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India has been on lockdown due to coronavirus since March 25 after India's Prime Minister Modi in a televised speech to the nation announced the lockdown on March 24, the lockdown was further extended till May 17 as the virus continued to spread.

During his meeting with chief ministers on Monday, several state CMs had urged the Indian prime minister to be careful while taking off the lockdown measures with many states still under the coronavirus wave. 

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Minutes after IRCTC website resumed bookings for passengers, the IRCTC website crashed due to heavy traffic.

Indian Railways has suspended all passenger trains since the lockdown started. This had led to a lot of people getting stranded in different cities, away from their hometowns.

In order to help people travel back to their hometowns, Indian Railways decided to partially start train services from May 12. The announcement was made on Sunday evening.&nbsp;

The online ticket bookings were to begin at 4pm on Monday. However, within few minutes the website crashed and the people were unable to book tickets or even login to their accounts.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Special trains are being uploaded in system. Booking will start soon.
— IRCTC (@IRCTCofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/IRCTCofficial/status/1259803784898732032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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After some minutes, IRCTC announced that the booking portal will be accessible to all from 6pm.

The delay was not well received by the people, who took to Twitter to express their concern over this two-hour delay.

It took some time for IRCTC to be able to upload the train schedules and guidelines.

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Indian Railways issues the timings of 30 special trains to be run with effect from 12th May. <a href="https://t.co/fvwxMrL3P3">pic.twitter.com/fvwxMrL3P3</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1259823600783093761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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As soon as the ticket portal became accessible to passengers, the Howrah-New Delhi route was fully booked for 3AC in less than 10 minutes.&nbsp;

All other routes, too, saw a huge number of bookings within the first first hour itself.

While the passengers will be properly screened and face masks will be made compulsory, Indian Railway has issued guidelines for these bookings. It has been decided that no catering charges will be included in the fare as the provision for prepaid meal has been disabled. All passengers are being advised to carry their own food and water as only limited food provisions and packaged water bottles will be available.

Passengers have also been advised to carry their own linen and blankets. Long-distance passenger trains usually provide linens, blankets and curtains. However, to make sure that no transfer of infection takes place, the linens, blankets and curtains have been removed from the trains.

Passengers have also been told that downloading the Aarogya Setu app is compulsory.

Minutes after IRCTC website resumed bookings for passengers, the IRCTC website crashed due to heavy traffic. Indian Railways has suspended all passenger trains since the lockdown started.

Minutes after IRCTC website resumed bookings for passengers, the IRCTC website crashed due to heavy traffic. Indian Railways has suspended all passenger trains since the lockdown started. This had led to a lot of people getting stranded in different cities, away from their hometowns. In order to help people travel back to their hometowns, Indian Railways decided to partially start train services from May 12. The announcement was made on Sunday evening. The online ticket bookings were to begin at 4pm on Monday. However, within few minutes the website crashed and the people were unable to book tickets or even login to their accounts. Special trains are being uploaded in system. Booking will start soon. — IRCTC (@IRCTCofficial) May 11, 2020 × After some minutes, IRCTC announced that the booking portal will be accessible to all from 6pm. The delay was not well received by the people, who took to Twitter to express their concern over this two-hour delay. It took some time for IRCTC to be able to upload the train schedules and guidelines. Indian Railways issues the timings of 30 special trains to be run with effect from 12th May. pic.twitter.com/fvwxMrL3P3 — ANI (@ANI) May 11, 2020 × As soon as the ticket portal became accessible to passengers, the Howrah-New Delhi route was fully booked for 3AC in less than 10 minutes. All other routes, too, saw a huge number of bookings within the first first hour itself. While the passengers will be properly screened and face masks will be made compulsory, Indian Railway has issued guidelines for these bookings. It has been decided that no catering charges will be included in the fare as the provision for prepaid meal has been disabled. All passengers are being advised to carry their own food and water as only limited food provisions and packaged water bottles will be available. Passengers have also been advised to carry their own linen and blankets. Long-distance passenger trains usually provide linens, blankets and curtains. However, to make sure that no transfer of infection takes place, the linens, blankets and curtains have been removed from the trains. Passengers have also been told that downloading the Aarogya Setu app is compulsory.

IRCTC website crashes within minutes; Howrah-New Delhi 3AC full to capacity

Maharashtra on Monday reported 1,230 new<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbais-dharavi-slum-reports-57-new-coronavirus-cases-916-total-cases-298076"> coronavirus</a> cases with 36 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the death toll to 868 in the state.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fight-against-coronavirus-has-to-be-more-focused-now-pm-modi-to-state-chief-ministers-298026">Also Read: Fight against coronavirus has to be more focused now, says PM Modi to CMs</a>

There are now 23,401 cases of COVID-19 in the state, Maharashtra's health department said.

In Greater Mumbai, 791 new coronavirus cases were reported with 20 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the death toll to 528 in the area. The area has now recorded 14,355 cases of the virus.

As the number of cases spiraled in the state, Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray requested for central forces during his video conference with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi while asserting that "police are under heavy pressure and their personnel are also getting infected."

In Uttar Pradesh, 109 more cases surfaced on Monday taking the number of cases in the state to 3,573 which includes 80 deaths.

Five people died in West Bengal with 124 new cases being reported in the state. The total number of coronavirus cases in the state has now risen to 2063.

In Jharkhand, 161 cases have been reported with 80 active cases, the state health department said.

India's national capital recorded no new containment zone with the number of zones totalling 81.

Gujarat too recorded a spurt in cases with 347 new cases taking the number of cases to 8,542. Five hundred and thirteen people have died due to the virus in the state.

Maharashtra on Monday reported 1,230 new coronavirus cases with 36 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the death toll to 868 in the state. Also Read: Fight against coronavirus has to be more focused now, says PM Modi to CMs There are now 23,401 cases of COVID-19 in the state, Maharashtra's health department said.

Maharashtra on Monday reported 1,230 new coronavirus cases with 36 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the death toll to 868 in the state. Also Read: Fight against coronavirus has to be more focused now, says PM Modi to CMs There are now 23,401 cases of COVID-19 in the state, Maharashtra's health department said. In Greater Mumbai, 791 new coronavirus cases were reported with 20 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the death toll to 528 in the area. The area has now recorded 14,355 cases of the virus. As the number of cases spiraled in the state, Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray requested for central forces during his video conference with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi while asserting that "police are under heavy pressure and their personnel are also getting infected." In Uttar Pradesh, 109 more cases surfaced on Monday taking the number of cases in the state to 3,573 which includes 80 deaths. Five people died in West Bengal with 124 new cases being reported in the state. The total number of coronavirus cases in the state has now risen to 2063. In Jharkhand, 161 cases have been reported with 80 active cases, the state health department said. India's national capital recorded no new containment zone with the number of zones totalling 81. Gujarat too recorded a spurt in cases with 347 new cases taking the number of cases to 8,542. Five hundred and thirteen people have died due to the virus in the state.

Maharashtra reports 1,230 new coronavirus cases, 36 deaths in 24 hours

Observing that the coronavirus pandemic has shown the existing international system's limitations, India's envoy in the US has said that the world after COVID-19 needs a template of globalisation based on fairness, equality and humanity.

Economic growth and human welfare need to go hand in hand and there is a need to ensure equitable, affordable and timely access to health products and technologies for all, India's Ambassador to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu said in a virtual interaction with The Asia Group hosted by former US Ambassador to India Richard Verma on Monday.

"The current pandemic shows the limitations of the existing international system. In the post-COVID world, we need a template of globalisation based on fairness, equality and humanity," Mr Sandhu said.

Indian Pharma companies are global leaders in producing affordable low-cost medicines and vaccines, he said, adding that India is a reliable partner for providing affordable medicines to the US.

"Our long-standing and robust partnership with the US in the area of health and scientific research has further deepened during the time of the pandemic," he said.

Similarly, India has been working with the US private sector in vaccine development. Serum Institute of India has collaborated with Codagenix Inc - a New York based clinical-stage Biotechnology Company - to rapidly co-develop a live-attenuated vaccine against the emergent coronavirus, Mr Sandhu said.

Bharat Biotech, Hyderabad has collaborated with the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the vaccine company FluGen to develop a vaccine against COVID-19 called CoroFlu, he said. Mr Sandhu said that the containment of the virus and economic recovery will require strong international cooperation to complement the national policy efforts.

India is also working with its international partners, including its neighbours, to combat the pandemic. It has delivered medical supplies and assistance to over 123 partner countries, he said.

"We have taken the lead in the SAARC region through an Emergency Relief corpus with an initial seed fund of USD 10 million. Our Rapid Response Medical Teams have been deployed in the Maldives, Kuwait. Our health experts are sharing best practices through online training for our neighbours and are active in global efforts to develop remedies and vaccines," the Indian diplomat said.

Noting that much has changed in the last few weeks, Sandhu said that the world looks a completely different place as a nation after nation has taken shelter at home to stop the relentless march of the invisible enemy. Understandably, each country has erected its line of defence with the aim to minimise the loss of life.

"The global health crisis has brought in its wake an economic crisis of a scale that has not been seen in a long time.

"Grappling with these twin crises, governments today face an impossible choice between public health and economy. We will need a delicate balancing act. We need to revitalise our economies as well as enhance resilience, scalability and sustainability of our healthcare systems," he added.

Observing that the coronavirus pandemic has shown the existing international system's limitations, India's envoy in the US has said that the world after COVID-19 needs a template of globalisation based on fairness, equality and humanity.

