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The fourth phase of nationwide coronavirus lockdown, which will continue till May 31, will allow movement of people during the daytime, and inter-state transport. It will, however, continue to enforce prohibition on all public gatherings, closure of schools, malls and restaurants, and suspension of flight and metro services.

Latest MHA guidelines on COVID-19 lockdown 4.0 in India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, as he and his rival-turned-partner Benny Gantz joined hands to form a coalition government, ending months of political uncertainty in the country.

"Mazel Tov (congratulations) my friend @netanyahu for forming your fifth government in Israel," PM Modi wrote on Twitter in Hebrew and English.

"I wish you and @gantzbe (Benny Gantz) success and look forward to continue working closely with your government to further strengthen India-Israel strategic partnership," the prime minister said.

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Mazel Tov my friend <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@netanyahu</a> for forming your fifth government in Israel. I wish you and <a href="https://twitter.com/gantzbe?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gantzbe</a> success and look forward to continue working closely with your government to further strengthen India-Israel strategic partnership.
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Netanyahu on Sunday announced that a new government led by him would be sworn-in with a pledge of Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank to write another glorified chapter in the history of Zionism.

On Wednesday, Netanyahu announced that he has succeeded in forming a unity government in letters sent to President Reuven Rivlin, and Blue and White party Chairman Benny Gantz, who was temporarily serving as the speaker of Knesset (Israeli Parliament).

The government was to be sworn-in on Thursday but internal squabbles in the ruling Likud party over ministerial claims postponed it.

The new government, which according to the coalition agreement, will see Gantz replace Netanyahu as Prime Minister after 18 months on November 17, 2021, as the per power-sharing deal.

Netanyahu would then acquire the title of "Alternate Prime Minister", something that Gantz would now enjoy while also being the Defence Minister.

The government with 32 ministers initially will swell to 36 in six months, making it the largest government in the Jewish state's history.

Prominent ministerial appointments include Gabi Ashkenazi (Blue and White party) as foreign minister, Israel Katz (Likud) as finance minister, Avi Nissenkorn (Blue and White party) as Justice minister and Likud Yuli Edelstein (Likud) as health minister.

Netanyahu's close confidante Amir Ohana, currently serving as interim Justice Minister, is expected to receive the public security portfolio, which oversees law enforcement.

During his tenure as justice minister, Ohana repeatedly attacked the judiciary and those leading it as they pushed forward with criminal investigations, and eventually indictments, against Netanyahu.

Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing and his trial is set to start later this month. 
Ohana's possible appointment as public security minister has sparked speculation among top police officials that he may oppose possible new probes against Netanyahu.

The beleaguered Israeli Prime Minister managed to hold on to his right-wing bloc amid three inconclusive polls to force his main rival Gantz to finally succumb to the demand of a broad national unity government.

(with inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, as he and his rival-turned-partner Benny Gantz joined hands to form a coalition government, ending months of political uncertainty in the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, as he and his rival-turned-partner Benny Gantz joined hands to form a coalition government, ending months of political uncertainty in the country. "Mazel Tov (congratulations) my friend @netanyahu for forming your fifth government in Israel," PM Modi wrote on Twitter in Hebrew and English. "I wish you and @gantzbe (Benny Gantz) success and look forward to continue working closely with your government to further strengthen India-Israel strategic partnership," the prime minister said. Mazel Tov my friend @netanyahu for forming your fifth government in Israel. I wish you and @gantzbe success and look forward to continue working closely with your government to further strengthen India-Israel strategic partnership. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 17, 2020 × Netanyahu on Sunday announced that a new government led by him would be sworn-in with a pledge of Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank to write another glorified chapter in the history of Zionism. On Wednesday, Netanyahu announced that he has succeeded in forming a unity government in letters sent to President Reuven Rivlin, and Blue and White party Chairman Benny Gantz, who was temporarily serving as the speaker of Knesset (Israeli Parliament). The government was to be sworn-in on Thursday but internal squabbles in the ruling Likud party over ministerial claims postponed it. The new government, which according to the coalition agreement, will see Gantz replace Netanyahu as Prime Minister after 18 months on November 17, 2021, as the per power-sharing deal. Netanyahu would then acquire the title of "Alternate Prime Minister", something that Gantz would now enjoy while also being the Defence Minister. The government with 32 ministers initially will swell to 36 in six months, making it the largest government in the Jewish state's history. Prominent ministerial appointments include Gabi Ashkenazi (Blue and White party) as foreign minister, Israel Katz (Likud) as finance minister, Avi Nissenkorn (Blue and White party) as Justice minister and Likud Yuli Edelstein (Likud) as health minister. Netanyahu's close confidante Amir Ohana, currently serving as interim Justice Minister, is expected to receive the public security portfolio, which oversees law enforcement. During his tenure as justice minister, Ohana repeatedly attacked the judiciary and those leading it as they pushed forward with criminal investigations, and eventually indictments, against Netanyahu. Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing and his trial is set to start later this month. Ohana's possible appointment as public security minister has sparked speculation among top police officials that he may oppose possible new probes against Netanyahu. The beleaguered Israeli Prime Minister managed to hold on to his right-wing bloc amid three inconclusive polls to force his main rival Gantz to finally succumb to the demand of a broad national unity government. (with inputs from agencies)

PM Modi congratulates Netanyahu as new Israeli government is formed

India: Ahmedabad is second worst affected city of Coronavirus across the country with more than 7.000 positive coronavirus cases. Ahmedabad municipal body has screened more than 33,000 people across the city.

India: Ahmedabad is second worst affected city of Coronavirus across the country

This phase of the nationwide lockdown will be in effect till May 31 and focuses on a gradual revival of economic activities while keeping in mind the rising number of novel coronavirus cases across the country.

India extends lockdown till 31st May; Here are the new guidelines

In Chile, which has seen a surge in a number of cases, the Indian mission has started a shelter in the old building of the mission to house stranded Indians. Speaking exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Santiago, India's Ambassador to Chile Anita Nayar said, about 270 Indians have registered for repatriation.

In Chile, which has seen a surge in a number of cases, the Indian mission has started a shelter in the old building of the mission to house stranded Indians. Speaking exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Santiago, India's Ambassador to Chile Anita Nayar said, about 270 Indians have registered for repatriation. Around 50 Indians are expected to come back in a LATAM flight that will leave the country on Tuesday. WION: How has been the ground situation in Chile, how are Indian diplomats faring? Anita Nayar: The ground situation in Chile is pretty bad. They have already reached more than 40,000 cases and every day they had between 1200 to 1800, sometimes even 2000 cases. Given that it is a population of 18 million, its not a good ratio. The government has reinstated the lockdown in the metropolitan region of Santiago which represents almost 70% of Chile's population and also in a couple of other areas where the infection seems to be growing at very high rates. The Indian diplomats have been so far faring well, none of us is infected, thank God and even though we have constraints on travel and the embassy most of the staff are working from home, but essential is available and are managing. WION: How are Chile and India cooperating during the COVID crisis. Anita Nayar: Chile has not requested us to provide medicines. They did ask us for N95 masks and ventilators and PPEs but that, of course, we were in no position to provide. But we are, working on a project on cooperation between local immunology institute and ICMR in India to work on a vaccine, perhaps that project will take off quite soon we are hoping. Beyond that Chile has facilitated request for a repatriation flight which has actually been organised by the Argentinian govt--LATAM flight. The flight will take off from Santigo and we have permission to put Indians nationals on the flight so some of the people will be returning on that. WION: How many Indians stranded in the country, how many plan to come back? Anita Nayar: We don't have many people stranded here in Chile. There are about 70 odd people who have given reasons which fit the MHA criteria for urgent and compelling reasons to return to India. Of them, about 50 will be on LATAM flight. The other has chosen not to leave in this flight for whatever reasons. And we hope there will be another evacuation flight because the total of people who have registered for evacuation as 270. WION: Reports suggest some Indians, who were illegally staying in the region have been requesting for repatriation? Anita Nayar: Not aware of any Indian illegally present here who has asked for repatriation. There are people whose visas have expired and they have not been able to renew it because of the lockdown situation. The Chilean foreign ministry has processed all those who have requested to be repatriated on the LATAM flight and we will get the final confirmation on Monday, the flight is on Tuesday--19th. We will get final confirmation on Monday from the foreign office. They have informally assured us there is no problem for any of the people on the list too leave Chile. WION: How is the Indian mission reaching to any stranded Indians in the country..? Anita Nayar: We are making sure that all information we receive, the advisory is put out on various platforms, all our social media platforms direct emails. We have also started a shelter, we are lucky enough to have the old embassy premises which are waiting to be restored to house the stranded Indians in and the community here has been extraordinarily helpful. They have provided us with food, blankets, beds and furniture and almost everything that was needed for the shelter. We currently have 10 people staying there. We have the capacity of another 20 people. The old residence is quite a big building and that I think is one major initiative the embassy has taken to help Indians stranded here and we hope eventually everybody will be repatriated or the crisis is declared over and the lockdown are lifted so that people can again move freely.

