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Authorities in Delhi on Saturday started a mammoth task of conducting serological survey to comprehensively analyse the spread of COVID-19 as the number of cases in the national capital crossed the 80,000 mark.

Addressing an online briefing, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal asserted that there is no shortage of beds for COVID-19 patients in Delhi as of now, saying his government has significantly raised the number of beds in the past one month and diagnosis has been ramped up to 20,000 tests per day.

He said "five weapons" are being used by his government in the fight against coronavirus besides ramping up number of beds -- testing and isolation, providing oximeters and oxygen concentrators, plasma therapy, screening and survey.

Kejriwal and Union Home Minister Amit Shah also visited Radha Saomi Satsang, a 10,000-bed facility in south Delhi and reviewed the centre which will be maintained by the Indo-Tibet Border Police (ITBP).

The national capital recorded 2,948 fresh coronavirus cases in a 24-hour span since Friday, taking the total case count 80,188. The death toll went up to 2,588 with 66 more fatalities reported. There are 28,329 active cases in the national capital.

After June 22, it was for the first time that the number of daily cases fell below the 3,000-mark in the city.

As cases continued to rise, the Delhi government and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) started serological survey in the national capital. Part of the revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), the survey has to be completed by July 10. 
Kejriwal said the survey will cover 20,000 people and determine the extent of coronavirus spread in Delhi.

The survey started in the Central district, officials said, adding that the response was good from the public and 450 blood samples were collected on the first day. The target for the day was to collect 700 samples, the official said, adding that the district has deployed 30 teams comprising ASHA workers and lab technicians for collecting samples.

The survey also began at Kewal Park area in north Delhi, a north district official said. The official added that the emphasis was on putting logistics to the ground. The response of the people will be known in the next two-three days. Nine teams have been formed to complete the survey, the official said.

In Southwest district, the collection of samples commenced in some areas but will start in full swing from Sunday, an official said.

According to an official from East district, the NCDC would train lab technicians on how to collect samples on Saturday and they were likely to commence the exercise from Monday. Similarly, in the Southeast district, the survey did not start on Saturday as logistics were being worked out.

An official from Northeast district said the survey has not yet begun there and will begin from Monday.

Two house-to-house surveys - one in the containment zones and another across the national capital - are also being conducted by the Delhi government.

In his online briefing, Kejriwal said the coronavirus spread faster than it was expected to do in Delhi, after lifting of lockdown restrictions, and death figures rose in initial days due to lack of required bed facility for infected patients.

By May 15, coronavirus spread very rapidly and from first week of June, there was shortage of beds and testing. Since there was shortage of beds, the death figure also started rising, he said.

"Earlier I received phone calls for beds late in the night. That has stopped now. Currently there is no shortage of beds for corona patients but we are still ramping up the beds that could be needed in future," he said.

The government had option to either continue lockdown or fight the virus and it chose the second after consulting people.

On adding the number of beds, Kejriwal said the government took decision to attach hotels to hospitals, and created 3,500 beds in these hotels. At Radha Soami Satsang premises, arrangements for 2,000 beds are complete. Ten thousand beds will be arranged at the earliest, he said.

Also, at Delhi government's Burari hospital, 450 beds beds have been arranged, he said.

The Union Health Ministry said a 1,000-bed full-fledged hospital for COVID-19 patients in Delhi, developed by DRDO and to be manned by doctors and paramedical staff from the Army would be functional next week from an area near Dhaula Kuan.

To bolster COVID-19 management efforts in the national capital, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has supplied diagnostic material for carrying out 4.7 lakh RT-PCR tests to the 12 functional labs in Delhi till date, the Health Ministry said.

It has provided 1.57 lakh RNA extraction kits essential for carrying out tests and 2.84 lakh VTMs (Viral Transport Medium) used for collecting and transporting swabs to laboratories, it added.

 
&nbsp;

Authorities in Delhi on Saturday started a mammoth task of conducting serological survey to comprehensively analyse the spread of COVID-19 as the number of cases in the national capital crossed the 80,000 mark.

Authorities in Delhi on Saturday started a mammoth task of conducting serological survey to comprehensively analyse the spread of COVID-19 as the number of cases in the national capital crossed the 80,000 mark. Addressing an online briefing, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal asserted that there is no shortage of beds for COVID-19 patients in Delhi as of now, saying his government has significantly raised the number of beds in the past one month and diagnosis has been ramped up to 20,000 tests per day. He said "five weapons" are being used by his government in the fight against coronavirus besides ramping up number of beds -- testing and isolation, providing oximeters and oxygen concentrators, plasma therapy, screening and survey. Kejriwal and Union Home Minister Amit Shah also visited Radha Saomi Satsang, a 10,000-bed facility in south Delhi and reviewed the centre which will be maintained by the Indo-Tibet Border Police (ITBP). The national capital recorded 2,948 fresh coronavirus cases in a 24-hour span since Friday, taking the total case count 80,188. The death toll went up to 2,588 with 66 more fatalities reported. There are 28,329 active cases in the national capital. After June 22, it was for the first time that the number of daily cases fell below the 3,000-mark in the city. As cases continued to rise, the Delhi government and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) started serological survey in the national capital. Part of the revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), the survey has to be completed by July 10. Kejriwal said the survey will cover 20,000 people and determine the extent of coronavirus spread in Delhi. The survey started in the Central district, officials said, adding that the response was good from the public and 450 blood samples were collected on the first day. The target for the day was to collect 700 samples, the official said, adding that the district has deployed 30 teams comprising ASHA workers and lab technicians for collecting samples. The survey also began at Kewal Park area in north Delhi, a north district official said. The official added that the emphasis was on putting logistics to the ground. The response of the people will be known in the next two-three days. Nine teams have been formed to complete the survey, the official said. In Southwest district, the collection of samples commenced in some areas but will start in full swing from Sunday, an official said. According to an official from East district, the NCDC would train lab technicians on how to collect samples on Saturday and they were likely to commence the exercise from Monday. Similarly, in the Southeast district, the survey did not start on Saturday as logistics were being worked out. An official from Northeast district said the survey has not yet begun there and will begin from Monday. Two house-to-house surveys - one in the containment zones and another across the national capital - are also being conducted by the Delhi government. In his online briefing, Kejriwal said the coronavirus spread faster than it was expected to do in Delhi, after lifting of lockdown restrictions, and death figures rose in initial days due to lack of required bed facility for infected patients. By May 15, coronavirus spread very rapidly and from first week of June, there was shortage of beds and testing. Since there was shortage of beds, the death figure also started rising, he said. "Earlier I received phone calls for beds late in the night. That has stopped now. Currently there is no shortage of beds for corona patients but we are still ramping up the beds that could be needed in future," he said. The government had option to either continue lockdown or fight the virus and it chose the second after consulting people. On adding the number of beds, Kejriwal said the government took decision to attach hotels to hospitals, and created 3,500 beds in these hotels. At Radha Soami Satsang premises, arrangements for 2,000 beds are complete. Ten thousand beds will be arranged at the earliest, he said. Also, at Delhi government's Burari hospital, 450 beds beds have been arranged, he said. The Union Health Ministry said a 1,000-bed full-fledged hospital for COVID-19 patients in Delhi, developed by DRDO and to be manned by doctors and paramedical staff from the Army would be functional next week from an area near Dhaula Kuan. To bolster COVID-19 management efforts in the national capital, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has supplied diagnostic material for carrying out 4.7 lakh RT-PCR tests to the 12 functional labs in Delhi till date, the Health Ministry said. It has provided 1.57 lakh RNA extraction kits essential for carrying out tests and 2.84 lakh VTMs (Viral Transport Medium) used for collecting and transporting swabs to laboratories, it added.

Delhi govt begins serological survey to assess extent of coronavirus spread as cases cross 80K mark

India crossed 5 lakh cases, as the country reported&nbsp;highest single-day spike of 18,552 new cases and 384 deaths in last 24 hours.

India's toll now stands at&nbsp;5,08,953 including 1,97,387 active cases, 2,95,881 cured/discharged/migrated and 15,685 deaths, reported the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) conducted 2,20,479 tests in the last 24 hours. Total number of samples tested up to 26 June is 79,96,707.