Observing that the coronavirus pandemic has shown the existing international system's limitations, India's envoy in the US has said that the world after COVID-19 needs a template of globalisation based on fairness, equality and humanity. Economic growth and human welfare need to go hand in hand and there is a need to ensure equitable, affordable and timely access to health products and technologies for all, India's Ambassador to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu said in a virtual interaction with The Asia Group hosted by former US Ambassador to India Richard Verma on Monday. "The current pandemic shows the limitations of the existing international system. In the post-COVID world, we need a template of globalisation based on fairness, equality and humanity," Mr Sandhu said. Indian Pharma companies are global leaders in producing affordable low-cost medicines and vaccines, he said, adding that India is a reliable partner for providing affordable medicines to the US. "Our long-standing and robust partnership with the US in the area of health and scientific research has further deepened during the time of the pandemic," he said. Similarly, India has been working with the US private sector in vaccine development. Serum Institute of India has collaborated with Codagenix Inc - a New York based clinical-stage Biotechnology Company - to rapidly co-develop a live-attenuated vaccine against the emergent coronavirus, Mr Sandhu said. Bharat Biotech, Hyderabad has collaborated with the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the vaccine company FluGen to develop a vaccine against COVID-19 called CoroFlu, he said. Mr Sandhu said that the containment of the virus and economic recovery will require strong international cooperation to complement the national policy efforts. India is also working with its international partners, including its neighbours, to combat the pandemic. It has delivered medical supplies and assistance to over 123 partner countries, he said. "We have taken the lead in the SAARC region through an Emergency Relief corpus with an initial seed fund of USD 10 million. Our Rapid Response Medical Teams have been deployed in the Maldives, Kuwait. Our health experts are sharing best practices through online training for our neighbours and are active in global efforts to develop remedies and vaccines," the Indian diplomat said. Noting that much has changed in the last few weeks, Sandhu said that the world looks a completely different place as a nation after nation has taken shelter at home to stop the relentless march of the invisible enemy. Understandably, each country has erected its line of defence with the aim to minimise the loss of life. "The global health crisis has brought in its wake an economic crisis of a scale that has not been seen in a long time. "Grappling with these twin crises, governments today face an impossible choice between public health and economy. We will need a delicate balancing act. We need to revitalise our economies as well as enhance resilience, scalability and sustainability of our healthcare systems," he added.

'Need globalisation template based on fairness': Indian envoy on covid-19

India's Jubilant Life Sciences Ltd said on Tuesday it had signed a non-exclusive licensing agreement for selling Gilead Sciences Inc's experimental COVID-19 treatment remdesivir in 127 countries, including India.

Gilead has been in talks to expand global supply of the drug, after receiving the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's emergency use authorisation for remdesivir in treating COVID-19 patients.

Under the agreement, Jubilant also gets rights to manufacture the drug and scale up production.

Gilead said earlier this month it was negotiating long-term licenses with several generic drugmakers in India and Pakistan to produce remdesivir for developing countries and that it would provide technology to aid the production.

With no approved treatment for COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus, interest in remdesivir has been growing around the world.

Gilead said the drug has improved outcomes for people suffering from the respiratory disease and has provided data suggesting it works better when given in the early stages of infection.

India's Jubilant Life Sciences Ltd said on Tuesday it had signed a non-exclusive licensing agreement for selling Gilead Sciences Inc's experimental COVID-19 treatment remdesivir in 127 countries, including India.

India's Jubilant Life Sciences Ltd said on Tuesday it had signed a non-exclusive licensing agreement for selling Gilead Sciences Inc's experimental COVID-19 treatment remdesivir in 127 countries, including India. Gilead has been in talks to expand global supply of the drug, after receiving the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's emergency use authorisation for remdesivir in treating COVID-19 patients. Under the agreement, Jubilant also gets rights to manufacture the drug and scale up production. Gilead said earlier this month it was negotiating long-term licenses with several generic drugmakers in India and Pakistan to produce remdesivir for developing countries and that it would provide technology to aid the production. With no approved treatment for COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus, interest in remdesivir has been growing around the world. Gilead said the drug has improved outcomes for people suffering from the respiratory disease and has provided data suggesting it works better when given in the early stages of infection.

India's Jubilant signs licensing deal for Gilead's potential COVID-19 drug

Maharashtra on Tuesday recorded 53 new coronavirus deaths, taking the total death toll to 921, while the total number of cases increased to 24,427, a jump of 1,026 new cases.

Of the total deaths, 28 -- the highest till date -- were recorded in Mumbai, taking the city's toll to 556, while the number of coronavirus cases in the city shot up by 426 to 14,947 on Tuesday, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said.

Dharavi slum alone continued to be a major hotspot in Mumbai, notching 46 new cases, taking the total number of patients to 962, besides recording 31 deaths till now.

In its daily update, the Union health ministry said the death toll rose to 2,293 and the positive cases climbed to 70,756, registering an increase of 87 deaths and 3,604 cases in the last 24 hours till Tuesday 8 AM.

However, a PTI tally of numbers announced by different states and UTs put the total number of confirmed cases much higher at 74,029 and the death toll at 2,338, as of 9 PM.

DELHI 
With 406 fresh instances, the total number of coronavirus cases reached 7,639 while the death toll has risen to 86.

TAMIL NADU 
Eight people with co-morbid conditions died of COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu and as many as 716 fresh coronavirus cases were reported, pushing the tally to 8,718 in the state, authorities said on Tuesday.

TELANGANA 
Two deaths and 51 fresh cases of COVID-19 were reported in Telangana on Tuesday, taking the number of infections in the state to 1,326. The deaths pushed the toll due to the coronavirus to 32, a COVID-19 bulletin issued by the state government said.

UTTAR PRADESH 
Two more people died of coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday as the number of people testing positive for the infection rose to 3,664 due to 91 fresh cases, an official release said. So far, the infection has claimed 82 lives in the state.

GUJARAT 
Gujarat reported 362 new COVID-19 cases and 24 deaths, including 21 in worst-hit Ahmedabad.

WEST BENGAL 
West Bengal, officials said at least eight people have died of COVID-19 in the last 24 hours, raising the death toll in the state to 126, while over 100 more people tested positive for the deadly virus.

KERALA 
Kerala, which had stopped seeing fresh cases till a few days back, saw five new cases as the flow of Keralites returning home from other countries and states continued.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a fourth stage of lockdown, saying its contours will be completely different from those seen yet. On the basis of recommendations received from states, new rules will be framed, and information about the same will be conveyed before May 18, he said.

PM Modi had first announced a 21-day nationwide lockdown on March 24 during his first address to the nation on COVID-19. This was later extended till May 3 and then further till May 18 with some relaxations in the third phase, especially in areas with nil or less cases.

While the cases have continued to rise during the lockdown period, government officials have been saying that the tally could have been much higher but for the containment measures and a targetted testing strategy.

Maharashtra on Tuesday recorded 53 new coronavirus deaths, taking the total death toll to 921, while the total number of cases increased to 24,427, a jump of 1,026 new cases.

Maharashtra on Tuesday recorded 53 new coronavirus deaths, taking the total death toll to 921, while the total number of cases increased to 24,427, a jump of 1,026 new cases. Of the total deaths, 28 -- the highest till date -- were recorded in Mumbai, taking the city's toll to 556, while the number of coronavirus cases in the city shot up by 426 to 14,947 on Tuesday, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said. Dharavi slum alone continued to be a major hotspot in Mumbai, notching 46 new cases, taking the total number of patients to 962, besides recording 31 deaths till now. In its daily update, the Union health ministry said the death toll rose to 2,293 and the positive cases climbed to 70,756, registering an increase of 87 deaths and 3,604 cases in the last 24 hours till Tuesday 8 AM. However, a PTI tally of numbers announced by different states and UTs put the total number of confirmed cases much higher at 74,029 and the death toll at 2,338, as of 9 PM. DELHI With 406 fresh instances, the total number of coronavirus cases reached 7,639 while the death toll has risen to 86. TAMIL NADU Eight people with co-morbid conditions died of COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu and as many as 716 fresh coronavirus cases were reported, pushing the tally to 8,718 in the state, authorities said on Tuesday. TELANGANA Two deaths and 51 fresh cases of COVID-19 were reported in Telangana on Tuesday, taking the number of infections in the state to 1,326. The deaths pushed the toll due to the coronavirus to 32, a COVID-19 bulletin issued by the state government said. UTTAR PRADESH Two more people died of coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday as the number of people testing positive for the infection rose to 3,664 due to 91 fresh cases, an official release said. So far, the infection has claimed 82 lives in the state. GUJARAT Gujarat reported 362 new COVID-19 cases and 24 deaths, including 21 in worst-hit Ahmedabad. WEST BENGAL West Bengal, officials said at least eight people have died of COVID-19 in the last 24 hours, raising the death toll in the state to 126, while over 100 more people tested positive for the deadly virus. KERALA Kerala, which had stopped seeing fresh cases till a few days back, saw five new cases as the flow of Keralites returning home from other countries and states continued. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a fourth stage of lockdown, saying its contours will be completely different from those seen yet. On the basis of recommendations received from states, new rules will be framed, and information about the same will be conveyed before May 18, he said. PM Modi had first announced a 21-day nationwide lockdown on March 24 during his first address to the nation on COVID-19. This was later extended till May 3 and then further till May 18 with some relaxations in the third phase, especially in areas with nil or less cases. While the cases have continued to rise during the lockdown period, government officials have been saying that the tally could have been much higher but for the containment measures and a targetted testing strategy.

India's coronavirus tally: Mumbai's Dharavi continues to be a major hotspot

The foreign ministers of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) will meet on Wednesday via video conference starting 1:30 pm onwards in which India will be represented by external affairs ministers S Jaishankar.

The meet will see the participation of all foreign ministers of SCO including Chinese FM Wang Yi, Russian FM Sergey Lavrov and Pakistan&nbsp;FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi.

