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India's envoy to Morocco Shambhu S. Kumaran has said that the COVID pandemic reinforced India's image as a responsible international stakeholder and its ability to support countries in Africa. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Rabat, Ambassador Shambhu S. Kumaran said India has sent 6 million units of HCQ to the North African country and has offered training of Morrocans under its eITEC program. 140 Indians have registered for repatriation from the country.

WION exclusive conversation with Indian envoy to Morroco Shambhu S. Kumaran on COVID-19 crisis

Cyclone Amphan news- Cyclone Amphan LIVE Updates, Super cyclone likely to reach near Kolkata,Live on Cyclone, cyclonic storm to make landfall near Sunderbans

Cyclone Amphan Live: 2 dead as cyclone crosses near Sunderbans in West Bengal coast

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday to control the spread of COVID-19, the safety of country’s corona warriors must be ensured. Speaking at the launch of ‘Chikitsa Setu’ app, Adityanath said the smartphone application is user friendly and practical and designed to spread awareness about the deadly virus.

“Spread of coronavirus can be controlled through awareness and corona warriors have a major role in this. For breaking the corona chain, when they become infected and are sent in quarantine or isolation, the fight will get interrupted,” he said.

“In such a situation, we will have to protect the doctors, paramedical staff, nurses, ward boys, sweepers, police personnel working on the front line as corona warriors,” he added.

“We can defeat this invisible enemy by implementing processes in a transparent manner with full vigilance and caution,” he said further.

Stressing that due to lack of adequate training in dealing with the deadly virus, some hospitals are made to shut down.

“For such a situation, we have facilitated training through the app. If people want to get trained, then they can do so through this app. Training plays an important role in medication,” he said.

“We have to save ourselves first and then show the way to protect others from the infection,” he added.

He said efforts should be made to protect the app from cyber-attacks. “We have to remain careful about it. However, the corona chain has to be broken and we have to prepare ourselves for it. The ‘Chikitsa Setu app’ will help us in discharging our duties,” he said.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday to control the spread of COVID-19, the safety of country’s corona warriors must be ensured. Speaking at the launch of ‘Chikitsa Setu’ app, Adityanath said the smartphone application is user friendly and practical and designed to spread awareness about the deadly virus.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday to control the spread of COVID-19, the safety of country’s corona warriors must be ensured. Speaking at the launch of ‘Chikitsa Setu’ app, Adityanath said the smartphone application is user friendly and practical and designed to spread awareness about the deadly virus. “Spread of coronavirus can be controlled through awareness and corona warriors have a major role in this. For breaking the corona chain, when they become infected and are sent in quarantine or isolation, the fight will get interrupted,” he said. “In such a situation, we will have to protect the doctors, paramedical staff, nurses, ward boys, sweepers, police personnel working on the front line as corona warriors,” he added. “We can defeat this invisible enemy by implementing processes in a transparent manner with full vigilance and caution,” he said further. Stressing that due to lack of adequate training in dealing with the deadly virus, some hospitals are made to shut down. “For such a situation, we have facilitated training through the app. If people want to get trained, then they can do so through this app. Training plays an important role in medication,” he said. “We have to save ourselves first and then show the way to protect others from the infection,” he added. He said efforts should be made to protect the app from cyber-attacks. “We have to remain careful about it. However, the corona chain has to be broken and we have to prepare ourselves for it. The ‘Chikitsa Setu app’ will help us in discharging our duties,” he said.

Protect COVID-19 warriors to break virus chain, says CM Yogi Adityanath

India records the biggest surge in covid 19 cases in 24 hours. India is now the highest single day spike in covid 19 cases. Maharashtra, Delhi, Tamilnadu and Gujarat these four states are most effected by covid 19

India's daily surge in Covid 19 cases,Maharashtra,Delhi,Tamilnadu and Gujarat are worst

Fifty six days after operations came to a complete standstill the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) on Wednesday morning commenced its bus and water services.

The state government had cleared the operation of only intra district services, which is available between 7 to 11 a.m. and then again from 4 p.m. to 7 pm.&nbsp;

At all the depots police keep a strong vigil and ensure all maintain social distancing and use masks.

The strict guidelines include a maximum number of passengers of 24 to 28 depending on the seating capacity of a bus, and no standing passengers are allowed.

The KSRTC has been operating special services since May 11 for employees of the State Secretariat from the city depots in the capital district.

The fares have been increased by 50 per cent and this increased fare is applicable to all including those having concessions.

According to the KSRTC on Wednesday around 1,850 buses will be on the roads across the state.

However, the private sector has opposed the 50 per cent increase in the fare. They have decided not be operate and hence the private buses continue to be off the road.

&nbsp;

Fifty six days after operations came to a complete standstill the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) on Wednesday morning commenced its bus and water services.

Fifty six days after operations came to a complete standstill the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) on Wednesday morning commenced its bus and water services. The state government had cleared the operation of only intra district services, which is available between 7 to 11 a.m. and then again from 4 p.m. to 7 pm. At all the depots police keep a strong vigil and ensure all maintain social distancing and use masks. The strict guidelines include a maximum number of passengers of 24 to 28 depending on the seating capacity of a bus, and no standing passengers are allowed. The KSRTC has been operating special services since May 11 for employees of the State Secretariat from the city depots in the capital district. The fares have been increased by 50 per cent and this increased fare is applicable to all including those having concessions. According to the KSRTC on Wednesday around 1,850 buses will be on the roads across the state. However, the private sector has opposed the 50 per cent increase in the fare. They have decided not be operate and hence the private buses continue to be off the road.

Bus service begins in Kerala with restricted time schedule

The Indian Railways has decided to expand their train services from 15 passenger trains to more than 200 from June 1 and online booking for these trains will begin on May 21.&nbsp;

In a tweet by the Railways, it said, "200 additional timetable trains daily from June 1, which will be non-air conditioned second class trains and booking of these trains will be available online". &nbsp;

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Indian Railways will start operations of 200 passenger train services. These trains shall run from 1st June and booking of all these trains will commence from 10 am on 21st May: Government of India
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This decision has come days after India decided to extend their lockdown till May 31. According to ANI, details of the trains have been listed by the ministry.&nbsp;

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Indian Railways has released the list of the 200 trains which will be operated from 1st June: Government of India <a href="https://t.co/U1SmC4Bn8C">pic.twitter.com/U1SmC4Bn8C</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1263156328844808192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Since May 12, fifteen&nbsp;trains are currently&nbsp;running on the tracks. These are air-conditioned trains and the passengers are required to maintain rules of social distancing and use masks and sanitisers.

Earlier, India's civil aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that domestic aviation operations will recommence in the country in a "calibrated manner" from May 25.

"All airports and air carriers are being informed to be ready for operations from May 25," the aviation minister said.&nbsp;

The Indian Railways has decided to expand their train services from 15 passenger trains to more than 200 from June 1 and online booking for these trains will begin on May 21.