Maharashtra, the worst-hit state in the country, reported 175 deaths and 5,024 new positive cases. Out of the total 175 deaths, 91 deaths are of last 48 hours and 84 deaths are of previous dates but recorded today. There are 65,829 active cases in the State.

Mumbai reported&nbsp;1,297 new&nbsp;cases and 44 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of cases to 72,287 and death toll to 4,177, as reported by Greater Mumbai Municipal Corporation.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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29 new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> positive cases reported in Jharkhand today, taking the total number of cases to 2,294 including 1,647 recoveries and 12 deaths: State Health Department <a href="https://t.co/FJhjAsf7u9">pic.twitter.com/FJhjAsf7u9</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1276550450783719424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Delhi crossed 75,000 mark as the national capital recorded 3,460 cases and 63 deaths. Total number of cases stands at 77,240 including 47,091 recovered/discharged/migrated, 27,657 active cases and 2,492 deaths.

Delhi also conducted the highest number of tests in a single day -- 21,144. The Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has said that the state government has adopted the approach of very aggressive testing and isolation, and has increased the testing by four times.&nbsp;

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In the last 24 hours, 580 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> positive cases and 18 deaths reported in Gujarat. State tally rises to 30,158 including 22,038 discharged/cured and 1,772 deaths: State Health Department
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1276519438183854087?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Tamil Nadu, which has been unable to contain the spread of coronavirus,&nbsp;reported 3,645 new cases, taking the state's total to 74,622 out of which 32,305 are active cases. 46 deaths reported over the last 24 hours, total fatalities are now 957.

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44 new COVID-19 cases reported in Goa today, taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 1,039 including 667 active cases and 2 deaths: Goa Health Department <a href="https://t.co/VxiYc1he1w">pic.twitter.com/VxiYc1he1w</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1276531531159203846?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Rajasthan reports 364 new COVID-19 cases and one death, taking the total number of cases to 16,660 and death toll to 380. Number of active cases stands at 3,218.

Number of&nbsp;cases increased&nbsp;to 864 in Himachal Pradesh, as the state reported three fresh cases in the last 24 hours; 49 people are awaiting their sample results.

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273 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> cases reported in Assam yesterday, as of 11:40 PM. Total number of cases in the state is now at 6,919, including 4,247 discharged, 2,660 active cases &amp; 9 deaths: Himanta Biswa Sarma, State Health Minister <a href="https://t.co/0cqijZvwqe">pic.twitter.com/0cqijZvwqe</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1276591120567332864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Telangana recorded 985 cases, discharged 78 patients and reported seven deaths in the last 24 hours. Total number of cases in the state is now at 12,349, including 7,436 active cases, 4,766 discharged and 237 deaths.

India crossed 5 lakh cases, as the country reported highest single-day spike of 18,552 new cases and 384 deaths in last 24 hours. India's toll now stands at 5,08,953 including 1,97,387 active cases, 2,95,881 cured/discharged/migrated and 15,685 deaths, reported the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

India crossed 5 lakh cases, as the country reported highest single-day spike of 18,552 new cases and 384 deaths in last 24 hours. India's toll now stands at 5,08,953 including 1,97,387 active cases, 2,95,881 cured/discharged/migrated and 15,685 deaths, reported the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) conducted 2,20,479 tests in the last 24 hours. Total number of samples tested up to 26 June is 79,96,707. Maharashtra, the worst-hit state in the country, reported 175 deaths and 5,024 new positive cases. Out of the total 175 deaths, 91 deaths are of last 48 hours and 84 deaths are of previous dates but recorded today. There are 65,829 active cases in the State. Mumbai reported 1,297 new cases and 44 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of cases to 72,287 and death toll to 4,177, as reported by Greater Mumbai Municipal Corporation. 29 new #COVID19 positive cases reported in Jharkhand today, taking the total number of cases to 2,294 including 1,647 recoveries and 12 deaths: State Health Department pic.twitter.com/FJhjAsf7u9 — ANI (@ANI) June 26, 2020 × Delhi crossed 75,000 mark as the national capital recorded 3,460 cases and 63 deaths. Total number of cases stands at 77,240 including 47,091 recovered/discharged/migrated, 27,657 active cases and 2,492 deaths. Delhi also conducted the highest number of tests in a single day -- 21,144. The Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has said that the state government has adopted the approach of very aggressive testing and isolation, and has increased the testing by four times. In the last 24 hours, 580 #COVID19 positive cases and 18 deaths reported in Gujarat. State tally rises to 30,158 including 22,038 discharged/cured and 1,772 deaths: State Health Department — ANI (@ANI) June 26, 2020 × Tamil Nadu, which has been unable to contain the spread of coronavirus, reported 3,645 new cases, taking the state's total to 74,622 out of which 32,305 are active cases. 46 deaths reported over the last 24 hours, total fatalities are now 957. 44 new COVID-19 cases reported in Goa today, taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 1,039 including 667 active cases and 2 deaths: Goa Health Department pic.twitter.com/VxiYc1he1w — ANI (@ANI) June 26, 2020 × Rajasthan reports 364 new COVID-19 cases and one death, taking the total number of cases to 16,660 and death toll to 380. Number of active cases stands at 3,218. Number of cases increased to 864 in Himachal Pradesh, as the state reported three fresh cases in the last 24 hours; 49 people are awaiting their sample results. 273 #COVID19 cases reported in Assam yesterday, as of 11:40 PM. Total number of cases in the state is now at 6,919, including 4,247 discharged, 2,660 active cases & 9 deaths: Himanta Biswa Sarma, State Health Minister pic.twitter.com/0cqijZvwqe — ANI (@ANI) June 26, 2020 × Telangana recorded 985 cases, discharged 78 patients and reported seven deaths in the last 24 hours. Total number of cases in the state is now at 12,349, including 7,436 active cases, 4,766 discharged and 237 deaths.

COVID 19: India crosses 5 lakh mark with highest single-day spike of 18,552 cases

India: Over 17,300 cases, 400 deaths of COVID-19 pandemic in last 24 hours. Indian records around 5% of the global cases of COVID-19 pandemic. Watch this video to know more.

India: Over 17,300 cases, 400 deaths of COVID-19 pandemic in last 24 hours

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday said that dispassionate scrutiny and reform of all multilateral entities are needed to make them purpose-built for the present times and representative of this century.

Speaking at the virtual ministerial meeting of Alliance for Multilateralism, Jaishankar underlined that the world stands at a "transformative moment" and is facing a two-pronged attack of a pandemic and misinformation going viral.

"Today, once again, we stand at a transformative moment. A pandemic has devastated our globalised economic system, apart from taking a toll of over 400,000 lives. It has fundamentally affected the way we live, work, travel and indeed, relate to each other," he said.

"While it is too early to say that the coronavirus has altered our way of life forever, it has reduced humanity`s instinctive comfort in the presence of others. Suspicion of human interaction is fuelled, more often than not, by fake news, wrong information and targetted disinformation," he added.

"So widespread are these phenomena today that we are truly facing a two-pronged attack of a viral pandemic and misinformation going viral. In other words, this is an era of both a health crisis and an infodemic," Jaishankar stated.

The External Affairs Minister said that the way forward to address both of challenges is similar and there is a need to strengthen the belief in scientific approaches.

"We must set aside politics and focus on facts whether it is the effort to dispassionately analyse the causes and drivers of the current coronavirus pandemic, or to assess what changes our multilateral health mechanisms need to implement to improve preparations for a future pandemic," Jaishankar said.

He stressed that the resolution adopted at the World Health Assembly last month is "an opportunity to use facts and science to assess our response to this pandemic and take those lessons to prepare better for the future", while adding that India, as chair of the WHO Executive Board, is ready to work towards these goals.

Jaishankar called on the need to restore faith in meaningful and equal partnerships."Trust, partnership and cooperation draw people, societies and countries together especially during crises, particularly when fake news and disease engender isolationism and unilateralism. In this context, India was pleased to be part of cross-regional group presenting a statement on the ongoing `Infodemic` in the context of COVID-19 at the UN," he said.

