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Taliban -- in a first -- has said it would like to have "positive" relations with India while welcoming New Delhi's cooperation in Afghanistan. &nbsp;

"Based on our national interest and mutual respect, we would like to have positive relations with neighbouring countries, including India. We welcome their contribution and cooperation in the reconstruction of future Afghanistan," Suhail Shaheen spokesperson Taliban Political Office, Doha said in an exclusive conversation with WION.

He explained, "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is a national liberation force which has been struggling for the emancipation of the country from occupation. We don’t have any agenda beyond our border. "

The comments come in the wake of the US being keen that New Delhi engages with the Taliban. Also, US Special Representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad was in Delhi last week -- the first such visit after the US-Taliban deal on February 29 -- and had spoken about this with India.

During the visit, he called on External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Sources said, "It is clear, New Delhi needs to be part of the process if we need to contribute effectively to the (Afghan) peace process."

The talks which had "level of urgency", sources added, had "covered the entire gamut of the situation in Afghanistan. Proposal for the accommodation of different strands of political thoughts was discussed."

In an interview to the Hindu newspaper, Zalmay Khalilzad had said India should speak directly to the Taliban.

The Indian readout of the meet said that EAM and NSA had reiterated "India's continued support for strengthening peace, security, unity, democratic and inclusive polity" and "protection of rights of all sections of the Afghan society, including Afghan Hindus and Sikhs."&nbsp;

Earlier this year, terrorists attacked a Gurudwara in Kabul killing more than 25 Afghan Sikhs and was claimed by the Islamic State. The attack also killed one Indian.

To this end, India had expressed deep "concern at the upsurge in violence" and extended support for "call for an immediate ceasefire" and need to "assist the people of Afghanistan in dealing with coronavirus pandemic."

India also emphasised on the need to "putting an end to terrorist safe havens and sanctuaries" which is necessary for "enduring and sustainable peace and stability in Afghanistan."

The US special envoy was accompanied by Senior Director in the US National Security Council Lisa Curtis and the US Ambassador to India Ken Juster.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/us-threatens-taliban-with-retaliatory-actions-if-violence-in-afghanistan-continues-296384">Also read |&nbsp;US threatens Taliban with retaliatory actions if violence in Afghanistan continues</a>

Taliban -- in a first -- has said it would like to have "positive" relations with India while welcoming New Delhi's cooperation in Afghanistan. "Based on our national interest and mutual respect, we would like to have positive relations with neighbouring countries, including India.

Taliban -- in a first -- has said it would like to have "positive" relations with India while welcoming New Delhi's cooperation in Afghanistan. "Based on our national interest and mutual respect, we would like to have positive relations with neighbouring countries, including India. We welcome their contribution and cooperation in the reconstruction of future Afghanistan," Suhail Shaheen spokesperson Taliban Political Office, Doha said in an exclusive conversation with WION. He explained, "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is a national liberation force which has been struggling for the emancipation of the country from occupation. We don’t have any agenda beyond our border. " The comments come in the wake of the US being keen that New Delhi engages with the Taliban. Also, US Special Representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad was in Delhi last week -- the first such visit after the US-Taliban deal on February 29 -- and had spoken about this with India. During the visit, he called on External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Sources said, "It is clear, New Delhi needs to be part of the process if we need to contribute effectively to the (Afghan) peace process." The talks which had "level of urgency", sources added, had "covered the entire gamut of the situation in Afghanistan. Proposal for the accommodation of different strands of political thoughts was discussed." In an interview to the Hindu newspaper, Zalmay Khalilzad had said India should speak directly to the Taliban. The Indian readout of the meet said that EAM and NSA had reiterated "India's continued support for strengthening peace, security, unity, democratic and inclusive polity" and "protection of rights of all sections of the Afghan society, including Afghan Hindus and Sikhs." Earlier this year, terrorists attacked a Gurudwara in Kabul killing more than 25 Afghan Sikhs and was claimed by the Islamic State. The attack also killed one Indian. To this end, India had expressed deep "concern at the upsurge in violence" and extended support for "call for an immediate ceasefire" and need to "assist the people of Afghanistan in dealing with coronavirus pandemic." India also emphasised on the need to "putting an end to terrorist safe havens and sanctuaries" which is necessary for "enduring and sustainable peace and stability in Afghanistan." The US special envoy was accompanied by Senior Director in the US National Security Council Lisa Curtis and the US Ambassador to India Ken Juster. Also read | US threatens Taliban with retaliatory actions if violence in Afghanistan continues

Would like to maintain positive relations with India, says Taliban

India's consul general in Dubai Vipul has said that the ongoing repatriation is going "very well and smoothly" as many flights from the city land in India. Speaking exclusively&nbsp;to our diplomatic&nbsp;correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Dubai, Vipul lauded the UAE authorities saying that have been "very helpful and cooperative." 250,000 Indians in UAE have registered for repatriation, the maximum anywhere in the world with a large number of flights originating from Dubai making the task much more complex&nbsp;in the West Asian country which hosts maximum numbers of Indians anywhere in the world.

WION: How has the repatriation going on?

Vipul: Well, the repatriation has gone on very well. So far we have sent 4 flights from Dubai, one to Calicut, two to Chennai, one to Lucknow and all the flights have been very orderly. The Dubai authorities&nbsp;along with Air India have done exceedingly well, in terms of&nbsp;ensuring a very smooth flow of passengers. Of course, all the passengers are very relieved&nbsp;to go back home now, because&nbsp;many have been stranded here for some time and we got number of passengers&nbsp;who were pregnant&nbsp;ladies, number of workers who would have lost jobs or had completed&nbsp;the assignments here. A lot of elderly people and medical cases and these are the 4 categories we have concentrated the most on in the initial phase. Then there are students and visitors who were stranded. But overall&nbsp;it&nbsp;has gone very nicely and very smoothly.&nbsp;

WION: How has it been for our people and diplomats like you who have been on the ground facilitating the process. It is risky being out due to COVID.

Vipul: It is correct and there are jobs we have to do, and people at the airport have to do. In that, there is no choice and we are taking all the precautions. We taking all care that we are not going too near to the passengers. And at the same time, we have to be at the location so that it is an orderly flow. And sometimes especially here in Dubai, people get deboarded at the last minute&nbsp;because they have not done some formality or other. In some cases, people haven't turned up despite buying the ticket. And then you have to make sure seats don't&nbsp;go vacant, therefore&nbsp;we have had passengers in the waiting list and you have to arrange for that, so overall yes it there is some risk we are taking all precautions and hopefully, everything will go all well. The other thing with which we are facing difficulty or challenge is a huge number of Indian population is here in UAE, we 3.4 million and of course lot of people want to go to India right now and that has been a tough job. We have done that at random, and then also, we have taken people who have written to us or have approached us and who are really in a compelling circumstance were they have to go back to India.

WION: Any exact figure on the number of people who are expected to come back?&nbsp;

Vipul: It is a bit difficult to give an exact number. &nbsp;Six flights are slated to go from Dubai in next 4 days. And then for the 2nd phase as yet we don't have instructions from Delhi and information as to how many fights there would be. In terms of a number of people, it is large, there are also people who have gone into our database and filled up the details but not ready to go immediately. So it is a bit difficult to give the exact number. Of course, it is very large, on the portal, more than 250,000 people have registered so far but when we are calling people, they are not ready to go right now, so it is a bit difficult to give the exact number of people who will go in next few weeks.

WION: How have the UAE authorities helping out?&nbsp;

Vipul: They have been very very helpful. The UAE authorities are doing the test for all Indians and for all other stranded nationalities as well who are repatriating people. They have put in lot of staff that maintain order and make sure social distancing norms are maintained at the airport. Dubai police, Dubai health authorities and other agencies, they have been working together with us, ministry foreign affairs, everyone has been working together to make sure its a smooth operation and people do not face any difficulty. In any case, the large Indian population in UAE and number of COVID cases are also Indians and local authorities are taking care and doing the best to manage the situation. Authorities have been very helpful and cooperative.&nbsp;

India's consul general in Dubai Vipul has said that the ongoing repatriation is going "very well and smoothly" as many flights from the city land in India. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Dubai, Vipul lauded the UAE authorities saying that have been "very helpful and cooperative.