270 register for repatriation in Chile as Indian mission starts shelter to house stranded Indians

An IPS officer who has been posted to Rashtrapati Bhavan tests positive for Coronavirus. After confirmation, the officer along with his staff has been sent into total quarantine

IPS officer posted at Rashtrapati Bhavan tests positive for COVID-19

The ongoing countrywide lockdown has been extended till May 31, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) announced on Sunday.

The NDMA said lockdown measures need to be implemented for a further period of 14 days in the country to contain the spread of the deadly virus.

The death toll due to COVID-19 rose to 2,872 and the number of total positive cases climbed to 90,927 Sunday morning.

The NDMA, in exercise of powers under Section 6 (2) (i) of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, directed the ministries and departments of the Government of India, state governments and state authorities to continue the lockdown measures up to May 31.

The authority further directed the National Executive Committee, headed by the Union Home Secretary, to issue modifications in the guidelines as necessary, keeping in view the need to open up economic activities while containing the spread of COVID-19, the order said.

The lockdown was first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 24 for 21 days with effect from March 25. It was then extended till May 3 and again till May 17.

The ongoing countrywide lockdown has been extended till May 31, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) announced on Sunday. The NDMA said lockdown measures need to be implemented for a further period of 14 days in the country to contain the spread of the deadly virus.

The ongoing countrywide lockdown has been extended till May 31, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) announced on Sunday. The NDMA said lockdown measures need to be implemented for a further period of 14 days in the country to contain the spread of the deadly virus. The death toll due to COVID-19 rose to 2,872 and the number of total positive cases climbed to 90,927 Sunday morning. The NDMA, in exercise of powers under Section 6 (2) (i) of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, directed the ministries and departments of the Government of India, state governments and state authorities to continue the lockdown measures up to May 31. The authority further directed the National Executive Committee, headed by the Union Home Secretary, to issue modifications in the guidelines as necessary, keeping in view the need to open up economic activities while containing the spread of COVID-19, the order said. The lockdown was first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 24 for 21 days with effect from March 25. It was then extended till May 3 and again till May 17.

Nationwide lockdown extended till May 31 to contain spread of coronavirus

The Covid-19 infection rate in India shows no signs of abating as the nation reported the biggest ever spike in fresh cases.

India records almost 5,000 new COVID-19 cases in 24 hours

Coronavirus lockdown was on Sunday extended till May 31 in Tamil Nadu. New relaxations such as resumption of intra-district transportation in 25 districts after a hiatus of nearly two months were, however, announced.

In the remaining 12 districts, including Chennai, there will be no change in the curbs and they will continue as existed during the third phase of lockdown, set to end on Sunday.

The said curbs include bar on functioning of educational institutions, public entry into religious places and relaxations already in force.

The 25 districts include Coimbatore, Salem, Erode, Tirupur, Namakkal and Karur, where people could avail government and private buses for commute within the district and they do not need "TN e-pass," (permission for travel).

Effective March 24 evening, public transport ceased to operate in the state as part of lockdown measures.

Coronavirus lockdown was on Sunday extended till May 31 in Tamil Nadu. New relaxations such as resumption of intra-district transportation in 25 districts after a hiatus of nearly two months were, however, announced.

Coronavirus lockdown was on Sunday extended till May 31 in Tamil Nadu. New relaxations such as resumption of intra-district transportation in 25 districts after a hiatus of nearly two months were, however, announced. In the remaining 12 districts, including Chennai, there will be no change in the curbs and they will continue as existed during the third phase of lockdown, set to end on Sunday. The said curbs include bar on functioning of educational institutions, public entry into religious places and relaxations already in force. The 25 districts include Coimbatore, Salem, Erode, Tirupur, Namakkal and Karur, where people could avail government and private buses for commute within the district and they do not need "TN e-pass," (permission for travel). Effective March 24 evening, public transport ceased to operate in the state as part of lockdown measures.

Lockdown extended in Tamil Nadu till May 31; transport curbs eased in 25 districts

Seventeen teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed in Odisha and West Bengal in view of the approaching Cyclone Amphan.

Cyclone Amphan, according to an IMD report on early Sunday, is developing into a severe cyclonic storm in the Bay of Bengal and can become a very severe cyclonic storm potentially in the next 24 hours.

Seven teams of the force have been deployed in West Bengal. These teams are in six districts -- South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Howrah and Hooghly.

In Odisha, ten teams have been deployed in seven districts -- Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Balasore and Mayurbhanj.

One team of NDRF consists of around 45 personnel.

Meanwhile, Cyclone Amphan has gathered strength and intensified into a severe cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal, raising the likelihood of heavy rainfall coupled with high-velocity wind in several coastal districts of Odisha and parts of West Bengal.

It is likely to cross West Bengal-Bangladesh coasts between Sagar Islands in West Bengal and Hatiya islands in Bangladesh between afternoon and evening of May 20 as a very severe cyclonic storm.

According to a bulletin issued by the weather office at 2 pm, AMPHAN moved slowly northwestwards with a speed of 3 kmph and intensified into a severe cyclonic storm.

Under its impact, the coastal districts of Gangetic West Bengal, including North and South 24 Parganas, Kolkata, East and West Midnapore, Howrah and Hooghly are likely to experience light to moderate rain at many places with heavy downpour at isolated places on May 19.

On May 20, rainfall will occur in many places over the districts in Gangetic West Bengal, with heavy to very heavy downpour in North and South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore districts.

In Odisha, 'Amphan' is likely to trigger heavy rainfall in some parts of Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur and Kendrapara districts, while moderate rainfall will lash other coastal areas Monday onwards.

Light to moderate rain or thundershower is likely to occur at most places over coastal Odisha, while heavy to very heavy rainfall will lash some places over the coastal areas on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Light to moderate rain or thundershower will occur at many places over north coastal Odisha and some places over the rest of the districts of Odisha on May 20 and 21. There will be heavy rainfall at some places over Balasore, Bhadrak, Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar districts on these two days.

Squall with speed reaching 45-55 kmph and gusting to 65 kmph is likely to commence along and off the south Odisha coast from May 18 evening. Wind with similar speed is also likely along and off Odisha coast from May 19 morning.

The wind speed will increase becoming gale. Wind speed reaching 75-85 kmph, gusting to 95 kmph from May 20 morning is likely along and off the north Odisha coast.

At present, squally wind speed reaching 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph is prevailing over southeast and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal.

It is likely to increase, becoming 125-135 kmph gusting to 150 kmph over southern parts of central Bay of Bengal by Monday morning, 160-170 kmph gusting to 190 kmph over northern parts of central Bay of Bengal and adjoining north Bay of Bengal on May 19 and 155-165 kmph gusting to 180 kmph over north Bay of Bengal on May 20.

Sea condition will be very high over southwest and adjoining central Bay of Bengal during the next 24 hours.

It will become phenomenal over southern parts of central Bay of Bengal from Sunday night, over northern parts of central Bay of Bengal and adjoining north Bay of Bengal on May 19 and over north Bay of Bengal on May 20.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into north Bay of Bengal along and off West Bengal-Odisha coasts from May 18 to 21 and those who are out in the sea, were asked to return to coasts by May 17.

Distant Warning Signal No.2 (DC-2) was hoisted at all ports of Odisha.

(with inputs from PTI)

Seventeen teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed in Odisha and West Bengal in view of the approaching Cyclone Amphan. Cyclone Amphan, according to an IMD report on early Sunday, is developing into a severe cyclonic storm in the Bay of Bengal and can become a very severe cyclonic storm potentially in the next 24 hours.

