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After fake tweets emerged attributing to the Taliban, the group has clarified that it Kashmir is India's internal matter and they don't support any Pakistani style "Ghazwa-E-Hind" or Holy war against India.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-govt-comes-to-indias-support-after-taliban-accused-new-delhi-of-supporting-traitors-299359">Afghan govt comes to India's support after Taliban accused New Delhi of supporting traitors</a>

In a tweet, Suhail Shaheen spokesperson Taliban Political Office, Doha said, "The statement that has been circulated in certain media regarding India does not belong to Islamic emirate. The policy of Islamic Emirate regarding neighbour states is very obvious that we don't interfere in the domestic issue of them"

Fake tweets attributing to Suhail Shaheen and Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid has been doing round saying "Friendship between Islamic Emirate and India is impossible" which further stated "Islamic Emirate will capture Kashmir from infidels. 
Clearly, the Taliban has refused to get into Pakistani propaganda on Kashmir and Muslims in India.&nbsp;

The group also sees a positive role for India for peace and reconstruction in Afghanistan.

Earlier this month speaking exclusively to WION from Doha, Suhail Shaheen said, "Based on our national interest and mutual respect, we would like to have positive relations with neighbouring countries including India and welcome their contribution and cooperation in the reconstruction of future Afghanistan."

He explained, "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is a national Islamic movement of Afghanistan which has been struggling for the emancipation of the country from occupation. We don’t have any agenda beyond our border. "

The comments come even as the United States is keen that New Delhi speaks to Taliban. US Special Representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad was in Delhi last week, the first such visit after the US Taliban deal on 29th February and had spoken about this with India.

Meanwhile, Spokesperson of Afghan foreign ministry Gran Hewad today lauded India's role in the country and said "India one of the biggest donor countries and has helped Afghanistan in development and reconstruction areas, we appreciate their cooperation."

Explaining that Afghan govt would like to India to play an important role Gran said, "We expect India and other neighbouring countries play a significant role in the Afghan peace process".

India is Afghanistan's major development partner and has built the India Afghanistan friendship dam in the western province of Herat and the Afghan Parliament in capital Kabul.

The development partnership is premised on five pillars Infrastructure, Capacity Building, Humanitarian Assistance, Economic Development &amp; Connectivity. New Delhi offers 500 Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) slots to Afghanistan annually for capacity building. 
&nbsp;

After fake tweets emerged attributing to the Taliban, the group has clarified that it Kashmir is India's internal matter and they don't support any Pakistani style "Ghazwa-E-Hind" or Holy war against India.

After fake tweets emerged attributing to the Taliban, the group has clarified that it Kashmir is India's internal matter and they don't support any Pakistani style "Ghazwa-E-Hind" or Holy war against India. Also read: Afghan govt comes to India's support after Taliban accused New Delhi of supporting traitors In a tweet, Suhail Shaheen spokesperson Taliban Political Office, Doha said, "The statement that has been circulated in certain media regarding India does not belong to Islamic emirate. The policy of Islamic Emirate regarding neighbour states is very obvious that we don't interfere in the domestic issue of them" Fake tweets attributing to Suhail Shaheen and Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid has been doing round saying "Friendship between Islamic Emirate and India is impossible" which further stated "Islamic Emirate will capture Kashmir from infidels. Clearly, the Taliban has refused to get into Pakistani propaganda on Kashmir and Muslims in India. The group also sees a positive role for India for peace and reconstruction in Afghanistan. Earlier this month speaking exclusively to WION from Doha, Suhail Shaheen said, "Based on our national interest and mutual respect, we would like to have positive relations with neighbouring countries including India and welcome their contribution and cooperation in the reconstruction of future Afghanistan." He explained, "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is a national Islamic movement of Afghanistan which has been struggling for the emancipation of the country from occupation. We don’t have any agenda beyond our border. " The comments come even as the United States is keen that New Delhi speaks to Taliban. US Special Representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad was in Delhi last week, the first such visit after the US Taliban deal on 29th February and had spoken about this with India. Meanwhile, Spokesperson of Afghan foreign ministry Gran Hewad today lauded India's role in the country and said "India one of the biggest donor countries and has helped Afghanistan in development and reconstruction areas, we appreciate their cooperation." Explaining that Afghan govt would like to India to play an important role Gran said, "We expect India and other neighbouring countries play a significant role in the Afghan peace process". India is Afghanistan's major development partner and has built the India Afghanistan friendship dam in the western province of Herat and the Afghan Parliament in capital Kabul. The development partnership is premised on five pillars Infrastructure, Capacity Building, Humanitarian Assistance, Economic Development & Connectivity. New Delhi offers 500 Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) slots to Afghanistan annually for capacity building.

Taliban acknowledges Kashmir internal matter of India after fake tweets

India's New High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay has said that Delhi will help Colombo to deal with the Economic Challenges precipitated by the COVID crisis and this " is going to be one of my very important tasks". Speaking exclusively to our principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Colombo, Envoy Gopal Baglay who presented his credentials last week via video conference said, "with vision and commitment Indian diplomacy is more than committed to adequately address the challenges posed" by the COVID situation. With 1200 Indian nationals registering for repatriation, he also talked about how the mission is reaching out to stranded Indian nationals in the country. This is the first interview of Gopal Baglay to any Indian channel since taking over as the new Indian high commissioner to Sri Lanka.

WION in an exclusive conversation with India's New High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay

A strong <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-always-transparent-about-coronavirus-says-president-xi-during-world-health-assembly-video-conference-299439">anti-China</a> sentiment in India clearly exists amid the coronavirus pandemic but diplomacy is not conducted on public sentiment -&nbsp;it is based on cold calculations and national interest.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nepal-cabinet-approves-controversial-map-claiming-indian-territory-299508">Also Read:&nbsp;Nepal cabinet approves controversial map claiming Indian territory</a>

The government has not spoken on record, however, India has sent a signal. It has supported the call for an investigation into the handling of the coronavirus outbreak. It is significant but this may not be enough. India should back Taiwan and join the global effort to corner China.&nbsp;

India needs to be tough on China, and the reason is China's mouthpiece&nbsp;the Global Times ran a report today. It says Chinese troops have "enhanced control measures" in the Galwan Valley in Ladakh around the disputed border.

Last week Chinese choppers were spotted close to the Indian border amid reports of Chinese troops setting up tents close to the Galwan river. Time after time, China has violated India's sovereignty, breached the country's borders and undermined territorial integrity.

China's state-run Global Times claimed that its India which is violating border agreements. China's unwarranted military aggression must be answered. In response, India must support Taiwan's return to the WHO as an observer.

There was a proposal to allow Taiwan to participate in the World Health Assembly which was turned down. The United States issued a statement slamming the WHO for not allowing Taiwan at the World Health Assembly. Now, India has the chance to push for Taiwan's bid by voting in support of the observer status when the opportunity presents itself.

A vote on Taiwan's status was supposed to be taken up but so far, there is no clarity over it. China has denied Taiwan a seat at the table by imposing its view of "One-China" on the world even as&nbsp;the "One-China"&nbsp;view remains the political position of the Communist Party of China.

India should stop accommodating Beijing's views as China still violates India's territorial integrity with impunity. Beijing has done little to show that its a friend, and not an adversary. On repeated occasions, it has worked against India's interests on the world stage.&nbsp;

China's list of infractions is a long one. It opposes India's membership to the Security Council as well as the nuclear suppliers' group(NSG). It openly bats for Pakistan by bringing up the issue of Jammu and Kashmir at the UN and violates India's sovereignty by building infrastructure in Pakistan occupied Kashmir(PoK).

The most recent violation by Beijing was the deal to build a dam in Gilgit-Baltistan, if India does not raise its voice against China now, it will be a missed opportunity. Leading countries of the world are putting pressure on China with the United States leading the front.

New Delhi should not make concessions to the stumbling Dragon by letting go the repeated territorial violations. It's time to take advantage of the situation, the best way forward would be to back Taiwan.