India's consul general in Dubai Vipul has said that the ongoing repatriation is going "very well and smoothly" as many flights from the city land in India. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Dubai, Vipul lauded the UAE authorities saying that have been "very helpful and cooperative." 250,000 Indians in UAE have registered for repatriation, the maximum anywhere in the world with a large number of flights originating from Dubai making the task much more complex in the West Asian country which hosts maximum numbers of Indians anywhere in the world. WION: How has the repatriation going on? Vipul: Well, the repatriation has gone on very well. So far we have sent 4 flights from Dubai, one to Calicut, two to Chennai, one to Lucknow and all the flights have been very orderly. The Dubai authorities along with Air India have done exceedingly well, in terms of ensuring a very smooth flow of passengers. Of course, all the passengers are very relieved to go back home now, because many have been stranded here for some time and we got number of passengers who were pregnant ladies, number of workers who would have lost jobs or had completed the assignments here. A lot of elderly people and medical cases and these are the 4 categories we have concentrated the most on in the initial phase. Then there are students and visitors who were stranded. But overall it has gone very nicely and very smoothly. WION: How has it been for our people and diplomats like you who have been on the ground facilitating the process. It is risky being out due to COVID. Vipul: It is correct and there are jobs we have to do, and people at the airport have to do. In that, there is no choice and we are taking all the precautions. We taking all care that we are not going too near to the passengers. And at the same time, we have to be at the location so that it is an orderly flow. And sometimes especially here in Dubai, people get deboarded at the last minute because they have not done some formality or other. In some cases, people haven't turned up despite buying the ticket. And then you have to make sure seats don't go vacant, therefore we have had passengers in the waiting list and you have to arrange for that, so overall yes it there is some risk we are taking all precautions and hopefully, everything will go all well. The other thing with which we are facing difficulty or challenge is a huge number of Indian population is here in UAE, we 3.4 million and of course lot of people want to go to India right now and that has been a tough job. We have done that at random, and then also, we have taken people who have written to us or have approached us and who are really in a compelling circumstance were they have to go back to India. WION: Any exact figure on the number of people who are expected to come back? Vipul: It is a bit difficult to give an exact number. Six flights are slated to go from Dubai in next 4 days. And then for the 2nd phase as yet we don't have instructions from Delhi and information as to how many fights there would be. In terms of a number of people, it is large, there are also people who have gone into our database and filled up the details but not ready to go immediately. So it is a bit difficult to give the exact number. Of course, it is very large, on the portal, more than 250,000 people have registered so far but when we are calling people, they are not ready to go right now, so it is a bit difficult to give the exact number of people who will go in next few weeks. WION: How have the UAE authorities helping out? Vipul: They have been very very helpful. The UAE authorities are doing the test for all Indians and for all other stranded nationalities as well who are repatriating people. They have put in lot of staff that maintain order and make sure social distancing norms are maintained at the airport. Dubai police, Dubai health authorities and other agencies, they have been working together with us, ministry foreign affairs, everyone has been working together to make sure its a smooth operation and people do not face any difficulty. In any case, the large Indian population in UAE and number of COVID cases are also Indians and local authorities are taking care and doing the best to manage the situation. Authorities have been very helpful and cooperative.

India's consul general in Dubai Vipul lauds UAE authorities as India repatriates stranded citizens

Due to the extended lockdown, India has been struggling to revive its economy. In order to help its people, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced that it will be generating 90 lakh new jobs in the existing Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) units.&nbsp;

The announcement was made on Sunday. Yogi Adityanath's government also announced that&nbsp;entrepreneurs will be encouraged&nbsp; to set up more small industries by offering loans on easy terms.

"It is my commitment that this sector in Uttar Pradesh will achieve its glory as before,"&nbsp;said Uttar Pradesh&nbsp;Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-congress-launches-chat-portal-to-reach-out-to-people-migrant-workers-297661">Also read:&nbsp;UP Congress launches chat portal to reach out to people, migrant workers</a>

He also said that 90 lakh people could get jobs if&nbsp;one job is added to the workforce of each of the existing 90 lakh MSME units.

With hopes to revive the state's economy, Yogi Adityanath has asked his officials to prepare a detailed plan to motivate&nbsp;entrepreneurs to set up new MSME units.

In addition to that, rules will be relaxed and made transparent for the new MSME unit owners.&nbsp;Loan fairs will also be organised in every district from May 12 to May 20 to help the owners and the job lookers.

The state is also putting together a plan to generate more jobs for the migrant workers who have travelled back to the state and have lost their jobs due to the lockdown.

Earlier, the state Cabinet has also approved an ordinance putting on hold several labour laws for the next three years, hoping that this will help revive industry.

(With inputs from ANI)

Due to the extended lockdown, India has been struggling to revive its economy. In order to help its people, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced that it will be generating 90 lakh new jobs in the existing Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) units.

Due to the extended lockdown, India has been struggling to revive its economy. In order to help its people, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced that it will be generating 90 lakh new jobs in the existing Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) units. The announcement was made on Sunday. Yogi Adityanath's government also announced that entrepreneurs will be encouraged to set up more small industries by offering loans on easy terms. "It is my commitment that this sector in Uttar Pradesh will achieve its glory as before," said Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Also read: UP Congress launches chat portal to reach out to people, migrant workers He also said that 90 lakh people could get jobs if one job is added to the workforce of each of the existing 90 lakh MSME units. With hopes to revive the state's economy, Yogi Adityanath has asked his officials to prepare a detailed plan to motivate entrepreneurs to set up new MSME units. In addition to that, rules will be relaxed and made transparent for the new MSME unit owners. Loan fairs will also be organised in every district from May 12 to May 20 to help the owners and the job lookers. The state is also putting together a plan to generate more jobs for the migrant workers who have travelled back to the state and have lost their jobs due to the lockdown. Earlier, the state Cabinet has also approved an ordinance putting on hold several labour laws for the next three years, hoping that this will help revive industry. (With inputs from ANI)

UP government to generate 90 lakh new jobs in MSME units

Indian government, along with Air India and Indian Navy, has started the biggest repatriation operation to bring back the Indians stranded abroad.

A lot of stranded Indians have been brought back home from Doha, Singapore, Kuwait, the UK and the US, and many more countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vande-bharat-operation-177-indians-brought-back-from-kuwait-297702">Also read:&nbsp;Vande Bharat operation: 177 Indians brought back from Kuwait</a>

However, Air India's spokesperson announced that the Air India Express flight IX 374 from Doha which was earlier scheduled to leave Doha at 3:35 pm on Sunday and reach Thiruvananthapuram&nbsp;by 10:45 pm is cancelled.

The revised schedule will be updated later. The reason of the cancellation has not been disclosed yet.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizens-aboard-ins-jalashwa-return-from-maldives-as-a-part-of-repatriation-mission-297742">Also read:&nbsp;Citizens aboard INS Jalashwa return from Maldives as a part of repatriation mission</a>

It was also announced on Sunday that five Air India pilots tested positive for coronavirus. These pilots fly Boeing 787 planes.&nbsp;

The airlines had asked its pilots to undertake coronavirus&nbsp;test before they operate such flights.

However, as the pilots were tested one after another, the sources have revealed that it might also be a case of faulty test kits.

These pilots had not flown any flight since the last three weeks.&nbsp;"These pilots had operated cargo flights to China prior to April 20," an&nbsp;official said.

Indian government, along with Air India and Indian Navy, has started the biggest repatriation operation to bring back the Indians stranded abroad. A lot of stranded Indians have been brought back home from Doha, Singapore, Kuwait, the UK and the US, and many more countries.

Indian government, along with Air India and Indian Navy, has started the biggest repatriation operation to bring back the Indians stranded abroad. A lot of stranded Indians have been brought back home from Doha, Singapore, Kuwait, the UK and the US, and many more countries. Also read: Vande Bharat operation: 177 Indians brought back from Kuwait However, Air India's spokesperson announced that the Air India Express flight IX 374 from Doha which was earlier scheduled to leave Doha at 3:35 pm on Sunday and reach Thiruvananthapuram by 10:45 pm is cancelled. The revised schedule will be updated later. The reason of the cancellation has not been disclosed yet. Also read: Citizens aboard INS Jalashwa return from Maldives as a part of repatriation mission It was also announced on Sunday that five Air India pilots tested positive for coronavirus. These pilots fly Boeing 787 planes. The airlines had asked its pilots to undertake coronavirus test before they operate such flights. However, as the pilots were tested one after another, the sources have revealed that it might also be a case of faulty test kits. These pilots had not flown any flight since the last three weeks. "These pilots had operated cargo flights to China prior to April 20," an official said.

Air India Express flight from Doha cancelled; five pilots test positive

India has issued guidelines to ensure the safe restart of manufacturing facilities, as it looks forward to easing restrictions on people and economic activity after a weeks' long nationwide lockdown.

India has been under lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The guidelines come days after a gas leak at a plant in Vishakhapatnam operated by a subsidiary of South Korean petrochemicals maker LG Chem Ltd killed 11 people and hospitalised 800 others.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in a statement issued late on Saturday, said companies should consider the first week of restarting operations as a test run and not attempt to achieve high production targets during the period.

It added the lockdown may have resulted in residual chemicals in pipelines, valves and other areas that could pose a risk. It also said companies must ensure staff are trained to identify abnormalities that could indicate potential system failures.