Seventeen teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed in Odisha and West Bengal in view of the approaching Cyclone Amphan. Cyclone Amphan, according to an IMD report on early Sunday, is developing into a severe cyclonic storm in the Bay of Bengal and can become a very severe cyclonic storm potentially in the next 24 hours. Seven teams of the force have been deployed in West Bengal. These teams are in six districts -- South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Howrah and Hooghly. In Odisha, ten teams have been deployed in seven districts -- Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Balasore and Mayurbhanj. One team of NDRF consists of around 45 personnel. Meanwhile, Cyclone Amphan has gathered strength and intensified into a severe cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal, raising the likelihood of heavy rainfall coupled with high-velocity wind in several coastal districts of Odisha and parts of West Bengal. It is likely to cross West Bengal-Bangladesh coasts between Sagar Islands in West Bengal and Hatiya islands in Bangladesh between afternoon and evening of May 20 as a very severe cyclonic storm. According to a bulletin issued by the weather office at 2 pm, AMPHAN moved slowly northwestwards with a speed of 3 kmph and intensified into a severe cyclonic storm. Under its impact, the coastal districts of Gangetic West Bengal, including North and South 24 Parganas, Kolkata, East and West Midnapore, Howrah and Hooghly are likely to experience light to moderate rain at many places with heavy downpour at isolated places on May 19. On May 20, rainfall will occur in many places over the districts in Gangetic West Bengal, with heavy to very heavy downpour in North and South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore districts. In Odisha, 'Amphan' is likely to trigger heavy rainfall in some parts of Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur and Kendrapara districts, while moderate rainfall will lash other coastal areas Monday onwards. Light to moderate rain or thundershower is likely to occur at most places over coastal Odisha, while heavy to very heavy rainfall will lash some places over the coastal areas on Tuesday and Wednesday. Light to moderate rain or thundershower will occur at many places over north coastal Odisha and some places over the rest of the districts of Odisha on May 20 and 21. There will be heavy rainfall at some places over Balasore, Bhadrak, Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar districts on these two days. Squall with speed reaching 45-55 kmph and gusting to 65 kmph is likely to commence along and off the south Odisha coast from May 18 evening. Wind with similar speed is also likely along and off Odisha coast from May 19 morning. The wind speed will increase becoming gale. Wind speed reaching 75-85 kmph, gusting to 95 kmph from May 20 morning is likely along and off the north Odisha coast. At present, squally wind speed reaching 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph is prevailing over southeast and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal. It is likely to increase, becoming 125-135 kmph gusting to 150 kmph over southern parts of central Bay of Bengal by Monday morning, 160-170 kmph gusting to 190 kmph over northern parts of central Bay of Bengal and adjoining north Bay of Bengal on May 19 and 155-165 kmph gusting to 180 kmph over north Bay of Bengal on May 20. Sea condition will be very high over southwest and adjoining central Bay of Bengal during the next 24 hours. It will become phenomenal over southern parts of central Bay of Bengal from Sunday night, over northern parts of central Bay of Bengal and adjoining north Bay of Bengal on May 19 and over north Bay of Bengal on May 20. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into north Bay of Bengal along and off West Bengal-Odisha coasts from May 18 to 21 and those who are out in the sea, were asked to return to coasts by May 17. Distant Warning Signal No.2 (DC-2) was hoisted at all ports of Odisha. (with inputs from PTI)

NDRF deploys 17 teams in Odisha, West Bengal as Cyclone Amphan intensifies

Maharashtra government has extended the lockdown in the state till May 31, news agency PTI reported quoting an official on Sunday.

Chief Secretary Ajoy Mehta has issued an order notifying extension of the lockdown, the official said.

"The calibrated phase-wise relaxation/lifting of lockdown orders will be notified in due course," the order said. The present lockdown was valid till May 17.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Maharashtra government has extended the lockdown in the state till May 31, news agency PTI reported quoting an official on Sunday. Chief Secretary Ajoy Mehta has issued an order notifying extension of the lockdown, the official said.

Maharashtra government has extended the lockdown in the state till May 31, news agency PTI reported quoting an official on Sunday. Chief Secretary Ajoy Mehta has issued an order notifying extension of the lockdown, the official said. "The calibrated phase-wise relaxation/lifting of lockdown orders will be notified in due course," the order said. The present lockdown was valid till May 17. (With inputs from PTI)

Maharashtra government extends lockdown till May 31

In a major development announced by FM, the government will now allocate an additional Rs 40,000 crores to MGNREGS to provide employment boost.

FM'S Economic package: 'MGNREGA budget hiked by Rs 4000 crore'

The Centre on Sunday agreed to raise the borrowing limit of states from 3 per cent of gross state domestic product (GSDP) to 5 per cent in 2020-21, to make available an extra of Rs 4.28 lakh crore.

Releasing the fifth and final tranche of the economic stimulus package, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the Centre devolved Rs 46,038 crore of taxes in April to states even though actual revenue shows an unprecedented decline from Budget Estimates.

Revenue deficit grants of Rs 12,390 crore were given to states on time in April and May despite the Centre's stressed resources, she said.

Also, the advance release of the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) of Rs 11,092 crore happened in first week of April, she said adding that a release of over Rs 4,113 crore from the health ministry for direct anti-COVID activities was also released.

At the Centre's request, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has increased Ways and Means Advance limits of states by 60 per cent. Also, the number of days state can be in continuous overdraft has been increased from 14 days to 21 days and the number of days state can be in overdraft in a quarter has been increased from 32 to 50 days.

State net borrowing ceiling for 2020-21 is Rs 6.41 lakh crore (3 per cent of gross state domestic product).

States have so far borrowed only 14 per cent of the limit authorised. Eighty-six per cent of the authorised borrowing remains unutilised.

Despite this, states have been asking for special increase in borrowing from 3 per cent to 5 per cent.

"In view of the unprecedented situation, the Centre has decided to accede to request and increase borrowing limits of states from 3 per cent of GSDP to 5 per cent for 2020-21 only. This will give states extra resources of Rs 4.28 lakh crore," she added.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

The Centre on Sunday agreed to raise the borrowing limit of states from 3 per cent of gross state domestic product (GSDP) to 5 per cent in 2020-21, to make available an extra of Rs 4.

The Centre on Sunday agreed to raise the borrowing limit of states from 3 per cent of gross state domestic product (GSDP) to 5 per cent in 2020-21, to make available an extra of Rs 4.28 lakh crore. Releasing the fifth and final tranche of the economic stimulus package, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the Centre devolved Rs 46,038 crore of taxes in April to states even though actual revenue shows an unprecedented decline from Budget Estimates. Revenue deficit grants of Rs 12,390 crore were given to states on time in April and May despite the Centre's stressed resources, she said. Also, the advance release of the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) of Rs 11,092 crore happened in first week of April, she said adding that a release of over Rs 4,113 crore from the health ministry for direct anti-COVID activities was also released. At the Centre's request, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has increased Ways and Means Advance limits of states by 60 per cent. Also, the number of days state can be in continuous overdraft has been increased from 14 days to 21 days and the number of days state can be in overdraft in a quarter has been increased from 32 to 50 days. State net borrowing ceiling for 2020-21 is Rs 6.41 lakh crore (3 per cent of gross state domestic product). States have so far borrowed only 14 per cent of the limit authorised. Eighty-six per cent of the authorised borrowing remains unutilised. Despite this, states have been asking for special increase in borrowing from 3 per cent to 5 per cent. "In view of the unprecedented situation, the Centre has decided to accede to request and increase borrowing limits of states from 3 per cent of GSDP to 5 per cent for 2020-21 only. This will give states extra resources of Rs 4.28 lakh crore," she added. (With inputs from PTI)

Centre raises borrowing limit of states from 3 pc of GSDP to 5 pc in FY21

Authorities in Maharashtra have released over 7,200 prisoners so far to check overcrowding in jails amid the coronavirus pandemic, officials said on Sunday. Around 10,000 more will be released shortly, they said. 
 
In a bid to decongest state jails due to coronavirus outbreak, the state prisons department has so far released over 7,200 prisoners across the state on either temporary bail or parole, an official said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-count-in-mumbais-dharavi-crosses-1000-death-toll-stands-at-40-298508">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus count in Mumbai's Dharavi crosses 1,000, death toll stands at 40</a>

Following the Supreme Court directives to states and Union territories to set up a panel to consider the release of prisoners on parole to avoid overcrowding in jails to check the spread of coronavirus, the state government had said that around 11,000 prisoners in Maharashtra, whose sentence period is less than seven years, would be released temporarily.

"The pre-lockdown population in the 60 prisons across the state was over 35,000 and so far we have released over 7,200 inmates temporarily to decongest the jails," an official from the prisons department told PTI.

In all, around 17,000 jail inmates would be released on temporary bail or parole, he said.

A high-powered committee appointed by the state government recently decided to release 50 per cent prisoners from various jails across the states and this figure is around 17,000, he said.

The committee's decision came after over 100 inmates and staff of central Mumbai's Arthur Road Jail tested positive for COVID-19.