SCO is a grouping of eight&nbsp;countries China, Russia, India, Pakistan and four&nbsp;Central Asian countries - Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

This is the first time&nbsp;Indian and Pakistan FMs will be in the same window in any virtual meet on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-cdc-commits-36-million-to-indias-covid-19-fight-298269">COVID-19.</a> So far NAM video conference meet saw Indian PM and Pak President Arif Alvi, SAARC video conference saw PM Modi and Pak being represented by a junior advisor.

The last time Indian and Pakistan FMs were supposed to be in the room was during the informal SAARC meet that happens on the sidelines of UNGA every year. The Pakistan FM did not enter the room till EAM had left the room.&nbsp;

The SCO FMs meet happens days after BRICS FMs meet. During the BRICS FMs meet, all the countries agreed to set up $15 billion loan instrument to finance projects for the economic rebuilding of BRICS countries due to COVID-19 crisis.

Russia is the chair of the BRICS and SCO grouping for the year 2020 and will host the summit later this year.&nbsp;

The foreign ministers of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) will meet on Wednesday via video conference starting 1:30 pm onwards in which India will be represented by external affairs ministers S Jaishankar.

The foreign ministers of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) will meet on Wednesday via video conference starting 1:30 pm onwards in which India will be represented by external affairs ministers S Jaishankar. The meet will see the participation of all foreign ministers of SCO including Chinese FM Wang Yi, Russian FM Sergey Lavrov and Pakistan FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi. SCO is a grouping of eight countries China, Russia, India, Pakistan and four Central Asian countries - Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. This is the first time Indian and Pakistan FMs will be in the same window in any virtual meet on COVID-19. So far NAM video conference meet saw Indian PM and Pak President Arif Alvi, SAARC video conference saw PM Modi and Pak being represented by a junior advisor. The last time Indian and Pakistan FMs were supposed to be in the room was during the informal SAARC meet that happens on the sidelines of UNGA every year. The Pakistan FM did not enter the room till EAM had left the room. The SCO FMs meet happens days after BRICS FMs meet. During the BRICS FMs meet, all the countries agreed to set up $15 billion loan instrument to finance projects for the economic rebuilding of BRICS countries due to COVID-19 crisis. Russia is the chair of the BRICS and SCO grouping for the year 2020 and will host the summit later this year.

SCO foreign minister's virtual meet on COVID-19 on Wednesday

Indian Air Force was forced to rush its fighter jet patrols in Ladakh after Chinese military choppers were found to be flying close to the Line of Actual Control, according to news agency ANI.

Indian Air Force was forced to rush its fighter jet patrols in Ladakh after Chinese military choppers were found to be flying close to the Line of Actual Control, according to news agency ANI. The incident took place last week, around the same time a scuffle broke out between the Chinese People`s Liberation Army troops and Indian troops along the LAC in North Sikkim which led to injuries on both sides. "The Chinese military helicopters were flying very close to the Line of Actual Control. After their movement was picked up, the Indian Air Force fighter jets flew patrols in the area," government sources told. Government sources who requested anonymity due to knowledge of frontline operations informed that the Chinese choppers did not cross the LAC into Indian territory in that particular area, the report stated quoting the government sources. The latest development comes close on the heels of Indian security establishment noticing that Pakistani Air Force increased its patrols of F-16S and JF-17s along its Eastern Border with India, especially night sorties, after the Handwara terror attack that led to the death of 5 Indian security personnel. Fear of retaliation by Indian forces was cited as the reason by Indian security establishment sources for this ramping up of PAF air patrols.

IAF fighters rushed in after Chinese choppers spotted near Ladakh LAC: Report

Tech behemoth Apple's is weighing to shift majority of its&nbsp;manufacturing from China to India.

The iPhone maker is considering producing up to $40 billion worth of smartphones over the next five years through manufacturers Wistron and Foxconn, as per&nbsp;a government official. This is a fifth of its production capacity&nbsp;and can aid India's recovery.

The company is looking&nbsp;to take advantage of the country's improved policy regime.

The Indian government introduced a production-linked incentive scheme last month. A&nbsp;move aimed at encouraging electronics manufacturers to set shop on Indian soil.

This came after PM&nbsp;Modi met global phone-makers, including Apple&nbsp;in December last year.

Apple is likely to be one of the first to make the definitive move. The tech giant&nbsp;produces only a couple of models of the iPhone in India as of now.

These include the iPhone 7 and iPhone XR, which are made by contract manufacturers Foxconn and Wistron.

Apple's manufacturing in India is worth only half a billion dollars at the moment. However, that could all change the near future because Apple wants to scale up its production capacities in the country dramatically.

It is looking to use India as a base to manufacture smartphones that will be exported worldwide.

Apple has plans of exporting India-made products worth 40 billion dollars in the next five&nbsp;years. If the company is able to manage that then it would become India's largest exporter.

The company also keen on establishing a retail base in India. Its sales in India has grown to around 1.5 billion dollars.

The premium smartphone segment in India is dominated by iPhones with over 60 per cent&nbsp;marketshare.

However, there are&nbsp;Apple stores in India. Its&nbsp;products are sold only through authorised re-sellers.&nbsp;This can&nbsp;change in the next year. Apple has been enticed by India's policy relaxation.

India had eased local sourcing norms for foreign retailers late last year. Apple had thanked the Indian government then and said it looked forward to the company's first&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;store.

In February this year, Apple's CEO&nbsp;Tim Cook confirmed that retail operations in India will begin in 2021.

India is the next big focus for Apple in both&nbsp;manufacturing and&nbsp;marketing.

China's loss is seemingly India's gain. 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Tech behemoth Apple's is weighing to shift majority of its manufacturing from China to India. The iPhone maker is considering producing up to $40 billion worth of smartphones over the next five years through manufacturers Wistron and Foxconn, as per a government official.

Tech behemoth Apple's is weighing to shift majority of its manufacturing from China to India. The iPhone maker is considering producing up to $40 billion worth of smartphones over the next five years through manufacturers Wistron and Foxconn, as per a government official. This is a fifth of its production capacity and can aid India's recovery. The company is looking to take advantage of the country's improved policy regime. The Indian government introduced a production-linked incentive scheme last month. A move aimed at encouraging electronics manufacturers to set shop on Indian soil. This came after PM Modi met global phone-makers, including Apple in December last year. Apple is likely to be one of the first to make the definitive move. The tech giant produces only a couple of models of the iPhone in India as of now. These include the iPhone 7 and iPhone XR, which are made by contract manufacturers Foxconn and Wistron. Apple's manufacturing in India is worth only half a billion dollars at the moment. However, that could all change the near future because Apple wants to scale up its production capacities in the country dramatically. It is looking to use India as a base to manufacture smartphones that will be exported worldwide. Apple has plans of exporting India-made products worth 40 billion dollars in the next five years. If the company is able to manage that then it would become India's largest exporter. The company also keen on establishing a retail base in India. Its sales in India has grown to around 1.5 billion dollars. The premium smartphone segment in India is dominated by iPhones with over 60 per cent marketshare. However, there are Apple stores in India. Its products are sold only through authorised re-sellers. This can change in the next year. Apple has been enticed by India's policy relaxation. India had eased local sourcing norms for foreign retailers late last year. Apple had thanked the Indian government then and said it looked forward to the company's first Indian store. In February this year, Apple's CEO Tim Cook confirmed that retail operations in India will begin in 2021. India is the next big focus for Apple in both manufacturing and marketing. China's loss is seemingly India's gain.

As Apple eyes shift to India from China, smartphone manufacturing to get major boost

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a special stimulus package and gave a clarion call for 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' in the wake of the coronavirus crisis that ravaged the Indian economy.

PM Modi, in a nationally televised&nbsp;address, noted that this package, taken together with earlier announcements by the government during the crisis and decisions taken by RBI, amounts to Rs 20 lakh crore -- equivalent to almost 10 per cent of India’s GDP.

The prime minister added that several bold reforms were needed to make the country self-reliant.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-announces-rs-20-lakh-crore-economic-package-lockdown-40-guidelines-to-be-out-soon-298288">Also read | PM Modi announces Rs 20 lakh crore economic package; lockdown 4.0 guidelines to be out soon</a>

Here are the highlights/top quotes from his address --

- Scientists say that coronavirus will be a part of our lives for a very long time. But we can't let our lives remain confined around it. We will wear masks and maintain social distancing but we will not let it affect us. So lockdown 4.0 will be in a new form with new rules -- which will be given to you before May 18

- Every Indian must be vocal for local

- Special economic package will have emphasis on land, labour, liquidity and laws

- Medicines supplied by India have infused new hopes in the world which is fighting battle of life and death. With these steps, when India is being praised everywhere in the world

- Making India self-reliant is only way to make 21st century belong to India

- We had never seen or heard about such a crisis ever before. This is definitely unimaginable for mankind. This was unprecedented. But humanity will not accept defeat from this virus. We have to not only protect ourselves but also move further

- Before the outbreak, not a single PPE or N95 masks were made in India, but now we are making at least 2 lakh of PPE and 2 lakh N95 daily

- India’s self-reliance will be based on five pillars -&nbsp;economy, infrastructure, technology-driven system, vibrant demography and demand

- Time has taught us that we must make 'local' the mantra of our lives. Global brands that are there today were once local too but when people there started supporting them they became global

India imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 25 to combat the spread of the deadly virus. The government is now starting to pull back from one of the world's tightest lockdowns of 1.3 billion people that has left millions out of work and stranded in cities far from home while infections keep rising.