A strong anti-China sentiment in India clearly exists amid the coronavirus pandemic but diplomacy is not conducted on public sentiment - it is based on cold calculations and national interest.

A strong anti-China sentiment in India clearly exists amid the coronavirus pandemic but diplomacy is not conducted on public sentiment - it is based on cold calculations and national interest. Also Read: Nepal cabinet approves controversial map claiming Indian territory The government has not spoken on record, however, India has sent a signal. It has supported the call for an investigation into the handling of the coronavirus outbreak. It is significant but this may not be enough. India should back Taiwan and join the global effort to corner China. India needs to be tough on China, and the reason is China's mouthpiece the Global Times ran a report today. It says Chinese troops have "enhanced control measures" in the Galwan Valley in Ladakh around the disputed border. Last week Chinese choppers were spotted close to the Indian border amid reports of Chinese troops setting up tents close to the Galwan river. Time after time, China has violated India's sovereignty, breached the country's borders and undermined territorial integrity. China's state-run Global Times claimed that its India which is violating border agreements. China's unwarranted military aggression must be answered. In response, India must support Taiwan's return to the WHO as an observer. There was a proposal to allow Taiwan to participate in the World Health Assembly which was turned down. The United States issued a statement slamming the WHO for not allowing Taiwan at the World Health Assembly. Now, India has the chance to push for Taiwan's bid by voting in support of the observer status when the opportunity presents itself. A vote on Taiwan's status was supposed to be taken up but so far, there is no clarity over it. China has denied Taiwan a seat at the table by imposing its view of "One-China" on the world even as the "One-China" view remains the political position of the Communist Party of China. India should stop accommodating Beijing's views as China still violates India's territorial integrity with impunity. Beijing has done little to show that its a friend, and not an adversary. On repeated occasions, it has worked against India's interests on the world stage. China's list of infractions is a long one. It opposes India's membership to the Security Council as well as the nuclear suppliers' group(NSG). It openly bats for Pakistan by bringing up the issue of Jammu and Kashmir at the UN and violates India's sovereignty by building infrastructure in Pakistan occupied Kashmir(PoK). The most recent violation by Beijing was the deal to build a dam in Gilgit-Baltistan, if India does not raise its voice against China now, it will be a missed opportunity. Leading countries of the world are putting pressure on China with the United States leading the front. New Delhi should not make concessions to the stumbling Dragon by letting go the repeated territorial violations. It's time to take advantage of the situation, the best way forward would be to back Taiwan.

Amid coronavirus pandemic, India backs probe demand

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday invited ideas and inputs for this month's Mann Ki Baat which will take place on May 31. ''I look forward to your ideas and inputs for this month’s #MannKiBaat, which will take place on the 31st.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday invited ideas and inputs for this month's Mann Ki Baat which will take place on May 31. ''I look forward to your ideas and inputs for this month’s #MannKiBaat, which will take place on the 31st. You can: Record a message by dialling 1800-11-7800. Write on NaMo App or MyGov,'' Modi wrote on his Twitter handle. I look forward to your ideas and inputs for this month’s #MannKiBaat, which will take place on the 31st. You can: Record a message by dialling 1800-11-7800. Write on NaMo App or MyGov. https://t.co/3KdKpSSCUW — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 18, 2020 × 'Mann ki Baat' is a radio programme, aired on All India Radio on last Sunday of every month, through which Prime Minister interacts with the nation.

Prime Minister Modi invites ideas, inputs for Mann Ki Baat

Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla has written to Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories (UTs), asking them to ensure compliance of new guidelines issued for the extended lockdown till May 31.

"I would urge you to ensure compliance of the new guidelines and direct all concerned authorities for their strict implementation. Further guidelines issued by the MHA and consequent orders issued by the respective state governments/UT administrations should be widely disseminated to the public and to the field functionaries for the convenience of people," Bhalla said on Sunday.

He also told the states and UTs not to&nbsp;dilute guidelines issued by the MHA.

"States/UTs, based on their assessment of the situation, may prohibit certain other activities in various zones, or impose such restrictions as deemed necessary," Bhalla said.

The Home Secretary stated that under the new guidelines effective from May 18, "states and UTs will now categorise Red, Orange and Green zones taking into consideration the revised guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on May 17."

"Inside the red/orange zones, containment and buffer zones will be identified by the district administration/local urban bodies with technical inputs at the local level and by taking into consideration the Health Ministry guidelines," he said.

Within the containment zones, strict perimeter control shall be maintained and no movement of persons would be allowed across the zones, except for medical emergencies and for maintaining the supply of essential goods and services, Bhalla further said.&nbsp;

Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla has written to Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories (UTs), asking them to ensure compliance of new guidelines issued for the extended lockdown till May 31.

Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla has written to Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories (UTs), asking them to ensure compliance of new guidelines issued for the extended lockdown till May 31. "I would urge you to ensure compliance of the new guidelines and direct all concerned authorities for their strict implementation. Further guidelines issued by the MHA and consequent orders issued by the respective state governments/UT administrations should be widely disseminated to the public and to the field functionaries for the convenience of people," Bhalla said on Sunday. He also told the states and UTs not to dilute guidelines issued by the MHA. "States/UTs, based on their assessment of the situation, may prohibit certain other activities in various zones, or impose such restrictions as deemed necessary," Bhalla said. The Home Secretary stated that under the new guidelines effective from May 18, "states and UTs will now categorise Red, Orange and Green zones taking into consideration the revised guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on May 17." "Inside the red/orange zones, containment and buffer zones will be identified by the district administration/local urban bodies with technical inputs at the local level and by taking into consideration the Health Ministry guidelines," he said. Within the containment zones, strict perimeter control shall be maintained and no movement of persons would be allowed across the zones, except for medical emergencies and for maintaining the supply of essential goods and services, Bhalla further said.

Union Home Secy writes to states, UTs to ensure compliance of new guidelines for extended lockdown

Nepal's cabinet on Monday approved the new controversial map of the country which shows Indian territories of Lipulekh, Kalapani, Limpiyadhura as its own.

Last week the Nepal president while addressing the joint session of the Parliament had said new maps of the country will be published that will show all areas it considers its own.&nbsp;

Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari said,"Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani region are Nepal's territory and concrete diplomatic efforts will be taken towards reclaiming these territories. An official map of Nepal will be published accordingly incorporating all the territories of Nepal."

Elaborating on the Nepal&nbsp;government's approach, Bhandari explained that the "government of Nepal is committed to safeguarding the international borders of Nepal" and "outstanding border disputes with India will be resolved through diplomatic medium relying on available historical treaties, maps, facts, and evidence".

Kathmandu raised the chorus over the issue earlier this month when India's defence minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a new road from Dharchula to Lipulekh that will reduce the time taken for Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage.

Soon after, Indian envoy to Nepal Vinay Mohan Kwatra was called by Nepal's foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali was called to raise the matter.

India has clarified to Nepal on Lipulekh that the "recently inaugurated road section in Pithoragarh district in the state of Uttarakhand lies completely within the territory of India."

New Delhi sees increased Chinese role in Nepal as a reason for current comments by Kathmandu. Indian Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane on Friday had hinted at foreign involvement with Nepal for raking up the Lipulekh issue.

Army chief speaking at a think-tank IDSA's online meet had said,"I do not know exactly what they are exactly agitating about. Never been a problem in the past, reasons to believe they might have raised these problems, issues at the behest of someone else and there is very much a possibility."

While names have not been taken, Chinese increased involvement in the country is something that is well known.

The ongoing dispute is not new and dates back to 1816 when under the Treaty of Sugauli, King of Nepal lost parts of its territory to British including Kalapani and Lipulekh.&nbsp;

Nepal's cabinet on Monday approved the new controversial map of the country which shows Indian territories of Lipulekh, Kalapani, Limpiyadhura as its own. Last week the Nepal president while addressing the joint session of the Parliament had said new maps of the country will be published that will show all areas it considers its own.

