Uttarakhand's Lipulekh Pass, one of the locations along the Line of Actual Control that have witnessed movement of their troops over the last few weeks.

The formal process of disengagement of troops began on July 6, a day after a nearly two-hour telephonic conversation between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on ways to bring down tension in the area.

The Chinese military has already pulled back from the Galwan Valley and certain other friction points but the withdrawal of troops has not moved forward from Finger areas in Pangong Tso as demanded by India.

India has been insisting that China must withdraw its forces from areas between Finger Four and Eight. The mountain spurs in the area are referred to as Fingers.

On July 24, the two sides held another round of diplomatic talks on the border issue.

After the talks, the Ministry of External Affairs said both sides agreed that an early and complete disengagement of the troops along the LAC in accordance with bilateral agreement and protocols was essential for overall development of bilateral relations.

The sources said India conveyed a firm message to the Chinese side that it has to implement the disengagement process as agreed to during the four rounds of corps commander-level talks between the two militaries.

(with inputs from agencies)

Indian and Chinese military commanders are scheduled to hold a fresh round of negotiations on Sunday to finalise modalities for taking forward the disengagement process on friction points like Pangong Tso in eastern Ladakh.

Indian and Chinese military commanders are scheduled to hold a fresh round of negotiations on Sunday to finalise modalities for taking forward the disengagement process on friction points like Pangong Tso in eastern Ladakh. The meeting will be held at a designated meeting point in Moldo on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control. The key focus of the fifth round of corps commander-level talks is expected to be finalising a framework for total disengagement of troops from friction points besides withdrawal of forces and weapons from the rear bases of the two militaries in a time-bound manner, the sources said. Meanwhile, China has reportedly moved a battalion strength of People's Liberation Army (PLA) soldiers near Uttarakhand's Lipulekh Pass, one of the locations along the Line of Actual Control that have witnessed movement of their troops over the last few weeks. The formal process of disengagement of troops began on July 6, a day after a nearly two-hour telephonic conversation between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on ways to bring down tension in the area. The Chinese military has already pulled back from the Galwan Valley and certain other friction points but the withdrawal of troops has not moved forward from Finger areas in Pangong Tso as demanded by India. India has been insisting that China must withdraw its forces from areas between Finger Four and Eight. The mountain spurs in the area are referred to as Fingers. On July 24, the two sides held another round of diplomatic talks on the border issue. After the talks, the Ministry of External Affairs said both sides agreed that an early and complete disengagement of the troops along the LAC in accordance with bilateral agreement and protocols was essential for overall development of bilateral relations. The sources said India conveyed a firm message to the Chinese side that it has to implement the disengagement process as agreed to during the four rounds of corps commander-level talks between the two militaries. (with inputs from agencies)

India, China to hold talks on Sunday on further disengagement in eastern Ladakh

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted searches at six locations in Kerala in connection with the gold smuggling case.

The agency also made six fresh arrests in the matter in the past three days.

According to the NIA, it conducted searches at six places including the residences of accused Jalal AM and Rabins Hameed in the Ernakulam district, and the residences of Ramees KT, Mohammed Shafi, Said Alavi and Abdu PT in the Malappuram district."During searches, two hard disks, one tablet PC, eight mobile phones, six SIM cards, one digital video recorder and five DVDs were seized besides various documents including bank passbooks, credit/ debit cards, travel documents and identity documents of the accused," the NIA said.

The NIA said that two accused -- Jalal AM and Said Alavi E -- were arrested on July 30 for conspiring with the already arrested accused Ramees KT and for smuggling gold through diplomatic baggage addressed to the UAE Consulate at Thiruvananthapuram.

"On July 31, 2020, two more accused Mohammed Shafi P, and Abdu PT were arrested for playing similar roles in the crime. On August 1, 2020, NIA arrested another two accused persons identified as Muhammad Ali Ebrahim and Muhammad Ali, after investigation revealed that they were also a part of the conspiracy," the NIA said.

It further said that Muhammad Ali is a member of the Popular Front of India and was earlier chargesheeted by the Kerala Police in a case related to chopping off the palm of a professor, but was acquitted after a trial in 2015.NIA, which is probing the high-profile case related to smuggling of gold in the state through diplomatic channels, said that so far it has arrested 10 accused persons.The matter had come to light after 30-kg gold worth Rs 14.82 crores, smuggled in a consignment camouflaged as diplomatic baggage, was busted by the Customs in Thiruvananthapuram. The case is being probed by the NIA.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted searches at six locations in Kerala in connection with the gold smuggling case. The agency also made six fresh arrests in the matter in the past three days.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted searches at six locations in Kerala in connection with the gold smuggling case. The agency also made six fresh arrests in the matter in the past three days. According to the NIA, it conducted searches at six places including the residences of accused Jalal AM and Rabins Hameed in the Ernakulam district, and the residences of Ramees KT, Mohammed Shafi, Said Alavi and Abdu PT in the Malappuram district."During searches, two hard disks, one tablet PC, eight mobile phones, six SIM cards, one digital video recorder and five DVDs were seized besides various documents including bank passbooks, credit/ debit cards, travel documents and identity documents of the accused," the NIA said. The NIA said that two accused -- Jalal AM and Said Alavi E -- were arrested on July 30 for conspiring with the already arrested accused Ramees KT and for smuggling gold through diplomatic baggage addressed to the UAE Consulate at Thiruvananthapuram. "On July 31, 2020, two more accused Mohammed Shafi P, and Abdu PT were arrested for playing similar roles in the crime. On August 1, 2020, NIA arrested another two accused persons identified as Muhammad Ali Ebrahim and Muhammad Ali, after investigation revealed that they were also a part of the conspiracy," the NIA said. It further said that Muhammad Ali is a member of the Popular Front of India and was earlier chargesheeted by the Kerala Police in a case related to chopping off the palm of a professor, but was acquitted after a trial in 2015.NIA, which is probing the high-profile case related to smuggling of gold in the state through diplomatic channels, said that so far it has arrested 10 accused persons.The matter had come to light after 30-kg gold worth Rs 14.82 crores, smuggled in a consignment camouflaged as diplomatic baggage, was busted by the Customs in Thiruvananthapuram. The case is being probed by the NIA. (With inputs from ANI)