The pre-lockdown population of Arthur Road Jail was 2300, of which around 700 prisoners were released, he said. There are 1572 inmates in the jail now, he added.&nbsp;

Authorities in Maharashtra have released over 7,200 prisoners so far to check overcrowding in jails amid the coronavirus pandemic, officials said on Sunday. Around 10,000 more will be released shortly, they said.

Authorities in Maharashtra have released over 7,200 prisoners so far to check overcrowding in jails amid the coronavirus pandemic, officials said on Sunday. Around 10,000 more will be released shortly, they said. In a bid to decongest state jails due to coronavirus outbreak, the state prisons department has so far released over 7,200 prisoners across the state on either temporary bail or parole, an official said. Also read: Coronavirus count in Mumbai's Dharavi crosses 1,000, death toll stands at 40 Following the Supreme Court directives to states and Union territories to set up a panel to consider the release of prisoners on parole to avoid overcrowding in jails to check the spread of coronavirus, the state government had said that around 11,000 prisoners in Maharashtra, whose sentence period is less than seven years, would be released temporarily. "The pre-lockdown population in the 60 prisons across the state was over 35,000 and so far we have released over 7,200 inmates temporarily to decongest the jails," an official from the prisons department told PTI. In all, around 17,000 jail inmates would be released on temporary bail or parole, he said. A high-powered committee appointed by the state government recently decided to release 50 per cent prisoners from various jails across the states and this figure is around 17,000, he said. The committee's decision came after over 100 inmates and staff of central Mumbai's Arthur Road Jail tested positive for COVID-19. The pre-lockdown population of Arthur Road Jail was 2300, of which around 700 prisoners were released, he said. There are 1572 inmates in the jail now, he added.

COVID-19: Maha releases 7,200 prisoners to curb overcrowding

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday announces Fifth Tranche of Stimulus Package in order to boost the ailing economy due to nationwide lockdown amid COVID-19 pandemic. This package exclusively focused over Employment, health, ease of doing business.

FM's Fifth Tranche of Stimulus Package: Focus Areas: Employment, health, ease of doing business

Tamil Nadu government said today that 385 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/require-us-to-meet-us-halfway-china-on-trumps-threat-to-cut-off-ties-298858">coronavirus</a> cases were reported in the state today with five fatalities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-church-sues-zoom-app-after-zoombombing-of-bible-study-session-298874">Also Read:&nbsp;US church sues Zoom app after 'zoombombing' of bible study session</a>

The total number of cases in the state has risen to 10,108 with the death toll climbing to 71 in Tamil Nadu.

The state government today ordered sales at TASMAC (liquor) shops with the token system. It said only 500 tokens will be issued per day with all those who come to buy liquor to wear face masks and follow social distancing norms. &nbsp;

In Mumbai's slum area in Dharavi, 84 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours with the number of cases rising to 1,145. No new deaths were recorded today with 53 people having succumbed due to the virus in the area.

Uttarakhand health department said that number of coronavirus cases had reached 82 with 30 active cases. The Punjab government reported 13 more COVID-19 cases today with the number of cases rising to 1,932 with 1,595 active cases in the state. The number of fatalties in the state has surged to 32.

In Jammu and Kashmir, 30 new coronavirus cases were reported with the total number of cases in the Union Territory rising to 1,013, including 489 active cases. 513 people have recovered from the virus. J&amp;K has recorded 11 deaths due to COVID-19.

Tamil Nadu government said today that 385 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state today with five fatalities. Also Read: US church sues Zoom app after 'zoombombing' of bible study session The total number of cases in the state has risen to 10,108 with the death toll climbing to 71 in Tamil Nadu.

Tamil Nadu government said today that 385 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state today with five fatalities. Also Read: US church sues Zoom app after 'zoombombing' of bible study session The total number of cases in the state has risen to 10,108 with the death toll climbing to 71 in Tamil Nadu. The state government today ordered sales at TASMAC (liquor) shops with the token system. It said only 500 tokens will be issued per day with all those who come to buy liquor to wear face masks and follow social distancing norms. In Mumbai's slum area in Dharavi, 84 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours with the number of cases rising to 1,145. No new deaths were recorded today with 53 people having succumbed due to the virus in the area. Uttarakhand health department said that number of coronavirus cases had reached 82 with 30 active cases. The Punjab government reported 13 more COVID-19 cases today with the number of cases rising to 1,932 with 1,595 active cases in the state. The number of fatalties in the state has surged to 32. In Jammu and Kashmir, 30 new coronavirus cases were reported with the total number of cases in the Union Territory rising to 1,013, including 489 active cases. 513 people have recovered from the virus. J&K has recorded 11 deaths due to COVID-19.

Mumbai's Dharavi reports 84 new coronavirus cases in last 24 hours

In what comes as a relief to tipplers in Tamil Nadu, the state-run TASMAC(Tamil Nadu state Marketing Corporation) liquor stores are all set to open in non-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-reports-425-coronavirus-cases-in-the-last-24-hours-298862">containment</a> zones across the state from Saturday, May 16.

Liquor stores, however, will remain closed in Chennai city police limits and in the neighboring Tiruvallur district.&nbsp;Liquor is a major source of revenue for Tamil Nadu and estimates suggest that the state earns over Rs 90 crore a day from liquor sales alone. The sale of booze has been a state monopoly in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

The state government has said that the TASMAC liquor outlets will remain closed in malls and other commercial establishments&nbsp;while standalone shops can still function. The stores will remain open from 10 am to 5pm&nbsp;with only 500 tokens being provided at the store everyday. Also, it has been made mandatory for customers to wear masks.&nbsp;

The decision to re-open the liquor outlets came after the Supreme Court had stayed the Madras High Court’s decision to shut the shops during the lockdown period in the state. On May 8, just a day after the stores had opened for the first time in over 40 days, the High Court had directed the state government to shutter the outlets and allow liquor sales only via online mode.

The High Court had ordered the shops shut following rampant violations of social distancing norms and the other guidelines laid out by the court.

The case filed by the Tamil Nadu government came up for hearing in the Supreme Court before a bench of Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Justice BR Gavi and Justice Nageshwara Rao, who delivered the verdict staying the High Court order, via video conferencing.&nbsp;

The case was also simultaneously being heard at the Madras High Court, the state government has maintained that TASMAC was contributing a major share of the state’s revenue and that other departments will need 4-5 years to generate the same revenue. The State government also mentioned that the online sale of liquor was not possible in a large state such as Tamil Nadu.

Ironically, the announcement regarding the re-opening of liquor outlets has come on a day when the state has seen its total COVID-19 case count surpass 10,000. Tamil Nadu currently has 10,108 total cases of which 7.435 are active. There are a total of 5,946 cases recorded in Chennai, of which 5,114 are active. The state has so far seen 71 deaths and 2,599 recoveries.&nbsp;

In what comes as a relief to tipplers in Tamil Nadu, the state-run TASMAC(Tamil Nadu state Marketing Corporation) liquor stores are all set to open in non-containment zones across the state from Saturday, May 16.

In what comes as a relief to tipplers in Tamil Nadu, the state-run TASMAC(Tamil Nadu state Marketing Corporation) liquor stores are all set to open in non-containment zones across the state from Saturday, May 16. Liquor stores, however, will remain closed in Chennai city police limits and in the neighboring Tiruvallur district. Liquor is a major source of revenue for Tamil Nadu and estimates suggest that the state earns over Rs 90 crore a day from liquor sales alone. The sale of booze has been a state monopoly in Tamil Nadu. The state government has said that the TASMAC liquor outlets will remain closed in malls and other commercial establishments while standalone shops can still function. The stores will remain open from 10 am to 5pm with only 500 tokens being provided at the store everyday. Also, it has been made mandatory for customers to wear masks. The decision to re-open the liquor outlets came after the Supreme Court had stayed the Madras High Court’s decision to shut the shops during the lockdown period in the state. On May 8, just a day after the stores had opened for the first time in over 40 days, the High Court had directed the state government to shutter the outlets and allow liquor sales only via online mode. The High Court had ordered the shops shut following rampant violations of social distancing norms and the other guidelines laid out by the court. The case filed by the Tamil Nadu government came up for hearing in the Supreme Court before a bench of Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Justice BR Gavi and Justice Nageshwara Rao, who delivered the verdict staying the High Court order, via video conferencing. The case was also simultaneously being heard at the Madras High Court, the state government has maintained that TASMAC was contributing a major share of the state’s revenue and that other departments will need 4-5 years to generate the same revenue. The State government also mentioned that the online sale of liquor was not possible in a large state such as Tamil Nadu. Ironically, the announcement regarding the re-opening of liquor outlets has come on a day when the state has seen its total COVID-19 case count surpass 10,000. Tamil Nadu currently has 10,108 total cases of which 7.435 are active. There are a total of 5,946 cases recorded in Chennai, of which 5,114 are active. The state has so far seen 71 deaths and 2,599 recoveries.