The Indian Railways has decided to expand their train services from 15 passenger trains to more than 200 from June 1 and online booking for these trains will begin on May 21. In a tweet by the Railways, it said, "200 additional timetable trains daily from June 1, which will be non-air conditioned second class trains and booking of these trains will be available online". Indian Railways will start operations of 200 passenger train services. These trains shall run from 1st June and booking of all these trains will commence from 10 am on 21st May: Government of India — ANI (@ANI) May 20, 2020 × This decision has come days after India decided to extend their lockdown till May 31. According to ANI, details of the trains have been listed by the ministry. Indian Railways has released the list of the 200 trains which will be operated from 1st June: Government of India pic.twitter.com/U1SmC4Bn8C — ANI (@ANI) May 20, 2020 × Since May 12, fifteen trains are currently running on the tracks. These are air-conditioned trains and the passengers are required to maintain rules of social distancing and use masks and sanitisers. Earlier, India's civil aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that domestic aviation operations will recommence in the country in a "calibrated manner" from May 25. "All airports and air carriers are being informed to be ready for operations from May 25," the aviation minister said.

Railways to resume 200 non-AC passenger trains from June 1

As cyclone '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-amphan-live-rain-lashes-odisha-west-bengal-one-person-drowns-in-bangladesh-as-landfall-process-begins-cyclone-amphan-news-update-20-05-2020-l299843">Amphan</a>' made landfall on Wednesday evening, authorities raised the alert level to "great danger" for some districts in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cyclones-before-amphan-that-wrecked-indias-coast-299747">In Pics:&nbsp;Cyclones before 'Amphan' that wrecked India's coast</a>

The cyclone uprooted electrical lines and devasted the coastal areas. The cyclone made landfall at 2:30pm between Digha in West Bengal and Hatiya island in Bangladesh. West Bengal officials said at least two people were killed due to the cyclone.

The cyclone crossed the Bangladesh coast around 5pm on Wednesday packing a wind speed of around 160 to 180kph rising to 200kph.

A Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRC) volunteer drowned on Wednesday when a boat capsized while evacuating villagers to safety.

Strong winds and rain also lashed Kolkata as the cyclone continued to its inward journey while the National Disaster Response Force said that 19 teams were deployed in coastal areas of West Bengal includig 39 self-contained rescue and relief teams in coastal areas of West Bengal and Odisha.

"Amphan crossed as a very severe cyclonic storm. While crossing its wind speed was 155-165 kmph gusting to 185 kmph. Now it's located 35 km northeast of Sagar island in West Bengal, 70 km south of Kolkata and 95 km east-northeast of Digha," the IMD said.

As cyclone 'Amphan' made landfall on Wednesday evening, authorities raised the alert level to "great danger" for some districts in the country. In Pics: Cyclones before 'Amphan' that wrecked India's coast The cyclone uprooted electrical lines and devasted the coastal areas.

As cyclone 'Amphan' made landfall on Wednesday evening, authorities raised the alert level to "great danger" for some districts in the country. In Pics: Cyclones before 'Amphan' that wrecked India's coast The cyclone uprooted electrical lines and devasted the coastal areas. The cyclone made landfall at 2:30pm between Digha in West Bengal and Hatiya island in Bangladesh. West Bengal officials said at least two people were killed due to the cyclone. The cyclone crossed the Bangladesh coast around 5pm on Wednesday packing a wind speed of around 160 to 180kph rising to 200kph. A Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRC) volunteer drowned on Wednesday when a boat capsized while evacuating villagers to safety. Strong winds and rain also lashed Kolkata as the cyclone continued to its inward journey while the National Disaster Response Force said that 19 teams were deployed in coastal areas of West Bengal includig 39 self-contained rescue and relief teams in coastal areas of West Bengal and Odisha. "Amphan crossed as a very severe cyclonic storm. While crossing its wind speed was 155-165 kmph gusting to 185 kmph. Now it's located 35 km northeast of Sagar island in West Bengal, 70 km south of Kolkata and 95 km east-northeast of Digha," the IMD said.

Cyclone Amphan makes landfall in West Bengal, devastates coastal areas

India has provided humanitarian aid Hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol tablets amidst the COVID crisis. Speaking exclusively to our &nbsp;Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Dushanbe, India's Ambassador Viraj Singh also talked about the repatriation of Indians, especially students and said, "At the moment, two Air India special flights have been scheduled from Dushanbe to Delhi on 27th and 28th May 2020." 1500 Indians, of which 1287 are students are in Tajikistan.&nbsp;

WION: How is the Indian mission reaching to stranded Indians in the country? Any plans of repatriation?

Viraj Singh: The size of Indian diaspora in Tajikistan is approximately 1500 people including 1287 Indian students pursuing medical education at Avicenna Tajik State Medical University (ATSMU), Dushanbe. The embassy is in constant touch with the Indian Diaspora and especially with the students. We are well aware of their concerns and have been rendering all possible assistance to them during this ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic. I have personally met the representative of Indian students studying in ATSMU and other responsible faces. The embassy has provided some medicines to be used by the Indian students if need be. &nbsp;Till date, all Indians are in good mental and physical health. As far as repatriation is concerned, you may be aware that the Government of India is facilitating the return of Indian nationals stranded abroad on compelling grounds in a phased manner. &nbsp;These evacuation flights are planned in a phased manner to ensure the safety of Indians abroad and in India. We have created a database of all Indians in Tajikistan willing to be repatriated to India. The same is being shared with the Ministry of External Affairs of India. At the moment, two Air India special flights have been scheduled from Dushanbe to Delhi on 27th and 28th May 2020. We expect some students to be evacuated on the same. It would take time to repatriate all the desiring Indian citizens from Tajikistan. We have requested the students and other Indians willing to be repatriated to exercise patience. They have been advised to take all necessary precautions and maintain social distancing, use masks, sanitizers and handwash frequently and avoid unnecessary travel. The SOP issued by Ministry of Home Affairs, to be adhered to by individuals before and after arrival in India has been shared with them, so, that they are prepared for the evacuation process.

WION: How are India and Tajikistan cooperating on COVID pandemic? EAM spoke to Tajik FM. Afghanistan was also mentioned by EAM in his tweet. 
 
Viraj Singh: Tajikistan is our extended neighbour and a strategic partner. Recently, India as a gesture of its support to the friendly people and the Government of Tajikistan provided Hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol tablets as humanitarian aid. On 06 May 2020, Hon’ble EAM Dr S. Jaishankar had a very warm and friendly conversation with the Tajik Foreign Minister, H.E. Mr Sirojiddin Muhriddin. They discussed medical cooperation in response to Covid19 challenge and reviewed various aspects of bilateral relations.

WION: Have we shared any Indian containment model or anything to learn from Tajikistan's containment model. 
 
Viraj Singh: The strategy of most of the governments across the world has been to contain the spread of the Covid19 and flatten the curve. In this aspect, India and Tajikistan have pretty much adopted a similar strategy. Tajikistan closed all its airports and land borders in March, approximately the same time when India also closed its airports and borders. All schools, colleges and universities have been shut down; promotion to next class based on scores obtained till now and online education is being promoted. Non-food markets remain shut. It is mandatory to wear a mask in public. The population of Tajikistan is 9.3 million and most of the country is mountainous. So, they have not gone for a complete lockdown as in India and some other countries. Ministry of External Affairs of India conducted a Webinar on 'Managing COVID 19 Pandemic- Experience and Best Practices of India' from April 27-May 1 2020 by PGIMER, Chandigarh under its India Technical and Educational Cooperation. The same was offered to all ITEC partner countries including Tajikistan. More than 90 delegates from various partner countries benefited from the same.