Nepal's cabinet on Monday approved the new controversial map of the country which shows Indian territories of Lipulekh, Kalapani, Limpiyadhura as its own. Last week the Nepal president while addressing the joint session of the Parliament had said new maps of the country will be published that will show all areas it considers its own. Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari said,"Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani region are Nepal's territory and concrete diplomatic efforts will be taken towards reclaiming these territories. An official map of Nepal will be published accordingly incorporating all the territories of Nepal." Elaborating on the Nepal government's approach, Bhandari explained that the "government of Nepal is committed to safeguarding the international borders of Nepal" and "outstanding border disputes with India will be resolved through diplomatic medium relying on available historical treaties, maps, facts, and evidence". Kathmandu raised the chorus over the issue earlier this month when India's defence minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a new road from Dharchula to Lipulekh that will reduce the time taken for Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. Soon after, Indian envoy to Nepal Vinay Mohan Kwatra was called by Nepal's foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali was called to raise the matter. India has clarified to Nepal on Lipulekh that the "recently inaugurated road section in Pithoragarh district in the state of Uttarakhand lies completely within the territory of India." New Delhi sees increased Chinese role in Nepal as a reason for current comments by Kathmandu. Indian Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane on Friday had hinted at foreign involvement with Nepal for raking up the Lipulekh issue. Army chief speaking at a think-tank IDSA's online meet had said,"I do not know exactly what they are exactly agitating about. Never been a problem in the past, reasons to believe they might have raised these problems, issues at the behest of someone else and there is very much a possibility." While names have not been taken, Chinese increased involvement in the country is something that is well known. The ongoing dispute is not new and dates back to 1816 when under the Treaty of Sugauli, King of Nepal lost parts of its territory to British including Kalapani and Lipulekh.

Nepal cabinet approves controversial map claiming Indian territory

Following the COVID-19-induced economic disruptions, up to 135 million jobs could be lost and 120 million people might be pushed back into poverty in India, all of which will have a hit on consumer income, spending and savings, reported news agency PTI quoting a report.

According to a new report by international management consulting firm Arthur D Little, the worst of COVID-19's impact will be felt by India's most vulnerable in terms of job loss, poverty increase and reduced per-capita income, which in turn will result in a steep decline in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the PTI report added.

"Given the continued rise of COVID-19 cases, we believe that a W-shaped recovery is the most likely scenario for India. This implies a GDP contraction of 10.8 per cent in FY 2020-21 and GDP growth of 0.8 per cent in FY 2021-22," the report said.

India's COVID-19 tally has crossed 90,000 and the nationwide death toll has touched nearly 2,800 so far.

The report titled "India: Surmounting the economic challenges posed by COVID-19: A 10-point programme to revive and power India's post-COVID economy" said the 'collateral damage' of the forecasted GDP slowdown, will be felt most acutely in employment, poverty alleviation, per-capita income and overall nominal GDP.

"Unemployment may rise to 35 per cent from 7.6 per cent resulting in 136 million jobs lost and a total of 174 million unemployed. Poverty alleviation will receive a set-back, significantly changing the fortunes of many, putting 120 million people into poverty and 40 million into abject poverty," the report said.

"India is headed towards a W-shaped economic recovery with a potential GDP contraction of 10.8 per cent in FY21. An opportunity loss of USD 1 trillion is staring India in its face," said Barnik Chitran Maitra, lead author of the report and Managing Partner &amp; CEO of Arthur D Little, India and South Asia.

The report suggested a 10-point programme to accelerate the recovery which includes strengthening the 'safety net' significantly for the most vulnerable, enabling the survival of small and medium businesses, restarting the rural economy and providing targeted assistance to at-risk sectors.

It further said the government should launch "Make in India 2.0" to capture global opportunities, build 'Modern India', accelerate Digital India and Innovation, strengthen global investment corridors with the US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Japan and the UK, debottleneck land and labour and transform banking and financial markets in a bid to secure a sustainable economic future for 1.3 billion Indians.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Following the COVID-19-induced economic disruptions, up to 135 million jobs could be lost and 120 million people might be pushed back into poverty in India, all of which will have a hit on consumer income, spending and savings, reported news agency PTI quoting a report.

Following the COVID-19-induced economic disruptions, up to 135 million jobs could be lost and 120 million people might be pushed back into poverty in India, all of which will have a hit on consumer income, spending and savings, reported news agency PTI quoting a report. According to a new report by international management consulting firm Arthur D Little, the worst of COVID-19's impact will be felt by India's most vulnerable in terms of job loss, poverty increase and reduced per-capita income, which in turn will result in a steep decline in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the PTI report added. "Given the continued rise of COVID-19 cases, we believe that a W-shaped recovery is the most likely scenario for India. This implies a GDP contraction of 10.8 per cent in FY 2020-21 and GDP growth of 0.8 per cent in FY 2021-22," the report said. India's COVID-19 tally has crossed 90,000 and the nationwide death toll has touched nearly 2,800 so far. The report titled "India: Surmounting the economic challenges posed by COVID-19: A 10-point programme to revive and power India's post-COVID economy" said the 'collateral damage' of the forecasted GDP slowdown, will be felt most acutely in employment, poverty alleviation, per-capita income and overall nominal GDP. "Unemployment may rise to 35 per cent from 7.6 per cent resulting in 136 million jobs lost and a total of 174 million unemployed. Poverty alleviation will receive a set-back, significantly changing the fortunes of many, putting 120 million people into poverty and 40 million into abject poverty," the report said. "India is headed towards a W-shaped economic recovery with a potential GDP contraction of 10.8 per cent in FY21. An opportunity loss of USD 1 trillion is staring India in its face," said Barnik Chitran Maitra, lead author of the report and Managing Partner & CEO of Arthur D Little, India and South Asia. The report suggested a 10-point programme to accelerate the recovery which includes strengthening the 'safety net' significantly for the most vulnerable, enabling the survival of small and medium businesses, restarting the rural economy and providing targeted assistance to at-risk sectors. It further said the government should launch "Make in India 2.0" to capture global opportunities, build 'Modern India', accelerate Digital India and Innovation, strengthen global investment corridors with the US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Japan and the UK, debottleneck land and labour and transform banking and financial markets in a bid to secure a sustainable economic future for 1.3 billion Indians. (With inputs from PTI)

COVID-19 could cost 135 mn jobs, push 120 mn people into poverty in India: Report

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said today that carpooling will not be allowed for aggregators while asserting that buses will be allowed to run in the national capital but with only twenty passengers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-puducherry-extend-lockdown-till-may-31-299460">Also Read:&nbsp;West Bengal, Puducherry extend lockdown till May 31&nbsp;</a>

"Passengers will be screened before boarding the bus. Transport Department will ensure that social distancing norms are followed at all bus stops and inside the bus," Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said.

"Auto rickshaws, e-rickshaws &amp; cycle-rickshaws will be allowed but with only one passenger. For two-wheelers, pillion rider will not be allowed. There will be no activity allowed in containment zones," the Delhi chief minister addded.

The government said today that 2,715 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-could-cost-135-mn-jobs-push-120-mn-people-into-poverty-in-india-report-299311">coronavirus </a>patients were reported cured in the last 24 hours.

"We have presently a recovery rate of 38.29 per cent," the government said, adding that in terms of confirmed cases per lakh of population, India has so far about 7.1 cases per lakh.

Chandigarh disaster management authority said that it would continue to keep Chandigarh in the Red Zone. However, there will be a regular review of the status by the health department, it said.