Kerala gold smuggling case: NIA conducts searches at various locations, arrests 6

The preparations for the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya are in full swing.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is slated to visit the city on Sunday for the second time in a week to take stock of the preparation done.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to lay the foundation stone of the Ram Mandir here on August 5 after which the construction of the temple will commence.&nbsp;

Several dignitaries are expected to participate in the ceremony.

On Saturday, several areas of Ayodhya were illuminated with diyas (earthen lamps) and colourful lights.&nbsp;

Over the last one month all the top officials of the state, including Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, have also visited Ayodhya.&nbsp;

Many developmental changes have been made to the city -- including the widening of the roads.

On Saturday, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Ayodhya, said that COVID-19 protocols have been put in place. "We have requested everyone to not let more than five people gather at a place. We have also planned route diversions at 12 places to ease traffic movement," the SSP said.

(with inputs from ANI)

The preparations for the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya are in full swing. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is slated to visit the city on Sunday for the second time in a week to take stock of the preparation done.

The preparations for the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya are in full swing. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is slated to visit the city on Sunday for the second time in a week to take stock of the preparation done. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to lay the foundation stone of the Ram Mandir here on August 5 after which the construction of the temple will commence. Several dignitaries are expected to participate in the ceremony. On Saturday, several areas of Ayodhya were illuminated with diyas (earthen lamps) and colourful lights. Over the last one month all the top officials of the state, including Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, have also visited Ayodhya. Many developmental changes have been made to the city -- including the widening of the roads. On Saturday, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Ayodhya, said that COVID-19 protocols have been put in place. "We have requested everyone to not let more than five people gather at a place. We have also planned route diversions at 12 places to ease traffic movement," the SSP said. (with inputs from ANI)

Ayodhya decked up ahead of August 5 Ram temple 'bhoomi pujan', UP CM to visit on Sunday

The UK has been mulling minting a coin to commemorate India's independence hero Mahatma Gandhi, amid growing interest in recognising the contributions of people from the Black, Asian and other minority ethnic communities.

This comes close on the heels of British institutions beginning to re-examine their past as part of a global reassessment of history, colonialism and racism triggered by the death in May of a Black man, George Floyd, in the United States after a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes.

Floyd's death has led to global protests against racism, colonialism and police brutality.

To this end, many organisations have taken initiatives to make investments to help the Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities and to support racial diversity.&nbsp;

The UK Treasury said in an emailed statement on Saturday that Finance Minister Rishi Sunak had asked the Royal Mint Advisory Committee (RMAC) in a letter to pursue recognition of individuals from those communities.

The RMAC is an independent committee made up of experts who recommend themes and designs for coins to Britain's finance minister, the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Sunak said members of the BAME communities have made a "profound contribution" and that the committee should consider recognising it on the UK's coinage.

Mahatma Gandhi advocated for non-violence throughout his life and played a key role in India's struggle for independence. His birthday, October 2, is observed as a National Holiday in India and as the International Day of Non-Violence.

Often referred to as India's "father of the nation", he was assassinated on January 30, 1948, just a few months after he led India to freedom from British rule.

The UK has been mulling minting a coin to commemorate India's independence hero Mahatma Gandhi, amid growing interest in recognising the contributions of people from the Black, Asian and other minority ethnic communities.

The UK has been mulling minting a coin to commemorate India's independence hero Mahatma Gandhi, amid growing interest in recognising the contributions of people from the Black, Asian and other minority ethnic communities. This comes close on the heels of British institutions beginning to re-examine their past as part of a global reassessment of history, colonialism and racism triggered by the death in May of a Black man, George Floyd, in the United States after a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes. Floyd's death has led to global protests against racism, colonialism and police brutality. To this end, many organisations have taken initiatives to make investments to help the Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities and to support racial diversity. The UK Treasury said in an emailed statement on Saturday that Finance Minister Rishi Sunak had asked the Royal Mint Advisory Committee (RMAC) in a letter to pursue recognition of individuals from those communities. The RMAC is an independent committee made up of experts who recommend themes and designs for coins to Britain's finance minister, the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Sunak said members of the BAME communities have made a "profound contribution" and that the committee should consider recognising it on the UK's coinage. Mahatma Gandhi advocated for non-violence throughout his life and played a key role in India's struggle for independence. His birthday, October 2, is observed as a National Holiday in India and as the International Day of Non-Violence. Often referred to as India's "father of the nation", he was assassinated on January 30, 1948, just a few months after he led India to freedom from British rule.

UK mulling to mint a coin to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi

The flood situation in Bihar worsened on Sunday as water from overflowing rivers inundated fresh areas, while a total of 53.67 lakh people across 14 districts were affected, the Disaster Management Department said in Patna.

No fresh casualty was reported and the number of people who died in flood-related incidents stood at 13.

The number of people affected by the deluge has gone up by 4.62 lakh since Saturday, though that of the district remained at 14, the department said in a bulletin.

The number of panchayats hit by the calamity, however, rose to 1,059 from 1,043 on the previous day.

It said that an embankment of Tirhut canal breached in the early hours of Sunday inundating at least a dozen villages in Muraul block of Muzaffarpur district. Two National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed at the site.