The NDMA said factories must also carry out complete safety audits of entire plants before restarting activities.

India has recorded about 63,000 coronavirus cases, with nearly 2,000 deaths.

The lockdown is set to last until at least May 17. To this end, India has recently begun to ease curbs in areas with fewer infections to restart economic activity that had ground to a halt, impacting the livelihoods of tens of millions of people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-190000-indians-will-be-brought-home-civil-aviation-minister-to-wion-297492">Also read | Over 190,000 Indians will be brought home: Civil aviation minister to Wion</a>

India has issued guidelines to ensure the safe restart of manufacturing facilities, as it looks forward to easing restrictions on people and economic activity after a weeks' long nationwide lockdown.

India has issued guidelines to ensure the safe restart of manufacturing facilities, as it looks forward to easing restrictions on people and economic activity after a weeks' long nationwide lockdown. India has been under lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. The guidelines come days after a gas leak at a plant in Vishakhapatnam operated by a subsidiary of South Korean petrochemicals maker LG Chem Ltd killed 11 people and hospitalised 800 others. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in a statement issued late on Saturday, said companies should consider the first week of restarting operations as a test run and not attempt to achieve high production targets during the period. It added the lockdown may have resulted in residual chemicals in pipelines, valves and other areas that could pose a risk. It also said companies must ensure staff are trained to identify abnormalities that could indicate potential system failures. The NDMA said factories must also carry out complete safety audits of entire plants before restarting activities. India has recorded about 63,000 coronavirus cases, with nearly 2,000 deaths. The lockdown is set to last until at least May 17. To this end, India has recently begun to ease curbs in areas with fewer infections to restart economic activity that had ground to a halt, impacting the livelihoods of tens of millions of people. Also read | Over 190,000 Indians will be brought home: Civil aviation minister to Wion

India issues guidelines for post-lockdown factory restarts after Vizag gas leak

Over 25 states and Union Territories, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Assam and Delhi, have banned the use of smokeless tobacco products and spitting in public places in view of COVID-19, official sources in the Union health ministry said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/plasma-therapy-to-treat-serious-covid-19-patients-at-rajasthan-hospital-shows-promising-results-297770" hreflang="en">Plasma therapy to treat serious COVID-19 patients at Rajasthan hospital shows 'promising' results</a>

The ministry had on April 1 asked all states to prohibit the use and spitting of smokeless tobacco in public places to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

"Chewing smokeless tobacco products, paan masala and areca nut (supari) increases the production of saliva followed by a very strong urge to spit. Spitting in public places could enhance the spread of the COVID-19 virus," the ministry had said in a letter to chief secretaries of all states and UTs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/82-per-cent-people-who-lost-their-lives-to-covid-19-were-above-50-years-arvind-kejriwal-297760" hreflang="en">82 per cent people who lost their lives to COVID-19 were above 50 years: Arvind Kejriwal</a>

"22 states and six UTs have banned the use of smokeless tobacco products and spitting in public places during the COVID-19 epidemic," an official source said.

Public health experts have welcomed the move by the central government to ban the use of tobacco products and spitting in public places to prevent the spread of coronavirus infection.

"We applaud the government of India for taking the timely step of imposing a ban on the use of tobacco products and spitting in public places to prevent and control the spread of COVID-19 virus," said Bhavna Mukhopadhyay, Chief Executive, Voluntary Health Association of India.

"To protect their health and reduce risk of severe COVID-19 symptoms, we urge all smokers and tobacco users to quit, especially at this critical time," Mukhopadhyay said.

There is a growing evidence that smoking increases risk of contracting COVID-19, Prof Pratima Murthy, Professor and Head, Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences said, adding?smoking worsens lung function and reduces immunity.

"Smokers who develop COVID-19 infection have more complications and greater risk of fatality. Even if a person is not affected by coronavirus infection it is a good time to stop smoking. This improves immunity and can improve lung function within a few months," Murthy said.

States like Assam, Chandigarh, Delhi, Jharkhand,&nbsp;Haryana, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh among others are also penalising violators for spitting tobacco in public places.

"The ministry of health and state health departments should promote quitting tobacco maximally through electronic and social media to take advantage of the situation in which tobacco users are away from their usual triggers to use tobacco- shop, co-workers, stress, etc. And being at home, majority have the social support needed to quit," said Dr Rakesh Gupta, Consultant working for Tobacco Cessation.

"Hence, an opportunity exists to increase the quit rate for the country amid COVID-19 crisis,"he said.

Over 25 states and Union Territories, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Assam and Delhi, have banned the use of smokeless tobacco products and spitting in public places in view of COVID-19, official sources in the Union health ministry said.

Over 25 states and Union Territories, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Assam and Delhi, have banned the use of smokeless tobacco products and spitting in public places in view of COVID-19, official sources in the Union health ministry said. Also read: Plasma therapy to treat serious COVID-19 patients at Rajasthan hospital shows 'promising' results The ministry had on April 1 asked all states to prohibit the use and spitting of smokeless tobacco in public places to prevent the spread of coronavirus. "Chewing smokeless tobacco products, paan masala and areca nut (supari) increases the production of saliva followed by a very strong urge to spit. Spitting in public places could enhance the spread of the COVID-19 virus," the ministry had said in a letter to chief secretaries of all states and UTs. Also read: 82 per cent people who lost their lives to COVID-19 were above 50 years: Arvind Kejriwal "22 states and six UTs have banned the use of smokeless tobacco products and spitting in public places during the COVID-19 epidemic," an official source said. Public health experts have welcomed the move by the central government to ban the use of tobacco products and spitting in public places to prevent the spread of coronavirus infection. "We applaud the government of India for taking the timely step of imposing a ban on the use of tobacco products and spitting in public places to prevent and control the spread of COVID-19 virus," said Bhavna Mukhopadhyay, Chief Executive, Voluntary Health Association of India. "To protect their health and reduce risk of severe COVID-19 symptoms, we urge all smokers and tobacco users to quit, especially at this critical time," Mukhopadhyay said. There is a growing evidence that smoking increases risk of contracting COVID-19, Prof Pratima Murthy, Professor and Head, Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences said, adding?smoking worsens lung function and reduces immunity. "Smokers who develop COVID-19 infection have more complications and greater risk of fatality. Even if a person is not affected by coronavirus infection it is a good time to stop smoking. This improves immunity and can improve lung function within a few months," Murthy said. States like Assam, Chandigarh, Delhi, Jharkhand, Haryana, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh among others are also penalising violators for spitting tobacco in public places. "The ministry of health and state health departments should promote quitting tobacco maximally through electronic and social media to take advantage of the situation in which tobacco users are away from their usual triggers to use tobacco- shop, co-workers, stress, etc. And being at home, majority have the social support needed to quit," said Dr Rakesh Gupta, Consultant working for Tobacco Cessation. "Hence, an opportunity exists to increase the quit rate for the country amid COVID-19 crisis,"he said.

Coronavirus: 28 states, Union Territories ban smokeless tobacco products, spitting

Plasma therapy started by Sawai Man Singh (SMS) medical college here to treat serious coronavirus-infected patients has delivered "promising" results so far, a top doctor at the facility said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/82-per-cent-people-who-lost-their-lives-to-covid-19-were-above-50-years-arvind-kejriwal-297760" hreflang="en">82 per cent people who lost their lives to COVID-19 were above 50 years: Arvind Kejriwal</a>

The therapy has been successfully given to three patients and two more are likely to be administered the same soon. The team of doctors is encouraged with the results, Principal and Controller of SMS medical college Dr Sudhir Bhandari said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizens-aboard-ins-jalashwa-return-from-maldives-as-a-part-of-repatriation-mission-297742" hreflang="en">Citizens aboard INS Jalashwa return from Maldives as a part of repatriation mission</a>

Bhandari, who is heading the team which is performing COVID-19 plasma transfusion since last week at the hospital, said three successful therapies have been conducted and the results were "promising".

"So far, we have conducted three successful COVID plasma therapies and all the three patients are showing improvement in their clinical state, oxygen saturation and D-dimer levels," he told PTI.

"This has given a ray of hope," he added.

A D-dimer test is a blood test that can be used to help rule out the presence of a serious blood clot.

Bhandari said the convalescent plasma therapy is being conducted as per the protocol of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and with the permission of the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI).

The therapy aims at transfusing plasma (component of blood) containing antibodies donated by a recovered COVID-19 patient to the serious coronavirus patients harbouring an active infection.

The patients are given the dose of 200 ml of plasma on two consecutive days, he said.

Elaborating on the therapy, Bhandari said the donors of plasma are the COVID-19 patients who have recovered after 21 to 28 days of their illness.

Repeat testing is done on recovered patients and when found negative, they are found to be suitable donors.

Antibody detection rapid test is also done that shows wether protective antibodies have formed in the recovered patients, he said.