"As you know, it received wide political support from over 130 states and observers. Our alliance must also continue to take concrete steps to counter the `infodemic` through its working group in this regard," the minister added.

"It is an empirical fact that every process and institution must evolve to meet the needs of its time. No institution, howsoever important, can remain frozen at the moment of its foundation. Just as we need to consider the resourcing and regulatory parameters set out for the WHO, to address and resolve shortcomings, so too do we need dispassionate scrutiny and reform of all multilateral entities, to make them purpose-built for our times and representative of this century," Jaishankar said.

He stated that "this is why we continue to call for `reformed multilateralism`-- one that is relevant for the age in which we live, not when this architecture was erected"."Our alliance must stand for a dynamic multilateralism, for a purposeful reform of existing structures, which must continue to serve the international community even more in this complex and uncertain time," Jaishankar further said.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday said that dispassionate scrutiny and reform of all multilateral entities are needed to make them purpose-built for the present times and representative of this century.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday said that dispassionate scrutiny and reform of all multilateral entities are needed to make them purpose-built for the present times and representative of this century. Speaking at the virtual ministerial meeting of Alliance for Multilateralism, Jaishankar underlined that the world stands at a "transformative moment" and is facing a two-pronged attack of a pandemic and misinformation going viral. "Today, once again, we stand at a transformative moment. A pandemic has devastated our globalised economic system, apart from taking a toll of over 400,000 lives. It has fundamentally affected the way we live, work, travel and indeed, relate to each other," he said. "While it is too early to say that the coronavirus has altered our way of life forever, it has reduced humanity`s instinctive comfort in the presence of others. Suspicion of human interaction is fuelled, more often than not, by fake news, wrong information and targetted disinformation," he added. "So widespread are these phenomena today that we are truly facing a two-pronged attack of a viral pandemic and misinformation going viral. In other words, this is an era of both a health crisis and an infodemic," Jaishankar stated. The External Affairs Minister said that the way forward to address both of challenges is similar and there is a need to strengthen the belief in scientific approaches. "We must set aside politics and focus on facts whether it is the effort to dispassionately analyse the causes and drivers of the current coronavirus pandemic, or to assess what changes our multilateral health mechanisms need to implement to improve preparations for a future pandemic," Jaishankar said. He stressed that the resolution adopted at the World Health Assembly last month is "an opportunity to use facts and science to assess our response to this pandemic and take those lessons to prepare better for the future", while adding that India, as chair of the WHO Executive Board, is ready to work towards these goals. Jaishankar called on the need to restore faith in meaningful and equal partnerships."Trust, partnership and cooperation draw people, societies and countries together especially during crises, particularly when fake news and disease engender isolationism and unilateralism. In this context, India was pleased to be part of cross-regional group presenting a statement on the ongoing `Infodemic` in the context of COVID-19 at the UN," he said. "As you know, it received wide political support from over 130 states and observers. Our alliance must also continue to take concrete steps to counter the `infodemic` through its working group in this regard," the minister added. "It is an empirical fact that every process and institution must evolve to meet the needs of its time. No institution, howsoever important, can remain frozen at the moment of its foundation. Just as we need to consider the resourcing and regulatory parameters set out for the WHO, to address and resolve shortcomings, so too do we need dispassionate scrutiny and reform of all multilateral entities, to make them purpose-built for our times and representative of this century," Jaishankar said. He stated that "this is why we continue to call for `reformed multilateralism`-- one that is relevant for the age in which we live, not when this architecture was erected"."Our alliance must stand for a dynamic multilateralism, for a purposeful reform of existing structures, which must continue to serve the international community even more in this complex and uncertain time," Jaishankar further said.

Dispassionate scrutiny and reform of all multilateral entities needed, says Jaishankar

Once a green zone, the beach city of India, Goa, has been seen an increase in the number of positive coronavirus cases since the start of domestic travel in the ciuntry.

Now, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday has announced that the virus is spreading in the state due to community transmission.

"We are getting cases across Goa. At present, when there is transmission all across the state, it has gone from one patient to another. Of course, we will have to say there is community transmission. We have to accept that," he said in a press conference.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-registers-first-death-due-to-coronavirus-307656">Also read:&nbsp;Goa registers first death due to coronavirus</a>

The state has issued a new set of&nbsp;Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), which will be followed in a stricter way now to ensure Goa flattens the curve.

Sawant also added that Goa is the only state that either tests every person entering the state borders, or issues a compulsory 14-day period of home quarantine.

The Goa government had already declared the Mangor Hill area in South Goa`s Vasco town and Morlem village in North Goa`s Sattari Taluka as containment zones. Also, few other areas have also been sealed after being declared as mini containment zones.

Goa reported 44 new cases on Friday. The total number of cases in the state is around&nbsp;1,039. The total number of COVID-19 active cases in the state is 667.

Once a green zone, the beach city of India, Goa, has been seen an increase in the number of positive coronavirus cases since the start of domestic travel in the ciuntry.

Once a green zone, the beach city of India, Goa, has been seen an increase in the number of positive coronavirus cases since the start of domestic travel in the ciuntry. Now, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday has announced that the virus is spreading in the state due to community transmission. "We are getting cases across Goa. At present, when there is transmission all across the state, it has gone from one patient to another. Of course, we will have to say there is community transmission. We have to accept that," he said in a press conference. Also read: Goa registers first death due to coronavirus The state has issued a new set of Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), which will be followed in a stricter way now to ensure Goa flattens the curve. Sawant also added that Goa is the only state that either tests every person entering the state borders, or issues a compulsory 14-day period of home quarantine. The Goa government had already declared the Mangor Hill area in South Goa`s Vasco town and Morlem village in North Goa`s Sattari Taluka as containment zones. Also, few other areas have also been sealed after being declared as mini containment zones. Goa reported 44 new cases on Friday. The total number of cases in the state is around 1,039. The total number of COVID-19 active cases in the state is 667.

Goa is experiencing community transmission: Goa CM Pramod Sawant

Over the last ten days, three different parcels containing highly-potent drugs have been seized by the Customs at the Foreign Post Office in Chennai. A good share of these drugs has been seized from the time when the 12-day lockdown (from June 19 to 30) began in the city.

In the latest incident, a suspicious parcel that arrived at the Foreign Post Office from Wolverhampton, near Birmingham in the UK was seized. The parcel had an incomplete consignee name and was addressed to a person in Chennai’s adjoining Tiruvallur district.&nbsp;

On examination, the parcel was found to contain blue colour pills. The pills tested positive for MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine), a narcotics substance. A total of 270 pills suspected to be MDMA, valued at Rs 8 lakh were recovered and seized under the NDPS Act, 1985. These pills known as “Blue Punisher” bear a skull mark and are in high demand in the UK, owing to their high MDMA content.&nbsp;

A search was conducted at the recipient address in Tiruvallur and a person was found residing there has been detained to ascertain his possible role in the smuggling of the drugs.

Reports from the UK state that the Blue Punisher variant of ecstasy pills are three times stronger than others and have even led to deaths in many cases.&nbsp;

“This is first time that ecstasy pills have been seized from UK. Birmingham and Wolverhampton have recently been in news for major drug bust by Scotland Yard. Usually such party drug pills come in from Europe due to their high quality and these are popular among the youth,” Rajan Chaudhary, Commissioner, Customs told WION.

It is notable that, in May, two Indian origin men had been sentenced to a total of 34 years in prison for what Scotland Yard calls one of the biggest drug busts in the UK. The two arrested individuals were from Birmingham and Oldbury in West Midlands.&nbsp;

MDMA is commonly known as ecstasy, a party drug that alters mood and perception and is chemically similar to both stimulants and hallucinogens which produce feelings of increased energy and pleasure. But “Blue Punisher” pills are extremely potent as they contain a very high dosage of MDMA that is anywhere between 250-300mg. Even a dosage above 120 mg is considered to be high and can be fatal.&nbsp;

Over the last few days, two parcels with Ecstasy pills worth Rs 12 lakh and Rs 3 lakh were seized. Two persons from other states were also arrested in connection with this. In March as well, Air Customs had seized ecstasy pills worth Rs 30 lakh at Foreign Post Office, Chennai and arrested a Mysore based person.