India's coronavirus infections have risen to 70,756, including 2,293 deaths.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a special stimulus package and gave a clarion call for 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' in the wake of the coronavirus crisis that ravaged the Indian economy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a special stimulus package and gave a clarion call for 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' in the wake of the coronavirus crisis that ravaged the Indian economy. PM Modi, in a nationally televised address, noted that this package, taken together with earlier announcements by the government during the crisis and decisions taken by RBI, amounts to Rs 20 lakh crore -- equivalent to almost 10 per cent of India’s GDP. The prime minister added that several bold reforms were needed to make the country self-reliant. Also read | PM Modi announces Rs 20 lakh crore economic package; lockdown 4.0 guidelines to be out soon Here are the highlights/top quotes from his address -- - Scientists say that coronavirus will be a part of our lives for a very long time. But we can't let our lives remain confined around it. We will wear masks and maintain social distancing but we will not let it affect us. So lockdown 4.0 will be in a new form with new rules -- which will be given to you before May 18 - Every Indian must be vocal for local - Special economic package will have emphasis on land, labour, liquidity and laws - Medicines supplied by India have infused new hopes in the world which is fighting battle of life and death. With these steps, when India is being praised everywhere in the world - Making India self-reliant is only way to make 21st century belong to India - We had never seen or heard about such a crisis ever before. This is definitely unimaginable for mankind. This was unprecedented. But humanity will not accept defeat from this virus. We have to not only protect ourselves but also move further - Before the outbreak, not a single PPE or N95 masks were made in India, but now we are making at least 2 lakh of PPE and 2 lakh N95 daily - India’s self-reliance will be based on five pillars - economy, infrastructure, technology-driven system, vibrant demography and demand - Time has taught us that we must make 'local' the mantra of our lives. Global brands that are there today were once local too but when people there started supporting them they became global India imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 25 to combat the spread of the deadly virus. The government is now starting to pull back from one of the world's tightest lockdowns of 1.3 billion people that has left millions out of work and stranded in cities far from home while infections keep rising. India's coronavirus infections have risen to 70,756, including 2,293 deaths.

Key highlights of PM Modi's address to nation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a Rs 20 lakh economic package for a 'self-reliant' India --&nbsp;in order to revive an economy ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic. This is expected to benefit farmers and middle-class families, he said. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will give more details in the coming days.

PM Modi, in a televised address to the nation, said&nbsp;the economic package for the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan" was close to 10 per cent of India's GDP. The special economic package is aimed at benefitting our labourers, farmers, honest tax payers, MSMEs and cottage industry.

The prime minister added the&nbsp;new rules for the fourth phase of the nationwide lockdown will be announced before May 18.&nbsp;

PM Modi addressed the nation even as the total number of coronavirus cases in India topped 70,000, while the death toll neared 2,900. He said, "The unprecedented crisis has disrupted the global economy. We had never seen or heard about such a crisis ever before. This is definitely unimaginable for mankind. This was unprecedented. But humanity will not accept defeat from this virus. We have to not only protect ourselves but also move forward. Today when the entire world is in crisis, we will have to further firm our resolve.

"We have been able to convert pandemic into an opportunity. The meaning of self-reliant is changed across the world. Focus now is on economy centric globalisation versus&nbsp;human centric globalisation.

"India has some of the best talents in the world. We will improve our quality and make best products;&nbsp;we will improve our supply chains.&nbsp;We can do this and we will do this.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rs-20-lakh-crore-package-coronavirus-lockdown-40-and-more-highlights-of-pm-modis-address-to-nation-298296">Also read |&nbsp;Rs 20 lakh crore package, coronavirus lockdown 4.0 and more: Highlights of PM Modi's address to nation</a>

"It just isn’t our dream but our responsibility too to ensure that the 21st century belongs to India," he said, adding a self-reliant India was the only way ahead."

The prime minister also appreciated the way the industries stepped up in the times of coronavirus crisis.

"Not even a single PPE kit was manufactured in India when the coronavirus crisis started -- only a few N95 masks were available. Today 2 lakh PPE kits and 2 lakh N95 masks are being manufactured in India daily," he said.

Adding to his self-reliant narrative, PM Modi said, "When India speaks of self-reliance, it does not advocate for a self-centered system. In India's self-reliance, there is a concern for the whole world's happiness, cooperation and peace."

To this end, PM Modi announced a Rs 20 lakh-crore stimulus package, which is worth almost 10 per cent of India's GDP.

"I announce a special economic package today. This will play an important role in the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan'. The&nbsp;package totals to Rs 20 lakh crore. This is 10 per cent&nbsp;of India's GDP."

He added, "The five pillars for self-reliant India are economy, infrastructure, technology-driven system, vibrant demography, and the fifth pillar is demand. And we shall work to strengthen them."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-manufacturing-output-contracts-206-in-march-298252">Also read |&nbsp;India's manufacturing output contracts 20.6% in March</a>

PM Modi further said that time has taught us that we must make 'local' the mantra of our lives.

"People should buy local and help the indigenous industries," he said, adding, "time has taught us that we must make 'local' the mantra of our lives. Global brands that are there today were once local too but when people there started supporting them they became global. That is why from today, every Indian must become vocal for our local."

About the fourth phase of lockdown, PM Modi said, "The fourth phase of lockdown,&nbsp;Lockdown 4.0, will be in a new form with new rules. Based on the suggestions by states, information related to it will be given to you before May 18.

"The scientists say coronavirus will be a part of our lives for a very long time. But we can't let our lives remain confined around it. We will wear masks and maintain social distancing but we will not let it affect us," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-cdc-commits-usd-36-million-to-indias-covid-19-fight-298269">Also read |&nbsp;US' CDC commits USD 3.6 million to India's COVID-19 fight</a>

India imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 25 to combat the spread of the deadly virus. The government is now starting to pull back from one of the world's tightest lockdowns of 1.3 billion people that has left millions out of work and stranded in cities far from home while infections keep rising.

India's coronavirus infections have risen to 70,756, including 2,293 deaths.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a Rs 20 lakh economic package for a 'self-reliant' India -- in order to revive an economy ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a Rs 20 lakh economic package for a 'self-reliant' India -- in order to revive an economy ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic. This is expected to benefit farmers and middle-class families, he said. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will give more details in the coming days. PM Modi, in a televised address to the nation, said the economic package for the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan" was close to 10 per cent of India's GDP. The special economic package is aimed at benefitting our labourers, farmers, honest tax payers, MSMEs and cottage industry. The prime minister added the new rules for the fourth phase of the nationwide lockdown will be announced before May 18. PM Modi addressed the nation even as the total number of coronavirus cases in India topped 70,000, while the death toll neared 2,900. He said, "The unprecedented crisis has disrupted the global economy. We had never seen or heard about such a crisis ever before. This is definitely unimaginable for mankind. This was unprecedented. But humanity will not accept defeat from this virus. We have to not only protect ourselves but also move forward. Today when the entire world is in crisis, we will have to further firm our resolve. "We have been able to convert pandemic into an opportunity. The meaning of self-reliant is changed across the world. Focus now is on economy centric globalisation versus human centric globalisation. "India has some of the best talents in the world. We will improve our quality and make best products; we will improve our supply chains. We can do this and we will do this. Also read | Rs 20 lakh crore package, coronavirus lockdown 4.0 and more: Highlights of PM Modi's address to nation "It just isn’t our dream but our responsibility too to ensure that the 21st century belongs to India," he said, adding a self-reliant India was the only way ahead." The prime minister also appreciated the way the industries stepped up in the times of coronavirus crisis. "Not even a single PPE kit was manufactured in India when the coronavirus crisis started -- only a few N95 masks were available. Today 2 lakh PPE kits and 2 lakh N95 masks are being manufactured in India daily," he said. Adding to his self-reliant narrative, PM Modi said, "When India speaks of self-reliance, it does not advocate for a self-centered system. In India's self-reliance, there is a concern for the whole world's happiness, cooperation and peace." To this end, PM Modi announced a Rs 20 lakh-crore stimulus package, which is worth almost 10 per cent of India's GDP. "I announce a special economic package today. This will play an important role in the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan'. The package totals to Rs 20 lakh crore. This is 10 per cent of India's GDP." He added, "The five pillars for self-reliant India are economy, infrastructure, technology-driven system, vibrant demography, and the fifth pillar is demand. And we shall work to strengthen them." Also read | India's manufacturing output contracts 20.6% in March PM Modi further said that time has taught us that we must make 'local' the mantra of our lives. "People should buy local and help the indigenous industries," he said, adding, "time has taught us that we must make 'local' the mantra of our lives. Global brands that are there today were once local too but when people there started supporting them they became global. That is why from today, every Indian must become vocal for our local." About the fourth phase of lockdown, PM Modi said, "The fourth phase of lockdown, Lockdown 4.0, will be in a new form with new rules. Based on the suggestions by states, information related to it will be given to you before May 18. "The scientists say coronavirus will be a part of our lives for a very long time. But we can't let our lives remain confined around it. We will wear masks and maintain social distancing but we will not let it affect us," he added. Also read | US' CDC commits USD 3.6 million to India's COVID-19 fight India imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 25 to combat the spread of the deadly virus. The government is now starting to pull back from one of the world's tightest lockdowns of 1.3 billion people that has left millions out of work and stranded in cities far from home while infections keep rising. India's coronavirus infections have risen to 70,756, including 2,293 deaths.

PM Modi announces Rs 20 lakh crore economic package; lockdown 4.0 guidelines to be out soon

India registered another 87 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total fatalities due to the novel coronavirus to 2,293, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) said on Tuesday.

The country recorded another 3,604 COVID-19 cases during the same period which took the total number to 70756. The MoHFW said that of the 70,756 cases, 46008 were active, 22454 had been cured/discharged/migrated cases and 2293 had passed away.