Tamil Nadu to open liquor outlets as coronavirus cases surpass 10,000

700 "super spreaders" have been found coronavirus positive in India's Ahmedabad. "Super-spreaders" are those carriers of the viral infection who could infect a large number of people coming in their contact. Watch this video to know more.

India: 700 'super-spreader' test coronavirus positive in Ahmedabad

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered condolences for the migrant workers who lost their lives in the tragic incident that happened around 3:30am on&nbsp;Saturday morning.

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उत्तर प्रदेश के औरैया में सड़क दुर्घटना बेहद ही दुखद है। सरकार राहत कार्य में तत्परता से जुटी है। इस हादसे में मारे गए लोगों के परिजनों के प्रति अपनी संवेदना प्रकट करता हूं, साथ ही घायलों के जल्द से जल्द स्वस्थ होने की कामना करता हूं।
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1261523857237667840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Almost 24 migrant labourers lost their lives while several injured after two trucks collided with each other in the Auraiya district of Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/24-migrant-labourers-dead-after-two-trucks-collide-in-uttar-pradesh-298981">Also read:&nbsp;24 migrant labourers dead after two trucks collide in Uttar Pradesh</a>

Prime Minister offered his condolences through a tweet&nbsp;on Saturday morning. While expressing grief over the incident, he assured that the government is offering all possible support to the victims and their families. He wished a speedy recovery to the injured, who are admitted in Saifai PGI.&nbsp;

These workers were travelling back to their hometowns in Bihar and Jharkhand from Rajasthan.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered condolences for the migrant workers who lost their lives in the tragic incident that happened around 3:30am on Saturday morning.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered condolences for the migrant workers who lost their lives in the tragic incident that happened around 3:30am on Saturday morning. उत्तर प्रदेश के औरैया में सड़क दुर्घटना बेहद ही दुखद है। सरकार राहत कार्य में तत्परता से जुटी है। इस हादसे में मारे गए लोगों के परिजनों के प्रति अपनी संवेदना प्रकट करता हूं, साथ ही घायलों के जल्द से जल्द स्वस्थ होने की कामना करता हूं। — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 16, 2020 × Almost 24 migrant labourers lost their lives while several injured after two trucks collided with each other in the Auraiya district of Uttar Pradesh. Also read: 24 migrant labourers dead after two trucks collide in Uttar Pradesh Prime Minister offered his condolences through a tweet on Saturday morning. While expressing grief over the incident, he assured that the government is offering all possible support to the victims and their families. He wished a speedy recovery to the injured, who are admitted in Saifai PGI. These workers were travelling back to their hometowns in Bihar and Jharkhand from Rajasthan.

PM Modi condoles death of 24 migrant workers in Uttar Pradesh

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has given its nod to bring back 414 Indians stranded in Italy to Goa.

Most of these Indian nationals are ship crew members, and will be brought by three chartered flights -- arranged by M/s Costa Cruise company.

The flights are tentatively scheduled to land in Goa on May 20.

Pratap Singh Rawat, under secretary, MHA, said in an official memo that the ministry had no objection to "carrying out immigration functions in respect of 414 Indian nationals coming to India (Dabolim Airport, Goa) from Italy through three special flights".

The clearance was subject to production of No Objection Certificates from competent authorities in Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Director General of Civil Aviation, the memo added.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant tweeted about the development, thanking the MHA and Ministry of External Affairs.&nbsp;

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I thank the Ministry of Home Affairs and <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> for facilitating special Chartered Flight carrying 414 Goan seafarers from Italy to land at Dabolim airport in Goa. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoaFightsCOVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoaFightsCOVID19</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCOVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCOVID19</a> <a href="https://t.co/fNelLkGTVv">pic.twitter.com/fNelLkGTVv</a>
— Dr. Pramod Sawant (@DrPramodPSawant) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrPramodPSawant/status/1261668641487101953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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As per the state government data, at least 7,000 Goans working on ships are stranded across the globe since the outbreak of coronavirus.

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has given its nod to bring back 414 Indians stranded in Italy to Goa. Most of these Indian nationals are ship crew members, and will be brought by three chartered flights -- arranged by M/s Costa Cruise company.

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has given its nod to bring back 414 Indians stranded in Italy to Goa. Most of these Indian nationals are ship crew members, and will be brought by three chartered flights -- arranged by M/s Costa Cruise company. The flights are tentatively scheduled to land in Goa on May 20. Pratap Singh Rawat, under secretary, MHA, said in an official memo that the ministry had no objection to "carrying out immigration functions in respect of 414 Indian nationals coming to India (Dabolim Airport, Goa) from Italy through three special flights". The clearance was subject to production of No Objection Certificates from competent authorities in Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Director General of Civil Aviation, the memo added. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant tweeted about the development, thanking the MHA and Ministry of External Affairs. I thank the Ministry of Home Affairs and @MEAIndia for facilitating special Chartered Flight carrying 414 Goan seafarers from Italy to land at Dabolim airport in Goa. #GoaFightsCOVID19#IndiaFightsCOVID19 pic.twitter.com/fNelLkGTVv — Dr. Pramod Sawant (@DrPramodPSawant) May 16, 2020 × As per the state government data, at least 7,000 Goans working on ships are stranded across the globe since the outbreak of coronavirus.

MHA gives nod to bring back 414 seafarers stranded in Italy

As the nation starts lockdown 4.0 from Monday, announcements on resuming of domestic air&nbsp;travel are still awaited.

Keeping that possibility in mind, Airport Authority of India (AAI) has issued a brief guideline on Friday for passengers who will be travelling once the flights resume.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-samudra-setu-indian-navy-ship-jalashwa-leaves-maldives-for-kochi-298919">Also read:&nbsp;Operation Samudra Setu: Indian Navy ship Jalashwa leaves Maldives for Kochi</a>

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With the possibility of resumption of domestic flights soon, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AAI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AAI</a> has released some steps that must be followed so passengers are fully geared up while travelling. Wear a mask, carry a hand sanitizer, keep docs handy &amp; register on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AarogyaSetuApp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AarogyaSetuApp</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AAICares?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AAICares</a> <a href="https://t.co/N6ooZIoOsc">pic.twitter.com/N6ooZIoOsc</a>
— Airports Authority of India (@AAI_Official) <a href="https://twitter.com/AAI_Official/status/1261264185486274560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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As per the guidelines, the first thing to take care of for passengers is the compulsory registration on Aarogya Setu app. Every passenger will have to download and register on the app, as it will help the authorities determine if the passenger is travelling from a green zone or a red zone.

Wearing masks and carrying a hand sanitizer will be compulsory. No passenger without masks, gloves and hand sanitizer will be permitted to enter the airport premises. Hand sanitizers, which were earlier not permitted in cabin baggage, have now been allowed upto 350ml.

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Since sanitizing hands frequently is one of the measures against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> virus, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security has allowed passengers boarding an aircraft to carry hand sanitizer up to 350ml in their cabin baggage. This is to be implemented with immediate effect. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AAI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AAI</a> <a href="https://t.co/pYKXjfLMxT">pic.twitter.com/pYKXjfLMxT</a>
— Airports Authority of India (@AAI_Official) <a href="https://twitter.com/AAI_Official/status/1260930168069083136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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All passengers will only be able to book tickets through online or telephonic portals. Passengers will also have to do a web check-in and carry a printed version of their boarding pass. There will be no stamping of boarding passes too, till further notice. This will help the authorities reduce physical contact, thus limiting the spread of the coronavirus.

Earlier, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) had&nbsp;issued standard operating procedure (SOP) for all airlines and airport operators. This set of guidelines has followed that first draft.

Air India, in the meanwhile, has been bringing back Indian nationals stuck abroad in the biggest repatriation operation of the country, called Vande Bharat mission.

Indian Railways, too, resumed special 25 trains to help domestic travellers return back to their hometown. Railways is also operating 'shramik trains' for migrant workers who had been stuck away from home due to the nationwide lockdown.

As the nation starts lockdown 4.0 from Monday, announcements on resuming of domestic air travel are still awaited. Keeping that possibility in mind, Airport Authority of India (AAI) has issued a brief guideline on Friday for passengers who will be travelling once the flights resume.