"After that, their plasma is obtained for donation and infused into blood group of matched recipients, who are suffering from active corona infection," he said.

Bhandari said convalescent plasma or immune globulins has been used as an adjunct therapy to improve the survival rate of COVID-19 patients, whose condition continue to deteriorate despite treatment.

He said several studies have shown a shorter hospital stay and lower mortality in patients who are treated with convalescent plasma.

"One possible explanation for the efficacy of convalescent plasma therapy is that the antibodies from convalescent plasma might suppress viremia (the presence of viruses in the blood) by mopping up the inciting viral antigens," he said.

Bhandari said standard treatment protocols are being followed in addition to standard medical supportive treatment while treating the COVID-19 patients.

"We used Hydroxychloroquine and antiviral Lopinavir 400 mg and Ritonavir 100 mg for the first time in COVID positive patients which ignited thought process and many research trials for treatment of Covid-19 cases."?

Convalescent plasma has previously been used against viral illnesses such as rabies, hepatitis B, polio, measles, influenza and Ebola. It was also used in the outbreaks of MERS and SARS-1, where faster viral clearance following convalescent plasma therapy was observed, he said.

Bhandari said plasma therapy is a form of passive immunisation, unlike a vaccine, which produces active immunity.

Plasma therapy started by Sawai Man Singh (SMS) medical college here to treat serious coronavirus-infected patients has delivered "promising" results so far, a top doctor at the facility said.

Plasma therapy started by Sawai Man Singh (SMS) medical college here to treat serious coronavirus-infected patients has delivered "promising" results so far, a top doctor at the facility said. Also read: 82 per cent people who lost their lives to COVID-19 were above 50 years: Arvind Kejriwal The therapy has been successfully given to three patients and two more are likely to be administered the same soon. The team of doctors is encouraged with the results, Principal and Controller of SMS medical college Dr Sudhir Bhandari said. Also read: Citizens aboard INS Jalashwa return from Maldives as a part of repatriation mission Bhandari, who is heading the team which is performing COVID-19 plasma transfusion since last week at the hospital, said three successful therapies have been conducted and the results were "promising". "So far, we have conducted three successful COVID plasma therapies and all the three patients are showing improvement in their clinical state, oxygen saturation and D-dimer levels," he told PTI. "This has given a ray of hope," he added. A D-dimer test is a blood test that can be used to help rule out the presence of a serious blood clot. Bhandari said the convalescent plasma therapy is being conducted as per the protocol of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and with the permission of the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI). The therapy aims at transfusing plasma (component of blood) containing antibodies donated by a recovered COVID-19 patient to the serious coronavirus patients harbouring an active infection. The patients are given the dose of 200 ml of plasma on two consecutive days, he said. Elaborating on the therapy, Bhandari said the donors of plasma are the COVID-19 patients who have recovered after 21 to 28 days of their illness. Repeat testing is done on recovered patients and when found negative, they are found to be suitable donors. Antibody detection rapid test is also done that shows wether protective antibodies have formed in the recovered patients, he said. "After that, their plasma is obtained for donation and infused into blood group of matched recipients, who are suffering from active corona infection," he said. Bhandari said convalescent plasma or immune globulins has been used as an adjunct therapy to improve the survival rate of COVID-19 patients, whose condition continue to deteriorate despite treatment. He said several studies have shown a shorter hospital stay and lower mortality in patients who are treated with convalescent plasma. "One possible explanation for the efficacy of convalescent plasma therapy is that the antibodies from convalescent plasma might suppress viremia (the presence of viruses in the blood) by mopping up the inciting viral antigens," he said. Bhandari said standard treatment protocols are being followed in addition to standard medical supportive treatment while treating the COVID-19 patients. "We used Hydroxychloroquine and antiviral Lopinavir 400 mg and Ritonavir 100 mg for the first time in COVID positive patients which ignited thought process and many research trials for treatment of Covid-19 cases."? Convalescent plasma has previously been used against viral illnesses such as rabies, hepatitis B, polio, measles, influenza and Ebola. It was also used in the outbreaks of MERS and SARS-1, where faster viral clearance following convalescent plasma therapy was observed, he said. Bhandari said plasma therapy is a form of passive immunisation, unlike a vaccine, which produces active immunity.

Plasma therapy to treat serious COVID-19 patients at Rajasthan hospital shows 'promising' results

India continued its massive repatriation operation on the third day by bringing back Indian stranded citizens home from various counties amid global COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.

8 flights to bring stranded Indians from 7 nations today

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that the most number of COVID-19 deaths have been reported amongst people above the age of 50 and the elderly.

"We have analysed that 82 per cent of the people who lost their lives were above the age of 50. We are seeing that there are more deaths among the elderly," said Kejriwal while addressing the media in the national capital.

He requested the people to follow all health precautions so as to avoid contracting the highly contagious coronavirus.

"Out of roughly 7,000 positive cases in Delhi, approximately 1,500 are in hospital. Out of these 1,500 cases, only 27 are on the ventilator. The majority of these cases are mild or asymptomatic," he added.

51 people are in the intensive care unit while approximately 75 per cent of the coronavirus cases are either mild or asymptomatic (ICU).&nbsp;

Kejriwal appealed to the migrant workers stranded in Delhi to not travel back to their native states on foot, assuring that the government is arranging more trains for facilitating their movement.

"I have been seeing how migrant workers are travelling on feet to reach their respective places, I want to appeal to all the migrant workers stranded in Delhi, we are arranging more trains for the migrants. I appeal to them to not travel on foot. It is not safe. We take your responsibility. We are here to take care of you," said Arvind Kejriwal.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that the most number of COVID-19 deaths have been reported amongst people above the age of 50 and the elderly.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that the most number of COVID-19 deaths have been reported amongst people above the age of 50 and the elderly. "We have analysed that 82 per cent of the people who lost their lives were above the age of 50. We are seeing that there are more deaths among the elderly," said Kejriwal while addressing the media in the national capital. He requested the people to follow all health precautions so as to avoid contracting the highly contagious coronavirus. "Out of roughly 7,000 positive cases in Delhi, approximately 1,500 are in hospital. Out of these 1,500 cases, only 27 are on the ventilator. The majority of these cases are mild or asymptomatic," he added. 51 people are in the intensive care unit while approximately 75 per cent of the coronavirus cases are either mild or asymptomatic (ICU). Kejriwal appealed to the migrant workers stranded in Delhi to not travel back to their native states on foot, assuring that the government is arranging more trains for facilitating their movement. "I have been seeing how migrant workers are travelling on feet to reach their respective places, I want to appeal to all the migrant workers stranded in Delhi, we are arranging more trains for the migrants. I appeal to them to not travel on foot. It is not safe. We take your responsibility. We are here to take care of you," said Arvind Kejriwal.

82 per cent people who lost their lives to COVID-19 were above 50 years: Arvind Kejriwal

On day four of India's repatriation mission,&nbsp;INS Jalashwa - with 698 Indian nationals from the Maldives arrived at the Kochi port a short while back.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fauci-among-3-key-us-members-of-white-house-response-team-in-self-quarantine-after-covid-exposure-297726" hreflang="en">Fauci among 3 in US response team self-quarantined after virus exposure</a>

The visuals of the navy vessel nearing the Kochi port were seen with almost 700 passengers on board.

Passengers are expected to disembark a short while from now.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-brazil-records-10627-deaths-155939-confirmed-cases-297712">COVID-19: Brazil records 10,627 deaths, 155,939 confirmed cases</a>

Special arrangements have been made at the Kochi port for the arriving passengers.

Ambulances are on standby, and all evacuees will undergo temperature checks before being placed under quarantine.

As part of operation Samudra Setu, the second navy ship - INS Magar is expected to depart the Maldives later today.

The ship will be carrying around 200 Indian nationals from the Maldives.

Both ships - &nbsp;ins Jalashwa and INS Magar are expected to repatriate another group of Indians to Tuticorin next week.

The passengers will be first taken to the male airport for immigration and other formalities following which they will board the vessel.

On the air evacuation front, eights flights are scheduled to arrive throughout today. Four flights will be arriving from the gulf nations that remains the focus of this repatriation mission.

Two flights from Doha will be landing in Kerala and one flight each from Kuwait and Riyadh.

Two flights are also scheduled to arrive in Delhi and Mumbai from London.

On day four of India's repatriation mission, INS Jalashwa - with 698 Indian nationals from the Maldives arrived at the Kochi port a short while back. Also read: Fauci among 3 in US response team self-quarantined after virus exposure The visuals of the navy vessel nearing the Kochi port were seen with almost 700 passengers on board.