WION: How has the ground situation in Tajikistan changed, how have Indian diplomats faring? 
 
Viraj Singh: The Covid19 pandemic has impacted a large number of countries including Tajikistan. Markets and institutions are closed. All airports and borders are sealed. People are working from home. There is excessive pressure on the Health system and then there are Indian nationals who wish to be repatriated. At the moment, as Head of the Mission, the top two priorities for me is to ensure the safety of Mission’s staff, both Indians and locals and repatriation of Indians. We have taken several measures including a rotational system of working and working from home, exercising self-isolation if need be. Nobody ever imagined that Diplomacy would involve wearing masks and gloves and using hand sanitizers even at your office. A large part of the work is done telephonically and electronically. Gone are the days when face to face meetings using interpreters were frequent. This is where knowledge of the local language- Tajik and Russian- play an important role and Indian diplomats have been able to use their language skills effectively in times like these. Video conferences are the new normal and digitalization is the future. And I must say that our diplomats have stood up to these challenges and embraced digitalization fully. They are constantly upgrading and adjusting to this new mode of working. Ministry of External Affairs of India has always been at the forefront of using technology to reach out to people- home and abroad. We see the same trend continuing.

India has provided humanitarian aid Hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol tablets amidst the COVID crisis. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Dushanbe, India's Ambassador Viraj Singh also talked about the repatriation of Indians, especially students and said, "At the moment, two Air India special flights have been scheduled from Dushanbe to Delhi on 27th and 28th May 2020.

India has provided humanitarian aid Hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol tablets amidst the COVID crisis. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Dushanbe, India's Ambassador Viraj Singh also talked about the repatriation of Indians, especially students and said, "At the moment, two Air India special flights have been scheduled from Dushanbe to Delhi on 27th and 28th May 2020." 1500 Indians, of which 1287 are students are in Tajikistan. WION: How is the Indian mission reaching to stranded Indians in the country? Any plans of repatriation? Viraj Singh: The size of Indian diaspora in Tajikistan is approximately 1500 people including 1287 Indian students pursuing medical education at Avicenna Tajik State Medical University (ATSMU), Dushanbe. The embassy is in constant touch with the Indian Diaspora and especially with the students. We are well aware of their concerns and have been rendering all possible assistance to them during this ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic. I have personally met the representative of Indian students studying in ATSMU and other responsible faces. The embassy has provided some medicines to be used by the Indian students if need be. Till date, all Indians are in good mental and physical health. As far as repatriation is concerned, you may be aware that the Government of India is facilitating the return of Indian nationals stranded abroad on compelling grounds in a phased manner. These evacuation flights are planned in a phased manner to ensure the safety of Indians abroad and in India. We have created a database of all Indians in Tajikistan willing to be repatriated to India. The same is being shared with the Ministry of External Affairs of India. At the moment, two Air India special flights have been scheduled from Dushanbe to Delhi on 27th and 28th May 2020. We expect some students to be evacuated on the same. It would take time to repatriate all the desiring Indian citizens from Tajikistan. We have requested the students and other Indians willing to be repatriated to exercise patience. They have been advised to take all necessary precautions and maintain social distancing, use masks, sanitizers and handwash frequently and avoid unnecessary travel. The SOP issued by Ministry of Home Affairs, to be adhered to by individuals before and after arrival in India has been shared with them, so, that they are prepared for the evacuation process. WION: How are India and Tajikistan cooperating on COVID pandemic? EAM spoke to Tajik FM. Afghanistan was also mentioned by EAM in his tweet. Viraj Singh: Tajikistan is our extended neighbour and a strategic partner. Recently, India as a gesture of its support to the friendly people and the Government of Tajikistan provided Hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol tablets as humanitarian aid. On 06 May 2020, Hon’ble EAM Dr S. Jaishankar had a very warm and friendly conversation with the Tajik Foreign Minister, H.E. Mr Sirojiddin Muhriddin. They discussed medical cooperation in response to Covid19 challenge and reviewed various aspects of bilateral relations. WION: Have we shared any Indian containment model or anything to learn from Tajikistan's containment model. Viraj Singh: The strategy of most of the governments across the world has been to contain the spread of the Covid19 and flatten the curve. In this aspect, India and Tajikistan have pretty much adopted a similar strategy. Tajikistan closed all its airports and land borders in March, approximately the same time when India also closed its airports and borders. All schools, colleges and universities have been shut down; promotion to next class based on scores obtained till now and online education is being promoted. Non-food markets remain shut. It is mandatory to wear a mask in public. The population of Tajikistan is 9.3 million and most of the country is mountainous. So, they have not gone for a complete lockdown as in India and some other countries. Ministry of External Affairs of India conducted a Webinar on 'Managing COVID 19 Pandemic- Experience and Best Practices of India' from April 27-May 1 2020 by PGIMER, Chandigarh under its India Technical and Educational Cooperation. The same was offered to all ITEC partner countries including Tajikistan. More than 90 delegates from various partner countries benefited from the same. WION: How has the ground situation in Tajikistan changed, how have Indian diplomats faring? Viraj Singh: The Covid19 pandemic has impacted a large number of countries including Tajikistan. Markets and institutions are closed. All airports and borders are sealed. People are working from home. There is excessive pressure on the Health system and then there are Indian nationals who wish to be repatriated. At the moment, as Head of the Mission, the top two priorities for me is to ensure the safety of Mission’s staff, both Indians and locals and repatriation of Indians. We have taken several measures including a rotational system of working and working from home, exercising self-isolation if need be. Nobody ever imagined that Diplomacy would involve wearing masks and gloves and using hand sanitizers even at your office. A large part of the work is done telephonically and electronically. Gone are the days when face to face meetings using interpreters were frequent. This is where knowledge of the local language- Tajik and Russian- play an important role and Indian diplomats have been able to use their language skills effectively in times like these. Video conferences are the new normal and digitalization is the future. And I must say that our diplomats have stood up to these challenges and embraced digitalization fully. They are constantly upgrading and adjusting to this new mode of working. Ministry of External Affairs of India has always been at the forefront of using technology to reach out to people- home and abroad. We see the same trend continuing.

Covid-19: India provides aid to strategic partner Tajikistan

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

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

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

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

Cyclone Amphan has intensified into a super cyclone and is likely to make its landfall on May 20, according to the Indian Meteorological Department. Watch report.