Meanwhile, the government of Karnataka declared that all shops, including barber shops, spa and salons will be allowed to function till May 31 according to the SOP issued by state government even as the Uttarakhand health department said that three new COVID-19 cases were reported in the state taking the total number of positive cases to 96.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said today that carpooling will not be allowed for aggregators while asserting that buses will be allowed to run in the national capital but with only twenty passengers.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said today that carpooling will not be allowed for aggregators while asserting that buses will be allowed to run in the national capital but with only twenty passengers. Also Read: West Bengal, Puducherry extend lockdown till May 31 "Passengers will be screened before boarding the bus. Transport Department will ensure that social distancing norms are followed at all bus stops and inside the bus," Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said. "Auto rickshaws, e-rickshaws & cycle-rickshaws will be allowed but with only one passenger. For two-wheelers, pillion rider will not be allowed. There will be no activity allowed in containment zones," the Delhi chief minister addded. The government said today that 2,715 coronavirus patients were reported cured in the last 24 hours. "We have presently a recovery rate of 38.29 per cent," the government said, adding that in terms of confirmed cases per lakh of population, India has so far about 7.1 cases per lakh. Chandigarh disaster management authority said that it would continue to keep Chandigarh in the Red Zone. However, there will be a regular review of the status by the health department, it said. Meanwhile, the government of Karnataka declared that all shops, including barber shops, spa and salons will be allowed to function till May 31 according to the SOP issued by state government even as the Uttarakhand health department said that three new COVID-19 cases were reported in the state taking the total number of positive cases to 96.

Autos, buses allowed in Delhi but with restricted passengers

India records more than 5,200 cases of COVID-19 in last 24 hrs. It is highest single day spike in the Coronavirus cases. Watch this video to find out more.

WION Dispatch: India reported more than 33,000 COVID-19 cases in April month

Puducherry government has decided to extend the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-among-62-nation-seeking-probe-into-whos-covid-19-response-299304">lockdown</a> till May 31 to contain the spread of COVID-19, chief minister &nbsp;V Narayanaswamy said on Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-highest-single-day-spike-5242-new-covid-19-cases-in-the-last-24-hours-299338">Also Read:&nbsp;India records 5,242 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours</a>

During the cabinet meeting, the Puducherry government decided to allow the sale of liquor between 7am and 7pm from Tuesday.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee also extended the lockdown till May 31.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan recorded 33 new coronavirus cases and two deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 5,375. The death toll in the state has risen to 212 due to COVID-19.

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said today that 29 new coronavirus cases were reported today with the total number of cases in the state climbing to 630, including 130 active cases.

Chandigarh health department reported five new coronavirus cases taking the total number of cases in the state to 196.&nbsp;

The Central Reserve Police Force(CRPF) said today that three new coronavirus cases were reported in the forces in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 294

Puducherry government has decided to extend the lockdown till May 31 to contain the spread of COVID-19, chief minister V Narayanaswamy said on Monday. Also Read: India records 5,242 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours During the cabinet meeting, the Puducherry government decided to allow the sale of liquor between 7am and 7pm from Tuesday.

Puducherry government has decided to extend the lockdown till May 31 to contain the spread of COVID-19, chief minister V Narayanaswamy said on Monday. Also Read: India records 5,242 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours During the cabinet meeting, the Puducherry government decided to allow the sale of liquor between 7am and 7pm from Tuesday. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee also extended the lockdown till May 31. Meanwhile, Rajasthan recorded 33 new coronavirus cases and two deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases rising to 5,375. The death toll in the state has risen to 212 due to COVID-19. Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said today that 29 new coronavirus cases were reported today with the total number of cases in the state climbing to 630, including 130 active cases. Chandigarh health department reported five new coronavirus cases taking the total number of cases in the state to 196. The Central Reserve Police Force(CRPF) said today that three new coronavirus cases were reported in the forces in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 294

West Bengal, Puducherry extend lockdown till May 31

India has donated $2 million to UNRWA&nbsp;for the welfare of Palestinian refugees. The UN body has called it ''commendable'' at the time of COVID crisis. UNRWA is the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East and provides education, health care, relief and social services to Palestinian refugees.&nbsp;

With about, 3.1 million Palestine refugees dependent on health services provided by UNRWA, India's contribution comes at the time of global COVID pandemic.&nbsp;

The agency provides basic health services through a network of primary health care facilities and mobile clinics to the refugees.&nbsp;

India's contribution was handed over by India's representative to Palestine Sunil Kumar.&nbsp;

While handing over the cheque to Chief of Donor Relations of UNRWA Marc Lassouaoui, Kumar said, "On behalf of the Government of India, I would like to express my appreciation for the commendable work and endeavours carried out by UNRWA. We believe that our contribution will support the Agency's activities in providing the needed assistance to Palestinian refugees, and assist in achieving their full human development potential."

India has increased its annual financial contribution to UNRWA from the $1.25 million in 2016 to U$ 5 million in 2018 and 2019 and pledged another US$ 5 million for 2020.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Marc Lassouaoui, Chief of Donor Relations of UNRWA expressed the agency's "deep appreciation" to the Indian government for "advancing part of its contribution, which will help UNRWA address cash flow challenges" and called the "continued determination and commitment of India in support" of the Palestine refugees "commendable" in particular under the "current circumstances brought on us by Covid-19."

With this year's contribution to UNRWA, India open the way to become a member of the Agency's Advisory Commission. Advisory Commission was created by UN Resolution 302 (IV) on 8 December 1949 and is tasked with advising and assisting the Commissioner-General of UNRWA in carrying out the Agency’s mandate. Consisting of four members when it was first created, today the Advisory Commission (AdCom) is made up of 28 Members and 4 Observers.

India's contribution comes even as the agency faces a dire financial situation that can impact health and education for Palestinian refugees. Agency's schools educate 526,000 students every year, of which half are female.UNRWA has been the main provider of primary education to Palestine refugees for 60 years. In 2018, US had stopped aid to UNRWA.

India has donated $2 million to UNRWA for the welfare of Palestinian refugees. The UN body has called it ''commendable'' at the time of COVID crisis. UNRWA is the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East and provides education, health care, relief and social services to Palestinian refugees.

India has donated $2 million to UNRWA for the welfare of Palestinian refugees. The UN body has called it ''commendable'' at the time of COVID crisis. UNRWA is the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East and provides education, health care, relief and social services to Palestinian refugees. With about, 3.1 million Palestine refugees dependent on health services provided by UNRWA, India's contribution comes at the time of global COVID pandemic. The agency provides basic health services through a network of primary health care facilities and mobile clinics to the refugees. India's contribution was handed over by India's representative to Palestine Sunil Kumar. While handing over the cheque to Chief of Donor Relations of UNRWA Marc Lassouaoui, Kumar said, "On behalf of the Government of India, I would like to express my appreciation for the commendable work and endeavours carried out by UNRWA. We believe that our contribution will support the Agency's activities in providing the needed assistance to Palestinian refugees, and assist in achieving their full human development potential." India has increased its annual financial contribution to UNRWA from the $1.25 million in 2016 to U$ 5 million in 2018 and 2019 and pledged another US$ 5 million for 2020. Marc Lassouaoui, Chief of Donor Relations of UNRWA expressed the agency's "deep appreciation" to the Indian government for "advancing part of its contribution, which will help UNRWA address cash flow challenges" and called the "continued determination and commitment of India in support" of the Palestine refugees "commendable" in particular under the "current circumstances brought on us by Covid-19." With this year's contribution to UNRWA, India open the way to become a member of the Agency's Advisory Commission. Advisory Commission was created by UN Resolution 302 (IV) on 8 December 1949 and is tasked with advising and assisting the Commissioner-General of UNRWA in carrying out the Agency’s mandate. Consisting of four members when it was first created, today the Advisory Commission (AdCom) is made up of 28 Members and 4 Observers. India's contribution comes even as the agency faces a dire financial situation that can impact health and education for Palestinian refugees. Agency's schools educate 526,000 students every year, of which half are female.UNRWA has been the main provider of primary education to Palestine refugees for 60 years. In 2018, US had stopped aid to UNRWA.

Amid COVID-19 India donates $2 million to UNRWA for Palestinian refugees; UN calls it commendable

India records more than 5,200 cases of COVID-19 in last 24 hrs, highest single-day spike in cases

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Monday took oath as a member of the Legislative Council.

At a function held at Vidhan Bhawan in south Mumbai, Council Chairman Ramraje Naik Nimbalkar administered the oath to Thackeray and others who were elected unopposed to the Upper House on May 14.