On day four of India's repatriation mission, INS Jalashwa - with 698 Indian nationals from the Maldives arrived at the Kochi port a short while back. Also read: Fauci among 3 in US response team self-quarantined after virus exposure The visuals of the navy vessel nearing the Kochi port were seen with almost 700 passengers on board. Passengers are expected to disembark a short while from now. Also read: COVID-19: Brazil records 10,627 deaths, 155,939 confirmed cases Special arrangements have been made at the Kochi port for the arriving passengers. Ambulances are on standby, and all evacuees will undergo temperature checks before being placed under quarantine. As part of operation Samudra Setu, the second navy ship - INS Magar is expected to depart the Maldives later today. The ship will be carrying around 200 Indian nationals from the Maldives. Both ships - ins Jalashwa and INS Magar are expected to repatriate another group of Indians to Tuticorin next week. The passengers will be first taken to the male airport for immigration and other formalities following which they will board the vessel. On the air evacuation front, eights flights are scheduled to arrive throughout today. Four flights will be arriving from the gulf nations that remains the focus of this repatriation mission. Two flights from Doha will be landing in Kerala and one flight each from Kuwait and Riyadh. Two flights are also scheduled to arrive in Delhi and Mumbai from London.

Citizens aboard INS Jalashwa return from Maldives as a part of repatriation mission

India's nationwide lockdown has rendered thousands of people jobless and in this context, community service has become extremely important. Leading this effort is a Sikh shrine in India's national capital. The Bangla Sahib gurudwara feeds close to 75,000 people every day.&nbsp;

The nationwide lockdown has not discouraged the gurudwara from helping the marginalised community. They have stepped up their service. Before the lockdown, the gurudwara would serve between 30,000 to 40,000 people but now they provide food to almost double that many people. Volunteers work in two shifts to meet the growing demand. The kitchen starts buzzing at around 4 am and keeps running till 7 pm.

They have acquired a new roti-making machine which can churn out 3,500 rotis in just one hour. Everyone working in the kitchen has been asked to wear a mask and also carry a sanitiser. Once the food is prepared and packed, government officials pick up the packets and distribute them across the city.&nbsp;

Earlier, hundreds of volunteers would throng the kitchen hoping to provide service but since the lockdown started - the entire workload is being shared by the 5o-odd people who've taken refuge at the shrine.

India's nationwide lockdown has rendered thousands of people jobless and in this context, community service has become extremely important. Leading this effort is a Sikh shrine in India's national capital.

India's nationwide lockdown has rendered thousands of people jobless and in this context, community service has become extremely important. Leading this effort is a Sikh shrine in India's national capital. The Bangla Sahib gurudwara feeds close to 75,000 people every day. The nationwide lockdown has not discouraged the gurudwara from helping the marginalised community. They have stepped up their service. Before the lockdown, the gurudwara would serve between 30,000 to 40,000 people but now they provide food to almost double that many people. Volunteers work in two shifts to meet the growing demand. The kitchen starts buzzing at around 4 am and keeps running till 7 pm. They have acquired a new roti-making machine which can churn out 3,500 rotis in just one hour. Everyone working in the kitchen has been asked to wear a mask and also carry a sanitiser. Once the food is prepared and packed, government officials pick up the packets and distribute them across the city. Earlier, hundreds of volunteers would throng the kitchen hoping to provide service but since the lockdown started - the entire workload is being shared by the 5o-odd people who've taken refuge at the shrine.

COVID-19: This Sikh shrine in India's national capital feeds close to 75,000 people every day

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Saturday said that India's fatality rate continues to be around 3.3 per cent and the recovery rate has climbed up to 29.9 per cent, these are very good indicators.&nbsp;

The doubling rate for last 3 days has been about 11 days, for last 7 days it has been 9.9 days, Dr Vardhan added.

''We do not anticipate a very worst type of situation in our country like many other developed countries but still we have prepared the whole country for the worst situation,'' he further said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, 3320 more COVID-19 cases and 95 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours.

With the new cases, total number of cases in India has risen to 59662, including 39834 active cases, 17847 cured/discharged/migrated, and 1981 deaths, the ministry added.

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Saturday said that India's fatality rate continues to be around 3.3 per cent and the recovery rate has climbed up to 29.

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Saturday said that India's fatality rate continues to be around 3.3 per cent and the recovery rate has climbed up to 29.9 per cent, these are very good indicators. The doubling rate for last 3 days has been about 11 days, for last 7 days it has been 9.9 days, Dr Vardhan added. ''We do not anticipate a very worst type of situation in our country like many other developed countries but still we have prepared the whole country for the worst situation,'' he further said. Meanwhile, 3320 more COVID-19 cases and 95 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours. With the new cases, total number of cases in India has risen to 59662, including 39834 active cases, 17847 cured/discharged/migrated, and 1981 deaths, the ministry added.

We do not anticipate worst type of situation like many other developed countries: Health minister

Stranded Indian nationals return home under biggest repatriation operation

Air India's Kuwait flight has&nbsp;landed in Kochi around 11pm on Saturday under Indian government's Vande Bharat mission.&nbsp;

The flight brought back&nbsp;177 Indian nationals and 4 infants who were stranded in Kuwait.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-indias-flight-from-dhaka-brings-back-129-stranded-indians-297624">Also read:&nbsp;Air India's flight from Dhaka brings back 129 stranded Indians</a>

Vande Bharat and Operation Samudra Setu is India's biggest repatriation operation.&nbsp;Air India and Indian Navy have started flight and naval ships, respectively, to bring back indian nationals who have been stranded abroad due to the global pandemic.

Air India commenced its biggest evacuation operation on Thursday, and will continue for another week.&nbsp;Till now, a total of 67,833 requests have been registered for repatriation.

Another flight from Doha is expected to land in Kochi tonight.

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Qatar: More than 175 Indians to fly back to Kerala's Kochi from Qatar's Doha today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VandeBharatMission?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VandeBharatMission</a> <a href="https://t.co/GtH76QXmyl">pic.twitter.com/GtH76QXmyl</a>
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As a part of 'Operation Samudra Setu', Western Fleet Ships mission deployed in the Indian Ocean Region and INS Jalashwa have also set sail from Maldives and will be bringing back thousands of Indians back to their country.

Air India's Kuwait flight has landed in Kochi around 11pm on Saturday under Indian government's Vande Bharat mission. The flight brought back 177 Indian nationals and 4 infants who were stranded in Kuwait.

Air India's Kuwait flight has landed in Kochi around 11pm on Saturday under Indian government's Vande Bharat mission. The flight brought back 177 Indian nationals and 4 infants who were stranded in Kuwait. Also read: Air India's flight from Dhaka brings back 129 stranded Indians Vande Bharat and Operation Samudra Setu is India's biggest repatriation operation. Air India and Indian Navy have started flight and naval ships, respectively, to bring back indian nationals who have been stranded abroad due to the global pandemic. Air India commenced its biggest evacuation operation on Thursday, and will continue for another week. Till now, a total of 67,833 requests have been registered for repatriation. Another flight from Doha is expected to land in Kochi tonight. Qatar: More than 175 Indians to fly back to Kerala's Kochi from Qatar's Doha today. #VandeBharatMission pic.twitter.com/GtH76QXmyl — ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2020 × As a part of 'Operation Samudra Setu', Western Fleet Ships mission deployed in the Indian Ocean Region and INS Jalashwa have also set sail from Maldives and will be bringing back thousands of Indians back to their country.

Vande Bharat operation: 177 Indians brought back from Kuwait

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has announced a partnership with Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL) on Saturday&nbsp;to develop a vaccine for coronavirus.

The vaccine will be developed using the virus strain isolated at the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/total-covid-19-cases-in-india-cross-56000-mark-16539-patients-cured-297349">Also read:&nbsp;Total COVID-19 cases in India cross 56,000-mark; 16539 patients cured</a>

The two bodies have started the work on developing the vaccine, with ICMR-NIV providing support to BBIL.

"The strain has been successfully transferred from NIV to Bharat Biotech International Ltd. (BBIL). Work on vaccine development has been initiated between the two partners. ICMR-NIV will provide continuous support to BBIL for vaccine development. ICMR and BBIL will seek fast-track approval to expedite vaccine development, subsequent animal studies and clinical evaluation of the candidate vaccine," stated the press release.

Dr Y K Gupta is chairing the committee for Evaluation of Research Proposals at ICMR. Earlier today he claimed that the data available to to the officials is not enough to perform clinical study on using Ganga water for treatment of coronavirus.