Super cyclone Amphan to make landfall on May 20:  West Bengal, Odisha on high alert

India registered the highest single-day spike in COVID-19 cases with 5,611 in the past 24 hours, according to the latest data released by Union Health Ministry on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The COVID-19 toll climbed to 3,303 after 140 more patients succumbed to the viral infection as of Wednesday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-trying-to-shirk-responsibility-smearing-our-anti-virus-effort-china-on-trumps-attack-on-who-299644">Also Read: US trying to shirk responsibility, smearing our anti-virus effort, says China on Trump's attack</a>

In India, there are 61,149 coronavirus positive cases. So far 42,297 &nbsp;COVID 19 positive patients have recovered. As many as 3303 people have died due to the deadly virus and one has been migrated. The recovery rate in India is now over 38 per cent, as per details shared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.&nbsp;

The recovery rate in India is now over 38 per cent, as per details shared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.&nbsp;

Maharashtra, the most affected state, reported 2,100 fresh cases, taking its overall tally to 37,158. The tally of Delhi rose to 10,554, with 500 more cases being recorded. The national capital has allowed DTC buses to hit the road and all offices are permitted to resume work as usual.

Several other states have also ordered the reopening of markets, local transport and even salons in areas that are considered safe from coronavirus. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

India registered the highest single-day spike in COVID-19 cases with 5,611 in the past 24 hours, according to the latest data released by Union Health Ministry on Wednesday.

India registered the highest single-day spike in COVID-19 cases with 5,611 in the past 24 hours, according to the latest data released by Union Health Ministry on Wednesday. The COVID-19 toll climbed to 3,303 after 140 more patients succumbed to the viral infection as of Wednesday. Also Read: US trying to shirk responsibility, smearing our anti-virus effort, says China on Trump's attack In India, there are 61,149 coronavirus positive cases. So far 42,297 COVID 19 positive patients have recovered. As many as 3303 people have died due to the deadly virus and one has been migrated. The recovery rate in India is now over 38 per cent, as per details shared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The recovery rate in India is now over 38 per cent, as per details shared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Maharashtra, the most affected state, reported 2,100 fresh cases, taking its overall tally to 37,158. The tally of Delhi rose to 10,554, with 500 more cases being recorded. The national capital has allowed DTC buses to hit the road and all offices are permitted to resume work as usual. Several other states have also ordered the reopening of markets, local transport and even salons in areas that are considered safe from coronavirus. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: India records highest single-day spike with 5,611 new Covid-19 cases

As many as 1,19,075 people have been evacuated from 13 vulnerable districts of Odisha as Cyclone Amphan is expected to make landfall on Wednesday between Digha in West Bengal and Hatia Island in Bangladesh.

Due to the cyclone, rainfall and strong winds are expected to batter several districts of Odisha today. As many 1,704 shelter camps have been set up in anticipation of the super cyclone.&nbsp;

A maximum number of people were evacuated from Kendrapara, (32,060) followed by Bhadrak (26,174) and Balasore (23,142)."As the storm approaches, the fear of the storm is growing in people`s minds as time goes on. We are becoming more and more afraid of the wind.&nbsp;

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Cyclone Warning for West Bengal &amp; north Odisha coasts; red message to cross West Bengal-Bangladesh coasts between Digha (WB) &amp; Hatiya Islands (Bangladesh) close to Sundarbans during afternoon/evening of 20th May: India Meteorological Department <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Amphan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Amphan</a> <a href="https://t.co/YmQV6B3on9">pic.twitter.com/YmQV6B3on9</a>
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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that it will pass near Paradip by this afternoon. As a result, winds are expected in the northern coastal areas of Odisha, one of the locals told ANI.

"I stay at Bengali Sahi and have faced the 1999 Super Cyclone. When the administration announced that a similar cyclone is going to hit Odisha, we immediately fled from our shelter centres with our documents," said Panchanan Das, another local.&nbsp;

As per the latest update issued by the IMD, the 'extremely severe' cyclonic storm lay centred over northwest and adjoining the west-central Bay of Bengal, about 125 km south of Paradip in Odisha, 390 km south-southwest of Digha and 540 km south-southwest of Khepupara in Bangladesh.

As many as 1,19,075 people have been evacuated from 13 vulnerable districts of Odisha as Cyclone Amphan is expected to make landfall on Wednesday between Digha in West Bengal and Hatia Island in Bangladesh.

As many as 1,19,075 people have been evacuated from 13 vulnerable districts of Odisha as Cyclone Amphan is expected to make landfall on Wednesday between Digha in West Bengal and Hatia Island in Bangladesh. Due to the cyclone, rainfall and strong winds are expected to batter several districts of Odisha today. As many 1,704 shelter camps have been set up in anticipation of the super cyclone. A maximum number of people were evacuated from Kendrapara, (32,060) followed by Bhadrak (26,174) and Balasore (23,142)."As the storm approaches, the fear of the storm is growing in people`s minds as time goes on. We are becoming more and more afraid of the wind. Cyclone Warning for West Bengal & north Odisha coasts; red message to cross West Bengal-Bangladesh coasts between Digha (WB) & Hatiya Islands (Bangladesh) close to Sundarbans during afternoon/evening of 20th May: India Meteorological Department #Amphan pic.twitter.com/YmQV6B3on9 — ANI (@ANI) May 19, 2020 × The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that it will pass near Paradip by this afternoon. As a result, winds are expected in the northern coastal areas of Odisha, one of the locals told ANI. "I stay at Bengali Sahi and have faced the 1999 Super Cyclone. When the administration announced that a similar cyclone is going to hit Odisha, we immediately fled from our shelter centres with our documents," said Panchanan Das, another local. As per the latest update issued by the IMD, the 'extremely severe' cyclonic storm lay centred over northwest and adjoining the west-central Bay of Bengal, about 125 km south of Paradip in Odisha, 390 km south-southwest of Digha and 540 km south-southwest of Khepupara in Bangladesh.

Over 1 lakh evacuated in Odisha as cyclone Amphan hurtles towards Bengal coast

Millions of India's migrant workers are caught in the crossfire of systemic and political indifference. For them the last few weeks have been so tough about survival. Watch report.

The plight of Indian migrants workers: Battling hunger and poverty

Air India's flight from Thailand carrying Indian nationals is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi on Wednesday evening. This is the first special flight arranged by the Government of India to repatriate Indian nationals stranded in Thailand --&nbsp;due to the closure of international air travel in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic --&nbsp;as part of the Vande Bharat Mission.

The special flight departed from Suvarnabhumi International Airport, Bangkok, carrying 236 Indian nationals.

The Indian nationals were stranded in different parts of Thailandincluding Phuket, Krabi, Pattaya and Chiang Mai, besides Bangkok.&nbsp;

"Check-in of passengers for AI335 - Bkk - Del. First repatriation flight from Thailand to India. Embassy personnel led by HoC Pankaj Sharma help in the procedures and distribute food and water - with a smile!" the Indian Embassy in Thailand wrote on Twitter.

Earlier, the Indian mission team led by Attache Titus Eduri had arranged bus services to escort nationals stranded in Phuket and Pattaya, located 150 kilometres from Bangkok.

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Ambassador of India, HE SuchitraDurai, accompanied by Embassy officials, greeted and interacted with the passengers at the Suvarnabhumi airport before seeing them off.