The nine seats fell vacant on April 24.

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Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray called on Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhavan today. The Governor congratulated CM on his election as a member of Maharashtra Legislative Council. <a href="https://t.co/czrJMcTC1M">pic.twitter.com/czrJMcTC1M</a>
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The 288-member Legislative Assembly was the electoral college for the biennial elections to the nine seats.

With this election, 59-year-old Thackeray, who is also the president of Shiv Sena, makes his debut as a legislator.

He was sworn in as chief minister on November 28 last year and required to become a member of either House of the legislature before May 27. 
Thackeray's son Aaditya is a member of the Legislative Assembly and also a minister in the three-party alliance government led by him.&nbsp;

Thackeray called on Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhavan after taking oath.

The Governor congratulated CM on his election as a member of Maharashtra Legislative Council.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Monday took oath as a member of the Legislative Council. At a function held at Vidhan Bhawan in south Mumbai, Council Chairman Ramraje Naik Nimbalkar administered the oath to Thackeray and others who were elected unopposed to the Upper House on May 14.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Monday took oath as a member of the Legislative Council. At a function held at Vidhan Bhawan in south Mumbai, Council Chairman Ramraje Naik Nimbalkar administered the oath to Thackeray and others who were elected unopposed to the Upper House on May 14. The nine seats fell vacant on April 24. Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray called on Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhavan today. The Governor congratulated CM on his election as a member of Maharashtra Legislative Council. pic.twitter.com/czrJMcTC1M — ANI (@ANI) May 18, 2020 × The 288-member Legislative Assembly was the electoral college for the biennial elections to the nine seats. With this election, 59-year-old Thackeray, who is also the president of Shiv Sena, makes his debut as a legislator. He was sworn in as chief minister on November 28 last year and required to become a member of either House of the legislature before May 27. Thackeray's son Aaditya is a member of the Legislative Assembly and also a minister in the three-party alliance government led by him. Thackeray called on Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhavan after taking oath. The Governor congratulated CM on his election as a member of Maharashtra Legislative Council.

Maharashtra: Uddhav Thackeray, 8 others take oath as MLCs

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Monday announced the date sheet for the pending class 10 and 12 board exams, which will now be held from July 1-15.&nbsp;

The exams were postponed due to the nationwide lockdown imposed on March 25 to contain the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

"Dear students of class 12th of #CBSE Board here is the date sheet for your board exams. All the best" tweeted Union HRD Minister Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank.&nbsp;

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Dear students of class 12th of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CBSE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CBSE</a> Board here is the date sheet for your board exams. 
 
All the best 👍<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StaySafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StaySafe</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StudyWell?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StudyWell</a><a href="https://twitter.com/HRDMinistry?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HRDMinistry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mygovindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mygovindia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/cbseindia29?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cbseindia29</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MIB_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNewslive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DDNewslive</a> <a href="https://t.co/2ug6Dw8ugA">pic.twitter.com/2ug6Dw8ugA</a>
— Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank (@DrRPNishank) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrRPNishank/status/1262289406871781376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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As per the latest notification, the CBSE exams for the pending subjects will be held between July 1st to July 15th.&nbsp; 
 
"The class 10 exams will be staggered on four dates, starting July 1. The first paper will be of Social Sciences, while the next day students will be required to appear for Science exam," Sanyam Bhardwaj, the Controller of Examination, CBSE said.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Monday announced the date sheet for the pending class 10 and 12 board exams, which will now be held from July 1-15.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Monday announced the date sheet for the pending class 10 and 12 board exams, which will now be held from July 1-15. The exams were postponed due to the nationwide lockdown imposed on March 25 to contain the spread of COVID-19. "Dear students of class 12th of #CBSE Board here is the date sheet for your board exams. All the best" tweeted Union HRD Minister Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank. Dear students of class 12th of #CBSE Board here is the date sheet for your board exams. All the best 👍#StaySafe #StudyWell@HRDMinistry @mygovindia@cbseindia29 @PIB_India @MIB_India @DDNewslive pic.twitter.com/2ug6Dw8ugA — Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank (@DrRPNishank) May 18, 2020 × As per the latest notification, the CBSE exams for the pending subjects will be held between July 1st to July 15th. "The class 10 exams will be staggered on four dates, starting July 1. The first paper will be of Social Sciences, while the next day students will be required to appear for Science exam," Sanyam Bhardwaj, the Controller of Examination, CBSE said.

CBSE class 10, 12 board exams 2020 date sheet released, papers to be held between July 1-15

Lockdown 4.0: What will reopen, what will remain closed

Cyclone Amphan turned in to a "super cyclonic storm" on May 18. Two states- Bengal and Odisha - have been alerted over the storm, which is expected to make landfall in Bengal on May 20. Watch report.

Cyclone Amphan intensifies into super cyclone: West Bengal, Odisha remain on high alert

A 10-year-old Indian-American girl scout brought laurels to the country after she was honoured by US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump along with other coronavirus crisis heroes for helping the people on the frontlines.

Sravya Annappareddy has been honoured by President Donald Trump for donating cookies to nurses and firefighters and sending personalised greeting cards to healthcare workers fighting COVID-19 pandemic in the US, the worst affected country in the world.

“The men and women we honour today remind us that the bonds that unite us in times of hardship can also raise us to new heights as we reopen and recover and rebuild,” President Trump said in a ceremony in the White House Rose Garden held Friday.

The 10-year-old Telugu girl born in the US was among three girl scouts in that country to be honoured by President Donald Trump on Saturday in White House for applauding COVID front line workers.&nbsp;

Sravya, along with Laila Khan and Lauren Matney from Troop 744 based out of Elkridge, Maryland, donated 100 boxes of Girl Scouts cookies to local firefighters, doctors and nurses.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A 10-year-old Indian-American girl scout brought laurels to the country after she was honoured by US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump along with other coronavirus crisis heroes for helping the people on the frontlines.

A 10-year-old Indian-American girl scout brought laurels to the country after she was honoured by US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump along with other coronavirus crisis heroes for helping the people on the frontlines. Sravya Annappareddy has been honoured by President Donald Trump for donating cookies to nurses and firefighters and sending personalised greeting cards to healthcare workers fighting COVID-19 pandemic in the US, the worst affected country in the world. “The men and women we honour today remind us that the bonds that unite us in times of hardship can also raise us to new heights as we reopen and recover and rebuild,” President Trump said in a ceremony in the White House Rose Garden held Friday. The 10-year-old Telugu girl born in the US was among three girl scouts in that country to be honoured by President Donald Trump on Saturday in White House for applauding COVID front line workers. Sravya, along with Laila Khan and Lauren Matney from Troop 744 based out of Elkridge, Maryland, donated 100 boxes of Girl Scouts cookies to local firefighters, doctors and nurses. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump honours Indian girl for gesture towards coronavirus heroes

The United States this week will deport 161 Indian nationals, most of whom had entered the country from its southern border with Mexico and have exhausted all legal options.

A special chartered flight will take them to Punjab's Amritsar.

Among those on the list to be deported, the maximum 76 are from Haryana, followed by 56 from Punjab; 12 from Gujarat; five from Uttar Pradesh; four from Maharashtra; two each from Kerala, Telengana and Tamil Nadu; and each from Andhra Pradesh and Goa.

According to Satnam Singh Chahal, executive director, North American Punjabi Association (NAPA), they are from among the 1,739 Indians languishing in 95 jails across the US.

They were arrested by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement or ICE while trying to enter the United States illegally.

According to an ICE report, the US deported 611 Indian nationals in 2018, which rose over two-and-a-half times to 1,616 in 2019.

NAPA said among the 161 to be deported to India, three are women. The youngest of them are two 19-year-old youths from Haryana.

"The fate of the remaining Indians languishing in the US jails is still unknown," Satnam Singh Chahal said.

Though there is no data to show from which Indian states those languishing in the US jails came, most of them are believed to be from North India.

Most detainees had asked for asylum, claiming that they experienced violence or persecution in their home country.