As the nation starts lockdown 4.0 from Monday, announcements on resuming of domestic air travel are still awaited. Keeping that possibility in mind, Airport Authority of India (AAI) has issued a brief guideline on Friday for passengers who will be travelling once the flights resume. Also read: Operation Samudra Setu: Indian Navy ship Jalashwa leaves Maldives for Kochi With the possibility of resumption of domestic flights soon, #AAI has released some steps that must be followed so passengers are fully geared up while travelling. Wear a mask, carry a hand sanitizer, keep docs handy & register on #AarogyaSetuApp. #AAICares pic.twitter.com/N6ooZIoOsc — Airports Authority of India (@AAI_Official) May 15, 2020 × As per the guidelines, the first thing to take care of for passengers is the compulsory registration on Aarogya Setu app. Every passenger will have to download and register on the app, as it will help the authorities determine if the passenger is travelling from a green zone or a red zone. Wearing masks and carrying a hand sanitizer will be compulsory. No passenger without masks, gloves and hand sanitizer will be permitted to enter the airport premises. Hand sanitizers, which were earlier not permitted in cabin baggage, have now been allowed upto 350ml. Since sanitizing hands frequently is one of the measures against #COVID19 virus, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security has allowed passengers boarding an aircraft to carry hand sanitizer up to 350ml in their cabin baggage. This is to be implemented with immediate effect. #AAI pic.twitter.com/pYKXjfLMxT — Airports Authority of India (@AAI_Official) May 14, 2020 × All passengers will only be able to book tickets through online or telephonic portals. Passengers will also have to do a web check-in and carry a printed version of their boarding pass. There will be no stamping of boarding passes too, till further notice. This will help the authorities reduce physical contact, thus limiting the spread of the coronavirus. Earlier, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) had issued standard operating procedure (SOP) for all airlines and airport operators. This set of guidelines has followed that first draft. Air India, in the meanwhile, has been bringing back Indian nationals stuck abroad in the biggest repatriation operation of the country, called Vande Bharat mission. Indian Railways, too, resumed special 25 trains to help domestic travellers return back to their hometown. Railways is also operating 'shramik trains' for migrant workers who had been stuck away from home due to the nationwide lockdown.

Masks, sanitizers and Aarogya Setu app compulsory: Airport Authority of India

The total number of coronavirus cases in India jumped to 85,940, while the death toll stood at 2,752 as of Saturday evening.&nbsp;

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), in its most recent update, said that 30,153 people have so far recovered from the infection.

MADHYA PRADESH 
The number of coronavirus cases in Madhya Pradesh rose to 4,790 on Saturday as 195 more people, including 79 in Indore and 28 in Bhopal, tested positive for infection.

The virus also claimed four more lives since Friday night, which took the death toll in the state to 243.

Indore, the worst-affected district, has reported 99 deaths. With 79 new patients, it has reported 2,378 confirmed cases so far.

ODISHA 
Odisha recorded 65 fresh COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of cases in the state to 737. A total of 30 patients also recovered from the deadly virus, taking the number of people who have been cured of the disease in the state to 196.

MAHARASHTRA 
Maharashtra recorded 1,606 new COVID-19 cases and 67 deaths, taking the case count to 30,706 and the number of the fatalities to 1,135.

As many as 884 new COVID-19 cases were recorded in Mumbai on Saturday, taking the tally of cases in the city to 18,396, while death toll due to the pandemic rose to 696 with 41 new deaths.

The BMC also said that of the 41 deaths recorded on Saturday, 14 had taken place between May 7 and 12.

TAMIL NADU 
As many as 477 people tested Covid-19 positive and 939 patients were cured and discharged in Tamil Nadu on Saturday.

Three Covid-19 patients died, taking the toll to 74, it added.

The new cases took the state's tally to 10,585. The new infections included, 93 people who had come to Tamil Nadu from Maharashtra (81), Gujarat (7), Andhra Pradesh (1) and Dhaka (4).

DELHI 
The death toll due to coronavirus in Delhi has mounted to 129, even as the total number of COVID-19 cases reported in the national capital climbed to 9,333 on Saturday.

GUJARAT 
The number of COVID-19 cases in Gujarat crossed the 10,000-mark on Saturday, with 1,057 new patients being found positive for coronavirus including 709 "super spreaders" in Ahmedabad, which accounted for 14 of the total 19 deaths.

The total cases now stands at 10,989 while the number of fatalities rose to 625.

(compiled from agencies)

The total number of coronavirus cases in India jumped to 85,940, while the death toll stood at 2,752 as of Saturday evening. The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), in its most recent update, said that 30,153 people have so far recovered from the infection.

The total number of coronavirus cases in India jumped to 85,940, while the death toll stood at 2,752 as of Saturday evening. The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), in its most recent update, said that 30,153 people have so far recovered from the infection. MADHYA PRADESH The number of coronavirus cases in Madhya Pradesh rose to 4,790 on Saturday as 195 more people, including 79 in Indore and 28 in Bhopal, tested positive for infection. The virus also claimed four more lives since Friday night, which took the death toll in the state to 243. Indore, the worst-affected district, has reported 99 deaths. With 79 new patients, it has reported 2,378 confirmed cases so far. ODISHA Odisha recorded 65 fresh COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of cases in the state to 737. A total of 30 patients also recovered from the deadly virus, taking the number of people who have been cured of the disease in the state to 196. MAHARASHTRA Maharashtra recorded 1,606 new COVID-19 cases and 67 deaths, taking the case count to 30,706 and the number of the fatalities to 1,135. As many as 884 new COVID-19 cases were recorded in Mumbai on Saturday, taking the tally of cases in the city to 18,396, while death toll due to the pandemic rose to 696 with 41 new deaths. The BMC also said that of the 41 deaths recorded on Saturday, 14 had taken place between May 7 and 12. TAMIL NADU As many as 477 people tested Covid-19 positive and 939 patients were cured and discharged in Tamil Nadu on Saturday. Three Covid-19 patients died, taking the toll to 74, it added. The new cases took the state's tally to 10,585. The new infections included, 93 people who had come to Tamil Nadu from Maharashtra (81), Gujarat (7), Andhra Pradesh (1) and Dhaka (4). DELHI The death toll due to coronavirus in Delhi has mounted to 129, even as the total number of COVID-19 cases reported in the national capital climbed to 9,333 on Saturday. GUJARAT The number of COVID-19 cases in Gujarat crossed the 10,000-mark on Saturday, with 1,057 new patients being found positive for coronavirus including 709 "super spreaders" in Ahmedabad, which accounted for 14 of the total 19 deaths. The total cases now stands at 10,989 while the number of fatalities rose to 625. (compiled from agencies)

India's coronavirus tally nears 86,000; over 2,750 deaths reported

New measures to support agricultural & allied sector amid lockdown in India. Know these in this video...

New measures to support agricultural & allied sector amid lockdown in India

Structural reforms were the focus of the fourth tranche of the Rs 20 lakh-crore economic stimulus package -- to help the country become self-reliant -- that Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced in a press briefing on Saturday. The package was first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 11 in a televised address to the nation.

Sitharaman&nbsp;gave a massive reform boost to mining, defence, civil aviation and power distribution sectors under the government's Rs 20 lakh-crore economic stimulus package.

The finance minister said the government would introduce competition, transparency and private sector participation in coal sector through a revenue sharing mechanism instead of regime of fixed rupee/tonne.&nbsp;

"PM Modi had said that we should prepare for tough competition. When we speak of AatmaNirbhar Bharat, we are not looking inwards; it is not isolationist policy. It simply means we are making India rely on its strengths, and are ready to face global challenges," Sitharaman said, adding today’s announcements will focus on structural reforms in new sectors, where growth is possible and employment is generated.

"We are going to focus on eight sectors today -- coal, minerals, defence production, airspace management, MROs, power distribution companies, space sectors, atomic energy," she said, adding, "once we decongest sectors, we can boost the sector, for growth and jobs."

A viability gap funding was provided for the creation of social infrastructure like hospitals, while a PPP model was proposed for the country's space programme.

The government also decided to establish research atomic reactor in PPP mode for the production of medical isotopes to provide affordable treatment for cancer and other diseases.

COAL AND MINING

Sitharaman said, "There is a need to reduce import of substitutable coal and increase self-reliance in coal production. Therefore, the government will introduce competition, transparency and private sector participation in coal sector through a revenue sharing mechanism instead of regime of fixed rupee/tonne. This means, now, any party can bid for a coal block and sell in the open market."