In March as well, Air Customs had seized ecstasy pills worth Rs 30 lakh at Foreign Post Office, Chennai and arrested a Mysore based person. 
&nbsp;

Over the last ten days, three different parcels containing highly-potent drugs have been seized by the Customs at the Foreign Post Office in Chennai. A good share of these drugs has been seized from the time when the 12-day lockdown (from June 19 to 30) began in the city.

Over the last ten days, three different parcels containing highly-potent drugs have been seized by the Customs at the Foreign Post Office in Chennai. A good share of these drugs has been seized from the time when the 12-day lockdown (from June 19 to 30) began in the city. In the latest incident, a suspicious parcel that arrived at the Foreign Post Office from Wolverhampton, near Birmingham in the UK was seized. The parcel had an incomplete consignee name and was addressed to a person in Chennai’s adjoining Tiruvallur district. On examination, the parcel was found to contain blue colour pills. The pills tested positive for MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine), a narcotics substance. A total of 270 pills suspected to be MDMA, valued at Rs 8 lakh were recovered and seized under the NDPS Act, 1985. These pills known as “Blue Punisher” bear a skull mark and are in high demand in the UK, owing to their high MDMA content. A search was conducted at the recipient address in Tiruvallur and a person was found residing there has been detained to ascertain his possible role in the smuggling of the drugs. Reports from the UK state that the Blue Punisher variant of ecstasy pills are three times stronger than others and have even led to deaths in many cases. “This is first time that ecstasy pills have been seized from UK. Birmingham and Wolverhampton have recently been in news for major drug bust by Scotland Yard. Usually such party drug pills come in from Europe due to their high quality and these are popular among the youth,” Rajan Chaudhary, Commissioner, Customs told WION. It is notable that, in May, two Indian origin men had been sentenced to a total of 34 years in prison for what Scotland Yard calls one of the biggest drug busts in the UK. The two arrested individuals were from Birmingham and Oldbury in West Midlands. MDMA is commonly known as ecstasy, a party drug that alters mood and perception and is chemically similar to both stimulants and hallucinogens which produce feelings of increased energy and pleasure. But “Blue Punisher” pills are extremely potent as they contain a very high dosage of MDMA that is anywhere between 250-300mg. Even a dosage above 120 mg is considered to be high and can be fatal. Over the last few days, two parcels with Ecstasy pills worth Rs 12 lakh and Rs 3 lakh were seized. Two persons from other states were also arrested in connection with this. In March as well, Air Customs had seized ecstasy pills worth Rs 30 lakh at Foreign Post Office, Chennai and arrested a Mysore based person. In March as well, Air Customs had seized ecstasy pills worth Rs 30 lakh at Foreign Post Office, Chennai and arrested a Mysore based person.

Amid lockdown in Chennai, ecstasy pills from Europe worth Rs 23 lakh seized in 10 days

An inexpensive, widely used steroid dexamethasone was included in the treatment protocols for COVID-19 patients in moderate to severe stages of illness among other therapeutic measures by the Union health ministry on Saturday.

The updated protocol includes the advice to use dexamethasone as an alternative choice to methylprednisolone for managing moderate to severe cases of COVID-19. The change has been made after considering the latest available evidence and expert consultation, the ministry said.

According to the revised 'Clinical Management Protocols for COVID-19', dexamethasone which is already used in treating lung infections besides in a wide range of conditions for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant effects can be used as an alternative to methylprednisolone which already existed in the treatment guidelines.&nbsp;

The health ministry on June 13 had also allowed the use of antiviral drug remdesivir for restricted emergency use and off-label application of tocilizumab, a drug that modifies the immune system or its functioning, and convalescent plasma for treating COVID-19 patients in moderate stage of the illness as an &nbsp;investigational therapy.

It also recommended hydroxychloroquine in patients during the early course of the disease and not on critically ill patients.&nbsp;

The use of these drugs continues to be included in the revised treatment protocols under the 'investigational therapy'.

The revised treatment protocols for moderate cases advised considering methylprednisolone 0.5 to 1 mg/kg or dexamethasone 0.1 to 0.2 mg/kg for three days, preferably within 48 hours of admission or if oxygen requirement is increasing and if inflammatory markers are increased. The duration of administration should be reviewed as per clinical response.

For patients having respiratory distress requiring mechanical ventilation, both non- invasive and invasive, the ministry said methylprednisolone 1 &nbsp; 2mg/kg/day or dexamethasone 0.2 to 0.4 mg/kg per day should be considered for 5-7 days in two divided doses, if not given already.

"Note that a larger dose of glucocorticoid will delay the removal of coronavirus due to immunosuppressive effects," the treatment protocols stated.

The revised treatment protocols were issued as India's COVID-19 tally raced past the five-lakh mark on Saturday with the biggest single-day surge of 18,552 cases while the death toll climbed to 15,685 with 384 fatalities, the updated figure at 8 am showed. &nbsp; &nbsp;

According to WHO, the corticosteroid dexamethasone was tested in hospitalised patients with COVID-19 in the United Kingdom's national clinical trial 'RECOVERY' and was found to have benefits for critically ill patients.&nbsp;

According to preliminary findings shared with WHO, for patients on ventilators, the treatment was shown to reduce mortality by about one-third, and for patients requiring only oxygen, mortality was cut by about one-fifth.

An inexpensive, widely used steroid dexamethasone was included in the treatment protocols for COVID-19 patients in moderate to severe stages of illness among other therapeutic measures by the Union health ministry on Saturday.

An inexpensive, widely used steroid dexamethasone was included in the treatment protocols for COVID-19 patients in moderate to severe stages of illness among other therapeutic measures by the Union health ministry on Saturday. The updated protocol includes the advice to use dexamethasone as an alternative choice to methylprednisolone for managing moderate to severe cases of COVID-19. The change has been made after considering the latest available evidence and expert consultation, the ministry said. According to the revised 'Clinical Management Protocols for COVID-19', dexamethasone which is already used in treating lung infections besides in a wide range of conditions for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant effects can be used as an alternative to methylprednisolone which already existed in the treatment guidelines. The health ministry on June 13 had also allowed the use of antiviral drug remdesivir for restricted emergency use and off-label application of tocilizumab, a drug that modifies the immune system or its functioning, and convalescent plasma for treating COVID-19 patients in moderate stage of the illness as an investigational therapy. It also recommended hydroxychloroquine in patients during the early course of the disease and not on critically ill patients. The use of these drugs continues to be included in the revised treatment protocols under the 'investigational therapy'. The revised treatment protocols for moderate cases advised considering methylprednisolone 0.5 to 1 mg/kg or dexamethasone 0.1 to 0.2 mg/kg for three days, preferably within 48 hours of admission or if oxygen requirement is increasing and if inflammatory markers are increased. The duration of administration should be reviewed as per clinical response. For patients having respiratory distress requiring mechanical ventilation, both non- invasive and invasive, the ministry said methylprednisolone 1 2mg/kg/day or dexamethasone 0.2 to 0.4 mg/kg per day should be considered for 5-7 days in two divided doses, if not given already. "Note that a larger dose of glucocorticoid will delay the removal of coronavirus due to immunosuppressive effects," the treatment protocols stated. The revised treatment protocols were issued as India's COVID-19 tally raced past the five-lakh mark on Saturday with the biggest single-day surge of 18,552 cases while the death toll climbed to 15,685 with 384 fatalities, the updated figure at 8 am showed. According to WHO, the corticosteroid dexamethasone was tested in hospitalised patients with COVID-19 in the United Kingdom's national clinical trial 'RECOVERY' and was found to have benefits for critically ill patients. According to preliminary findings shared with WHO, for patients on ventilators, the treatment was shown to reduce mortality by about one-third, and for patients requiring only oxygen, mortality was cut by about one-fifth.

Health ministry adds steroid dexamethasone in COVID-19 treatment protocol

Outrage at the death of a father-son duo in the custody of police in India's Tamil Nadu earlier this week mounted on Saturday. Thousands on social media compared the incident to the death of George Floyd in the United States.