<img alt="Vande Bharat Mission" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9b11345e-0dd6-4493-8a00-e299184d1bc5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202020-05-20%20at%2020.16.01.jpeg" />

On May 13, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri had said that the second phase of Vande Bharat from May 16 to 22 would include flights from Armenia, Australia, Belarus, Canada, France, Georgia, Germany, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, Nigeria, Russia, Tajikistan, Thailand and Ukraine.

"In 1st phase of Vande Bharat, we were to bring back 14,800 Indians on 64 flights. 8,500 Indians have already returned till this morning. More flights are underway. In the 2nd phase, the numbers are being doubled. 30,000 more Indians will return from 31 countries on 149 flights," he said.

Air India's flight from Thailand carrying Indian nationals is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi on Wednesday evening. This is the first special flight arranged by the Government of India to repatriate Indian nationals stranded in Thailand -- due to the closure of international air travel in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic -- as part of the Vande Bharat Mission.

Air India's flight from Thailand carrying Indian nationals is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi on Wednesday evening. This is the first special flight arranged by the Government of India to repatriate Indian nationals stranded in Thailand -- due to the closure of international air travel in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic -- as part of the Vande Bharat Mission. The special flight departed from Suvarnabhumi International Airport, Bangkok, carrying 236 Indian nationals. The Indian nationals were stranded in different parts of Thailandincluding Phuket, Krabi, Pattaya and Chiang Mai, besides Bangkok. "Check-in of passengers for AI335 - Bkk - Del. First repatriation flight from Thailand to India. Embassy personnel led by HoC Pankaj Sharma help in the procedures and distribute food and water - with a smile!" the Indian Embassy in Thailand wrote on Twitter. Earlier, the Indian mission team led by Attache Titus Eduri had arranged bus services to escort nationals stranded in Phuket and Pattaya, located 150 kilometres from Bangkok. Ambassador of India, HE SuchitraDurai, accompanied by Embassy officials, greeted and interacted with the passengers at the Suvarnabhumi airport before seeing them off. On May 13, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri had said that the second phase of Vande Bharat from May 16 to 22 would include flights from Armenia, Australia, Belarus, Canada, France, Georgia, Germany, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, Nigeria, Russia, Tajikistan, Thailand and Ukraine. "In 1st phase of Vande Bharat, we were to bring back 14,800 Indians on 64 flights. 8,500 Indians have already returned till this morning. More flights are underway. In the 2nd phase, the numbers are being doubled. 30,000 more Indians will return from 31 countries on 149 flights," he said.

Vande Bharat Mission: Air India's repatriation flight from Thailand to arrive in Delhi on Wednesday

Indian Railways will run 200 special passenger trains from June 1 in relief to people, especially in the country's small towns and cities, news agency PTI said quoting the national transporter on Tuesday.

These trains will have non-air conditioned second class sleeper coaches and will run daily.

"The fare of these trains will be minimal sleeper rates and can be availed by all categories of people," a railway official said.

They will be plied in addition to the Shramik Special and the air-conditioned special trains which are currently being operated on the Rajdhani routes connecting 15 major cities to Delhi.

All categories of passengers will be allowed to book tickets which will be available online.

"Indian Railways will run 200 non-AC trains daily as per the time table from June 1, whose online booking will start soon," tweeted Railway Minister Piyush Goyal.

While the railways is yet to state which routes these trains will run on, officials said they could cater to the smaller towns and cities. Earlier, the railways had cancelled all its regular passenger services till June 30.

"Efforts will be made such that they (migrants) will be able to board trains from Railway Station Head on mainline which is close to their existing location," the railways said.

"Within the next two days Indian Railways will double the number of Shramik Special Trains to 400 per day. All migrants are requested to stay where they are, Indian Railways will get them back home over the next few days,'' said Goyal.

(With inputs from PTI)

Indian Railways will run 200 special passenger trains from June 1 in relief to people, especially in the country's small towns and cities, news agency PTI said quoting the national transporter on Tuesday.

Indian Railways will run 200 special passenger trains from June 1 in relief to people, especially in the country's small towns and cities, news agency PTI said quoting the national transporter on Tuesday. These trains will have non-air conditioned second class sleeper coaches and will run daily. "The fare of these trains will be minimal sleeper rates and can be availed by all categories of people," a railway official said. They will be plied in addition to the Shramik Special and the air-conditioned special trains which are currently being operated on the Rajdhani routes connecting 15 major cities to Delhi. All categories of passengers will be allowed to book tickets which will be available online. "Indian Railways will run 200 non-AC trains daily as per the time table from June 1, whose online booking will start soon," tweeted Railway Minister Piyush Goyal. While the railways is yet to state which routes these trains will run on, officials said they could cater to the smaller towns and cities. Earlier, the railways had cancelled all its regular passenger services till June 30. "Efforts will be made such that they (migrants) will be able to board trains from Railway Station Head on mainline which is close to their existing location," the railways said. "Within the next two days Indian Railways will double the number of Shramik Special Trains to 400 per day. All migrants are requested to stay where they are, Indian Railways will get them back home over the next few days,'' said Goyal. (With inputs from PTI)

Railways to run 200 non-ac, second class passenger trains daily from June 1

India's emissions dropping by 26 per cent due to coronavirus-triggered lockdown, news agency PTI report said quoting a study. The lockdown has led to a steep fall in global carbon emissions by 17 per cent in early April as compared to 2019 levels, the report said quoting the study.

India's emissions dropping by 26 per cent due to coronavirus-triggered lockdown, news agency PTI report said quoting a study. The lockdown has led to a steep fall in global carbon emissions by 17 per cent in early April as compared to 2019 levels, the report said quoting the study. An international study published in the UK-based journal National Climate Change showed that the world experienced a sharp decline in carbon emissions between January and April, compared to average levels in 2019, and could decline anywhere between 4.4 per cent to 8 per cent by the end of this year. "That figure would mark the largest annual decrease in carbon emissions since World War II," researchers said Besides India, other countries like the UK and the US reduced 30.7 per cent and 31.6 per cent emissions, respectively. In China, the emissions reduced by 23.9 per cent, the study revealed. "The first peer-reviewed analysis of the drop in carbon emissions during the COVID-19 lockdown has shown that daily emissions decreased by 17 per cent or 17 million tonnes of carbon dioxide globally during the peak of the confinement on April 7, dropping to levels last observed in 2006. "Emissions from land transport accounted for almost half (43 per cent) of the decrease, while power generation accounted for 19 per cent, industry for 25 per cent and aviation for 10 per cent," it said. Lead author Professor Corinne Le Quéré of the University of East Anglia said, "Population confinement has led to drastic changes in energy use and CO2 emissions. These extreme decreases are likely to be temporary though, as they do not reflect structural changes in the economic, transport, or energy systems." (With inputs from PTI)

26 per cent drop in emissions in India due to COVID-19 lockdown: Study

Bhadrak in Odisha witnessed rainfall and strong winds ahead of cyclone Amphan which is expected to make landfall.&nbsp;

According to Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) cyclone Amphan will cross West Bengal-Bangladesh coasts between Digha (WB) and Hatiya Islands (Bangladesh) close to Sundarbans during the afternoon to evening hours of May 20.