For this, entry norms will be liberalised.&nbsp;

The Centre will offer nearly 50 blocks immediately with no eligibility conditions, but only upfront payment with a ceiling.

"The sectoral reform for mining of minerals will boost growth, employment and bring state-of-the-art technology especially in exploration," Sitharaman said,&nbsp;adding, "the government will introduce a seamless composite exploration-cum-mining-production regime. As many as 500 mining blocks will be offered through an open and transparent auction process. The government will also introduce a joint auction of bauxite and coal mineral blocks to enhance aluminum industry's competitiveness. This will help the industry reduce electricity costs."

- Rationalisation of stamp duty payable at the time of award of mining leases will also be done

SELF RELIANCE IN DEFENCE PRODUCTION

India will ease limits on foreign direct investment in defence manufacturing,&nbsp;in a bid to bring more production into the country.

Under the plan, foreign investors would be able to own up to a 74% stake in defence manufacturing ventures, up from the current 49% limit. India would also expand the list of weapons that can not be imported,

"We will notify a list of weapons/platforms for ban on import with year wise timelines. There will be indigenisation of imported spares."

- Separate budget provisioning for domestic capital procurement

- Faster decision making in defence procurement

- Government to corporatise Ordnance Factory Board

AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND OVERHAUL

- "India will become a global hub for Aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO). The tax regime for the MRO ecosystem has been rationalised. Aircraft component repairs and airframe maintenance to increase from Rs 800 crores to Rs 2000 crores in three years."&nbsp;

- "Airports Authority of India has awarded three airports out of six bid for operation and maintenance on Public-Private Partnership (PPP) basis. Additional investment by private players in 12 airports in first and second rounds expected around Rs 13,000 crore."

- "Restrictions on the utilisation of Indian Air Space will be eased so that civilian flying becomes more efficient. This will bring a total benefit of Rs 1,000 crore per year for the aviation sector."

- "Foreign Direct Investment limit in defence manufacturing under automatic route is being raised from 49 per cent to 74 per cent."

-&nbsp;Six more airports for auction under a PPE model. Annual revenue from this in the first round can amout to Rs 1,000 crore/year with an additional downpayment of Rs 2,300 crore for the Airports Authority of India. Additional investment by private players in 12 airports in the first and second rounds are expected to bring in around 13,000 crore. Another six airports will be put out for the third round of bidding

-&nbsp;Restrictions on utilisation of the Indian air space to be eased for increasing efficiency of passenger aircraft, to cut fuel usage and time&nbsp;

SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

The government would boost private sector investments in social-infrastructure projects, like hospitals, by revamping the Viability Gap Funding Scheme. The total outlay for this has been pegged at Rs 8,100 crore.

- The government will also enhance the quantum of viability gap funding up to 30 per cent each of total project cost as VGF by Centre and State/Statutory bodies

TARIFF POLICY REFORMS AND POWER DISTRIBUTION

"A tariff policy with reforms will be released, including consumer rights, promotion of industry and sustainability of sector."

- Privatisation of Discoms in Union Territories

PRIVATE PARTICIPATION IN SPACE ACTIVITIES

"Indian private sector will be a co-traveller in the space sector journey. This will provide a level-playing field for private companies in satellites, launches and space-based services."&nbsp;

- Private sector will be allowed to use ISRO facilities and other relevant assets to improve their capacities

ATOMIC-ENERGY RELATED REFORMS

India's robust start-up ecosystem to the nuclear sector -- "Technology Development cum Incubation Centres will be set up for fostering synergy between research facilities and tech entrepreneurs."

'Will boost job opportunities: PM'

The economic measures would create many business opportunities and contribute to economic transformation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said.

Taking to Twitter, the prime minister said important sectors such as coal, minerals, defence, aviation, space and atomic energy have been covered in the announcements made by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday.

"The measures and reforms announced will create many business opportunities and contribute to economic transformation," he said.

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Important sectors such as coal, minerals, defence, aviation, space and atomic energy have been covered in the announcements by the FM today. The measures and reforms announced will create many business opportunities and contribute to economic transformation.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1261664756701655041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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PREVIOUS ANNOUNCEMENTS

In her third conference, Sitharaman had announced 11 measures for the agriculture sector as part of the third tranche of the government’s relief package. She announced a Rs 10,000 crore scheme for the formalisation of micro food enterprises, and the creation of a Rs 1 lakh-crore agriculture infrastructure fund for farm-gate infrastructure.&nbsp;

Earlier announcements had focussed on the poorer segments of society, including migrant labour, small and marginal farmers and urban poor, seems skewed more towards the long-term.

The ‘One Nation One Ration card’ scheme under which migrants will be enabled to access Public Distribution System from any Fair Price Shop in the country by March 2021 was a part of the prime minister's technology-driven system reforms.

Structural reforms were the focus of the fourth tranche of the Rs 20 lakh-crore economic stimulus package -- to help the country become self-reliant -- that Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced in a press briefing on Saturday.

Structural reforms were the focus of the fourth tranche of the Rs 20 lakh-crore economic stimulus package -- to help the country become self-reliant -- that Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced in a press briefing on Saturday. The package was first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 11 in a televised address to the nation. Sitharaman gave a massive reform boost to mining, defence, civil aviation and power distribution sectors under the government's Rs 20 lakh-crore economic stimulus package. The finance minister said the government would introduce competition, transparency and private sector participation in coal sector through a revenue sharing mechanism instead of regime of fixed rupee/tonne. "PM Modi had said that we should prepare for tough competition. When we speak of AatmaNirbhar Bharat, we are not looking inwards; it is not isolationist policy. It simply means we are making India rely on its strengths, and are ready to face global challenges," Sitharaman said, adding today’s announcements will focus on structural reforms in new sectors, where growth is possible and employment is generated. "We are going to focus on eight sectors today -- coal, minerals, defence production, airspace management, MROs, power distribution companies, space sectors, atomic energy," she said, adding, "once we decongest sectors, we can boost the sector, for growth and jobs." A viability gap funding was provided for the creation of social infrastructure like hospitals, while a PPP model was proposed for the country's space programme. The government also decided to establish research atomic reactor in PPP mode for the production of medical isotopes to provide affordable treatment for cancer and other diseases. COAL AND MINING Sitharaman said, "There is a need to reduce import of substitutable coal and increase self-reliance in coal production. Therefore, the government will introduce competition, transparency and private sector participation in coal sector through a revenue sharing mechanism instead of regime of fixed rupee/tonne. This means, now, any party can bid for a coal block and sell in the open market." For this, entry norms will be liberalised. The Centre will offer nearly 50 blocks immediately with no eligibility conditions, but only upfront payment with a ceiling. "The sectoral reform for mining of minerals will boost growth, employment and bring state-of-the-art technology especially in exploration," Sitharaman said, adding, "the government will introduce a seamless composite exploration-cum-mining-production regime. As many as 500 mining blocks will be offered through an open and transparent auction process. The government will also introduce a joint auction of bauxite and coal mineral blocks to enhance aluminum industry's competitiveness. This will help the industry reduce electricity costs." - Rationalisation of stamp duty payable at the time of award of mining leases will also be done SELF RELIANCE IN DEFENCE PRODUCTION India will ease limits on foreign direct investment in defence manufacturing, in a bid to bring more production into the country. Under the plan, foreign investors would be able to own up to a 74% stake in defence manufacturing ventures, up from the current 49% limit. India would also expand the list of weapons that can not be imported, "We will notify a list of weapons/platforms for ban on import with year wise timelines. There will be indigenisation of imported spares." - Separate budget provisioning for domestic capital procurement - Faster decision making in defence procurement - Government to corporatise Ordnance Factory Board AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND OVERHAUL - "India will become a global hub for Aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO). The tax regime for the MRO ecosystem has been rationalised. Aircraft component repairs and airframe maintenance to increase from Rs 800 crores to Rs 2000 crores in three years." - "Airports Authority of India has awarded three airports out of six bid for operation and maintenance on Public-Private Partnership (PPP) basis. Additional investment by private players in 12 airports in first and second rounds expected around Rs 13,000 crore." - "Restrictions on the utilisation of Indian Air Space will be eased so that civilian flying becomes more efficient. This will bring a total benefit of Rs 1,000 crore per year for the aviation sector." - "Foreign Direct Investment limit in defence manufacturing under automatic route is being raised from 49 per cent to 74 per cent." - Six more airports for auction under a PPE model. Annual revenue from this in the first round can amout to Rs 1,000 crore/year with an additional downpayment of Rs 2,300 crore for the Airports Authority of India. Additional investment by private players in 12 airports in the first and second rounds are expected to bring in around 13,000 crore. Another six airports will be put out for the third round of bidding - Restrictions on utilisation of the Indian air space to be eased for increasing efficiency of passenger aircraft, to cut fuel usage and time SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS The government would boost private sector investments in social-infrastructure projects, like hospitals, by revamping the Viability Gap Funding Scheme. The total outlay for this has been pegged at Rs 8,100 crore. - The government will also enhance the quantum of viability gap funding up to 30 per cent each of total project cost as VGF by Centre and State/Statutory bodies TARIFF POLICY REFORMS AND POWER DISTRIBUTION "A tariff policy with reforms will be released, including consumer rights, promotion of industry and sustainability of sector." - Privatisation of Discoms in Union Territories PRIVATE PARTICIPATION IN SPACE ACTIVITIES "Indian private sector will be a co-traveller in the space sector journey. This will provide a level-playing field for private companies in satellites, launches and space-based services." - Private sector will be allowed to use ISRO facilities and other relevant assets to improve their capacities ATOMIC-ENERGY RELATED REFORMS India's robust start-up ecosystem to the nuclear sector -- "Technology Development cum Incubation Centres will be set up for fostering synergy between research facilities and tech entrepreneurs." 'Will boost job opportunities: PM' The economic measures would create many business opportunities and contribute to economic transformation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. Taking to Twitter, the prime minister said important sectors such as coal, minerals, defence, aviation, space and atomic energy have been covered in the announcements made by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday. "The measures and reforms announced will create many business opportunities and contribute to economic transformation," he said. Important sectors such as coal, minerals, defence, aviation, space and atomic energy have been covered in the announcements by the FM today. The measures and reforms announced will create many business opportunities and contribute to economic transformation. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 16, 2020 × PREVIOUS ANNOUNCEMENTS In her third conference, Sitharaman had announced 11 measures for the agriculture sector as part of the third tranche of the government’s relief package. She announced a Rs 10,000 crore scheme for the formalisation of micro food enterprises, and the creation of a Rs 1 lakh-crore agriculture infrastructure fund for farm-gate infrastructure. Earlier announcements had focussed on the poorer segments of society, including migrant labour, small and marginal farmers and urban poor, seems skewed more towards the long-term. The ‘One Nation One Ration card’ scheme under which migrants will be enabled to access Public Distribution System from any Fair Price Shop in the country by March 2021 was a part of the prime minister's technology-driven system reforms.