J Jayaraj, 59, and Bennicks Immanuel, 31, were subjected to a brutal thrashing, which resulted in rectal bleeding and eventual death, according to a letter to government officials written by the former’s wife J Selvarani. The letter seeks action against the police officers involved.

Police in Sathankulam, a town located 50 km (31 miles) south of the port city of Thoothukudi in southern Tamil Nadu state, said in a first information report (FIR) that Jayaraj and Bennicks were picked up on Friday, June 19 for breaching coronavirus lockdown rules.

Bennicks died on Monday after complaining of breathlessness and Jayaraj died on Tuesday, Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami, who oversees the police in the state, said in a statement on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Two policemen involved in the incident have been suspended.

Hundreds of thousands of tweets were sent out using the hashtag #JusticeforJayarajandBennix, that was among the top Twitter topics trending in India on Friday and among the top 30 trending globally, with celebrities and politicians condemning police action.

Nearly 15 cases of custodial violence and torture were reported in every day on average, with 9 people dying in judicial or police custody every 24 hours, according to the latest annual report by India’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) for the year 2017/18.

Outrage at the death of a father-son duo in the custody of police in India's Tamil Nadu earlier this week mounted on Saturday. Thousands on social media compared the incident to the death of George Floyd in the United States.

Outrage at the death of a father-son duo in the custody of police in India's Tamil Nadu earlier this week mounted on Saturday. Thousands on social media compared the incident to the death of George Floyd in the United States. J Jayaraj, 59, and Bennicks Immanuel, 31, were subjected to a brutal thrashing, which resulted in rectal bleeding and eventual death, according to a letter to government officials written by the former’s wife J Selvarani. The letter seeks action against the police officers involved. Police in Sathankulam, a town located 50 km (31 miles) south of the port city of Thoothukudi in southern Tamil Nadu state, said in a first information report (FIR) that Jayaraj and Bennicks were picked up on Friday, June 19 for breaching coronavirus lockdown rules. Bennicks died on Monday after complaining of breathlessness and Jayaraj died on Tuesday, Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami, who oversees the police in the state, said in a statement on Wednesday. Two policemen involved in the incident have been suspended. Hundreds of thousands of tweets were sent out using the hashtag #JusticeforJayarajandBennix, that was among the top Twitter topics trending in India on Friday and among the top 30 trending globally, with celebrities and politicians condemning police action. Nearly 15 cases of custodial violence and torture were reported in every day on average, with 9 people dying in judicial or police custody every 24 hours, according to the latest annual report by India’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) for the year 2017/18.

Father-son death in police custody sparks outrage in India

India on Saturday questioned the intent of Pakistan's proposal on the opening of the Kartarpur corridor saying two-day notice period to open the corridor goes against the bilateral agreement that provides for the seven day notice period.

India on Saturday questioned the intent of Pakistan's proposal on the opening of the Kartarpur corridor saying two-day notice period to open the corridor goes against the bilateral agreement that provides for the seven day notice period. Indian government sources said, " It is to be noted that Pakistan is trying to create a mirage of goodwill by proposing to resume Kartarpur corridor on 29 June at the short notice of 2 days" Explaining "bilateral Agreement provides for information to be shared by India with Pakistan side at least 7 days before the date of travel. This would need India to open up the registration process well in advance." Cross border travel has been temporarily suspended as part of measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus by India. New Delhi will take "further view would be taken in consultation with health authorities and other stakeholders concerned" like the home ministry. Sources also highlighted, "Pakistan has not built the bridge on their side across the flood plains of Ravi river despite having committed to it in the bilateral agreement. With the advent of monsoon, it would need to be evaluated whether pilgrim movement is possible through the corridor in a safe and secure manner." India has also expressed concerns over Pakistan limiting the corridor to Sikh pilgrims while under the agreement it is supposed to be open for all Indian pilgrims and those holding OCI cards. Pakistani Foreign Ministry Shah Mahmood Qureshi in a tweet said, "As places of worship open up across the world, Pakistan prepares to reopen the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor for all Sikh pilgrims, conveying to the Indian side our readiness to reopen the corridor on 29 June 2020, the occasion of the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjeet Singh." Pakistan says it has invited India to work out necessary Standard Operating procedure (SOP) for reopening of the Corridor. The operations at the corridor were suspended in March after India and Pakistan announced countrywide lockdown to deal with COVID crisis. In November 2018, India, Pakistan announced the establishment of a direct border-crossing linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, the final resting place of Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak, to Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district. Kartarpur is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the Ravi river, about four km from Dera Baba Nanak, India. After three meetings between Indian and Pakistani officials in March, July, September of 2019 to decide the modalities the corridor was inaugurated in November 2019 on the occasion of 550th Birth Anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak.

Kartarpur corridor reopening: Pak going against bilateral commitments, creating mirage of goodwill, says India

Just a couple of days after the cabinet decision to allow reform in India’s Space sector and the briefing by the ISRO Chairman, many Indian start-ups have expressed interest in participating in space-based activities, said ISRO Chairman DR. K. Sivan. He added that&nbsp;so far there were no requests from the big players, but he was hoping to get some proposals from them.&nbsp;

Addressing journalists over a virtual press conference, Dr. Sivan said that ISRO roughly had a 3 per cent share of the $350USD global space economy. He shared a split-up of the global space economy, saying that 48&nbsp;per cent of the share went to ground equipment, 45 per cent to space applications, whereas launch vehicles and satellites comprised of only 2 per cent&nbsp;and 5 per cent respectively.&nbsp;

“Under the present situation, ISRO has reached its limit on providing our services due to manpower limitations and we can’t scale up more than 3 per cent market share. That’s why we need private players to get involved and that will also boost market share when they diversify into many services,” Dr. Sivan told WION.&nbsp;

Presently, the Indian government funds projects (satellites and rocket launches), and ISRO executes these missions and owns the satellites. ISRO’s space-based services and transponders are then leased to private companies for DTH and other broadcast and&nbsp;communication purposes. However,&nbsp;the new reforms are aimed at allowing private companies to build their own satellite, launch it and also earn more revenue from leasing and its end-to-end operations.&nbsp;

Given that there are various upcoming big-ticket missions such as Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan-3, SSLV, Aditya L1 etc., he said that there could be a clear picture on when these missions could be completed&nbsp;after the lockdown and COVID-19 situation improves.&nbsp;

“All out projects are affected due to lockdown. Design and development is under our control and happens within ISRO centers with minimal staff as per local restrictions. But the manufacturing happens across 500 big, small and medium industries across India. Due to the current situation, manufacturing activities are not taking place and hardware cannot be supplied to us. Even our scientists can't travel across India due to the restrictions. A true impact assessment will be available only after normalcy resumes,” he said.&nbsp;

On the aspect of private participation in current missions, Dr. Sivan said that the private players can develop certain technologies for the Human Spaceflight programme and the future missions by seeking details and applying on the ISRO website.&nbsp;

When asked about India’s second spaceport that is getting ready at Kulasekarapattinam in southern state Tamil Nadu, he said that it would be similar to the existing one at Sriharikota, but the location of the second launchpad offered advantages for polar launches. Currently, the land acquisition process is happening for the second launch pad and the acquired land is to be handed over to the Department of Space.&nbsp;

“Sriharikota launch pads are ideal for Eastward launches, but are not so ideal for southward launches for Polar (PSLV, SSLV Missions). When we launch southwards from Sriharikota, there is a landmass below, and also further down south we have Sri Lanka. Usually, we launch polar missions towards the south-east, then negotiate Sri Lankan landmass and then proceed further south. This leads to more fuel being spent for the maneuver and it affects the payload capacity of small rockets. But from the Kulasekarapattinam launchpad, we can directly launch southwards,"&nbsp;Dr. Sivan explained.&nbsp;

Regarding the newly announced vertical called INSPACe, under the Deportment of Space, he said that they aimed to have a technical person (scientist) as its head, rather than a bureaucrat. INSPACe is meant to enable private players to participate in end-trend space activities by coordinating with them, conducting assessments and providing necessary approvals.&nbsp;

Just a couple of days after the cabinet decision to allow reform in India’s Space sector and the briefing by the ISRO Chairman, many Indian start-ups have expressed interest in participating in space-based activities, said ISRO Chairman DR.