Over the past a few years, US judges did not buy their argument and dismissed their applications.

Satnam Singh Chahal, who has been working among them for years, alleged that there is a nexus of human traffickers and officials in north India, especially Punjab, who encourage young people to leave their homes and illegally enter the US.

These middlemen and agents charge Rs 35-50 lakh from each individual.

In a statement, Satnam Singh Chahal urged the Punjab government and the Centre to take action against illegal agents.

The United States this week will deport 161 Indian nationals, most of whom had entered the country from its southern border with Mexico and have exhausted all legal options.

The United States this week will deport 161 Indian nationals, most of whom had entered the country from its southern border with Mexico and have exhausted all legal options. A special chartered flight will take them to Punjab's Amritsar. Among those on the list to be deported, the maximum 76 are from Haryana, followed by 56 from Punjab; 12 from Gujarat; five from Uttar Pradesh; four from Maharashtra; two each from Kerala, Telengana and Tamil Nadu; and each from Andhra Pradesh and Goa. According to Satnam Singh Chahal, executive director, North American Punjabi Association (NAPA), they are from among the 1,739 Indians languishing in 95 jails across the US. They were arrested by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement or ICE while trying to enter the United States illegally. According to an ICE report, the US deported 611 Indian nationals in 2018, which rose over two-and-a-half times to 1,616 in 2019. NAPA said among the 161 to be deported to India, three are women. The youngest of them are two 19-year-old youths from Haryana. "The fate of the remaining Indians languishing in the US jails is still unknown," Satnam Singh Chahal said. Though there is no data to show from which Indian states those languishing in the US jails came, most of them are believed to be from North India. Most detainees had asked for asylum, claiming that they experienced violence or persecution in their home country. Over the past a few years, US judges did not buy their argument and dismissed their applications. Satnam Singh Chahal, who has been working among them for years, alleged that there is a nexus of human traffickers and officials in north India, especially Punjab, who encourage young people to leave their homes and illegally enter the US. These middlemen and agents charge Rs 35-50 lakh from each individual. In a statement, Satnam Singh Chahal urged the Punjab government and the Centre to take action against illegal agents.

US to deport 161 Indians who were arrested for entering illegally

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

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

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

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

A woman in Goa has tested positive for coronavirus on Sunday. The woman had travelled to Goa in a Delhi-Thiruvananthapuram Rajdhani train on Saturday.

She was tested through rapid testing- TrueNat. Her samples have also been sent to&nbsp;the virology lab of the state-run Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) for final confirmation, officials said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/criminal-cases-in-goa-decrease-by-67-297619">Also read:&nbsp;Criminal cases in Goa decrease by 67%</a>

She is the third person to test positive out of 323 passengers on the&nbsp;train that arrived at Madgaon railway station in South Goa district on Saturday. Before this, two men from the train had tested positive on Saturday evening.

The state government is waiting for results of 56 other passengers.

As soon as the passengers reached the destination, they were&nbsp;taken to the district hospital for testing, and later quarantined at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao city, the official said.

In all, the district hospital has tested over 500 samples drawn from different sources since Saturday, he said. Goa, now, has 16 active cases.

A woman in Goa has tested positive for coronavirus on Sunday. The woman had travelled to Goa in a Delhi-Thiruvananthapuram Rajdhani train on Saturday. She was tested through rapid testing- TrueNat.

A woman in Goa has tested positive for coronavirus on Sunday. The woman had travelled to Goa in a Delhi-Thiruvananthapuram Rajdhani train on Saturday. She was tested through rapid testing- TrueNat. Her samples have also been sent to the virology lab of the state-run Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) for final confirmation, officials said. Also read: Criminal cases in Goa decrease by 67% She is the third person to test positive out of 323 passengers on the train that arrived at Madgaon railway station in South Goa district on Saturday. Before this, two men from the train had tested positive on Saturday evening. The state government is waiting for results of 56 other passengers. As soon as the passengers reached the destination, they were taken to the district hospital for testing, and later quarantined at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao city, the official said. In all, the district hospital has tested over 500 samples drawn from different sources since Saturday, he said. Goa, now, has 16 active cases.

One more woman returned from Delhi tests positive for COVID-19 in Goa

India saw the sharpest spike in number of positive coronavirus cases as around 4,987 were reported in the past 24 hours.&nbsp;Around 120 deaths were also reported.

According to Health Ministry, India has crossed the 90,000 mark as the total positive cases rose to 90,927, out of which there are nearly 53,946 active cases and 2,872 deaths. Out of 90,927 cases, around 34,109 patients have been cured.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/capfs-report-24-fresh-covid-19-cases-over-150-recoveries-299092">Also read:&nbsp;CAPFs report 24 fresh COVID-19 cases; over 150 recoveries</a>

Maharashtra, which is the worst-hit state by coronavirus, has a total of&nbsp;1,135 deaths and&nbsp;30,706 total positive cases.&nbsp;

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91 new COVID19 positive cases positive reported in the state, taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 828, death toll 5: Odisha Health Department <a href="https://t.co/IYAlI1amZE">pic.twitter.com/IYAlI1amZE</a>
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Gujarat, now, has a total of&nbsp;10,988 cases, including 625 deaths. Tamil Nadu, has seen a constant rise in positive cases as the number rose to 10,585.

Rajasthan reported 70 fresh cases&nbsp;2 deaths, taking the total toll to 5,030 and death toll to 128. There are 1,911 active cases of coronavirus in the state now.

There were 91 new coronavirus cases reported in odisha in the last 24 hours, taking the toll to 828, including 5 patients who lost their lives to coronavirus.

Uttar Pradesh crossed the 4,000 mark as the number of cases rose to 4,258.

India saw the sharpest spike in number of positive coronavirus cases as around 4,987 were reported in the past 24 hours. Around 120 deaths were also reported. According to Health Ministry, India has crossed the 90,000 mark as the total positive cases rose to 90,927, out of which there are nearly 53,946 active cases and 2,872 deaths.

India saw the sharpest spike in number of positive coronavirus cases as around 4,987 were reported in the past 24 hours. Around 120 deaths were also reported. According to Health Ministry, India has crossed the 90,000 mark as the total positive cases rose to 90,927, out of which there are nearly 53,946 active cases and 2,872 deaths. Out of 90,927 cases, around 34,109 patients have been cured. Also read: CAPFs report 24 fresh COVID-19 cases; over 150 recoveries Maharashtra, which is the worst-hit state by coronavirus, has a total of 1,135 deaths and 30,706 total positive cases. 91 new COVID19 positive cases positive reported in the state, taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 828, death toll 5: Odisha Health Department pic.twitter.com/IYAlI1amZE — ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2020 × Gujarat, now, has a total of 10,988 cases, including 625 deaths. Tamil Nadu, has seen a constant rise in positive cases as the number rose to 10,585. Rajasthan reported 70 fresh cases 2 deaths, taking the total toll to 5,030 and death toll to 128. There are 1,911 active cases of coronavirus in the state now. There were 91 new coronavirus cases reported in odisha in the last 24 hours, taking the toll to 828, including 5 patients who lost their lives to coronavirus. Uttar Pradesh crossed the 4,000 mark as the number of cases rose to 4,258.

COVID 19: India crosses the 90,000 mark on last day of lockdown 3.0

The Pakistan Army on Sunday opened fire and shelled forward areas along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, a defence spokesman said.

The cross-border firing started in Degwar sector around 8:40 am, drawing retaliation from the Indian Army, the spokesman said.

He said there was no report of any casualty on the Indian side in the Pakistani firing.

They started with small arms firing and later fired mortars around 9:30 am,&nbsp;the spokesman said, adding the cross-border firing between the two sides was going on when last reports came in.

The Pakistani firing ended over a week-long lull along the LoC.

Pakistan last violated the ceasefire in Degwar sector on May 9 and Kirni, Qasba and Shahpur sectors of Poonch two days earlier.