With 16.89 lakh flood-affected people, Muzaffarpur is the worst-hit district, followed by 12.40 lakh people in Darbhanga and 8.09 lakh in East Champaran.

More than half of the affected populace live in Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga districts.

Of the 13 deaths in flood-related incidents, Darbhanga registered the highest seven casualties, followed by four in West Champaran and two in Muzaffarpur.

A total of 20 teams of the NDRF and 11 of the SDRF are involved in the rescue operations and they have evacuated 4.03 lakh people from the affected areas so far, the bulletin said.

It said that 26,734 people are staying in 19 relief camps while nearly 9.29 lakh people were being fed at 1,385 community kitchens in the affected districts.

Rivers such as Baghmati, Burhi Gandak, Kamlabalan, Adhwara, Khiroi, Mahananda and Ghaghra are flowing above the danger level at various places.

The Met Department has forecast light rain in the catchment areas of all rivers flowing in the state on Monday.

The 14-flood affected districts are Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Supaul, Kishanganj, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Gopalganj, West Champaran, East Champaran, Khagaria, Saran, Samastipur, Siwan and Madhubani.&nbsp;

The flood situation in Bihar worsened on Sunday as water from overflowing rivers inundated fresh areas, while a total of 53.67 lakh people across 14 districts were affected, the Disaster Management Department said in Patna.

The flood situation in Bihar worsened on Sunday as water from overflowing rivers inundated fresh areas, while a total of 53.67 lakh people across 14 districts were affected, the Disaster Management Department said in Patna. No fresh casualty was reported and the number of people who died in flood-related incidents stood at 13. The number of people affected by the deluge has gone up by 4.62 lakh since Saturday, though that of the district remained at 14, the department said in a bulletin. The number of panchayats hit by the calamity, however, rose to 1,059 from 1,043 on the previous day. It said that an embankment of Tirhut canal breached in the early hours of Sunday inundating at least a dozen villages in Muraul block of Muzaffarpur district. Two National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed at the site. With 16.89 lakh flood-affected people, Muzaffarpur is the worst-hit district, followed by 12.40 lakh people in Darbhanga and 8.09 lakh in East Champaran. More than half of the affected populace live in Muzaffarpur and Darbhanga districts. Of the 13 deaths in flood-related incidents, Darbhanga registered the highest seven casualties, followed by four in West Champaran and two in Muzaffarpur. A total of 20 teams of the NDRF and 11 of the SDRF are involved in the rescue operations and they have evacuated 4.03 lakh people from the affected areas so far, the bulletin said. It said that 26,734 people are staying in 19 relief camps while nearly 9.29 lakh people were being fed at 1,385 community kitchens in the affected districts. Rivers such as Baghmati, Burhi Gandak, Kamlabalan, Adhwara, Khiroi, Mahananda and Ghaghra are flowing above the danger level at various places. The Met Department has forecast light rain in the catchment areas of all rivers flowing in the state on Monday. The 14-flood affected districts are Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Supaul, Kishanganj, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Gopalganj, West Champaran, East Champaran, Khagaria, Saran, Samastipur, Siwan and Madhubani.

Bihar flood situation worsens, 53.67 lakh people affected

The Ram temple in Ayodhya will not only give a boost to tourism but generate employment opportunities as well, Uttar Pradesh minister Shrikant Sharma said here on Sunday.

The minister said the news of the August 5 "bhoomi pujan" (ground-breaking ceremony) of the Ram temple by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has delighted devotees of Lord Ram across the globe.

The grand temple will not only give a boost to tourism but create jobs as well, he said.

The Uttar Pradesh government has started work to give a facelift to Ayodhya to draw in international tourists in large numbers, he said.

After a protracted legal battle, the Supreme Court had on November 9 last year paved the way for the construction of the Ram temple by a trust at the disputed site in Ayodhya, and directed the Centre to allot an alternative five-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a new mosque at a "prominent" place in the holy town in Uttar Pradesh.

Sharma expressed his gratitude to the Apex Court for delivering the long-awaited judgment on the Ram temple.

Since Prime Minister Modi could pave the way for a conducive environment, the judgment was delivered by the Apex Court, he claimed. 
The minister also appreciated the maturity of people of the country, especially residents of Uttar Pradesh, for maintaining harmony after the court verdict.

He also accused opposition parties of trying to create hurdles on the way of construction of the temple.

"The Ram temple in Ayodhya is being constructed as per the positive thinking and faith of the prime minister," Sharma, the minister for energy, additional sources of energy, said.

He said special programmes will be held in several parts of the state, including Mathura, to mark the Ram temple "bhoomi pujan" ceremony.&nbsp;

The Ram temple in Ayodhya will not only give a boost to tourism but generate employment opportunities as well, Uttar Pradesh minister Shrikant Sharma said here on Sunday.

The Ram temple in Ayodhya will not only give a boost to tourism but generate employment opportunities as well, Uttar Pradesh minister Shrikant Sharma said here on Sunday. The minister said the news of the August 5 "bhoomi pujan" (ground-breaking ceremony) of the Ram temple by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has delighted devotees of Lord Ram across the globe. The grand temple will not only give a boost to tourism but create jobs as well, he said. The Uttar Pradesh government has started work to give a facelift to Ayodhya to draw in international tourists in large numbers, he said. After a protracted legal battle, the Supreme Court had on November 9 last year paved the way for the construction of the Ram temple by a trust at the disputed site in Ayodhya, and directed the Centre to allot an alternative five-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a new mosque at a "prominent" place in the holy town in Uttar Pradesh. Sharma expressed his gratitude to the Apex Court for delivering the long-awaited judgment on the Ram temple. Since Prime Minister Modi could pave the way for a conducive environment, the judgment was delivered by the Apex Court, he claimed. The minister also appreciated the maturity of people of the country, especially residents of Uttar Pradesh, for maintaining harmony after the court verdict. He also accused opposition parties of trying to create hurdles on the way of construction of the temple. "The Ram temple in Ayodhya is being constructed as per the positive thinking and faith of the prime minister," Sharma, the minister for energy, additional sources of energy, said. He said special programmes will be held in several parts of the state, including Mathura, to mark the Ram temple "bhoomi pujan" ceremony.