Maharashtra continues to be one of the worst-hit states in the country with a total of 23,401 coronavirus cases. 4786 people have recovered and 868 people have died in the state. Gujarat has 8541 coronavirus cases and has recorded 513 deaths in the state. Tamil Nadu is affected by 8002 cases and the death toll is 53 in the state. There are 7233 coronavirus cases in the national capital and 73 people have died so far.

Meanwhile, Mizoram (one case reported--now recovered), Goa (seven cases reported and all seven recovered), Manipur (Two cases reported and both patients recovered) and Arunachal Pradesh (one case reported--now recovered) have reported no new cases in the last 24 hours.

India registered another 87 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total fatalities due to the novel coronavirus to 2,293, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) said on Tuesday.

India registered another 87 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total fatalities due to the novel coronavirus to 2,293, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) said on Tuesday. The country recorded another 3,604 COVID-19 cases during the same period which took the total number to 70756. The MoHFW said that of the 70,756 cases, 46008 were active, 22454 had been cured/discharged/migrated cases and 2293 had passed away. Maharashtra continues to be one of the worst-hit states in the country with a total of 23,401 coronavirus cases. 4786 people have recovered and 868 people have died in the state. Gujarat has 8541 coronavirus cases and has recorded 513 deaths in the state. Tamil Nadu is affected by 8002 cases and the death toll is 53 in the state. There are 7233 coronavirus cases in the national capital and 73 people have died so far. Meanwhile, Mizoram (one case reported--now recovered), Goa (seven cases reported and all seven recovered), Manipur (Two cases reported and both patients recovered) and Arunachal Pradesh (one case reported--now recovered) have reported no new cases in the last 24 hours.

India's coronavirus cases rise to 70,756, death toll at 2,293 with 87 fatalities in 24 hours

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a Rs 20 lakh economic package for a 'self-reliant' India -- in order to revive an economy ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic. This is expected to benefit farmers and middle-class families, he said. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will give more details in the coming days.

PM Modi announces economic package worth Rs 20 lakh crore, lockdown 4.0 guidelines to be out soon

The lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus is likely to be extended beyond May 17 with fewer restrictions in areas not severely affected, according to government sources following a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and state chief ministers. &nbsp;

Restrictions like night curfew and curbs on public transport may continue in areas designated as Red Zones, a media report said quoting sources.

Modi has asked the states to come out with a blueprint for lockdown exit

Addressing chief ministers via a video conference, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fight-against-coronavirus-has-to-be-more-focused-now-pm-modi-to-state-chief-ministers-298026">prime minister</a> also said he is of the "firm view that the measures needed in the first phase of lockdown were not needed during the second phase and similarly the measures needed in the third phase are not needed in the fourth," according to an official statement.

Many states are in favour of resuming economic activity outside containment zones as the lockdown entered the sixth week.

The prime minister asked the chief ministers to share by May 15 a broad strategy on how they want to deal with lockdown regime in their states.

"I request you all to share with me by May 15, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/4213-new-coronavirus-cases-in-india-1559-recoveries-in-last-24-hours-government-297997">broad strategy</a> on how each one of you would want to deal with the lockdown regime in your particular states. I want states to make a blueprint on how to deal with various nuances during and after gradual easing of the lockdown," he said.

"We now have a reasonably clear indication as to the geographical spread of the pandemic in India, including the worst affected areas. Moreover, over the past few weeks, officials have understood operating procedures in a time such as this, right up to the district level," PM Modi said.

India imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 25 to stop the spread of coronavirus.

The chief ministers in their suggestions on reviving the economy have sought support to micro, small and medium enterprises, infrastructure projects such as power, easing of interest rates on loans and assured market access to agricultural produce, the statement said.

Compulsory quarantining of the stranded Indians returning from abroad by air and sea routes was also highlighted.

Modi said, "We must understand that the world has fundamentally changed post COVID-19."

"Now the world will be pre-corona, post-corona just like the case of the world wars. And this would entail significant changes in how we function," the PM was quoted as saying in the statement.

Modi pointed out that the new way of life would be on the principle of "Jan se lekar jag tak" (from an individual to the whole of humanity). 
"We must all plan for the new reality," he said.

Coronavirus cases in India crossed 67,000 on Monday, with 2,206 deaths, and at the current rate, it may surpass China which is likely to be around the 84,000-mark by May 17.

India had imposed the world's biggest lockdown on May 25, asking people to go out only for food and medicines to slow the spread of the deadly disease.

(With inputs from PTI)

The lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus is likely to be extended beyond May 17 with fewer restrictions in areas not severely affected, according to government sources following a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and state chief ministers.

The lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus is likely to be extended beyond May 17 with fewer restrictions in areas not severely affected, according to government sources following a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and state chief ministers. Restrictions like night curfew and curbs on public transport may continue in areas designated as Red Zones, a media report said quoting sources. Modi has asked the states to come out with a blueprint for lockdown exit Addressing chief ministers via a video conference, the prime minister also said he is of the "firm view that the measures needed in the first phase of lockdown were not needed during the second phase and similarly the measures needed in the third phase are not needed in the fourth," according to an official statement. Many states are in favour of resuming economic activity outside containment zones as the lockdown entered the sixth week. The prime minister asked the chief ministers to share by May 15 a broad strategy on how they want to deal with lockdown regime in their states. "I request you all to share with me by May 15, a broad strategy on how each one of you would want to deal with the lockdown regime in your particular states. I want states to make a blueprint on how to deal with various nuances during and after gradual easing of the lockdown," he said. "We now have a reasonably clear indication as to the geographical spread of the pandemic in India, including the worst affected areas. Moreover, over the past few weeks, officials have understood operating procedures in a time such as this, right up to the district level," PM Modi said. India imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 25 to stop the spread of coronavirus. The chief ministers in their suggestions on reviving the economy have sought support to micro, small and medium enterprises, infrastructure projects such as power, easing of interest rates on loans and assured market access to agricultural produce, the statement said. Compulsory quarantining of the stranded Indians returning from abroad by air and sea routes was also highlighted. Modi said, "We must understand that the world has fundamentally changed post COVID-19." "Now the world will be pre-corona, post-corona just like the case of the world wars. And this would entail significant changes in how we function," the PM was quoted as saying in the statement. Modi pointed out that the new way of life would be on the principle of "Jan se lekar jag tak" (from an individual to the whole of humanity). "We must all plan for the new reality," he said. Coronavirus cases in India crossed 67,000 on Monday, with 2,206 deaths, and at the current rate, it may surpass China which is likely to be around the 84,000-mark by May 17. India had imposed the world's biggest lockdown on May 25, asking people to go out only for food and medicines to slow the spread of the deadly disease. (With inputs from PTI)

Lockdown likely to be extended beyond May 17 in red zones, relaxation in less affected areas: Sources

On Tuesday, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses nation on India's further strategy to fight & contain COVID-19 pandemic across the country. He announces the beginning of Lockdown 4.0 from May 18 in the country, which is going to be with new rules. This was PM Modi's fifth address on COVID-19 lockdown.

Watch: PM Modi's address on Lockdown 4.0 & further strategy to fight COVID-19

The US' Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has committed $3.6 million to assist India's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the aid will support prevention, preparedness and response activities.

The funds will also be used to support the development of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) centres of excellence that can improve the ability of hospital networks to detect COVID-19 and strengthen local health systems through enhanced surveillance and monitoring systems, a US Embassy statement said.

The CDC is the national public health institute of the United States. It is a federal agency under the US' Department of Health and Human Services.

"This initial tranche of funding will seek to further strengthen and support the Indian government's efforts to increase laboratory capacity for SARS-COV-2 testing, including molecular diagnostics and serology," the embassy said.

The CDC will work with local partners to assist in the development of a strong public health workforce to support India's capacity to respond not only to the COVID-19 pandemic but to future threats as well.

The scope of support will include planning for health emergency operations centres to further strengthen public health emergency management capacities.

The CDC India programme will provide technical assistance for the Indian government's ongoing crisis emergency and risk communication efforts.

Since early January, the CDC's India office has been collaborating with sub-national and national government institutes to support the COVID-19 response in the country, the statement said.

Collaboration efforts are focused on lab strengthening, infection prevention and control, health workforce development, emergency management, risk communication and community engagement.

The CDC has conducted trainings across India for healthcare administrators, physicians, nurses, and hospital staff on preparedness and response, infection prevention and control, laboratory operations, and field epidemiology to equip frontline response workers with the necessary skills to collect, analyze and interpret data, and contribute to evidence-based decisions.

The goal of the CDC's global health response to COVID-19 is to limit human-to-human transmission and minimize the impact of COVID-19 through partnerships with key country and non-governmental partners to mitigate vulnerabilities and gaps in preparedness, the US Embassy said.

The CDC has a long-standing relationship and technical collaboration with the Indian government's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to control HIV, TB, and malaria, eradicate polio, and prepare responses to influenza and other pandemic diseases.

"Over the past two decades, this partnership has received support at the highest levels of the two governments and has deepened mutual cooperation through the exchange of scientific knowledge, expertise, and technology, and the development of institutional and human capacities for addressing these health goals," the US Embassy said.

These previous investments to improve health security have laid the foundation for rapidly and effectively preparing for emerging threats, including the current coronavirus outbreak, it said.

For decades, the United States has been the world's largest provider of bilateral assistance in public health, the statement said.

In India, US government agencies, including the US Agency for International Development (USAID), the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention, and other Department of Health and Human Services agencies, have provided more than USD 1.4 billion in health assistance and nearly USD 2.8 billion in total assistance over the last 20 years, it said.&nbsp;

The US' Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has committed $3.6 million to assist India's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the aid will support prevention, preparedness and response activities.