(With inputs from ANI)

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has announced a partnership with Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL) on Saturday to develop a vaccine for coronavirus.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has announced a partnership with Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL) on Saturday to develop a vaccine for coronavirus. The vaccine will be developed using the virus strain isolated at the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune. Also read: Total COVID-19 cases in India cross 56,000-mark; 16539 patients cured The two bodies have started the work on developing the vaccine, with ICMR-NIV providing support to BBIL. "The strain has been successfully transferred from NIV to Bharat Biotech International Ltd. (BBIL). Work on vaccine development has been initiated between the two partners. ICMR-NIV will provide continuous support to BBIL for vaccine development. ICMR and BBIL will seek fast-track approval to expedite vaccine development, subsequent animal studies and clinical evaluation of the candidate vaccine," stated the press release. Dr Y K Gupta is chairing the committee for Evaluation of Research Proposals at ICMR. Earlier today he claimed that the data available to to the officials is not enough to perform clinical study on using Ganga water for treatment of coronavirus. (With inputs from ANI)

ICMR partners with BBIL to develop indigenous COVID-19 vaccine

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday said that 3320 more COVID-19 cases and 95 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in India has risen to 59662, including 39834 active cases, 17847 cured/discharged/migrated, and 1981 deaths, the ministry added.

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday said that 3320 more COVID-19 cases and 95 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in India has risen to 59662, including 39834 active cases, 17847 cured/discharged/migrated, and 1981 deaths, the ministry added. The health ministry said that a revised list of red, orange and green zones will be circulated to the states soon after the analysis of data. "In 29 districts no new cases have been detected in the last 21 days. In 36 districts, no new cases have been detected in the last 14 days," the health ministry official said, adding,"in 46 districts no new cases have been detected in the last 7 days." The official said that in 216 districts nationwide no positive coronavirus cases were detected. "Phase-II Open-Label Randomised Controlled Trial of ICMR has received the approval of the coronavirus national ethics committee. Under it, ICMR will conduct trial in 21 hospitals, to assess the safety and efficacy of convalescent plasma," the health ministry official added.

3320 more COVID-19 cases and 95 deaths in last 24 hours: Health ministry

While some states are recovering from coronavirus pandemic, other states in red zones have been seeing an increase in the number of positive coronavirus cases.

Maharashtra has been one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus in India. Around 1,165 new cases have been reported in the state in the past 24 hours, taking the total toll to&nbsp;20,228. The death toll rose to 779 after&nbsp;48 deaths were reported today.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/16-migrant-workers-mowed-down-by-goods-train-in-maharashtras-aurangabad-pm-modi-expresses-anguish-297325">Also read:&nbsp;16 migrant workers mowed down by goods train in Maharashtra's Aurangabad; PM Modi expresses anguish</a>

According to Maharashtra Health Department, 12,864 cases and 489 deaths have been reported in Mumbai so far. Mumbai, now, has a total of 2,646 containment zones.&nbsp;

Mumbai's Dharavi has been the epicentre of Maharashtra. In the past 24 hours, 25 new positive cases have been reported by the&nbsp;Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).&nbsp;One death was reported in&nbsp;Dharavi today, which has increased the death toll to 27 and 833 total positive cases. However, 222 patients were discharged today.

Maharashtra's Chief Minister has, meanwhile, rubbished the rumours of deploying army in the Mumbai streets.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/3320-more-covid-19-cases-and-95-deaths-in-last-24-hours-health-ministry-297574">Also read:&nbsp;3320 more COVID-19 cases and 95 deaths in last 24 hours: Health ministry</a>

Gujarat, which has the second-most cases in India, reported&nbsp;394 new positive cases, taking the total number to 7,797, including 2091 cured/discharged and 472 deaths.

Delhi reported 224 new positive cases. The total number of cases stands at 6,542 including 2,020 recovered patients&nbsp;and 68 deaths.

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224 fresh cases of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> were reported in Delhi between 4 PM yesterday &amp; 12 midnight. Total number of cases stands at 6542 including 2020 recoveries &amp; 68 deaths. There are 4454 active cases: Delhi Health Department <a href="https://t.co/O9VkGTNBBC">pic.twitter.com/O9VkGTNBBC</a>
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Tamil Nadu, which has been struggling to contain the spread of virus, reported 526 new cases and four deaths. The total number of positive cases are now 6,535 and 44 total deaths.

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526 new cases of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coronavirus</a> &amp; 4 deaths have been reported in Tamil Nadu today, taking total number of cases to 6535 &amp; death toll to 44. Of total cases, 1867 cases are linked to Koyambedu market. Number of active cases stands at 4,664 in the state: Tamil Nadu Health Department <a href="https://t.co/AtX5DMJ4jD">pic.twitter.com/AtX5DMJ4jD</a>
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Chennai has been the epicentre of Tamil Nadu and reported 526 new cases, taking the total toll to 3,330.

West Bengal reported 108 new cases in the state today, taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 1,786. Punjab recorded 31 new positive cases, with the total cases reaching to 1,762.

India, now, has more than 59,000 coronavirus cases, out of which almost 17,800 patients have been treated/discharged&nbsp;and almost 2,000 have lost their lives to the deadly virus.

While some states are recovering from coronavirus pandemic, other states in red zones have been seeing an increase in the number of positive coronavirus cases. Maharashtra has been one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus in India.

While some states are recovering from coronavirus pandemic, other states in red zones have been seeing an increase in the number of positive coronavirus cases. Maharashtra has been one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus in India. Around 1,165 new cases have been reported in the state in the past 24 hours, taking the total toll to 20,228. The death toll rose to 779 after 48 deaths were reported today. Also read: 16 migrant workers mowed down by goods train in Maharashtra's Aurangabad; PM Modi expresses anguish According to Maharashtra Health Department, 12,864 cases and 489 deaths have been reported in Mumbai so far. Mumbai, now, has a total of 2,646 containment zones. Mumbai's Dharavi has been the epicentre of Maharashtra. In the past 24 hours, 25 new positive cases have been reported by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). One death was reported in Dharavi today, which has increased the death toll to 27 and 833 total positive cases. However, 222 patients were discharged today. Maharashtra's Chief Minister has, meanwhile, rubbished the rumours of deploying army in the Mumbai streets. Also read: 3320 more COVID-19 cases and 95 deaths in last 24 hours: Health ministry Gujarat, which has the second-most cases in India, reported 394 new positive cases, taking the total number to 7,797, including 2091 cured/discharged and 472 deaths. Delhi reported 224 new positive cases. The total number of cases stands at 6,542 including 2,020 recovered patients and 68 deaths. 224 fresh cases of #COVID19 were reported in Delhi between 4 PM yesterday & 12 midnight. Total number of cases stands at 6542 including 2020 recoveries & 68 deaths. There are 4454 active cases: Delhi Health Department pic.twitter.com/O9VkGTNBBC — ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2020 × Tamil Nadu, which has been struggling to contain the spread of virus, reported 526 new cases and four deaths. The total number of positive cases are now 6,535 and 44 total deaths. 526 new cases of #Coronavirus & 4 deaths have been reported in Tamil Nadu today, taking total number of cases to 6535 & death toll to 44. Of total cases, 1867 cases are linked to Koyambedu market. Number of active cases stands at 4,664 in the state: Tamil Nadu Health Department pic.twitter.com/AtX5DMJ4jD — ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2020 × Chennai has been the epicentre of Tamil Nadu and reported 526 new cases, taking the total toll to 3,330. West Bengal reported 108 new cases in the state today, taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 1,786. Punjab recorded 31 new positive cases, with the total cases reaching to 1,762. India, now, has more than 59,000 coronavirus cases, out of which almost 17,800 patients have been treated/discharged and almost 2,000 have lost their lives to the deadly virus.

COVID 19: Maharashtra crosses 20,000 mark; Delhi records 224 new cases

The CRPF reported 62 fresh coronavirus infections on Saturday from a single Delhi-based unit. The total number of active cases in the country's largest paramilitary force now stands at 231.

The fresh cases are from the 194th Rapid Action Force (RAF) battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

Two personnel have recovered from coronavirus while one succumbed to the infection.

All the infected personnel have been placed in home quarantine at a facility in Bawana area, officials said.

The 31st battalion of the force in Delhi has about 137 positive cases. All personnel are admitted at a quarantine facility in Mandoli area and undergoing treatment.

The CRPF reported 62 fresh coronavirus infections on Saturday from a single Delhi-based unit. The total number of active cases in the country's largest paramilitary force now stands at 231.

The CRPF reported 62 fresh coronavirus infections on Saturday from a single Delhi-based unit. The total number of active cases in the country's largest paramilitary force now stands at 231. The fresh cases are from the 194th Rapid Action Force (RAF) battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Two personnel have recovered from coronavirus while one succumbed to the infection. All the infected personnel have been placed in home quarantine at a facility in Bawana area, officials said. The 31st battalion of the force in Delhi has about 137 positive cases. All personnel are admitted at a quarantine facility in Mandoli area and undergoing treatment.

Sixty-two fresh coronavirus infections in CRPF, active cases 231

The first Air India flight from Britain, as part of the Vande Bharat Mission to repatriate Indians stranded overseas due to the coronavirus lockdown, took off&nbsp;with 326 passengers from London's Heathrow Airport on Saturday. It is scheduled to land in Mumbai in the early hours of Sunday.