Ram temple will give a boost to tourism, create jobs: UP minister

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday tests positive for Coronavirus. Sources said he has been admitted to Medanta hospital, located in Haryana's Gurugram near Delhi.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah tests positive for COVID-19

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday and advised home isolation, according to Chennai's Kauvery hospital.

The Governor will be monitored by a team of professionals from the hospital, the hospital informed.

The development comes hours after he was taken to the hospital earlier in the morning.

"The Governor's condition is mild, asymptomatic and he is clinically stable," said a Kauvery hospital official.

Purohit was taken to the hospital days after 87 employees of the Raj Bhawan tested positive for the virus.

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday and advised home isolation, according to Chennai's Kauvery hospital. The Governor will be monitored by a team of professionals from the hospital, the hospital informed.

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday and advised home isolation, according to Chennai's Kauvery hospital. The Governor will be monitored by a team of professionals from the hospital, the hospital informed. The development comes hours after he was taken to the hospital earlier in the morning. "The Governor's condition is mild, asymptomatic and he is clinically stable," said a Kauvery hospital official. Purohit was taken to the hospital days after 87 employees of the Raj Bhawan tested positive for the virus.

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit tests positive for COVID-19

Union Home Minister Amit Shah tested positive for COVID-19. He has been admitted to a hospital in Delhi. Shah tweeted that due to early symptoms coronaviurs, he went for test and the rest result came positive.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah tested positive for COVID-19. He has been admitted to a hospital in Delhi. Shah tweeted that due to early symptoms coronaviurs, he went for test and the rest result came positive. कोरोना के शुरूआती लक्षण दिखने पर मैंने टेस्ट करवाया और रिपोर्ट पॉजिटिव आई है। मेरी तबीयत ठीक है परन्तु डॉक्टर्स की सलाह पर अस्पताल में भर्ती हो रहा हूँ। मेरा अनुरोध है कि आप में से जो भी लोग गत कुछ दिनों में मेरे संपर्क में आयें हैं, कृपया स्वयं को आइसोलेट कर अपनी जाँच करवाएं। — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 2, 2020 × Though his health is fine, doctors have advised him to get himself admitted in hospital, he added. Shah urged those who came into close contact with him to get themselves tested for the virus.

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) foreign ministers meet in Moscow proposed Russia on September 10 will see the participation of Pakistan and China.

ANI quoting diplomatic sources said, "On the same day, Russia has also offered to host BRICS Foreign Minister`s meet."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-an-important-role-at-shanghai-cooperation-organisation-uzbekistan-envoy-223876">India has an important role at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation: Uzbekistan envoy</a>

Quoting informed sources ANI said that that meet was scheduled during pre- COVID times and India can only confirm its participation after evaluating the current situation, as of now there is no official confirmation that India will take part in the scheduled meetings in Moscow.

If India decides to take part, this will be the first time that foreign ministers of India, Pakistan and China will come face to face in the same group ever since the conflict at Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-to-formally-become-member-of-shanghai-cooperation-organisation-within-a-week-president-putin-16325">&nbsp;India to formally become member of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation within a week: President Putin</a>

Tensions continue to build up along the LAC as there is still no complete disengagement at the border. India and China are holding rounds of military and diplomatic talks to resolve the situation. 
&nbsp;

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) foreign ministers meet in Moscow proposed Russia on September 10 will see the participation of Pakistan and China. ANI quoting diplomatic sources said, "On the same day, Russia has also offered to host BRICS Foreign Minister`s meet.

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) foreign ministers meet in Moscow proposed Russia on September 10 will see the participation of Pakistan and China. ANI quoting diplomatic sources said, "On the same day, Russia has also offered to host BRICS Foreign Minister`s meet." Also read: India has an important role at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation: Uzbekistan envoy Quoting informed sources ANI said that that meet was scheduled during pre- COVID times and India can only confirm its participation after evaluating the current situation, as of now there is no official confirmation that India will take part in the scheduled meetings in Moscow. If India decides to take part, this will be the first time that foreign ministers of India, Pakistan and China will come face to face in the same group ever since the conflict at Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China. Also read: India to formally become member of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation within a week: President Putin Tensions continue to build up along the LAC as there is still no complete disengagement at the border. India and China are holding rounds of military and diplomatic talks to resolve the situation.

India yet to confirm participation in SCO meet; Pak, China to attend

Police raided rural hamlets and made arrests to break up a bootlegging cartel on Sunday, after over 90&nbsp;people died from consuming illegally-produced alcohol this week in Punjab, officials said.

The death toll has risen to 98.

"We have conducted raids at more than 30 places today and we have detained six more persons," Dhruman H. Nimbale, a senior police officer in Punjab's Tarn Taran district, told Reuters.

Nimbale said the first death occurred on Wednesday but police were only alerted on Friday, and then launched an investigation to determine whether the fatalities were linked.

Punjab police have so far arrested at least 25 people and conducted more than 100 raids across three districts, seizing hundreds of litres of liquor from villages and road-side eateries, the state's police chief Dinkar Gupta said on Saturday.

A government official said some of the seized liquid was denatured spirit, which is typically used in the paint and hardware industry.