The US' Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has committed $3.6 million to assist India's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the aid will support prevention, preparedness and response activities. The funds will also be used to support the development of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) centres of excellence that can improve the ability of hospital networks to detect COVID-19 and strengthen local health systems through enhanced surveillance and monitoring systems, a US Embassy statement said. The CDC is the national public health institute of the United States. It is a federal agency under the US' Department of Health and Human Services. "This initial tranche of funding will seek to further strengthen and support the Indian government's efforts to increase laboratory capacity for SARS-COV-2 testing, including molecular diagnostics and serology," the embassy said. The CDC will work with local partners to assist in the development of a strong public health workforce to support India's capacity to respond not only to the COVID-19 pandemic but to future threats as well. The scope of support will include planning for health emergency operations centres to further strengthen public health emergency management capacities. The CDC India programme will provide technical assistance for the Indian government's ongoing crisis emergency and risk communication efforts. Since early January, the CDC's India office has been collaborating with sub-national and national government institutes to support the COVID-19 response in the country, the statement said. Collaboration efforts are focused on lab strengthening, infection prevention and control, health workforce development, emergency management, risk communication and community engagement. The CDC has conducted trainings across India for healthcare administrators, physicians, nurses, and hospital staff on preparedness and response, infection prevention and control, laboratory operations, and field epidemiology to equip frontline response workers with the necessary skills to collect, analyze and interpret data, and contribute to evidence-based decisions. The goal of the CDC's global health response to COVID-19 is to limit human-to-human transmission and minimize the impact of COVID-19 through partnerships with key country and non-governmental partners to mitigate vulnerabilities and gaps in preparedness, the US Embassy said. The CDC has a long-standing relationship and technical collaboration with the Indian government's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to control HIV, TB, and malaria, eradicate polio, and prepare responses to influenza and other pandemic diseases. "Over the past two decades, this partnership has received support at the highest levels of the two governments and has deepened mutual cooperation through the exchange of scientific knowledge, expertise, and technology, and the development of institutional and human capacities for addressing these health goals," the US Embassy said. These previous investments to improve health security have laid the foundation for rapidly and effectively preparing for emerging threats, including the current coronavirus outbreak, it said. For decades, the United States has been the world's largest provider of bilateral assistance in public health, the statement said. In India, US government agencies, including the US Agency for International Development (USAID), the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention, and other Department of Health and Human Services agencies, have provided more than USD 1.4 billion in health assistance and nearly USD 2.8 billion in total assistance over the last 20 years, it said.

US' CDC commits $3.6 million to India's COVID-19 fight

A Madhya Pradesh Police sub-inspector's daredevil act of balancing himself on two moving cars, copying the famous stunt from Ajay Devgn-starrer 'Singham' cost him dearly, reported news agency PTI.

Manoj Yadav, the in-charge of Narsinghgarh police post in Damoh district, was fined Rs 5,000 and warned against any such daredevilry in the future, the report said quoting police sources on Monday.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Rs 5,000 fine slapped against SI Manoj Yadav, SHO Narsinghgarh PS in Damoh district of Madhya Pradesh, for doing an <a href="https://twitter.com/ajaydevgn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajaydevgn</a> 'Singham' and 'Phool aur Kante' stunt <a href="https://t.co/6nv4QCDiTX">pic.twitter.com/6nv4QCDiTX</a>
— NEELABH (@neelabhsa) <a href="https://twitter.com/neelabhsa/status/1259916251540918276?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Sporting shades as the hero of the police drama flick and wearing his uniform, Yadav got the entire episode video-graphed, the sources said.

Senior officers of the department took a serious note of the incident after the video of Yadav's daredevilry went viral on social media.

The senior officers feared that the video may send wrong signals to the youngsters and filed Yadav.&nbsp;

Inspector General of Sagar range, Anil Sharma directed Damoh Superintendent of Police Hemant Chauhan to probe the matter. After investigation, the SP imposed the fine on the sub-inspector and warned him not to repeat such mistakes.&nbsp;

A Madhya Pradesh Police sub-inspector's daredevil act of balancing himself on two moving cars, copying the famous stunt from Ajay Devgn-starrer 'Singham' cost him dearly, reported news agency PTI.

A Madhya Pradesh Police sub-inspector's daredevil act of balancing himself on two moving cars, copying the famous stunt from Ajay Devgn-starrer 'Singham' cost him dearly, reported news agency PTI. Manoj Yadav, the in-charge of Narsinghgarh police post in Damoh district, was fined Rs 5,000 and warned against any such daredevilry in the future, the report said quoting police sources on Monday. Rs 5,000 fine slapped against SI Manoj Yadav, SHO Narsinghgarh PS in Damoh district of Madhya Pradesh, for doing an @ajaydevgn 'Singham' and 'Phool aur Kante' stunt pic.twitter.com/6nv4QCDiTX — NEELABH (@neelabhsa) May 11, 2020 × Sporting shades as the hero of the police drama flick and wearing his uniform, Yadav got the entire episode video-graphed, the sources said. Senior officers of the department took a serious note of the incident after the video of Yadav's daredevilry went viral on social media. The senior officers feared that the video may send wrong signals to the youngsters and filed Yadav. Inspector General of Sagar range, Anil Sharma directed Damoh Superintendent of Police Hemant Chauhan to probe the matter. After investigation, the SP imposed the fine on the sub-inspector and warned him not to repeat such mistakes.

Madhya Pradesh cop fined Rs 5,000 for performing  Ajay Devgn-starrer 'Singham' stunt on duty

After a 6-hour video conference with chief ministers (CMs), Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised resumption of more economic activities in the weeks but hints to extend lockdown further 17th May, this time with easier restrictions.

Centre may extend lockdown beyond May 17; States seek autonomy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 8 pm on Tuesday. The information was shared by the Prime Minister's Office on its Twitter handle. The Prime Minister's latest address to the nation comes amid speculation that lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus is likely to be extended beyond May 17 with fewer restrictions in areas not severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 8 pm on Tuesday. The information was shared by the Prime Minister's Office on its Twitter handle. The Prime Minister's latest address to the nation comes amid speculation that lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus is likely to be extended beyond May 17 with fewer restrictions in areas not severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Shri @narendramodi will be addressing the nation at 8 PM this evening. — PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 12, 2020 × The Prime Minister on Monday addressed the chief ministers of 28 states and Union Territories via video conference. During the address, he said he was of the "firm view that the measures needed in the first phase of lockdown were not needed during the second phase and similarly the measures needed in the third phase are not needed in the fourth," according to an official statement. The meeting with the chief ministers focused on increasing the economic activities and to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic in containment zones as the lockdown 3.0 is set to end on May 17. The lockdown was first announced on March 25.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the nation at 8 pm today

Indian Railways will resume their activities with selected train services today amid the lockdown. Indian Railways has released a new timetable for the trains that will begin on Tuesday. This timetable will have details of the stations and its timings.&nbsp;

The chart includes a total of 30 trains with 15 pairs of return trips.&nbsp;

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 650px;">
	<thead>
		<tr>
			<th scope="col" style="width: 58px;">S.No.</th>
			<th scope="col" style="width: 114px;">Train No</th>
			<th scope="col" style="width: 130px;">From</th>
			<th scope="col" style="width: 66px;">Dep. Time</th>
			<th scope="col" style="width: 112px;">To</th>
			<th scope="col" style="width: 65px;">Arr. Time</th>
			<th scope="col" style="width: 80px;">Frequency</th>
		</tr>
	</thead>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02301</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">Howrah</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1705</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1000</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">
			&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2
			</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02302</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1655</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">Howrah</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">0955</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02951</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">Mumbai Central</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1730</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">0905</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;4</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02952</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1655</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">Mumbai Central</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">0845</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;5</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02957</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">Ahmedabad</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1820</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">0800</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;6</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02958</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">2025</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">Ahmedabad</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1005</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;7</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02309</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">Rajendranagar</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1920</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">0740</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;8</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02310</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1715</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">Rajendranagar</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">0530</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02691</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">Bengaluru</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">2030</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">0555</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 10</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02692</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">2115</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">Bengaluru</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">0640</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 11</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02424</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1645</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">Dibrugarh</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">0700</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 12</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02423</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">Dibrugarh</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">2110</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1015</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 13</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02442</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1600</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">Bilaspur</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1200</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Biweekly</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 14</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02441</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">Bilaspur</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1440</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1055</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Biweekly</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 15</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02823</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">Bhubaneshwar</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1000</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1045</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 16</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02824</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1705</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">Bhubaneshwar</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1725</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 17</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02425</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">2110</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">Jammu Tawi</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">0545</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 18</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02426</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">Jammu Tawi</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">2010</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">0500</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Daily</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 19</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02434</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1600</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">Chennai</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">2040</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Biweekly</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 20</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02433</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">Chennai</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">0635</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1030</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Biweekly</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 21</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02454</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1530</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">Ranchi</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1000</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Biweekly</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 22</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02453</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">Ranchi</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1740</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1055</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Biweekly</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 23</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02414</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1125</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">Madgaon</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1250</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Biweekly</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 24</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02413</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">Madgaon</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1030</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1240</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Biweekly</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 25</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02438</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1600</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">Secunderabad</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1400</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Weekly</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 26</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02437</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">Secunderabad</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1315</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1040</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Weekly</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 27</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02432</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1125</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">Thiruvananthapuram</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">0525</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Triweekly</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 28</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02431</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">Thiruvananthapuram</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1945</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1240</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Triweekly</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 29</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02501</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">Agartala</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1900</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1120</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Weekly</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="width: 58px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; 30</td>
			<td style="width: 114px;">02502</td>
			<td style="width: 130px;">New Delhi&nbsp;</td>
			<td style="width: 66px;">1950</td>
			<td style="width: 112px;">Agartala</td>
			<td style="width: 65px;">1330</td>
			<td style="width: 80px;">Weekly</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Few strict measures will be placed to contain the coronavirus spread. People with the confirmed ticket will be allowed through Delhi's Paharganj doorway, no one will be allowed through Ajmeri Gate.&nbsp;

Passengers will have to come to the station 90 minutes in advance and the entry will stop just 15 minutes before the train's departure.&nbsp;

Indian Railways will resume their activities with selected train services today amid the lockdown. Indian Railways has released a new timetable for the trains that will begin on Tuesday.