The flight marks the first of seven Air India routes organised by the Indian government from London Heathrow Airport to six Indian cities over the next week -- Mumbai (Saturday and Tuesday), Bengaluru (Sunday), Hyderabad (Monday), Ahmedabad (Wednesday), Chennai (Thursday) and New Delhi (Friday).

The first Air India flight will land at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport at 1.30 am IST on Sunday.

Each of the passengers underwent temperature tests before boarding. These passengers could face 14 days of quarantine at a hotel or other location designated by the Maharashtra government on landing. The passengers are expected to be screened and allotted quarantine locations based on affordability.

Air India is providing a kit for all passengers confirmed to fly, with meals, snacks, sanitisers, masks and gloves.

Organisers have said that further flights are planned from the UK to other cities of India as well in phase two of the Vande Bharat Mission.

The schedule is being coordinated by the Indian High Commission in London, with payments made directly to Air India by confirmed passengers.

The first set of seven flights to India will prioritise Indian passport holders on vulnerability and health grounds.

The Air India flights landing at London Heathrow will also be bringing back some expatriates and UK visa holders wanting to fly back to the UK.

(with inputs from PTI)

The first Air India flight from Britain, as part of the Vande Bharat Mission to repatriate Indians stranded overseas due to the coronavirus lockdown, took off with 326 passengers from London's Heathrow Airport on Saturday.

The first Air India flight from Britain, as part of the Vande Bharat Mission to repatriate Indians stranded overseas due to the coronavirus lockdown, took off with 326 passengers from London's Heathrow Airport on Saturday. It is scheduled to land in Mumbai in the early hours of Sunday. The flight marks the first of seven Air India routes organised by the Indian government from London Heathrow Airport to six Indian cities over the next week -- Mumbai (Saturday and Tuesday), Bengaluru (Sunday), Hyderabad (Monday), Ahmedabad (Wednesday), Chennai (Thursday) and New Delhi (Friday). The first Air India flight will land at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport at 1.30 am IST on Sunday. Each of the passengers underwent temperature tests before boarding. These passengers could face 14 days of quarantine at a hotel or other location designated by the Maharashtra government on landing. The passengers are expected to be screened and allotted quarantine locations based on affordability. Air India is providing a kit for all passengers confirmed to fly, with meals, snacks, sanitisers, masks and gloves. Organisers have said that further flights are planned from the UK to other cities of India as well in phase two of the Vande Bharat Mission. The schedule is being coordinated by the Indian High Commission in London, with payments made directly to Air India by confirmed passengers. The first set of seven flights to India will prioritise Indian passport holders on vulnerability and health grounds. The Air India flights landing at London Heathrow will also be bringing back some expatriates and UK visa holders wanting to fly back to the UK. (with inputs from PTI)

First repatriation flight from London takes off for Mumbai

As a part of Indian government's biggest repatriation operation, Indian Navy has launched&nbsp;Operation "Samudra Setu"(Sea Bridge). The Navy will be&nbsp;bringing back thousands of stranded Indians from&nbsp;Maldives.

Western Fleet Ships mission deployed in the Indian Ocean Region has set sail on Saturday evening, and joined&nbsp;joined INS Jalashwa.&nbsp;INS Jalashwa set sail from Maldives on Friday bring with more than 700 passengers onboard.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-fixes-40-per-head-for-repatriation-by-sea-from-male-to-kochi-297273">Also read:&nbsp;India fixes $40 per head for repatriation by sea from Male to Kochi</a>

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Operation <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SamudraSetu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SamudraSetu</a>: Western Fleet Ships mission deployed in the Indian Ocean Region joined INS Jalashwa, on her passage back to Kochi in Kerala from the Maldives. INS Jalashwa is bringing back 698 Indians from the Maldives. <a href="https://t.co/NL5GAUWV5z">pic.twitter.com/NL5GAUWV5z</a>
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"This operation is being carried out in close coordination with ministries of defence, external affairs, home affairs, health and various other agencies of the government of India and state governments," the Navy said in a statement.

This is Indian Navy's first big-scale repatriation operation during the pandemic.

As the officials gear up to welcome the stranded Indians back home, a top police officer assured that all arrangements were in place in the Kerala to accommodate and transport&nbsp;the returnees. All passengers will have to go through thermal scanning upon arrival on the port. They will laos be asked to sign a self-declaration form before disembarking the vessel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-indias-flight-from-dhaka-brings-back-129-stranded-indians-297624">Also read:&nbsp;Air India's flight from Dhaka brings back 129 stranded Indians</a>

The repatriated Indians&nbsp;comprise&nbsp;over 400 Keralites, around 180 people are from Tamil Nadu and the rest hail from Karnataka, Goa,&nbsp;Andhra Pradesh, Assam,&nbsp;Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, among other states.

The ship is expected to arrive at the Cruise Terminal of the Cochin Port Trust on Sunday between 9.30-10 am.

Upon returning, Keralities will be transported by KSRTC buses in small groups.&nbsp;The people from other states will be quarantined in&nbsp;Ernakulam for 14 days.

As a part of Indian government's biggest repatriation operation, Indian Navy has launched Operation "Samudra Setu"(Sea Bridge). The Navy will be bringing back thousands of stranded Indians from Maldives.

As a part of Indian government's biggest repatriation operation, Indian Navy has launched Operation "Samudra Setu"(Sea Bridge). The Navy will be bringing back thousands of stranded Indians from Maldives. Western Fleet Ships mission deployed in the Indian Ocean Region has set sail on Saturday evening, and joined joined INS Jalashwa. INS Jalashwa set sail from Maldives on Friday bring with more than 700 passengers onboard. Also read: India fixes $40 per head for repatriation by sea from Male to Kochi Operation #SamudraSetu: Western Fleet Ships mission deployed in the Indian Ocean Region joined INS Jalashwa, on her passage back to Kochi in Kerala from the Maldives. INS Jalashwa is bringing back 698 Indians from the Maldives. pic.twitter.com/NL5GAUWV5z — ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2020 × "This operation is being carried out in close coordination with ministries of defence, external affairs, home affairs, health and various other agencies of the government of India and state governments," the Navy said in a statement. This is Indian Navy's first big-scale repatriation operation during the pandemic. As the officials gear up to welcome the stranded Indians back home, a top police officer assured that all arrangements were in place in the Kerala to accommodate and transport the returnees. All passengers will have to go through thermal scanning upon arrival on the port. They will laos be asked to sign a self-declaration form before disembarking the vessel. Also read: Air India's flight from Dhaka brings back 129 stranded Indians The repatriated Indians comprise over 400 Keralites, around 180 people are from Tamil Nadu and the rest hail from Karnataka, Goa, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, among other states. The ship is expected to arrive at the Cruise Terminal of the Cochin Port Trust on Sunday between 9.30-10 am. Upon returning, Keralities will be transported by KSRTC buses in small groups. The people from other states will be quarantined in Ernakulam for 14 days.

Operation Samudra Setu: Second naval ship sets sails for India

Two fresh cases of coronavirus were reported from Kerala on Saturday, both being foreign returnees who&nbsp;were among the expatriates airlifted by the Centre&nbsp;on Thursday, as part of its mission to bring back stranded Indians abroad.

One of the infected individuals is being treated in Kozhikode, while the other is receiving treatment in Kochi.&nbsp;They reached the state on May 7 in the Abu Dhabi- Kochi and Dubai-Kozhikode flights

This has taken the number of coronavirus cases in the state to 505, with 17 people now in hospital.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in a press briefing, said more people non-resident Keralites (NRKs) would arrive and the state was ready with all arrangements in place.&nbsp;

"We have 207 state-run and 125 private hospitals. 27 hospitals have been kept ready to be turned into full-time COVID-19 hospitals," he added.

Air India is further scheduled to operate 64 paid flights between May 7 and May 13, and the Indian Navy conducting similar exercises on water. As many as 698 Indians are being transported from the Maldives to Kochi via Indian Navy warship INS Jalashwa.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-190000-indians-will-be-brought-home-civil-aviation-minister-to-wion-297492">Also read |&nbsp;Over 190,000 Indians will be brought home: Civil aviation minister to Wion</a>

Those that land in India will be required to go through levels of screening and a mandatory quarantine period.

India has been under lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. All commercial passenger flights were suspended for this period.

The first and second phase of lockdown in India was from March 25 to April 14 and April 15 to May 3, respectively. The third phase began from May 4 and would end on May 17.

Whenever the government resumes commercial passenger flights, it would be done in a graded manner, the civil aviation ministry had said.

The novel coronavirus has infected more than 59,662 people and killed around 1,981 people in India till now.

Two fresh cases of coronavirus were reported from Kerala on Saturday, both being foreign returnees who were among the expatriates airlifted by the Centre on Thursday, as part of its mission to bring back stranded Indians abroad.