The Pakistan Army on Sunday opened fire and shelled forward areas along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, a defence spokesman said.

The Pakistan Army on Sunday opened fire and shelled forward areas along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, a defence spokesman said. The cross-border firing started in Degwar sector around 8:40 am, drawing retaliation from the Indian Army, the spokesman said. He said there was no report of any casualty on the Indian side in the Pakistani firing. They started with small arms firing and later fired mortars around 9:30 am, the spokesman said, adding the cross-border firing between the two sides was going on when last reports came in. The Pakistani firing ended over a week-long lull along the LoC. Pakistan last violated the ceasefire in Degwar sector on May 9 and Kirni, Qasba and Shahpur sectors of Poonch two days earlier.

Pakistan Army shells forward areas along LoC in Poonch

India has backed the Australia-EU draft to be adopted at the World Health Organisation's (WHO) World Health Assembly (WHA) -- which will start on Monday.

India is among the 62 countries backing the draft which calls for "impartial, independent and comprehensive" probe into the coronavirus crisis.

The draft says, "Initiate, at the earliest appropriate moment, and in consultation with Member States, stepwise process of impartial, independent and comprehensive evaluation, including using existing mechanisms, as appropriate, to review experience gained and lessons learned from theWHO-coordinated international health response to COVID-19, including (i) the effectiveness of the mechanisms at WHO’s disposal."

The draft resolution is backed by Albania, Australia, Bangladesh, Belarus, Bhutan, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, Mozambique, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Paraguay, Peru, South Korea, Moldova, Russia, San Marino , Sierra Leone, South Africa, EU, Turkey, Ukraine, UK and Zambia.

The meeting will take place virtually and India's health minister will represent the country. He is expected to address the meet at 3.30 pm IST.&nbsp;

WHO's WHA is the top body of the UN organ and is made up of health ministers.

The meeting this year has assumed significance due to the coronavirus crisis. But Taiwan's participation in the meet is another issue that is getting the limelight.&nbsp;

China, which considers Taiwan as its part, has not allowed it to participate as a country and voting will hence decide whether it should or should not.

While New Delhi is yet to take a position, Taiwan's envoy to India, Chung-Kwang Tien, in an exclusive conversation with WION, said that as a "valued partner", India will "appreciate Taiwan's rights" on participation at the WHA meet which is the "shared aspiration of the people of Taiwan".

"Participating in WHO is the common aspiration of all people of Taiwan. &nbsp;I would like to expresses sincere appreciation for the unprecedented level of support extended to Taiwan’s campaign for participation in the World Health Organization by diplomatic allies and like-minded nations," he added.

India will take over the Chair of the Executive Board of the World Health Organisation after its annual meeting later this month.

India has backed the Australia-EU draft to be adopted at the World Health Organisation's (WHO) World Health Assembly (WHA) -- which will start on Monday. India is among the 62 countries backing the draft which calls for "impartial, independent and comprehensive" probe into the coronavirus crisis.

India has backed the Australia-EU draft to be adopted at the World Health Organisation's (WHO) World Health Assembly (WHA) -- which will start on Monday. India is among the 62 countries backing the draft which calls for "impartial, independent and comprehensive" probe into the coronavirus crisis. The draft says, "Initiate, at the earliest appropriate moment, and in consultation with Member States, stepwise process of impartial, independent and comprehensive evaluation, including using existing mechanisms, as appropriate, to review experience gained and lessons learned from theWHO-coordinated international health response to COVID-19, including (i) the effectiveness of the mechanisms at WHO’s disposal." The draft resolution is backed by Albania, Australia, Bangladesh, Belarus, Bhutan, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, Mozambique, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Paraguay, Peru, South Korea, Moldova, Russia, San Marino , Sierra Leone, South Africa, EU, Turkey, Ukraine, UK and Zambia. The meeting will take place virtually and India's health minister will represent the country. He is expected to address the meet at 3.30 pm IST. WHO's WHA is the top body of the UN organ and is made up of health ministers. The meeting this year has assumed significance due to the coronavirus crisis. But Taiwan's participation in the meet is another issue that is getting the limelight. China, which considers Taiwan as its part, has not allowed it to participate as a country and voting will hence decide whether it should or should not. While New Delhi is yet to take a position, Taiwan's envoy to India, Chung-Kwang Tien, in an exclusive conversation with WION, said that as a "valued partner", India will "appreciate Taiwan's rights" on participation at the WHA meet which is the "shared aspiration of the people of Taiwan". "Participating in WHO is the common aspiration of all people of Taiwan. I would like to expresses sincere appreciation for the unprecedented level of support extended to Taiwan’s campaign for participation in the World Health Organization by diplomatic allies and like-minded nations," he added. India will take over the Chair of the Executive Board of the World Health Organisation after its annual meeting later this month.

India backs Australia-EU draft at WHO's world health meet

The Union Health Ministry on Sunday listed parameters such as active COVID-19 cases, doubling and fatality rates and cases per lakh population, for the states and UTs to follow while categorising areas into red, orange or green zones.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lockdown-40-red-orange-green-zones-to-be-decided-by-states-7-pm-7-am-night-curfew-to-continue-299258" hreflang="en">Lockdown 4.0: Red, orange, green zones to be decided by states; 7 pm-7 am night curfew to continue</a>

It also issued guidelines for delineation of coronavirus containment and buffer zones and outlined the actions that have to be implemented in those areas to break the chain of transmission.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nationwide-lockdown-extended-till-may-31-to-contain-spread-of-coronavirus-299251" hreflang="en">Nationwide lockdown extended till May 31 to contain spread of coronavirus</a>

In a letter to the states and Union Territories, Health Secretary Preeti Sudan said states may categorise districts or municipal corporations into hotspots, red, orange and green zones.

They, however, may also choose to categorise sub-division, ward or any other appropriate administrative unit into the colour-coded zones after detailed analysis at their end, duly taking into consideration the geographical spread of cases, contacts and their zone of influence in terms of disease spread, the ministry said.

This comes after the Home Ministry issued guidelines for the fourth phase of the nationwide lockdown, giving power to the states and Union Territories to delineate red, green and orange zones as per the COVID-19 situation.

In her letter, Sudan said demarcation of the zones would be based on total active cases, cases per lakh population, doubling rate calculated over a seven-day period, case fatality rate, testing ratio (number of tests per lakh population) and sample positivity rate.

The benchmarks or thresholds for critical and desirable levels for total active cases would be more than 200 and zero or no reported case in the last 21 days respectively.

For active cases per lakh population, the critical threshold would be when more than 15, while for doubling rate calculated over a seven-day period, the critical level would be less than 14 days and desirable when more than 28 days.

As for case fatality rate, more than six per cent would be considered critical and less than one per cent desirable. The critical threshold for testing ratio (number of tests per lakh population) would be less than 65 while the desirable level would be more than 200, according to the letter.

Sample positivity rate would be considered critical if it's more than 6 per cent while less than 2 per cent is desirable. 
The health ministry, however, underlined that the benchmarks or thresholds for critical and desirable levels are dynamic and may be revised by the Centre as per the evolving situation at the field level.

"The most important task once the zones are identified is field action in terms of implementation of containment plan of action. This entails identification of containment and buffer zones inside the red, orange and green zones from where cases have been primarily reported.

"A containment operation (large outbreak or cluster) is deemed successful when no case is reported in last 28 days from the containment zone," the letter stated.

According to the guidelines, the containment zones are delineated based on mapping of cases and contacts, geographical dispersion of cases and contacts, area having a well-demarcated perimeter and enforceability of perimeter control.

"It is reiterated that this is the primary area where intensive action is to carried out with the aim of breaking the chain of transmission," the letter stated.

Stringent action needs to be initiated within these containment zones in terms of an active search for cases through physical house-to-house surveillance by special teams formed for the purpose, testing of all cases as per sampling guidelines and contact tracing, identification of local community volunteers to help in surveillance, contact tracing and risk communication and strict enforcement of social distancing among others, it said.