Indian Railways will resume their activities with selected train services today amid the lockdown. Indian Railways has released a new timetable for the trains that will begin on Tuesday. This timetable will have details of the stations and its timings. The chart includes a total of 30 trains with 15 pairs of return trips. S.No. Train No From Dep. Time To Arr. Time Frequency 1 02301 Howrah 1705 New Delhi 1000 Daily 2 02302 New Delhi 1655 Howrah 0955 Daily 3 02951 Mumbai Central 1730 New Delhi 0905 Daily 4 02952 New Delhi 1655 Mumbai Central 0845 Daily 5 02957 Ahmedabad 1820 New Delhi 0800 Daily 6 02958 New Delhi 2025 Ahmedabad 1005 Daily 7 02309 Rajendranagar 1920 New Delhi 0740 Daily 8 02310 New Delhi 1715 Rajendranagar 0530 Daily 9 02691 Bengaluru 2030 New Delhi 0555 Daily 10 02692 New Delhi 2115 Bengaluru 0640 Daily 11 02424 New Delhi 1645 Dibrugarh 0700 Daily 12 02423 Dibrugarh 2110 New Delhi 1015 Daily 13 02442 New Delhi 1600 Bilaspur 1200 Biweekly 14 02441 Bilaspur 1440 New Delhi 1055 Biweekly 15 02823 Bhubaneshwar 1000 New Delhi 1045 Daily 16 02824 New Delhi 1705 Bhubaneshwar 1725 Daily 17 02425 New Delhi 2110 Jammu Tawi 0545 Daily 18 02426 Jammu Tawi 2010 New Delhi 0500 Daily 19 02434 New Delhi 1600 Chennai 2040 Biweekly 20 02433 Chennai 0635 New Delhi 1030 Biweekly 21 02454 New Delhi 1530 Ranchi 1000 Biweekly 22 02453 Ranchi 1740 New Delhi 1055 Biweekly 23 02414 New Delhi 1125 Madgaon 1250 Biweekly 24 02413 Madgaon 1030 New Delhi 1240 Biweekly 25 02438 New Delhi 1600 Secunderabad 1400 Weekly 26 02437 Secunderabad 1315 New Delhi 1040 Weekly 27 02432 New Delhi 1125 Thiruvananthapuram 0525 Triweekly 28 02431 Thiruvananthapuram 1945 New Delhi 1240 Triweekly 29 02501 Agartala 1900 New Delhi 1120 Weekly 30 02502 New Delhi 1950 Agartala 1330 Weekly Few strict measures will be placed to contain the coronavirus spread. People with the confirmed ticket will be allowed through Delhi's Paharganj doorway, no one will be allowed through Ajmeri Gate. Passengers will have to come to the station 90 minutes in advance and the entry will stop just 15 minutes before the train's departure.

Indian Railways resume services: Check Stations, timings and details of your train

The East Coast Railway (ECoR) on Monday issued an advisory for passengers to travel on a special train from Bhubaneswar on May 13, asking them to carry their own food and linen and arrive at the city station at least 90 minutes before departure for health screening, according to news agency PTI.

The train, with all AC coaches, will leave from the Bhubaneswar railway station at 10 am on Wednesday and terminate at New Delhi, the report said quoting an ECoR official.

"Only limited food and packaged drinking water will be available on payment inside the train and the passengers are advised to carry their own food," the official said, adding that the linen will not be provided.

The tickets for the special train were sold out in 30 minutes after the railway began online booking through the IRCTC website, the official said.

Online cancellation of tickets will be permitted up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure of the train, but the cancellation charge will be 50 per cent of the fare.

The railway said passengers with confirmed tickets will only be allowed into the platform.

"All passengers will have to clear medical screening before being allowed to board the train. Only asymptomatic passengers shall be permitted to travel," it said.

The Railways has announced the resumption of a limited number of&nbsp;passenger services after an almost 50-day hiatus due to an ongoing lockdown.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

The East Coast Railway (ECoR) on Monday issued an advisory for passengers to travel on a special train from Bhubaneswar on May 13, asking them to carry their own food and linen and arrive at the city station at least 90 minutes before departure for health screening, according to news agency PTI.

The East Coast Railway (ECoR) on Monday issued an advisory for passengers to travel on a special train from Bhubaneswar on May 13, asking them to carry their own food and linen and arrive at the city station at least 90 minutes before departure for health screening, according to news agency PTI. The train, with all AC coaches, will leave from the Bhubaneswar railway station at 10 am on Wednesday and terminate at New Delhi, the report said quoting an ECoR official. "Only limited food and packaged drinking water will be available on payment inside the train and the passengers are advised to carry their own food," the official said, adding that the linen will not be provided. The tickets for the special train were sold out in 30 minutes after the railway began online booking through the IRCTC website, the official said. Online cancellation of tickets will be permitted up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure of the train, but the cancellation charge will be 50 per cent of the fare. The railway said passengers with confirmed tickets will only be allowed into the platform. "All passengers will have to clear medical screening before being allowed to board the train. Only asymptomatic passengers shall be permitted to travel," it said. The Railways has announced the resumption of a limited number of passenger services after an almost 50-day hiatus due to an ongoing lockdown. (With inputs from PTI)

Special train passengers told to arrive 90 minutes before departure; carry food, linen

A CISF official in Kolkata died of coronavirus, taking the death toll due to the disease in the paramilitary forces to six with 18 fresh cases being reported on Tuesday, officials said.

The total active COVID-19 cases in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), with the latest additions and as per data accessed by PTI, stands at 779 now.

CISF Assistant Sub Inspector Jharu Burman, 55, posted at the Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSEL) security unit in Kolkata, died of coronavirus on Monday, a senior official of the force said.

The GRSEL is a strategically important warship building facility on the banks of the Hooghly river that caters to the combat requirements of the Navy and the Coast Guard.

The CISF was deployed here in 2016 for proving an anti-terror cover to the facility.

Assistant Sub-Inspector Burman was under treatment at a Kolkata hospital since he tested positive for the disease on May 5, he said.

The official was a resident of Dakshin Dinajpur district of West Bengal.

Earlier, a Central Industrial Security Force ASI posted at the Indian Museum in Kolkata and a head constable-rank official posted to guard the Mumbai international airport had died of COVID-19.

This is the sixth death due to COVID-19 in the CAPFs or paramilitary forces, under the command of the Union home ministry, with two casualties in the Border Security Force and one in the Central Reserve Police Force.

The CISF, with about 1.62 lakh personnel, also saw five new cases of the disease over the last 24 hours, all of them in a unit that guards the Delhi Metro.

The maximum of COVID-19 cases in the CISF, at 28, are contingent that guards the Mumbai international airport, followed by 24 in the Delhi Metro security unit. The force has 68 active cases now.

The BSF, which has the maximum positive cases among the CAPFs, saw nine fresh cases since Monday.

It has a total of 288 active coronavirus cases now apart from one trooper who has recovered from the infection.

The country's largest paramilitary, the about 3.25 lakh personnel strength Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), saw two fresh cases from its units based in Delhi, taking the active number of cases in its establishment to 243.

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), which guards the 3,488 km long Line of Actual Control with China, saw two fresh cases, taking the number of its active COVID-19 cases to 159.

The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), the 80,000 personnel strong force guarding Nepal and Bhutan borders, reported no fresh case on Tuesday and its active cases are 21 at present.

A CISF official in Kolkata died of coronavirus, taking the death toll due to the disease in the paramilitary forces to six with 18 fresh cases being reported on Tuesday, officials said.

A CISF official in Kolkata died of coronavirus, taking the death toll due to the disease in the paramilitary forces to six with 18 fresh cases being reported on Tuesday, officials said. The total active COVID-19 cases in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), with the latest additions and as per data accessed by PTI, stands at 779 now. CISF Assistant Sub Inspector Jharu Burman, 55, posted at the Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSEL) security unit in Kolkata, died of coronavirus on Monday, a senior official of the force said. The GRSEL is a strategically important warship building facility on the banks of the Hooghly river that caters to the combat requirements of the Navy and the Coast Guard. The CISF was deployed here in 2016 for proving an anti-terror cover to the facility. Assistant Sub-Inspector Burman was under treatment at a Kolkata hospital since he tested positive for the disease on May 5, he said. The official was a resident of Dakshin Dinajpur district of West Bengal. Earlier, a Central Industrial Security Force ASI posted at the Indian Museum in Kolkata and a head constable-rank official posted to guard the Mumbai international airport had died of COVID-19. This is the sixth death due to COVID-19 in the CAPFs or paramilitary forces, under the command of the Union home ministry, with two casualties in the Border Security Force and one in the Central Reserve Police Force. The CISF, with about 1.62 lakh personnel, also saw five new cases of the disease over the last 24 hours, all of them in a unit that guards the Delhi Metro. The maximum of COVID-19 cases in the CISF, at 28, are contingent that guards the Mumbai international airport, followed by 24 in the Delhi Metro security unit. The force has 68 active cases now. The BSF, which has the maximum positive cases among the CAPFs, saw nine fresh cases since Monday. It has a total of 288 active coronavirus cases now apart from one trooper who has recovered from the infection. The country's largest paramilitary, the about 3.25 lakh personnel strength Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), saw two fresh cases from its units based in Delhi, taking the active number of cases in its establishment to 243. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), which guards the 3,488 km long Line of Actual Control with China, saw two fresh cases, taking the number of its active COVID-19 cases to 159. The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), the 80,000 personnel strong force guarding Nepal and Bhutan borders, reported no fresh case on Tuesday and its active cases are 21 at present.