Deaths from illegally-produced alcohol, known locally as "hooch" or "country liquor", are a regular occurrence in India.

Recent coronavirus-related lockdowns have also made it difficult for consumers to enjoy a regular tipple. On Friday, 10 men died in a southern Indian state after consuming sanitiser derived from alcohol, as local liquor shops were closed, police said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Police raided rural hamlets and made arrests to break up a bootlegging cartel on Sunday, after over 90 people died from consuming illegally-produced alcohol this week in Punjab, officials said.

Police raided rural hamlets and made arrests to break up a bootlegging cartel on Sunday, after over 90 people died from consuming illegally-produced alcohol this week in Punjab, officials said. The death toll has risen to 98. "We have conducted raids at more than 30 places today and we have detained six more persons," Dhruman H. Nimbale, a senior police officer in Punjab's Tarn Taran district, told Reuters. Nimbale said the first death occurred on Wednesday but police were only alerted on Friday, and then launched an investigation to determine whether the fatalities were linked. Punjab police have so far arrested at least 25 people and conducted more than 100 raids across three districts, seizing hundreds of litres of liquor from villages and road-side eateries, the state's police chief Dinkar Gupta said on Saturday. A government official said some of the seized liquid was denatured spirit, which is typically used in the paint and hardware industry. Deaths from illegally-produced alcohol, known locally as "hooch" or "country liquor", are a regular occurrence in India. Recent coronavirus-related lockdowns have also made it difficult for consumers to enjoy a regular tipple. On Friday, 10 men died in a southern Indian state after consuming sanitiser derived from alcohol, as local liquor shops were closed, police said.

Police crackdown on illegal liquor suppliers after 98 die in Punjab

Recoveries among COVID-19 patients in India crossed the 11 lakh-mark on Sunday with over 51,000 patients recuperating in a 24-hour span, the highest recorded so far, pushing the recovery rate to?65.44 per cent, the Union health ministry said on Sunday.

There are 5,67,730 active cases of the coronavirus infection, which is the "actual caseload" of COVID-19 for the country presently and account for 32.43 per cent of the total cases, it said.

All active cases are under medical supervision either in hospitals or in home isolation.

With 51,225 patients cured and discharged in a day, India's total recoveries have surged to 11,45,629 and exceeded active cases of COVID-19 by 5,77,899 as on date, while the case fatality rate has further dropped to 2.13 per cent.

"Coordinated implementation of COVID-19 management strategy by the Union and state and UT governments and selfless sacrifice of all frontline healthcare and other workers and COVID-19 warriors across sectors have ensured that the recoveries are continuously on the rise," the ministry said.

"The gap between the recoveries and the active cases has seen a steady rise. On June 10, for the first time, the total number of recovered patients exceeded the active cases with a difference of 1,573, which has increased to 5,77,899 as on today," it said.

The successful and coordination implementation of the effective containment strategy, aggressive testing and standardised clinical management protocols based on a comprehensive standard of care framework, have resulted in a consistent trend of rising recovery rate and progressively reducing case fatality rate (CFR).

"India has one of the lowest case fatality rate at 2.13 pc as compared to the global average," the ministry said.

India's COVID-19 tally climbed to 17.50 lakh with 54,735 cases being reported in a day, while the death toll rose to 37,364 with 853 people succumbing to the disease in a span of 24 hours, data updated at 8 am showed.

Recoveries among COVID-19 patients in India crossed the 11 lakh-mark on Sunday with over 51,000 patients recuperating in a 24-hour span, the highest recorded so far, pushing the recovery rate to?

Recoveries among COVID-19 patients in India crossed the 11 lakh-mark on Sunday with over 51,000 patients recuperating in a 24-hour span, the highest recorded so far, pushing the recovery rate to?65.44 per cent, the Union health ministry said on Sunday. There are 5,67,730 active cases of the coronavirus infection, which is the "actual caseload" of COVID-19 for the country presently and account for 32.43 per cent of the total cases, it said. All active cases are under medical supervision either in hospitals or in home isolation. With 51,225 patients cured and discharged in a day, India's total recoveries have surged to 11,45,629 and exceeded active cases of COVID-19 by 5,77,899 as on date, while the case fatality rate has further dropped to 2.13 per cent. "Coordinated implementation of COVID-19 management strategy by the Union and state and UT governments and selfless sacrifice of all frontline healthcare and other workers and COVID-19 warriors across sectors have ensured that the recoveries are continuously on the rise," the ministry said. "The gap between the recoveries and the active cases has seen a steady rise. On June 10, for the first time, the total number of recovered patients exceeded the active cases with a difference of 1,573, which has increased to 5,77,899 as on today," it said. The successful and coordination implementation of the effective containment strategy, aggressive testing and standardised clinical management protocols based on a comprehensive standard of care framework, have resulted in a consistent trend of rising recovery rate and progressively reducing case fatality rate (CFR). "India has one of the lowest case fatality rate at 2.13 pc as compared to the global average," the ministry said. India's COVID-19 tally climbed to 17.50 lakh with 54,735 cases being reported in a day, while the death toll rose to 37,364 with 853 people succumbing to the disease in a span of 24 hours, data updated at 8 am showed.

COVID-19 recovery rate in India rises to 65.44%, fatality rate drops to 2.13%

A registry of hospitalised COVID-19 patients across the country is being mooted to collect real time data which will help improve treatment outcomes, analyse trends in the progression of the pandemic and calibrate response, officials said.

The ICMR in collaboration with the Health Ministry and the AIIMS is planning to set up the National Clinical Registry which will help researchers and policy makers understand effectiveness of investigational therapies, adverse effects taking place and generate evidence for improving the treatment of COVID-19 patients.