"Cyclone Amphan over Bay of Bengal near latitude 18.4°N &amp; longitude 87.1°E, about 210 km nearly south of Paradip (Odisha). To cross West Bengal-Bangladesh coasts between Digha (WB)&amp; Hatiya Islands (Bangladesh) close to Sundarbans during the afternoon to evening hours of 20th May," tweeted IMD.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday spoke to Members of Parliament of areas that could be affected by Cyclone Amphan.

"He urged them to be in touch with the people of their areas proactively and guide them about the arrangements being made by the agencies concerned," read a Lok Sabha press release.

Meanwhile, nineteen&nbsp;teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed in West Bengal in view of the approaching cyclone Amphan.

"Six teams have been deployed in South 24 Parganas, four teams each in East Midnapore and Kolkata, three teams in North 24 Parganas and one team each in Hooghly and Howrah," Nishit Upadhyay, NDRF 2nd Battalion Commandant said.

Bhadrak in Odisha witnessed rainfall and strong winds ahead of cyclone Amphan which is expected to make landfall. According to Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) cyclone Amphan will cross West Bengal-Bangladesh coasts between Digha (WB) and Hatiya Islands (Bangladesh) close to Sundarbans during the afternoon to evening hours of May 20.

Bhadrak in Odisha witnessed rainfall and strong winds ahead of cyclone Amphan which is expected to make landfall. According to Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) cyclone Amphan will cross West Bengal-Bangladesh coasts between Digha (WB) and Hatiya Islands (Bangladesh) close to Sundarbans during the afternoon to evening hours of May 20. "Cyclone Amphan over Bay of Bengal near latitude 18.4°N & longitude 87.1°E, about 210 km nearly south of Paradip (Odisha). To cross West Bengal-Bangladesh coasts between Digha (WB)& Hatiya Islands (Bangladesh) close to Sundarbans during the afternoon to evening hours of 20th May," tweeted IMD. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday spoke to Members of Parliament of areas that could be affected by Cyclone Amphan. "He urged them to be in touch with the people of their areas proactively and guide them about the arrangements being made by the agencies concerned," read a Lok Sabha press release. Meanwhile, nineteen teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed in West Bengal in view of the approaching cyclone Amphan. "Six teams have been deployed in South 24 Parganas, four teams each in East Midnapore and Kolkata, three teams in North 24 Parganas and one team each in Hooghly and Howrah," Nishit Upadhyay, NDRF 2nd Battalion Commandant said.

Strong winds, rainfall hit Odisha's Bhadrak ahead of cyclone Amphan

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan is set to take charge as the chairman of the World Health Organization (WHO) Executive Board on May 22, news agency ANI reported quoting sources on Tuesday.

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan is set to take charge as the chairman of the World Health Organization (WHO) Executive Board on May 22, news agency ANI reported quoting sources on Tuesday. The Executive Board meeting of the WHO will be held on May 22. The Executive Board is composed of 34 technically qualified members elected for three-year terms. The chairman`s post is held by rotation for one year among regional groups. The main functions of the Board are to implement the decisions and policies of the Health Assembly and facilitate its work. Vardhan had on Monday participated in the 73rd World Health Assembly (WHA) via video conferencing. WHA is the decision-making body of the World Health Organisation. In his address, Health Minister had expressed his "deepest condolences" to loss of lives across the world due to COVID-19 and appreciated the efforts of frontline workers of the battle. "We, in India, undertook the COVID-19 challenge with the highest level of political commitment. Our Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, personally monitored the situation and ensured a pre-emptive, pro-active and graded response, leaving no stones unturned to contain the deadly virus from spreading," Harsh Vardhan said. "On our part, India is playing a key role in fostering bilateral and regional partnerships. Under our Prime Minister`s able leadership, India has supplied essential medicines to 123 nations as an expression of solidarity," he said. "I stand here to honour the doctors, the nurses, the paramedics, the scientists, the journalists, the delivery boys, security staff, sanitation staff and the police personnel - the forgotten roles who are today playing `superhumans`. They are our real heroes," he added.

Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan set to take charge as WHO Executive Board chairman

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that ‘Super cyclone’ Amphan has weakened into an extremely severe cyclonic storm as it approached closer to the coast of Odisha.

WION Dispatch: Cyclonic storm makes landfall in India's eastern coast

India's civil aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that domestic aviation operations will recommence in the country in a "calibrated manner"&nbsp;from May 25.

"All airports and air carriers are being informed to be ready for operations from May 25," the aviation minister said.

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Domestic civil aviation operations will recommence in a calibrated manner from Monday 25th May 2020. 
 
All airports &amp; air carriers are being informed to be ready for operations from 25th May. 
 
SOPs for passenger movement are also being separately issued by <a href="https://twitter.com/MoCA_GoI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoCA_GoI</a>.
— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1263068920690302977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The minister said that SOPs for passenger movement will be issued separately by the civil aviation ministry.

"Initially only a small percentage of the total number of domestic flights will operate. Then depending on the experience we gain, we will increase the number of flights," civil aviation ministry Hardeep Singh Puri.

Meanwhile, a repatriation flight carrying 168 seafarers from Italy landed in Goa today with all passengers set to be screened even as an Air India flight from London carrying 145 Indians landed at&nbsp;Vijayawada airport.

The Indian Navy said today that phase 3 of "Operation Samudra Setu"&nbsp;has begun with INS Jalashwa continuing with the mission to bring back Indian citizens stranded overseas.&nbsp;

Jalashwa will embark on getting Indian nationals from Colombo in Sri Lanka on June 20.

India's civil aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that domestic aviation operations will recommence in the country in a "calibrated manner" from May 25. "All airports and air carriers are being informed to be ready for operations from May 25," the aviation minister said.

India's civil aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that domestic aviation operations will recommence in the country in a "calibrated manner" from May 25. "All airports and air carriers are being informed to be ready for operations from May 25," the aviation minister said. Domestic civil aviation operations will recommence in a calibrated manner from Monday 25th May 2020. All airports & air carriers are being informed to be ready for operations from 25th May. SOPs for passenger movement are also being separately issued by @MoCA_GoI. — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) May 20, 2020 × The minister said that SOPs for passenger movement will be issued separately by the civil aviation ministry. "Initially only a small percentage of the total number of domestic flights will operate. Then depending on the experience we gain, we will increase the number of flights," civil aviation ministry Hardeep Singh Puri. Meanwhile, a repatriation flight carrying 168 seafarers from Italy landed in Goa today with all passengers set to be screened even as an Air India flight from London carrying 145 Indians landed at Vijayawada airport. The Indian Navy said today that phase 3 of "Operation Samudra Setu" has begun with INS Jalashwa continuing with the mission to bring back Indian citizens stranded overseas. Jalashwa will embark on getting Indian nationals from Colombo in Sri Lanka on June 20.