Just a couple of days after the cabinet decision to allow reform in India’s Space sector and the briefing by the ISRO Chairman, many Indian start-ups have expressed interest in participating in space-based activities, said ISRO Chairman DR. K. Sivan. He added that so far there were no requests from the big players, but he was hoping to get some proposals from them. Addressing journalists over a virtual press conference, Dr. Sivan said that ISRO roughly had a 3 per cent share of the $350USD global space economy. He shared a split-up of the global space economy, saying that 48 per cent of the share went to ground equipment, 45 per cent to space applications, whereas launch vehicles and satellites comprised of only 2 per cent and 5 per cent respectively. “Under the present situation, ISRO has reached its limit on providing our services due to manpower limitations and we can’t scale up more than 3 per cent market share. That’s why we need private players to get involved and that will also boost market share when they diversify into many services,” Dr. Sivan told WION. Presently, the Indian government funds projects (satellites and rocket launches), and ISRO executes these missions and owns the satellites. ISRO’s space-based services and transponders are then leased to private companies for DTH and other broadcast and communication purposes. However, the new reforms are aimed at allowing private companies to build their own satellite, launch it and also earn more revenue from leasing and its end-to-end operations. Given that there are various upcoming big-ticket missions such as Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan-3, SSLV, Aditya L1 etc., he said that there could be a clear picture on when these missions could be completed after the lockdown and COVID-19 situation improves. “All out projects are affected due to lockdown. Design and development is under our control and happens within ISRO centers with minimal staff as per local restrictions. But the manufacturing happens across 500 big, small and medium industries across India. Due to the current situation, manufacturing activities are not taking place and hardware cannot be supplied to us. Even our scientists can't travel across India due to the restrictions. A true impact assessment will be available only after normalcy resumes,” he said. On the aspect of private participation in current missions, Dr. Sivan said that the private players can develop certain technologies for the Human Spaceflight programme and the future missions by seeking details and applying on the ISRO website. When asked about India’s second spaceport that is getting ready at Kulasekarapattinam in southern state Tamil Nadu, he said that it would be similar to the existing one at Sriharikota, but the location of the second launchpad offered advantages for polar launches. Currently, the land acquisition process is happening for the second launch pad and the acquired land is to be handed over to the Department of Space. “Sriharikota launch pads are ideal for Eastward launches, but are not so ideal for southward launches for Polar (PSLV, SSLV Missions). When we launch southwards from Sriharikota, there is a landmass below, and also further down south we have Sri Lanka. Usually, we launch polar missions towards the south-east, then negotiate Sri Lankan landmass and then proceed further south. This leads to more fuel being spent for the maneuver and it affects the payload capacity of small rockets. But from the Kulasekarapattinam launchpad, we can directly launch southwards," Dr. Sivan explained. Regarding the newly announced vertical called INSPACe, under the Deportment of Space, he said that they aimed to have a technical person (scientist) as its head, rather than a bureaucrat. INSPACe is meant to enable private players to participate in end-trend space activities by coordinating with them, conducting assessments and providing necessary approvals.

Indian start-ups sent requests after private sector allowed in space: ISRO

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday said Delhi conducted the highest number of COVID-19 tests in a single day on Friday and added, 20000 tests are being conducted daily.

"Delhi conducted highest no of tests in a singly day yesterday- 21,144. We have increased testing 4 times. Delhi now following strategy of very aggressive testing and isolation," Kejriwal tweeted.

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We have bought 4000 oxygen concentrators for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> patients: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal <a href="https://t.co/Md19aE4pXv">https://t.co/Md19aE4pXv</a>
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He also said that the Delhi government has bought 4000 oxygen concentrators for COVID-19 patients, he said in a press briefing.&nbsp;

''In the last one week, the number of beds has increased significantly. There are 13500 beds present in Delhi now, of which 6500 are occupied,'' he said.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday said Delhi conducted the highest number of COVID-19 tests in a single day on Friday and added, 20000 tests are being conducted daily.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday said Delhi conducted the highest number of COVID-19 tests in a single day on Friday and added, 20000 tests are being conducted daily. "Delhi conducted highest no of tests in a singly day yesterday- 21,144. We have increased testing 4 times. Delhi now following strategy of very aggressive testing and isolation," Kejriwal tweeted. We have bought 4000 oxygen concentrators for #COVID19 patients: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal https://t.co/Md19aE4pXv — ANI (@ANI) June 27, 2020 × He also said that the Delhi government has bought 4000 oxygen concentrators for COVID-19 patients, he said in a press briefing. ''In the last one week, the number of beds has increased significantly. There are 13500 beds present in Delhi now, of which 6500 are occupied,'' he said.

Delhi following 'very aggressive' COVID-19 testing, conducted highest number of tests on June 26: Kejriwal

A haunting photograph of a minor who died in Kashmir was beamed across TV screens. Are disturbing pictures the only way to tell a story? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you some food for thought.

Gravitas: Food for Thought: Should the suffering of children be shown on TV?

WION Global Editors Summit: 'Pandemic has shown the world real value of journalism',Alexandru Giboi As the frontline comes to the Newsroom, European Alliance of news agencies' Alexandru Giboi tells WION's Palki that the pandemic has shown the world the real value of journalism.

WION Global Editors Summit: 'Pandemic has shown the world real value of journalism', Alexandru Giboi

Intelligence alarm bells have rung after more than 200 youth from Jammu and Kashmir with Pakistani visa have been found missing with authorities fearing that Pakistan has been trying to train them to create trouble in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan&nbsp;high commission since January 2017 has given Pakistani visas to 399 youth from J&amp;K, of which whereabouts of 218 are unknown.

Intel sources told WION, "Pakistan has been targeting the youth from J&amp;K by training, equipping and arming them to carry out terrorist attacks in J&amp;K" on the lines of Pulwama attack of 14th February 2019. While Pakistan has been training youth from the Union territory for terror attacks but later claiming that they are ‘local resistance fighters’.&nbsp;

India had thwarted many incidents in the past few months with terrorists who had infiltrated back going to Pakistan on the visa issued by the mission in Delhi.

Security forces had neutralised five&nbsp;terrorists on April 5. Among the five terrorists eliminated -- three, Adil Hussain Mir, Umar Nazir Khan and Sajjad Ahmed Hurrah were from J&amp;K and had travelled to Pakistan in April 2018 on visa issued by the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi.

India earlier this week had announced that it will reduce the staff strength of Pakistan Hgh commission in New Delhi by 50 per cent&nbsp;since it was "engaged in acts of espionage" and "maintained dealings with terrorist organisations".

In case of apprehension of DSP, J&amp;K Police Devender Singh along with Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists -- Naveed Babu and Asif Ahmad the NIA in its investigation found one assistant at Pakistan high commission Shafaqat was in touch with them and was the main conduit for hawala transactions.

In another case, name of Mudassar Iqbal Cheema, the First Secretary Press at the Pakistani mission came up during NIA investigation in the J&amp;K terror funding case.

Cheema, who was at the mission from September 2015 to November 2016, had given Zahoor Ahmad Shah Watali, the main accused in the case Rs 70 lacs in 2 instalments. Watali was the main conduit to send money to Hurriyat leaders from the Pakistani high commission.

Pakistani officials have also been found in espionage activity. On 31st May, 2 Pakistani high commission officials were caught red-handed trying to indulge in espionage activity in the heart of Delhi in Karol Bagh. Both were expelled within 24 hours. WION was the first channel to break that story.