The ministry also said a buffer zone has to be delineated around each containment zone and it shall be appropriately defined by the district administration or local urban bodies with technical inputs at the local level.

"Buffer zone will be primarily the area wherein additional and focused attention is needed so as to ensure that infection does not spread to adjoining areas. For effective containment, it is of paramount importance that the buffer is sufficiently large," the letter stated.

The Union Health Ministry on Sunday listed parameters such as active COVID-19 cases, doubling and fatality rates and cases per lakh population, for the states and UTs to follow while categorising areas into red, orange or green zones.

The Union Health Ministry on Sunday listed parameters such as active COVID-19 cases, doubling and fatality rates and cases per lakh population, for the states and UTs to follow while categorising areas into red, orange or green zones. Also read: Lockdown 4.0: Red, orange, green zones to be decided by states; 7 pm-7 am night curfew to continue It also issued guidelines for delineation of coronavirus containment and buffer zones and outlined the actions that have to be implemented in those areas to break the chain of transmission. Also read: Nationwide lockdown extended till May 31 to contain spread of coronavirus In a letter to the states and Union Territories, Health Secretary Preeti Sudan said states may categorise districts or municipal corporations into hotspots, red, orange and green zones. They, however, may also choose to categorise sub-division, ward or any other appropriate administrative unit into the colour-coded zones after detailed analysis at their end, duly taking into consideration the geographical spread of cases, contacts and their zone of influence in terms of disease spread, the ministry said. This comes after the Home Ministry issued guidelines for the fourth phase of the nationwide lockdown, giving power to the states and Union Territories to delineate red, green and orange zones as per the COVID-19 situation. In her letter, Sudan said demarcation of the zones would be based on total active cases, cases per lakh population, doubling rate calculated over a seven-day period, case fatality rate, testing ratio (number of tests per lakh population) and sample positivity rate. The benchmarks or thresholds for critical and desirable levels for total active cases would be more than 200 and zero or no reported case in the last 21 days respectively. For active cases per lakh population, the critical threshold would be when more than 15, while for doubling rate calculated over a seven-day period, the critical level would be less than 14 days and desirable when more than 28 days. As for case fatality rate, more than six per cent would be considered critical and less than one per cent desirable. The critical threshold for testing ratio (number of tests per lakh population) would be less than 65 while the desirable level would be more than 200, according to the letter. Sample positivity rate would be considered critical if it's more than 6 per cent while less than 2 per cent is desirable. The health ministry, however, underlined that the benchmarks or thresholds for critical and desirable levels are dynamic and may be revised by the Centre as per the evolving situation at the field level. "The most important task once the zones are identified is field action in terms of implementation of containment plan of action. This entails identification of containment and buffer zones inside the red, orange and green zones from where cases have been primarily reported. "A containment operation (large outbreak or cluster) is deemed successful when no case is reported in last 28 days from the containment zone," the letter stated. According to the guidelines, the containment zones are delineated based on mapping of cases and contacts, geographical dispersion of cases and contacts, area having a well-demarcated perimeter and enforceability of perimeter control. "It is reiterated that this is the primary area where intensive action is to carried out with the aim of breaking the chain of transmission," the letter stated. Stringent action needs to be initiated within these containment zones in terms of an active search for cases through physical house-to-house surveillance by special teams formed for the purpose, testing of all cases as per sampling guidelines and contact tracing, identification of local community volunteers to help in surveillance, contact tracing and risk communication and strict enforcement of social distancing among others, it said. The ministry also said a buffer zone has to be delineated around each containment zone and it shall be appropriately defined by the district administration or local urban bodies with technical inputs at the local level. "Buffer zone will be primarily the area wherein additional and focused attention is needed so as to ensure that infection does not spread to adjoining areas. For effective containment, it is of paramount importance that the buffer is sufficiently large," the letter stated.

Lockdown phase 4: Centre lists parameters for states to delineate red, orange, green zones

As the country continues to be under lockdown, a lot of migrant workers have been walking or hitching rides back home. A group of such migrant workers were travelling back to their hometown in a bus when their bus met with an accident.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-condoles-death-of-24-migrant-workers-in-uttar-pradesh-298997">Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi condoles death of 24 migrant workers in Uttar Pradesh</a>

Around 32 migrants labourers were injured in this bus accident, that took place near Dhupguri in Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal on Sunday morning.

All injured were taken to Jalpaiguri district hospital and released after preliminary treatment.

The incident has happened few days after Mamta Banerjee assured that the state will be bearing the complete cost of migrant workers returning back from the 'shramik trains'.

“Saluting the toil faced by our migrant brethren, I am pleased to announce the decision of GoWB to bear the entire cost of movement for our migrant workers by special trains from other states to West Bengal. No migrant will be charged. Letter to Railway Board attached,” she had tweeted.

As the country continues to be under lockdown, a lot of migrant workers have been walking or hitching rides back home. A group of such migrant workers were travelling back to their hometown in a bus when their bus met with an accident.

As the country continues to be under lockdown, a lot of migrant workers have been walking or hitching rides back home. A group of such migrant workers were travelling back to their hometown in a bus when their bus met with an accident. Also read: PM Modi condoles death of 24 migrant workers in Uttar Pradesh Around 32 migrants labourers were injured in this bus accident, that took place near Dhupguri in Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal on Sunday morning. All injured were taken to Jalpaiguri district hospital and released after preliminary treatment. The incident has happened few days after Mamta Banerjee assured that the state will be bearing the complete cost of migrant workers returning back from the 'shramik trains'. “Saluting the toil faced by our migrant brethren, I am pleased to announce the decision of GoWB to bear the entire cost of movement for our migrant workers by special trains from other states to West Bengal. No migrant will be charged. Letter to Railway Board attached,” she had tweeted.

West Bengal: 32 migrant workers injured in a bus accident

Hours after the Modi government announced extension of the coronavirus lockdown, Indian aviation regulator DGCA said all scheduled commercial passenger flights have been suspended till May 31 midnight.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said "foreign and domestic airlines shall be suitably informed about the opening of their operations whether international to or from India or domestic, respectively, in due course".

All commercial passenger flights have been suspended in India since March 25, when the lockdown was imposed to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The regulator on Sunday said the suspension of all domestic and international scheduled commercial passenger flights have been "further extended up to 11.59 PM on May 31".

This restriction would not be applicable to domestic and international all-cargo operations and flights specifically approved by the DGCA, it said.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the nodal department, has announced lockdown 4.0 till May 31 to check the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The death toll due to COVID-19 rose to 2,872 and the number of total positive cases climbed to 90,927 Sunday morning, according to the Union health ministry.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lockdown-40-red-orange-green-zones-to-be-decided-by-states-7-pm-7-am-night-curfew-to-continue-299258">Also read |&nbsp;Lockdown 4.0: Red, orange, green zones to be decided by states; 7 pm-7 am night curfew to continue</a>

Hours after the Modi government announced extension of the coronavirus lockdown, Indian aviation regulator DGCA said all scheduled commercial passenger flights have been suspended till May 31 midnight.

Hours after the Modi government announced extension of the coronavirus lockdown, Indian aviation regulator DGCA said all scheduled commercial passenger flights have been suspended till May 31 midnight. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said "foreign and domestic airlines shall be suitably informed about the opening of their operations whether international to or from India or domestic, respectively, in due course". All commercial passenger flights have been suspended in India since March 25, when the lockdown was imposed to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. The regulator on Sunday said the suspension of all domestic and international scheduled commercial passenger flights have been "further extended up to 11.59 PM on May 31". This restriction would not be applicable to domestic and international all-cargo operations and flights specifically approved by the DGCA, it said. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the nodal department, has announced lockdown 4.0 till May 31 to check the spread of the novel coronavirus. The death toll due to COVID-19 rose to 2,872 and the number of total positive cases climbed to 90,927 Sunday morning, according to the Union health ministry. Also read | Lockdown 4.0: Red, orange, green zones to be decided by states; 7 pm-7 am night curfew to continue

All scheduled commercial passenger flights suspended till May 31 midnight

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