Domestic civil aviation operations to begin from May 25 in 'calibrated manner': Hardeep Singh Puri

Super cyclone Amphan barrels towards Bay of Bengal amid pandemic

India's health ministry said that 42,298 people have recovered from<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/protect-covid-19-warriors-to-break-virus-chain-says-cm-yogi-adityanath-299866"> coronavirus</a> and the number of active cases now stands at 61,149.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-india-records-highest-single-day-spike-with-5611-new-covid-19-cases-299806">Also Read:&nbsp;India records highest single-day spike with 5,611 new COVID-19 cases</a>

"If the total population of the world is taken into account then 62 people per lakh population have been affected with coronavirus. In India, 7.9 people per lakh population of this country got affected with the virus," India's health ministry official Lav Agarwal said.

"4.2 people per lakh population across the world have died due to virus, in India it is 0.2 deaths per lakh population," the health ministry official added.

The health ministry said that when the first lockdown started, the recovery rate at that stage&nbsp;was around 7.1 per cent, the recovery rate during second lockdown was 11.42 per cent, it then rose to 26.59 per cent. Now, the recovery rate is 39.62 per cent, the ministry&nbsp;said.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan reported 107 new cases of coronavirus with the total number of cases rising to 5,952 which includes 143 deaths.

In Delhi which has been badly hit by the virus, the number of coronavirus cases reached 11,088 with 534 more people testing positive in the last 24 hours.

The number of active COVID-19 cases in the capital has now reached 5,720. 176 people have died due the virus in Delhi. 
&nbsp; 
In Karnataka, 63 more coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases reaching 1,458, including 864 active cases. Forty-one people have died due to the virus in the state.&nbsp;

India's health ministry said that 42,298 people have recovered from coronavirus and the number of active cases now stands at 61,149. Also Read: India records highest single-day spike with 5,611 new COVID-19 cases "If the total population of the world is taken into account then 62 people per lakh population have been affected with coronavirus.

India's health ministry said that 42,298 people have recovered from coronavirus and the number of active cases now stands at 61,149. Also Read: India records highest single-day spike with 5,611 new COVID-19 cases "If the total population of the world is taken into account then 62 people per lakh population have been affected with coronavirus. In India, 7.9 people per lakh population of this country got affected with the virus," India's health ministry official Lav Agarwal said. "4.2 people per lakh population across the world have died due to virus, in India it is 0.2 deaths per lakh population," the health ministry official added. The health ministry said that when the first lockdown started, the recovery rate at that stage was around 7.1 per cent, the recovery rate during second lockdown was 11.42 per cent, it then rose to 26.59 per cent. Now, the recovery rate is 39.62 per cent, the ministry said. Meanwhile, Rajasthan reported 107 new cases of coronavirus with the total number of cases rising to 5,952 which includes 143 deaths. In Delhi which has been badly hit by the virus, the number of coronavirus cases reached 11,088 with 534 more people testing positive in the last 24 hours. The number of active COVID-19 cases in the capital has now reached 5,720. 176 people have died due the virus in Delhi. In Karnataka, 63 more coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases reaching 1,458, including 864 active cases. Forty-one people have died due to the virus in the state.

Over 42,000 people have recovered from the virus: Health ministry

The first of the 50 ventilators, out of 200 being donated by the United States will be arriving soon.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump in a tweet on May 16 had said: "I am proud to announce that the United States will donate ventilators to our friends in India. We stand with India and @narendramodi during this pandemic. We’re also cooperating on vaccine development. Together we will beat the invisible enemy!"

Both India and US have been helping out each other amid the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-provides-aid-to-strategic-partner-tajikistan-299840">COVID-19 </a>crisis. While New Delhi has been sending Hydroxychloroquine to Washington, USAID has announced $5.9 million in funding to combat COVID-19 in India.

"As President Trump recently announced, the US government is planning to donate ventilators to India – another example of our strong partnership during the COVID-19 pandemic", USAID Acting Director Ramona El Hamzaoui said.

New Delhi-Washington partnership has also been expanded to wider Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla had engaged with his counterparts from the United States, Australia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, and Vietnam in weekly telephonic conversations between March 20 and May 15 to share ideas and best practices.

The practice of weekly tele conversations was initiated by US deputy secretary of state Stephen Biegun.

The first of the 50 ventilators, out of 200 being donated by the United States will be arriving soon. US President Donald Trump in a tweet on May 16 had said: "I am proud to announce that the United States will donate ventilators to our friends in India.

The first of the 50 ventilators, out of 200 being donated by the United States will be arriving soon. US President Donald Trump in a tweet on May 16 had said: "I am proud to announce that the United States will donate ventilators to our friends in India. We stand with India and @narendramodi during this pandemic. We’re also cooperating on vaccine development. Together we will beat the invisible enemy!" Both India and US have been helping out each other amid the COVID-19 crisis. While New Delhi has been sending Hydroxychloroquine to Washington, USAID has announced $5.9 million in funding to combat COVID-19 in India. "As President Trump recently announced, the US government is planning to donate ventilators to India – another example of our strong partnership during the COVID-19 pandemic", USAID Acting Director Ramona El Hamzaoui said. New Delhi-Washington partnership has also been expanded to wider Indo-Pacific region. Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla had engaged with his counterparts from the United States, Australia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, and Vietnam in weekly telephonic conversations between March 20 and May 15 to share ideas and best practices. The practice of weekly tele conversations was initiated by US deputy secretary of state Stephen Biegun.

First of 50 ventilators donated by US to India to arrive soon

Around 500 personnel of the Kolkata Police Combat Force staged a protest in the city, alleging that they were being deployed in areas where chances of contracting COVID-19 are high, a senior official said on Wednesday.

The policemen demonstrated inside the Police Training School (PTS) complex on Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Road late on Tuesday, he said.

Sources said they gheraoed the vehicle of Deputy Commissioner of Police, Combat Battalion, Col Nevendera Singh Paul when he tried to initiate a dialogue with them, and allegedly vandalised his vehicle.

"We are being sent on duty in high-risk areas. There are several policemen who have been infected with the virus. This cannot go on," a police officer of the Combat Force told.

When contacted, a senior police officer of Kolkata Police said an investigation has been launched to ascertain the facts.

"An investigation is underway. There can be disappointment among the policemen regarding the duty schedule, but no acts of indiscipline will not be tolerated...," he said.

Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had visited the complex and assured the agitating police personnel of looking into their demands.

At least seven policemen have so far been infected by COVID-19 in West Bengal.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

Around 500 personnel of the Kolkata Police Combat Force staged a protest in the city, alleging that they were being deployed in areas where chances of contracting COVID-19 are high, a senior official said on Wednesday.

Around 500 personnel of the Kolkata Police Combat Force staged a protest in the city, alleging that they were being deployed in areas where chances of contracting COVID-19 are high, a senior official said on Wednesday. The policemen demonstrated inside the Police Training School (PTS) complex on Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Road late on Tuesday, he said. Sources said they gheraoed the vehicle of Deputy Commissioner of Police, Combat Battalion, Col Nevendera Singh Paul when he tried to initiate a dialogue with them, and allegedly vandalised his vehicle. "We are being sent on duty in high-risk areas. There are several policemen who have been infected with the virus. This cannot go on," a police officer of the Combat Force told. When contacted, a senior police officer of Kolkata Police said an investigation has been launched to ascertain the facts. "An investigation is underway. There can be disappointment among the policemen regarding the duty schedule, but no acts of indiscipline will not be tolerated...," he said. Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had visited the complex and assured the agitating police personnel of looking into their demands. At least seven policemen have so far been infected by COVID-19 in West Bengal. (With inputs from PTI)

Unhappy over deployment in COVID-19 containment zones, 500 police personnel stage protest in Kolkata

India's envoy to Portugal has lauded the "very courageous and very generous people" from the Indian Sikh community who "bravely" went to quarantine centres to deliver supplies to Indians quarantined.