"The aim is to collect data of the hospitalised COVID-19 patients like clinical and laboratory features, their demographics, comorbidities, treatment outcomes, complications in all age groups among others," officials said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-adds-54735-fresh-covid-cases-in-one-day-tally-crosses-17-lakh-mark-317589">Also read:&nbsp;India adds 54,735 fresh COVID cases in one day, tally crosses 17-lakh mark</a>

The novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 and the illness it is causing has so many unknown parameters that are a barrier to the proper understanding and management of the disease, they said.

"A systematically collected, comprehensive database covering different regions of the country will enable both researchers and policy makers to generate pertinent hypotheses, to inform crucial understanding of COVID 19, to detect trends in the progression of the pandemic and to accordingly calibrate response to the pandemic," an official said.

Fifteen institutions of national repute including the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education &amp; Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh, AIIMS Delhi, AIIMS Jodhpur, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru and Armed Force Medical College in Pune will connect with the hospitals and medical colleges to get them?on board.

These 15 institutions would be the registry sites and would be mentoring around 100 COVID-19 hospitals which would be called satellite centres from where the data would be collected?as part of the exercise.

The proposal has been sent for approval to the Central Ethics Committee on Human Research (CECHR) of the ICMR.

"The data will help improve the clinical management protocols as the repository would help us know which drug is working better in which age group, effectiveness of investigational therapies and adverse effects taking place. The idea is to generate evidence for improving the treatment of COVID-19 patients," another official said.

A registry of hospitalised COVID-19 patients across the country is being mooted to collect real time data which will help improve treatment outcomes, analyse trends in the progression of the pandemic and calibrate response, officials said.

A registry of hospitalised COVID-19 patients across the country is being mooted to collect real time data which will help improve treatment outcomes, analyse trends in the progression of the pandemic and calibrate response, officials said. The ICMR in collaboration with the Health Ministry and the AIIMS is planning to set up the National Clinical Registry which will help researchers and policy makers understand effectiveness of investigational therapies, adverse effects taking place and generate evidence for improving the treatment of COVID-19 patients. "The aim is to collect data of the hospitalised COVID-19 patients like clinical and laboratory features, their demographics, comorbidities, treatment outcomes, complications in all age groups among others," officials said. Also read: India adds 54,735 fresh COVID cases in one day, tally crosses 17-lakh mark The novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 and the illness it is causing has so many unknown parameters that are a barrier to the proper understanding and management of the disease, they said. "A systematically collected, comprehensive database covering different regions of the country will enable both researchers and policy makers to generate pertinent hypotheses, to inform crucial understanding of COVID 19, to detect trends in the progression of the pandemic and to accordingly calibrate response to the pandemic," an official said. Fifteen institutions of national repute including the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh, AIIMS Delhi, AIIMS Jodhpur, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru and Armed Force Medical College in Pune will connect with the hospitals and medical colleges to get them?on board. These 15 institutions would be the registry sites and would be mentoring around 100 COVID-19 hospitals which would be called satellite centres from where the data would be collected?as part of the exercise. The proposal has been sent for approval to the Central Ethics Committee on Human Research (CECHR) of the ICMR. "The data will help improve the clinical management protocols as the repository would help us know which drug is working better in which age group, effectiveness of investigational therapies and adverse effects taking place. The idea is to generate evidence for improving the treatment of COVID-19 patients," another official said.

ICMR plans to set up registry of hospitalised COVID-19 patients

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is planning to use artificial intelligence in weather forecasting, especially for issuing nowcasts, which can help improve 3-6 hours prediction of extreme weather events, its Director General Mrutunjay Mohapatra said on Sunday.

He said the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning is not as prevalent as it is in other fields and it is relatively new in the area of weather forecasting.

The IMD has invited research groups who can study how artificial intelligence (AI) be used for improving weather forecasting and the Ministry of Earth Sciences is evaluating their proposals, Mohapatra said.

He said the IMD is also planning to do collaborative studies on this with other institutions.

The IMD uses different tools like radars, satellite imagery, to issue nowcasts, which gives information on extreme weather events occurring in the next 3-6 hours.&nbsp;

The IMD issues forecasts for extreme weather events like thunderstorms, dust storms. Unlike cyclones, predictions of thunderstorms, which also bring lightning, squall and heavy rains, are more difficult as the extreme weather events develop and dissipate in a very short period of time.

Last month, over 160 people died due to lightning alone in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

The IMD wants to better the nowcast predictions through AI and machine learning.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the US announced new strategies this year to expand the agency's application of four emerging science and technology focus areas -- NOAA Unmanned Systems, artificial intelligence, Omics, and the cloud -- to guide transformative advancements in the quality and timeliness of NOAA science, products and services.

Omics is a suite of advanced methods used to analyse material such as DNA, RNA, or proteins.

With regards to AI, it said the overarching goal of the NOAA Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy is to utilise AI to advance NOAA's requirements-driven mission priorities.