CISF official dies of COVID-19 in Kolkata; CAPFs cases over 770

Skies in the national capital have been showing an unprecedented -- yet fantastic -- side-effect amid the nationwide coronavirus-enforced lockdown. They have turned blue and, perhaps, breathable.

The nationwide lockdown has&nbsp;enforced restrictions and self-quarantine measures, which reduced emissions from transportation and industries. To this end, the latest air quality index (AQI) says Delhi has shown 49 per cent reduction in pollution.

The capital city has witnessed 87.9 per cent decline in nitrogen oxide, whose main contributor is transport. Due to the lockdown, a study conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi stated, "Delhi observed the maximum reduction of 49 per cent in AQI. This reduction in AQI was also associated with a change in dominant pollutants in many cities."

AQI captures various air pollutants, such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxide, sulphur dioxide, ozone, carbon monoxide and so on.

According to the study, the country has witnessed 43, 31, 10, and 18 per cent decreases in PM 2.5, PM 10, CO, and NO2 levels during the lockdown period compared to previous years.&nbsp;

In Delhi, the country's most polluted city, transport contributes 41 per cent to pollution, industry 18.61 per cent, power 4.92 per cent and residential emissions 2.96 per cent.

A slight increase in sulphur dioxide concentrations was, however, observed during this period compared to the previous year. Ozone also increased by 10 per cent as compared to the last three years.

Additionally, according to the Central government's System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research, all sources of pollution have decreased during the lockdown, other than bio-fuel emissions.

Also, India's carbon dioxide emissions have also fallen for the first time in four decades, according to a study by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA).

Skies in the national capital have been showing an unprecedented -- yet fantastic -- side-effect amid the nationwide coronavirus-enforced lockdown. They have turned blue and, perhaps, breathable.

Skies in the national capital have been showing an unprecedented -- yet fantastic -- side-effect amid the nationwide coronavirus-enforced lockdown. They have turned blue and, perhaps, breathable. The nationwide lockdown has enforced restrictions and self-quarantine measures, which reduced emissions from transportation and industries. To this end, the latest air quality index (AQI) says Delhi has shown 49 per cent reduction in pollution. The capital city has witnessed 87.9 per cent decline in nitrogen oxide, whose main contributor is transport. Due to the lockdown, a study conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi stated, "Delhi observed the maximum reduction of 49 per cent in AQI. This reduction in AQI was also associated with a change in dominant pollutants in many cities." AQI captures various air pollutants, such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxide, sulphur dioxide, ozone, carbon monoxide and so on. According to the study, the country has witnessed 43, 31, 10, and 18 per cent decreases in PM 2.5, PM 10, CO, and NO2 levels during the lockdown period compared to previous years. In Delhi, the country's most polluted city, transport contributes 41 per cent to pollution, industry 18.61 per cent, power 4.92 per cent and residential emissions 2.96 per cent. A slight increase in sulphur dioxide concentrations was, however, observed during this period compared to the previous year. Ozone also increased by 10 per cent as compared to the last three years. Additionally, according to the Central government's System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research, all sources of pollution have decreased during the lockdown, other than bio-fuel emissions. Also, India's carbon dioxide emissions have also fallen for the first time in four decades, according to a study by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA).

Delhi's air pollution drops by 49% owing to coronavirus-induced lockdown

A team of researchers in Chennai’s NHHID have come up with a Bluetooth-based thermometer that can not only detect fever but also communicate with a smartphone App and share the location.

It is meant to aid authorities in identifying and isolating clusters of cases where fever is prevalent. After development, prototyping, and preliminary testing, the initial batch of 1000 thermometers will be&nbsp;manufactured.&nbsp;

“With increasing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-recovered-covid-19-patients-donate-plasma-in-lucknow-298214">COVID-19 </a>cases the door-to-door screening campaigns become less practical and that’s where the smart thermometer comes into play. We can monitor the temperature of individuals and plan for further measures without any external help. On switching it on, it gets linked to the phone’s Bluetooth and the location will also show up on the App. Just like any thermometer, one can self-examine and the results would show on the smartphone, and if&nbsp;in case there is a fever the data and location is sent to the server” Dr. Senthilvelan an Orthopedic Surgeon who is behind this concept told WION.&nbsp;

The team of eight developers at Chennai’s National Hub for Healthcare Instrumentation Development, Centre for Biotechnology, Anna University(NHHID) have partnered with a Bengaluru-based firm Triphase technology for the manufacturing, following which extensive filed trials would be conducted.

According to the developers, the utility of this product must be seen even beyond the current COVID-19 situation, as there have always been such infections that result in fever as one of the major symptoms.

Dr. Senthilvelan added that this specific prototype could have been in the form of a watch or a bracelet or a necklace, but it was a conscious decision to shape it like a thermometer and recommend that the temperature be recorded from the axilla (armpit) due to the variations in skin temperature at different parts of the body.

“COVID-19 has changed our lifestyle&nbsp;and the future will become more online-oriented. We see this as an opportunity to enhance digitization in biomedical gadgets and develop apps for them as well. The patient can monitor the temperature and the doctor can consult based on the available information, while being far apart. We are also working on another bio-medical device prototype that can monitor vital signs and share the data to the server, thus enabling near-live consultancy” Prof S.Muttan, Coordinator, NHHID, Anna University told WION.&nbsp;

This development gains significance as states in India are recommending home-quarantine of asymptomatic COVID-19 positive patients, for optimal utilization of hospital beds for the critical patients.

With the all-India COVID-19 figures surpassing the 70,000-mark and most densely populated cities being among the worst hit, the fever tracker could prove to be a tool that enables more centralized, app-based fever tracking among users.

The current version of the thermometer is dependent on smartphones and the App is supported on both major mobile platforms, the developers said.

Prof Sankaran , Professor of Eminence, Anna University believes that internet-of-things concepts can be integrated with medical technology, it would go a long way in studying, identifying disease control measures.

“Since all major diseases are accompanied by a fever, the pattern can be used to understand the doctors can decide what fever pattern corresponds to which disease. While the initial unit cost is Rs.350, mass manufacturing can bring down the unit cost to about Rs.100-150. For the cost of the normal thermometer we hope to provide a remote temperature monitoring tool for households” he said.

A team of researchers in Chennai’s NHHID have come up with a Bluetooth-based thermometer that can not only detect fever but also communicate with a smartphone App and share the location.

A team of researchers in Chennai’s NHHID have come up with a Bluetooth-based thermometer that can not only detect fever but also communicate with a smartphone App and share the location. It is meant to aid authorities in identifying and isolating clusters of cases where fever is prevalent. After development, prototyping, and preliminary testing, the initial batch of 1000 thermometers will be manufactured. “With increasing COVID-19 cases the door-to-door screening campaigns become less practical and that’s where the smart thermometer comes into play. We can monitor the temperature of individuals and plan for further measures without any external help. On switching it on, it gets linked to the phone’s Bluetooth and the location will also show up on the App. Just like any thermometer, one can self-examine and the results would show on the smartphone, and if in case there is a fever the data and location is sent to the server” Dr. Senthilvelan an Orthopedic Surgeon who is behind this concept told WION. The team of eight developers at Chennai’s National Hub for Healthcare Instrumentation Development, Centre for Biotechnology, Anna University(NHHID) have partnered with a Bengaluru-based firm Triphase technology for the manufacturing, following which extensive filed trials would be conducted. According to the developers, the utility of this product must be seen even beyond the current COVID-19 situation, as there have always been such infections that result in fever as one of the major symptoms. Dr. Senthilvelan added that this specific prototype could have been in the form of a watch or a bracelet or a necklace, but it was a conscious decision to shape it like a thermometer and recommend that the temperature be recorded from the axilla (armpit) due to the variations in skin temperature at different parts of the body. “COVID-19 has changed our lifestyle and the future will become more online-oriented. We see this as an opportunity to enhance digitization in biomedical gadgets and develop apps for them as well. The patient can monitor the temperature and the doctor can consult based on the available information, while being far apart. We are also working on another bio-medical device prototype that can monitor vital signs and share the data to the server, thus enabling near-live consultancy” Prof S.Muttan, Coordinator, NHHID, Anna University told WION. This development gains significance as states in India are recommending home-quarantine of asymptomatic COVID-19 positive patients, for optimal utilization of hospital beds for the critical patients. With the all-India COVID-19 figures surpassing the 70,000-mark and most densely populated cities being among the worst hit, the fever tracker could prove to be a tool that enables more centralized, app-based fever tracking among users. The current version of the thermometer is dependent on smartphones and the App is supported on both major mobile platforms, the developers said. Prof Sankaran , Professor of Eminence, Anna University believes that internet-of-things concepts can be integrated with medical technology, it would go a long way in studying, identifying disease control measures. “Since all major diseases are accompanied by a fever, the pattern can be used to understand the doctors can decide what fever pattern corresponds to which disease. While the initial unit cost is Rs.350, mass manufacturing can bring down the unit cost to about Rs.100-150. For the cost of the normal thermometer we hope to provide a remote temperature monitoring tool for households” he said.

COVID-19: Researchers develop Bluetooth-based thermometer for fever monitoring

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