Sitharaman gives reform boost to defence, civil aviation; commercial coal mining allowed

As many as 7 lakh people in 649 villages along the sea coast are likely to be severely affected due to the cyclone Amphan -- brewing over the Bay of Bengal, the Odisha government has warned.

IMD has informed that the cyclonic system, formed in the Bay of Bengal, is likely to affect the Odisha coast during May 18-20.

To this end, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday directed the officials to ensure that every human life is saved. He reviewed the preparedness for the cyclone with 12 district collectors and senior officials through video-conferecing on Saturday.

Patnaik also appealed to the people not to panic and cooperate with the administration.

Furthermore, all 12 costal districts have been kept under alert and they are prepared for any eventuality of change in track of the cyclone.

Also, Covid test of the persons accommodated in these centres are being done expeditiously on priority so that persons with negative report can be sent for home quarantine.

As many as 7 lakh people in 649 villages along the sea coast are likely to be severely affected due to the cyclone Amphan -- brewing over the Bay of Bengal, the Odisha government has warned.

As many as 7 lakh people in 649 villages along the sea coast are likely to be severely affected due to the cyclone Amphan -- brewing over the Bay of Bengal, the Odisha government has warned. IMD has informed that the cyclonic system, formed in the Bay of Bengal, is likely to affect the Odisha coast during May 18-20. To this end, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday directed the officials to ensure that every human life is saved. He reviewed the preparedness for the cyclone with 12 district collectors and senior officials through video-conferecing on Saturday. Patnaik also appealed to the people not to panic and cooperate with the administration. Furthermore, all 12 costal districts have been kept under alert and they are prepared for any eventuality of change in track of the cyclone. Also, Covid test of the persons accommodated in these centres are being done expeditiously on priority so that persons with negative report can be sent for home quarantine.

Seven lakh people likely to be affected by Cyclone Amphan brewing over Bay of Bengal

The Central paramilitary forces reported 24 fresh coronavirus cases on Saturday while over 150 personnel recovered, officials said. 
These forces have now begun sending the recovered troops for another 14 days of home quarantine.

With a total of 159 personnel cured in the last 24 hours, the active COVID-19 cases in these five forces, CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP and SSB, stand at 731, a senior official told PTI.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/masks-sanitizers-and-aarogya-setu-app-compulsory-airport-authority-of-india-298994" hreflang="en">Masks, sanitizers and Aarogya Setu app compulsory: Airport Authority of India</a>

Six personnel of these organisations, called the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) or paramilitary forces, have succumbed to the disease.

Among the latest recoveries, 44 personnel are from the CRPF's Delhi-based 31st battalion.

The unit was a major hotspot after about 140 men living in its campus in Mayur Vihar phase-III were infected with coronavirus and a 55-year-old sub-inspector had died.

Of the 24 fresh cases, 16 were reported in Border Security Force that also had 98 recoveries since Friday.

The number of active cases in the border guarding force with a strength of around 2.5 lakh personnel now stands at 208.

"All infected personnel are under treatment in COVID-19 designated hospitals. The 16 personnel reported with the infection today are asymptomatic," BSF spokesperson Shubhendu Bhardwaj said.

"A total of 135 personnel have recovered from the pandemic till now," he said.

The CRPF, the country's largest paramilitary with 3.25 lakh personnel, also saw five fresh infections and the active coronavirus cases in the force are 233.

The Central Industrial Security Force, that has lost the maximum three personnel to COVID-19 among CAPFs, reported three fresh cases. The CISF's 118 staffers are in isolation and undergoing treatment.

Two other forces, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police and the Sashastra Seema Bal, reported no fresh case of the viral disease. 
The number of active cases are 151 and 21 in the ITBP and SSB respectively.

The Sashastra Seema Bal, that guards Nepal and Bhutan borders, saw nine recoveries.

These forces under the command of the Union home ministry have a combined strength of around 10 lakh personnel and are deployed for a variety of duties in the internal security domain and border guarding.

The Central paramilitary forces reported 24 fresh coronavirus cases on Saturday while over 150 personnel recovered, officials said. These forces have now begun sending the recovered troops for another 14 days of home quarantine.

The Central paramilitary forces reported 24 fresh coronavirus cases on Saturday while over 150 personnel recovered, officials said. These forces have now begun sending the recovered troops for another 14 days of home quarantine. With a total of 159 personnel cured in the last 24 hours, the active COVID-19 cases in these five forces, CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP and SSB, stand at 731, a senior official told PTI. Also read: Masks, sanitizers and Aarogya Setu app compulsory: Airport Authority of India Six personnel of these organisations, called the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) or paramilitary forces, have succumbed to the disease. Among the latest recoveries, 44 personnel are from the CRPF's Delhi-based 31st battalion. The unit was a major hotspot after about 140 men living in its campus in Mayur Vihar phase-III were infected with coronavirus and a 55-year-old sub-inspector had died. Of the 24 fresh cases, 16 were reported in Border Security Force that also had 98 recoveries since Friday. The number of active cases in the border guarding force with a strength of around 2.5 lakh personnel now stands at 208. "All infected personnel are under treatment in COVID-19 designated hospitals. The 16 personnel reported with the infection today are asymptomatic," BSF spokesperson Shubhendu Bhardwaj said. "A total of 135 personnel have recovered from the pandemic till now," he said. The CRPF, the country's largest paramilitary with 3.25 lakh personnel, also saw five fresh infections and the active coronavirus cases in the force are 233. The Central Industrial Security Force, that has lost the maximum three personnel to COVID-19 among CAPFs, reported three fresh cases. The CISF's 118 staffers are in isolation and undergoing treatment. Two other forces, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police and the Sashastra Seema Bal, reported no fresh case of the viral disease. The number of active cases are 151 and 21 in the ITBP and SSB respectively. The Sashastra Seema Bal, that guards Nepal and Bhutan borders, saw nine recoveries. These forces under the command of the Union home ministry have a combined strength of around 10 lakh personnel and are deployed for a variety of duties in the internal security domain and border guarding.

CAPFs report 24 fresh COVID-19 cases; over 150 recoveries

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