The NOAA said through this, it seeks to reduce the cost of data processing, and provide higher quality and more timely scientific products and services for societal benefits.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is planning to use artificial intelligence in weather forecasting, especially for issuing nowcasts, which can help improve 3-6 hours prediction of extreme weather events, its Director General Mrutunjay Mohapatra said on Sunday.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is planning to use artificial intelligence in weather forecasting, especially for issuing nowcasts, which can help improve 3-6 hours prediction of extreme weather events, its Director General Mrutunjay Mohapatra said on Sunday. He said the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning is not as prevalent as it is in other fields and it is relatively new in the area of weather forecasting. The IMD has invited research groups who can study how artificial intelligence (AI) be used for improving weather forecasting and the Ministry of Earth Sciences is evaluating their proposals, Mohapatra said. He said the IMD is also planning to do collaborative studies on this with other institutions. The IMD uses different tools like radars, satellite imagery, to issue nowcasts, which gives information on extreme weather events occurring in the next 3-6 hours. The IMD issues forecasts for extreme weather events like thunderstorms, dust storms. Unlike cyclones, predictions of thunderstorms, which also bring lightning, squall and heavy rains, are more difficult as the extreme weather events develop and dissipate in a very short period of time. Last month, over 160 people died due to lightning alone in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The IMD wants to better the nowcast predictions through AI and machine learning. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the US announced new strategies this year to expand the agency's application of four emerging science and technology focus areas -- NOAA Unmanned Systems, artificial intelligence, Omics, and the cloud -- to guide transformative advancements in the quality and timeliness of NOAA science, products and services. Omics is a suite of advanced methods used to analyse material such as DNA, RNA, or proteins. With regards to AI, it said the overarching goal of the NOAA Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy is to utilise AI to advance NOAA's requirements-driven mission priorities. The NOAA said through this, it seeks to reduce the cost of data processing, and provide higher quality and more timely scientific products and services for societal benefits.

IMD plans to use AI in weather forecasting

The Punjab government on Friday allowed gymnasiums and yoga centres to operate while continuing with the night curfew for the next phase of the coronavirus lockdown from August 1 to 31.

Schools, colleges and coaching institutions will remain closed till August 31 while online or distance learning will continue.

Cinema halls, swimming polls, entertainment parks, theatres, bars, auditoriums, assembly halls and similar places will not be permitted to open.

The revised guidelines have been issued by the state government two days after the Union Home Ministry allowed more relaxations in a bid to further open up the economy.

Yoga institutes and gymnasiums will be allowed to function from August 5 for which standard operating procedures will be issued by the Union Health Ministry.

Social, political, sports, entertainment, cultural events and other large congregations will not be permitted.

The night curfew will remain in force from 11 pm to 5 am. During the period, the movement of individuals for all non-essential activities shall remain prohibited throughout the state.

Essential activities, including operation of multiple shifts, movement of persons and goods on national highways, unloading of cargo and travel of persons to their destinations after disembarking from buses, trains and aeroplanes will be permitted.

All kind of examinations, admission/entrance tests conducted by universities, boards, public service commission and other institutions are allowed with social distancing in place.

The number of guests at a marriage function can't be more than 30 while number of people at funerals can't go beyond 20. 
Spitting at public places is completely prohibited and a punishable offence. Consumption of liquor, pan, gutka and tobacco in public places is also prohibited, though there will be no restriction on their sale.

Places of worship will remain open only between 5 am and 8 pm and the number of persons at any given time shall will not exceed 20 with due distancing.

Langar and prasad are allowed and SOPs for religious places shall be followed.

Restaurants are allowed to open till 10 pm with 50 per cent occupancy or 50 guests, whichever is less. Liquor can be served provided the restaurant has a valid permission from the Excise Department. However, bars shall remain closed.

Restaurants will be open to persons other than hotel guests but the timings, for both the hotel guests as well as persons from outside, will be till 10 pm. Liquor can be served in rooms and restaurants, as permitted under the excise policy of the state.

Marriages, other social functions and 'open air' parties in banquet halls, marriage palaces, hotels and open venues can be organised, say the guidelines, adding that the number of guests, exclusive of the catering staff, will not exceed 30 persons.

The size of a banquet hall and venue will at least be 3,000 sq feet to ensure social distancing.

All shopping malls and shops, including those in main bazars of urban and rural areas, will be allowed to open between 7 am and 8 pm. However, restaurants/ hotels situated within shopping malls are to be treated separately and can remain open till 10 pm.

Liquor vends shall, however, remain open from 8 am to 10 pm.

For shops situated in the main bazaars, market complexes, 'rehri' markets and other crowded places, district authorities can exercise their discretion and in order to avoid crowding shall stagger the opening of shops.

Barber shops, saloons, beauty parlours and spas will be allowed from 7 am to 8 pm, subject to the compliance of the SOPs to be issued by the state Health Department.

Shops dealing with essential commodities will be allowed to open till 8 pm on all days. Restaurants and liquor vends will continue to remain open till 10 pm on all days.

On Sundays, shops other than those dealing in essential commodities and shopping malls shall remain closed.

However, on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan which falls on August 2, all shops and malls will remain open from 7 am to 8 pm. 
Sports complexes, stadia and public parks will be allowed to open from 5 am to 8 pm without spectators as per the SOP of the Health Department.

As per the state's guidelines, industrial units and construction activities are allowed. No separate permission will be required by the industries and other establishments for their operations and all employees will be allowed without any pass requirement during the permitted hours.

Inter-state and intra-state movement of buses will be allowed without any restriction. There shall be no restriction on inter-state and intra-state movement of persons and goods and no separate permission or approval or permit will be required for such movement.

The Punjab government on Friday allowed gymnasiums and yoga centres to operate while continuing with the night curfew for the next phase of the coronavirus lockdown from August 1 to 31.