Intelligence alarm bells have rung after more than 200 youth from Jammu and Kashmir with Pakistani visa have been found missing with authorities fearing that Pakistan has been trying to train them to create trouble in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Intelligence alarm bells have rung after more than 200 youth from Jammu and Kashmir with Pakistani visa have been found missing with authorities fearing that Pakistan has been trying to train them to create trouble in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan high commission since January 2017 has given Pakistani visas to 399 youth from J&K, of which whereabouts of 218 are unknown. Intel sources told WION, "Pakistan has been targeting the youth from J&K by training, equipping and arming them to carry out terrorist attacks in J&K" on the lines of Pulwama attack of 14th February 2019. While Pakistan has been training youth from the Union territory for terror attacks but later claiming that they are ‘local resistance fighters’. India had thwarted many incidents in the past few months with terrorists who had infiltrated back going to Pakistan on the visa issued by the mission in Delhi. Security forces had neutralised five terrorists on April 5. Among the five terrorists eliminated -- three, Adil Hussain Mir, Umar Nazir Khan and Sajjad Ahmed Hurrah were from J&K and had travelled to Pakistan in April 2018 on visa issued by the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. India earlier this week had announced that it will reduce the staff strength of Pakistan Hgh commission in New Delhi by 50 per cent since it was "engaged in acts of espionage" and "maintained dealings with terrorist organisations". In case of apprehension of DSP, J&K Police Devender Singh along with Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists -- Naveed Babu and Asif Ahmad the NIA in its investigation found one assistant at Pakistan high commission Shafaqat was in touch with them and was the main conduit for hawala transactions. In another case, name of Mudassar Iqbal Cheema, the First Secretary Press at the Pakistani mission came up during NIA investigation in the J&K terror funding case. Cheema, who was at the mission from September 2015 to November 2016, had given Zahoor Ahmad Shah Watali, the main accused in the case Rs 70 lacs in 2 instalments. Watali was the main conduit to send money to Hurriyat leaders from the Pakistani high commission. Pakistani officials have also been found in espionage activity. On 31st May, 2 Pakistani high commission officials were caught red-handed trying to indulge in espionage activity in the heart of Delhi in Karol Bagh. Both were expelled within 24 hours. WION was the first channel to break that story.

Over 200 missing youth with Pakistan visa alarm Indian intelligence

J&amp;K cadre IAS officer Navin Choudhary from Bihar has been granted domicile certificate of Jammu and Kashmir.

Choudhary, a senior IAS officer has served in IT, finance and tourism departments in Jammu &amp; Kashmir

Reports say the government given has given domicile certificates to 25,000 people to reside&nbsp;in J&amp;K.

Before the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35-A on August 5, 2019, only state subjects were allowed to buy land and apply for government jobs. Last month the government had allowed non-locals to register for domicile certificates.

The government year had revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir by abrogating Article 370 and had bifurcated the region into two Union Territories, Jammu and Kashmir&nbsp;and Ladakh. 
&nbsp;

J&K cadre IAS officer Navin Choudhary from Bihar has been granted domicile certificate of Jammu and Kashmir. Choudhary, a senior IAS officer has served in IT, finance and tourism departments in Jammu & Kashmir Reports say the government given has given domicile certificates to 25,000 people to reside in J&K.

J&K cadre IAS officer Navin Choudhary from Bihar has been granted domicile certificate of Jammu and Kashmir. Choudhary, a senior IAS officer has served in IT, finance and tourism departments in Jammu & Kashmir Reports say the government given has given domicile certificates to 25,000 people to reside in J&K. Before the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35-A on August 5, 2019, only state subjects were allowed to buy land and apply for government jobs. Last month the government had allowed non-locals to register for domicile certificates. The government year had revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir by abrogating Article 370 and had bifurcated the region into two Union Territories, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

IAS officer Navin Choudhary granted domicile certificate to reside in J&K

Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had imposed Emergency in India forty-four years ago on June 25, 1975.

The move threw India's democratic polity completely out of gear as several Opposition leaders were arrested and draconian measures undertaken to stifle free speech and press. The Emergency lasted for 21 months from June 25 to March 21, 1977.

The Emergency was imposed after India's President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed issued orders under Article 352(1) of the Indian constitution plunging the country into what is now known as the "darkest period" in post-Independent India. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Under the powers of the emergency law, Indira Gandhi had given herself extraordinary powers to arrest opposition leaders. There is an interesting story about George Fernandes, who later went on to become India's Defence minister.

He was living underground, trying to escape a police encounter. His socialist friends had made a plan to call BBC'S correspondent in Mark Tully. In case the police came knocking.

True to their suspicions — it happened and they called Mark Tully, and the BBC flashed the news.

Many believe that may have saved George Fernandes' life. Finally — in January 1977 — Indira Gandhi called for fresh elections and released all political prisoners. That was two months before the emergency was lifted.

The opposition warned Indians and said it's the last chance to choose between democracy and dictatorship. In the elections — both Indira Gandhi and her son Sanjay Gandhi lost their seats.

Morarji Desai became the first non-Congress Prime Minister of India and he amended the Indian constitution making it impossible for any government in the future to clamp emergency.

Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had imposed Emergency in India forty-four years ago on June 25, 1975. The move threw India's democratic polity completely out of gear as several Opposition leaders were arrested and draconian measures undertaken to stifle free speech and press.

Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had imposed Emergency in India forty-four years ago on June 25, 1975. The move threw India's democratic polity completely out of gear as several Opposition leaders were arrested and draconian measures undertaken to stifle free speech and press. The Emergency lasted for 21 months from June 25 to March 21, 1977. The Emergency was imposed after India's President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed issued orders under Article 352(1) of the Indian constitution plunging the country into what is now known as the "darkest period" in post-Independent India. Under the powers of the emergency law, Indira Gandhi had given herself extraordinary powers to arrest opposition leaders. There is an interesting story about George Fernandes, who later went on to become India's Defence minister. He was living underground, trying to escape a police encounter. His socialist friends had made a plan to call BBC'S correspondent in Mark Tully. In case the police came knocking. True to their suspicions — it happened and they called Mark Tully, and the BBC flashed the news. Many believe that may have saved George Fernandes' life. Finally — in January 1977 — Indira Gandhi called for fresh elections and released all political prisoners. That was two months before the emergency was lifted. The opposition warned Indians and said it's the last chance to choose between democracy and dictatorship. In the elections — both Indira Gandhi and her son Sanjay Gandhi lost their seats. Morarji Desai became the first non-Congress Prime Minister of India and he amended the Indian constitution making it impossible for any government in the future to clamp emergency.

Revisiting the Emergency: When Iron Lady's dark move galvanized the Opposition

On Thursday morning, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched&nbsp;"Atma Nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rojgar Abhiyan" through a video conference, along with the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.&nbsp;

The programme has been launched with the aim of helping 1.25 crore migrant workers who have lost their jobs due to the nationwide lockdown that was initiated to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttar-pradesh-yogi-adityanath-signs-mou-to-generate-11-lakh-jobs-301814">Also read|&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh: Yogi Adityanath signs MoU to generate 11 lakh jobs</a>

"During the COVID-19 crisis, the way the Prime Minister has shown the direction to the country and gave the message of 'Jaan bhi aur Jahaan bhi'&nbsp;is highly appreciable. Following a similar direction, Uttar Pradesh is working for the welfare of its labourers by providing them employment," said Yogi Adityanath.

"Over 35 lakh migrants returned to Uttar Pradesh and over 30 lakh migrant workers were also covered under skill mapping," he added.

The programme will create jobs for the displaced and unemployed migrants labourers, and also aims at establishing&nbsp;partnerships with industry and other organisations.

In order to generate employment with a thrust towards creating infrastructure in backward regions of the country, Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyan was launched on June 20.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Thursday morning, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched "Atma Nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rojgar Abhiyan" through a video conference, along with the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

On Thursday morning, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched "Atma Nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rojgar Abhiyan" through a video conference, along with the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The programme has been launched with the aim of helping 1.25 crore migrant workers who have lost their jobs due to the nationwide lockdown that was initiated to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. Also read| Uttar Pradesh: Yogi Adityanath signs MoU to generate 11 lakh jobs "During the COVID-19 crisis, the way the Prime Minister has shown the direction to the country and gave the message of 'Jaan bhi aur Jahaan bhi' is highly appreciable. Following a similar direction, Uttar Pradesh is working for the welfare of its labourers by providing them employment," said Yogi Adityanath. "Over 35 lakh migrants returned to Uttar Pradesh and over 30 lakh migrant workers were also covered under skill mapping," he added. The programme will create jobs for the displaced and unemployed migrants labourers, and also aims at establishing partnerships with industry and other organisations. In order to generate employment with a thrust towards creating infrastructure in backward regions of the country, Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyan was launched on June 20. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi launches 'Atma Nirbhar UP Rojgar Abhiyan'

Maharashtra on Friday registered 5,024 new coronavirus cases — highest in one day so far, taking the tally of cases in the state to 1, 52,765, while the number of fatalities reached 7,106 with 175 new deaths.