Two fresh cases of coronavirus were reported from Kerala on Saturday, both being foreign returnees who were among the expatriates airlifted by the Centre on Thursday, as part of its mission to bring back stranded Indians abroad. One of the infected individuals is being treated in Kozhikode, while the other is receiving treatment in Kochi. They reached the state on May 7 in the Abu Dhabi- Kochi and Dubai-Kozhikode flights This has taken the number of coronavirus cases in the state to 505, with 17 people now in hospital. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in a press briefing, said more people non-resident Keralites (NRKs) would arrive and the state was ready with all arrangements in place. "We have 207 state-run and 125 private hospitals. 27 hospitals have been kept ready to be turned into full-time COVID-19 hospitals," he added. Air India is further scheduled to operate 64 paid flights between May 7 and May 13, and the Indian Navy conducting similar exercises on water. As many as 698 Indians are being transported from the Maldives to Kochi via Indian Navy warship INS Jalashwa. Also read | Over 190,000 Indians will be brought home: Civil aviation minister to Wion Those that land in India will be required to go through levels of screening and a mandatory quarantine period. India has been under lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. All commercial passenger flights were suspended for this period. The first and second phase of lockdown in India was from March 25 to April 14 and April 15 to May 3, respectively. The third phase began from May 4 and would end on May 17. Whenever the government resumes commercial passenger flights, it would be done in a graded manner, the civil aviation ministry had said. The novel coronavirus has infected more than 59,662 people and killed around 1,981 people in India till now.

Two Indian nationals flown back from Gulf to Kerala test coronavirus positive

For the second consecutive day, hundreds of migrant workers clashed with the in Gujarat police. Group of migrant workers have been protesting against the lockdown, and demand that the authorities make arrangements to send them&nbsp;to their hometown.

More than 500 workers hurled stones at the police trying to enforce the lockdown rules. The clash, that took place in Surat on Saturday, comes after a similar protest was staged in Ahmedabad on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-maharashtra-crosses-18000-mark-1362-new-cases-reported-297283">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: Maharashtra crosses 18,000 mark; 1,362 new cases reported</a>

Protesters took to the streets in the city of Surat on Saturday, a day after residents in Ahmedabad clashed with paramilitary forces.

More than 500 workers employed in industries in the Hazira belt, staged a protest demanding that the authorities send them back to their hometowns. The protestors are mainly from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

Police had to use teargas to disperse the crowd.&nbsp;Nearly 60 migrant workers were arrested on the charges of&nbsp;unlawful assembly and rioting. The police is working on identifying the rest of the people who were involved in organising the protest.

“We told them that a large number of workers have [already] been sent to their home states by the government, and similar arrangements would be made for them too,” Inspector H.R. Brahmbhatt, based at Ichhapore police station, told a media organisation.

However, the protestors allegedly did not listen to the police and pelted stones at the police.

This is not the first time Gujarat has seen protests from migrant workers during this lockdown. Earlier in the week, almost 1,000 migrant workers staged a protest in the village of Vareli.

The violence comes as the number of reported coronavirus cases in India climbed to 59,662, with 1,981 deaths.

For the second consecutive day, hundreds of migrant workers clashed with the in Gujarat police. Group of migrant workers have been protesting against the lockdown, and demand that the authorities make arrangements to send them to their hometown.

For the second consecutive day, hundreds of migrant workers clashed with the in Gujarat police. Group of migrant workers have been protesting against the lockdown, and demand that the authorities make arrangements to send them to their hometown. More than 500 workers hurled stones at the police trying to enforce the lockdown rules. The clash, that took place in Surat on Saturday, comes after a similar protest was staged in Ahmedabad on Friday. Also read: COVID-19: Maharashtra crosses 18,000 mark; 1,362 new cases reported Protesters took to the streets in the city of Surat on Saturday, a day after residents in Ahmedabad clashed with paramilitary forces. More than 500 workers employed in industries in the Hazira belt, staged a protest demanding that the authorities send them back to their hometowns. The protestors are mainly from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Police had to use teargas to disperse the crowd. Nearly 60 migrant workers were arrested on the charges of unlawful assembly and rioting. The police is working on identifying the rest of the people who were involved in organising the protest. “We told them that a large number of workers have [already] been sent to their home states by the government, and similar arrangements would be made for them too,” Inspector H.R. Brahmbhatt, based at Ichhapore police station, told a media organisation. However, the protestors allegedly did not listen to the police and pelted stones at the police. This is not the first time Gujarat has seen protests from migrant workers during this lockdown. Earlier in the week, almost 1,000 migrant workers staged a protest in the village of Vareli. The violence comes as the number of reported coronavirus cases in India climbed to 59,662, with 1,981 deaths.

Migrant workers protest against lockdown in Gujarat; 60 arrested

Uttar Pradesh Congress has launched a chat portal 'UP Mitra' to help migrant workers and common man in the coronavirus crisis.

UP Congress chief Ajay Kumar Lallu said people can go to the chat portal and mention their problems. "Through this chat portal, problems of common people will be listed and the UPCC will help them as much as possible," Lallu told ANI.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/migrant-workers-protest-against-lockdown-in-gujarat-60-arrested-297657">Also read:&nbsp;500 migrant workers protest in Gujarat; 60 arrested</a>

He said a list of the problems will be sent to the chief minister so that the government also provides help. He said people of the state stranded in various states in the crisis need help.

The Congress leader said the state unit will publicize the chat portal link - https://tinyurl.com/UPmitra - through social media, messages and other communication channels so that problems of people are known and they can be helped.

Lallu said that the UPCC has launched many programmes to reach to people and help them including Highway Task Force, `Congress ke Sipahi`, district-wise helpline and corona fighter group.

The group includes senior leaders and and is monitored by party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

The state unit also started community kitchens in 17 districts including Ghaziabad, Hapur, Kanpur, Allahabad, Lakhimpur Kheri and Lucknow.

"Our district committees are providing ration to the needy people all over the state. Help is being provided to workers who are stranded outside the state. Besides the relief work, we are also raising issues with state government. Our incharge Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and the state unit have written several letters regarding problems of farmers and migrant workers," he added.

Lallu said that the bigger problem relates to migrant workers from Uttar Pradesh stranded in states like Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Punjab and Karnataka.

"We are in touch with state authorities to make arrangements for the return of migrant worker but UP Government is not showing interest," Lallu alleged.

The portal has been developed free of cost by ValueFirst.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Congress has launched a chat portal 'UP Mitra' to help migrant workers and common man in the coronavirus crisis. UP Congress chief Ajay Kumar Lallu said people can go to the chat portal and mention their problems.

Uttar Pradesh Congress has launched a chat portal 'UP Mitra' to help migrant workers and common man in the coronavirus crisis. UP Congress chief Ajay Kumar Lallu said people can go to the chat portal and mention their problems. "Through this chat portal, problems of common people will be listed and the UPCC will help them as much as possible," Lallu told ANI. Also read: 500 migrant workers protest in Gujarat; 60 arrested He said a list of the problems will be sent to the chief minister so that the government also provides help. He said people of the state stranded in various states in the crisis need help. The Congress leader said the state unit will publicize the chat portal link - https://tinyurl.com/UPmitra - through social media, messages and other communication channels so that problems of people are known and they can be helped. Lallu said that the UPCC has launched many programmes to reach to people and help them including Highway Task Force, `Congress ke Sipahi`, district-wise helpline and corona fighter group. The group includes senior leaders and and is monitored by party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. The state unit also started community kitchens in 17 districts including Ghaziabad, Hapur, Kanpur, Allahabad, Lakhimpur Kheri and Lucknow. "Our district committees are providing ration to the needy people all over the state. Help is being provided to workers who are stranded outside the state. Besides the relief work, we are also raising issues with state government. Our incharge Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and the state unit have written several letters regarding problems of farmers and migrant workers," he added. Lallu said that the bigger problem relates to migrant workers from Uttar Pradesh stranded in states like Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Punjab and Karnataka. "We are in touch with state authorities to make arrangements for the return of migrant worker but UP Government is not showing interest," Lallu alleged. The portal has been developed free of cost by ValueFirst.

UP Congress launches chat portal to reach out to people, migrant workers

Central Minister Nitin Gadkari Exclusively speaks to WION | India Lockdown | MSME In an exclusive conversation with WION, Central Minister NItin Gadkari said that the govt of India will soon introduce relief package for Medium small and micro enterprises amid Coronavirus lockdown.

Central Minister Nitin Gadkari Exclusively speaks to WION

INS Jalashwa set sail from Male to bring back stranded Indians Indian Navy Ship (INS) Jalashwa sailed out from Male for Kochi on Friday (May 08) night with 698 citizens stranded in the Maldives due to lockdown imposed to contain the spreading of the deadly coronavirus

INS Jalashwa set sail from Male to bring back stranded Indians

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