India's envoy to Portugal has lauded the "very courageous and very generous people" from the Indian Sikh community who "bravely" went to quarantine centres to deliver supplies to Indians quarantined. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Lisbon, India's envoy to Portugal Nandini Singla said, "volunteers in the Indian community we were able to arrange free food and deliver food kit rations to more than 1800 stranded Indians". Hundred Indians were quarantined in the country and 55 Indians tested COVID-19 positive, all of whom have recovered. India is in the process of planning a special flight from Lisbon to Goa to bring back around 190 Indian seafarers stuck in a cruise liner. India has also sent 15 tonnes of protective items to Lisbon from Banglore, other than providing 2.5 million tablets of HCQ. WION: How have both the countries working together? Nandini Singla: Both India and Portugal have been cooperating very closely. In fact, our 2 PMs spoke on May 5 and Portuguese PM thanked our PM for repatriation of Portuguese Citizens. He also congratulated our PM for the success they had, even as a large and populous country in containing the Pandemic. Both PMs continued to work together and support each other. India, for instance, waved the export ban, on 2.5 million tablets of HCQ at Portugal's request. We also had 15 tons of protective items like gloves being flown in from Bangalore. As far as Portugal is concerned, the country's health service, the local authorities, the red cross, they have been outstanding in the support to the embassy in terms of taking care of Indians impacted by COVID, Indians who had to be quarantined in schools etc. They have been incredibly supportive and at a policy level, the Portuguese govt announced that all visas and work permits will be automatically extended till the end of June and every foreigner in Portugal will be treated by like Portuguese citizens in terms of health care and other facilities. This has been very welcome to many Indians whose visas have expired and they were anxious if they can go to a public hospital for treatment. Both countries are working very closely, and if I may add, we have also agreed to do joint research on COVID and we plan to anchor a youth hackathon on the theme of COVID. WION: How has the Indian mission reached out to stranded Indians? Nandini Singla: We have an Indian diaspora that is 1.2 lakh strong, it Includes economic migrants, people who work on agriculture farms, in the construction industry many such workers were left jobless because of the pandemic. Many of them didn't have food or shelter. We had stranded Indian students and seafarers, people who were on a cruise ship that is currently anchored in Lisbon. We had a large number of Indians here and with the support of the Gurudwaras, the Sikh community, the Indians diaspora, many volunteers in the Indian community we were able to arrange free food and deliver food kit rations to more than 1800 stranded Indians so far. We have also arranged shelter for those who needed, so all the Indians who were stranded or distressed are being fully taken care of and an important thing we realised, it is the importance of communication itself. Because we were getting many anxious questions and people calling and worried about when they can go back home, what health advice and precautions to follow and pleased to share with you since the pandemic began we have answered 3000 phone calls on 24/7 emergency helpline. We have responded to 2000 messages on emails, WhatsApp, Facebook and Twitter. Just last week, we have sent 1100 messages. We are also uploaded audiovisual messages because that is easy to connect especially with the workers who are in a different part of Portugal. We have given different advisories, reassuring words and messages to the diaspora here and happy to tell u, no casualties so far, although 55 Indians tested positive and they have all recovered. All Indians are healthy, thriving and doing well. WION: Any details on the repatriation? Nandini Singla: We have more than 250 people who have registered with the Indian embassy for repatriation. They want to go back to India and a large part of this is crewmen, seafarers who are on board a cruise liner ship. They are 191 of them and we got anxious calls from our seafarers that they do not have the mask, they were not sure about being tested, not having quarantine facilities. We reached out to the cruise ship company and they were very responsive and we now have wifi facility and Indian food being given to our seafarers who are on board the ship. They are happy and well taken care of but they want to go back to India. We are in touch with Indian authorities for a special flight from Lisbon to Goa because a lot of the seafarers are from Goa. Govt of Goa has expressed its willingness to receive them and we are waiting for scheduling for a special flight by Air India and we hope to have some good news soon. WION: Anything to learn from Portugal? How has been the ground situation? Nandini Singla: Portugal has been a success story as you may have heard. They have only about 1231 deaths as of today which is less than 1/5 of per capita mortality rate in the neighbouring country Spain. Less than 65 per cent of Portugal's hospital bed capacity has been used and the recovery rate, people recovering from infection has risen steeply signalling normalcy can be expected soon. So, Portugal is recovering very rapidly, and we have now the second phase of the easing of the lockdown which began on Monday. The 3rd phase will begin on June 1 if everything goes well. So the situation in Portugal is looking good, as far as best practices from Portugal, I think India and Portugal have adopted similar models based on science and empirical data. Both countries heeded early signs and took decisive steps to have the firm and timely lockdown measures. People of 2 countries also complied and both governments have announced generous economic packages to help the jobless and revive the economy. I would say both countries have followed similar tracks and they seem to be based on sensible best practices. As far as distinct things India can pick up, size and population of both countries is vastly different, I am not sure if it will be comparable in terms of the scale of the 2 countries. WION: How have the Indian diplomats been faring? Has it been tough? Nandini Singla: Even for Indian embassies and diplomats, this has been a time of adaption and change and we are very lucky that in Portugal some of us could work from home, some of us came to office. We made sure all services continued, for example, all consular services are being delivered by the embassy by post and in case of emergencies, it is delivered physically. We had a very generous pharma company, Generis which is a subsidiary of Aurobindo pharma, they came forward to provide masks and sanitizers at a time when they were not available in any pharmacy in Portugal. We are very grateful to them and with these masks and sanitizers we have been able to come to the embassy and we can work. Right now you are interviewing me in the embassy and we had a video conference with MEA earlier today. Work is not impacted and we are observing precautions, we are maintaining social distancing, we are observing all the rules and regulations laid by Portuguese govt. WION: How has the Indian community helped in the mission's efforts? Nandini Singla: I don't think, the embassy would have been able to reach out to needy Indians, the way it has, had it not been the Indian community. I would like to place on record, the special thanks to the Sikh community, and the Gurudwaras for doing a fantastic job of helping us reach food and essential supplies to people who needed them. In fact, while I mentioned 55 Indians tested positive, there were more than hundred who were quarantined by the local authorities in schools etc and these people had nothing with them, so the embassy had to supply things like footwear, Indian food, shampoo, stuff like that. No one was willing to go there because the place was quarantined. Very courageous and very generous people from the Indian community bravely went there and delivered the embassy supplies. It was 350 km away from Lisbon, the embassy was in no position to go there and I would like to salute these members of the Indian community and call them COVID-19 warriors who rose to the occasion and helped the Indian embassy in the time of need.

'Brave' Indian Sikh community members went to quarantine centers to deliver mission's supplies: Indian envoy to Portugal

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