Maharashtra on Friday registered 5,024 new coronavirus cases — highest in one day so far, taking the tally of cases in the state to 1, 52,765, while the number of fatalities reached 7,106 with 175 new deaths. According to the state health department, Out of the total 175 deaths, 91 deaths are of last 48 hours, and 84 deaths are of previous dates but recorded today. Currently, there are 65,829 active cases in the state. Over 78,000 patients have recovered from the virus until now. Meanwhile, India recorded the highest daily spike of 17,926 new coronavirus cases and 407 deaths in the last 24 hours. Coronavirus cases in India stand at 4, 90,401 including 1, 89,463 active cases, 2, 85,637 cured/discharged/migrated and 15,301 deaths, as reported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The national capital Delhi is being compared to New York now as the state has crossed the 70,000 mark with 3,390 new positive cases, 64 deaths and 3,328 recoveries reported in Delhi in the last 24 hrs. The total number of positive cases in Delhi stands at 73,780, including 44,765 recovered/discharged cases and 2,429 deaths. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra reports over 5,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours; state's tally crosses 1.5 lakh 

CRPF soldier, child killed killed in a terrorist attack in J&K's Anantnag

Most special trains from migrant rich states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal towards cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Bangalore are scheduled to run on 100 per cent occupancy over the next four days, the Railways said Friday, adding that it was a sign of economic revival.

These three states together accounted for 81 per cent of the 4,594 Sharmik Special trains that have been operated so far since May 1.

In an online briefing on Friday, Railway Board Chairperson VK Yadav said the migrant workers who are returning to the cities are doing so in the regular trains that are being run by the Railways since June 1.

The railways is running 100 pairs of mail/express trains from June 1 and 15 pairs of air-conditioned trains on the Rajdhani routes.

"It is very encouraging to note that some of the trains which are moving in the reverse direction -- trains from UP to Mumbai, Bihar to Mumbai or UP to Gujarat or West Bengal to Gujarat showing the increase in occupancy day by day. This is an indicator that the economic situation is picking up. We are talking to state governments and in the coming week we will announce new special trains based on occupancy," said Yadav.

Most trains originating in Bihar and going towards Mumbai, Delhi and Ahmedabad have high occupancy, according to data provided by railways.

Among the trains from Bihar, the Muzaffarpur-Bandra terminal special has an occupancy of 115 per cent in the next four days, the Danapur-Secunderabad special has an occupancy of 121 per cent and the Muzzafarpur-Ahmedabad special train of 127 per cent.

Bihar was the destination state for 37 per cent of the total Shramik Special trains run so far, second only to UP which accounted for 38 per cent of these trains.

Similarly, Uttar Pradesh which has received 1,723 Shramik Special trains so far is also seeing migrant workers returning to their workplaces.

Trains like the Kushinagar Express from Gorakhpur to Mumbai has an occupancy rate of more than 100 per cent till June 30, the Avadh special train from Gorakhpur to Bandra terminal has an occupancy of 121 per cent and the Gorakhpur-Ahmedabad special has an occupancy of 121 per cent, again indicating that migration back to workplaces is underway.

West Bengal, another state with a high number of migrant workers, which has so far received 6 per cent or just 282 Shramik special trains so far, is also seeing people moving back to the workplace in other states.

Trains from Howrah to Delhi, Ahmedabad, Jodhpur, Secunderabad are all running on full occupancy, according to the data.

Lakhs of workers had left cities, many on foot, during the lockdown which was enforced from March 25 to fight the coronavirus crisis.

Many died on the way, and those who survived were left jobless and without any resources to return home.

It was on May 1 that the government allowed the Railways to run the Shramik Special trains which are still in service.

So far, the Railways has ferried more than 62 lakh migrant workers home.

As of June 26, Yadav said out of the 230 special trains in service 43 trains had 75-100 per cent occupancy, 27 trains had 50-75 per cent occupancy and 78 trains had occupancy of 100 per cent of more.

Most special trains from migrant rich states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal towards cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Bangalore are scheduled to run on 100 per cent occupancy over the next four days, the Railways said Friday, adding that it was a sign of economic revival.

Most special trains from migrant rich states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal towards cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Bangalore are scheduled to run on 100 per cent occupancy over the next four days, the Railways said Friday, adding that it was a sign of economic revival. These three states together accounted for 81 per cent of the 4,594 Sharmik Special trains that have been operated so far since May 1. In an online briefing on Friday, Railway Board Chairperson VK Yadav said the migrant workers who are returning to the cities are doing so in the regular trains that are being run by the Railways since June 1. The railways is running 100 pairs of mail/express trains from June 1 and 15 pairs of air-conditioned trains on the Rajdhani routes. "It is very encouraging to note that some of the trains which are moving in the reverse direction -- trains from UP to Mumbai, Bihar to Mumbai or UP to Gujarat or West Bengal to Gujarat showing the increase in occupancy day by day. This is an indicator that the economic situation is picking up. We are talking to state governments and in the coming week we will announce new special trains based on occupancy," said Yadav. Most trains originating in Bihar and going towards Mumbai, Delhi and Ahmedabad have high occupancy, according to data provided by railways. Among the trains from Bihar, the Muzaffarpur-Bandra terminal special has an occupancy of 115 per cent in the next four days, the Danapur-Secunderabad special has an occupancy of 121 per cent and the Muzzafarpur-Ahmedabad special train of 127 per cent. Bihar was the destination state for 37 per cent of the total Shramik Special trains run so far, second only to UP which accounted for 38 per cent of these trains. Similarly, Uttar Pradesh which has received 1,723 Shramik Special trains so far is also seeing migrant workers returning to their workplaces. Trains like the Kushinagar Express from Gorakhpur to Mumbai has an occupancy rate of more than 100 per cent till June 30, the Avadh special train from Gorakhpur to Bandra terminal has an occupancy of 121 per cent and the Gorakhpur-Ahmedabad special has an occupancy of 121 per cent, again indicating that migration back to workplaces is underway. West Bengal, another state with a high number of migrant workers, which has so far received 6 per cent or just 282 Shramik special trains so far, is also seeing people moving back to the workplace in other states. Trains from Howrah to Delhi, Ahmedabad, Jodhpur, Secunderabad are all running on full occupancy, according to the data. Lakhs of workers had left cities, many on foot, during the lockdown which was enforced from March 25 to fight the coronavirus crisis. Many died on the way, and those who survived were left jobless and without any resources to return home. It was on May 1 that the government allowed the Railways to run the Shramik Special trains which are still in service. So far, the Railways has ferried more than 62 lakh migrant workers home. As of June 26, Yadav said out of the 230 special trains in service 43 trains had 75-100 per cent occupancy, 27 trains had 50-75 per cent occupancy and 78 trains had occupancy of 100 per cent of more.

Occupancy in trains from migrant heavy states to cities 100 per cent; signs of recovery: Railways

Amid reports of Bhutan stopping the supply of irrigation water to farmers in Assam and adjoining areas, the countries foreign affairs ministry clarified saying that "there is no reason why the flow of water should be stopped at this time".

No reason to stop flow of water to Assam, clarifies Bhutan

There is an exponential rise in the COVID-19 cases in India in the last five days. More than 490,400 people now have been infected with COVID-19 in India, while the COVID-19 death toll is over 15,300.

More than 490,400 COVID-19 cases in India, with over 15,300 deaths

Over 200 J&K youth missing with Pakistan visa

With the talks of disengagement along the LAC, India, and China have been holding diplomatic and military level talks constantly. Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said "Because of the massive build on the Chinese side, the situation took a serious turn on the LAC. The Chinese side must respect the sanity of the LAC, and respect border understanding in order to reduce tensions."

India-China standoff: Indian MEA on border row with China

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