The Punjab government on Friday allowed gymnasiums and yoga centres to operate while continuing with the night curfew for the next phase of the coronavirus lockdown from August 1 to 31. Schools, colleges and coaching institutions will remain closed till August 31 while online or distance learning will continue. Cinema halls, swimming polls, entertainment parks, theatres, bars, auditoriums, assembly halls and similar places will not be permitted to open. The revised guidelines have been issued by the state government two days after the Union Home Ministry allowed more relaxations in a bid to further open up the economy. Yoga institutes and gymnasiums will be allowed to function from August 5 for which standard operating procedures will be issued by the Union Health Ministry. Social, political, sports, entertainment, cultural events and other large congregations will not be permitted. The night curfew will remain in force from 11 pm to 5 am. During the period, the movement of individuals for all non-essential activities shall remain prohibited throughout the state. Essential activities, including operation of multiple shifts, movement of persons and goods on national highways, unloading of cargo and travel of persons to their destinations after disembarking from buses, trains and aeroplanes will be permitted. All kind of examinations, admission/entrance tests conducted by universities, boards, public service commission and other institutions are allowed with social distancing in place. The number of guests at a marriage function can't be more than 30 while number of people at funerals can't go beyond 20. Spitting at public places is completely prohibited and a punishable offence. Consumption of liquor, pan, gutka and tobacco in public places is also prohibited, though there will be no restriction on their sale. Places of worship will remain open only between 5 am and 8 pm and the number of persons at any given time shall will not exceed 20 with due distancing. Langar and prasad are allowed and SOPs for religious places shall be followed. Restaurants are allowed to open till 10 pm with 50 per cent occupancy or 50 guests, whichever is less. Liquor can be served provided the restaurant has a valid permission from the Excise Department. However, bars shall remain closed. Restaurants will be open to persons other than hotel guests but the timings, for both the hotel guests as well as persons from outside, will be till 10 pm. Liquor can be served in rooms and restaurants, as permitted under the excise policy of the state. Marriages, other social functions and 'open air' parties in banquet halls, marriage palaces, hotels and open venues can be organised, say the guidelines, adding that the number of guests, exclusive of the catering staff, will not exceed 30 persons. The size of a banquet hall and venue will at least be 3,000 sq feet to ensure social distancing. All shopping malls and shops, including those in main bazars of urban and rural areas, will be allowed to open between 7 am and 8 pm. However, restaurants/ hotels situated within shopping malls are to be treated separately and can remain open till 10 pm. Liquor vends shall, however, remain open from 8 am to 10 pm. For shops situated in the main bazaars, market complexes, 'rehri' markets and other crowded places, district authorities can exercise their discretion and in order to avoid crowding shall stagger the opening of shops. Barber shops, saloons, beauty parlours and spas will be allowed from 7 am to 8 pm, subject to the compliance of the SOPs to be issued by the state Health Department. Shops dealing with essential commodities will be allowed to open till 8 pm on all days. Restaurants and liquor vends will continue to remain open till 10 pm on all days. On Sundays, shops other than those dealing in essential commodities and shopping malls shall remain closed. However, on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan which falls on August 2, all shops and malls will remain open from 7 am to 8 pm. Sports complexes, stadia and public parks will be allowed to open from 5 am to 8 pm without spectators as per the SOP of the Health Department. As per the state's guidelines, industrial units and construction activities are allowed. No separate permission will be required by the industries and other establishments for their operations and all employees will be allowed without any pass requirement during the permitted hours. Inter-state and intra-state movement of buses will be allowed without any restriction. There shall be no restriction on inter-state and intra-state movement of persons and goods and no separate permission or approval or permit will be required for such movement.

Unlock 3.0: Punjab government allows gyms, yoga centres to reopen; night curfew to continue

India has reported its highest single-day spike of&nbsp;&nbsp;57,117 positive coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the toll to&nbsp;16,95,988 including 5,65,103 active cases and 10,94,374 cured/discharged patients.

A total of 764 deaths were reported, increasing the death toll to&nbsp;36,511 till Saturday morning.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) collected&nbsp;5,25,689 samples tested yesterday. Till July 31, a total of&nbsp;1,93,58,659 samples have been tested.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-records-more-than-10000-coronavirus-cases-total-infections-over-420000-317358">Also read:&nbsp;Maharashtra records more than 10,000 coronavirus cases; total infections over 420,000</a>

While the Muslim community is keeping the celebrations of&nbsp;Eid Al Adha a low-key affair, health experts are urging people to offer prayers from their homes and wear masks if they step outside.

Maharashtra reported&nbsp;10,320 new cases and 265 deaths on Friday evening, taking the toll&nbsp;to 4,22,118 cases and death toll to 14,994. However, the Maharashtra government has allowed malls to reopen from August 05.

Tamil Nadu reported 5,881 new cases, increasing total cases to 2,45,859, including 1,83,956 discharges and 3,935 deaths.

The Southern state of&nbsp;Kerala reported 1,310 new&nbsp;cases in the last 24 hours, taking active cases to 10,495

India has reported its highest single-day spike of 57,117 positive coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the toll to 16,95,988 including 5,65,103 active cases and 10,94,374 cured/discharged patients.

India has reported its highest single-day spike of 57,117 positive coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the toll to 16,95,988 including 5,65,103 active cases and 10,94,374 cured/discharged patients. A total of 764 deaths were reported, increasing the death toll to 36,511 till Saturday morning. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) collected 5,25,689 samples tested yesterday. Till July 31, a total of 1,93,58,659 samples have been tested. Also read: Maharashtra records more than 10,000 coronavirus cases; total infections over 420,000 While the Muslim community is keeping the celebrations of Eid Al Adha a low-key affair, health experts are urging people to offer prayers from their homes and wear masks if they step outside. Maharashtra reported 10,320 new cases and 265 deaths on Friday evening, taking the toll to 4,22,118 cases and death toll to 14,994. However, the Maharashtra government has allowed malls to reopen from August 05. Tamil Nadu reported 5,881 new cases, increasing total cases to 2,45,859, including 1,83,956 discharges and 3,935 deaths. The Southern state of Kerala reported 1,310 new cases in the last 24 hours, taking active cases to 10,495

COVID-19: India records highest single-day spike of 57,117 cases

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Unlock 3.0: Punjab government allows gyms, yoga centres to reopen; night curfew to continue

COVID-19: India records highest single-day spike of 57,117 cases