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India has briefed European Union on the methodology it is following in combating the spread of COVID-19 including "macro-level response of the government since January 2020". Speaking to WION's Principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, India's envoy to EU Gaitri Issar Kumar said mission swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide Indian students on accommodation, services etc and New Delhi has made sure that continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU.

WION: How is the situation in EU now and role played by the Indian mission in Brussels in taking care of Indian citizens?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: The EU has been affected more directly in a way, as the virus seems to have reached directly and spread very rapidly in Europe – first in Italy followed by Spain, Belgium, Germany and the other EU Member States. Today, the situation in the EU, after a worrisome period, seems to be improving as per reports. The lockdown and containment measures – including the closing of borders --&nbsp;though challenging for EU citizens and governments alike, have proven to be successful.

The EU leadership quickly took steps to ensure the uninterrupted flow of essential supplies through the EU’s internal borders by creating “green lanes” and that helped to avoid shortages in supermarkets across the EU. Healthcare systems are being revamped across the European Union, people seem to have settled down into the new normal and social distancing rules are being followed with considerable discipline. &nbsp;Of course, as in the rest of the world, the pandemic has caused a shut down of normal economic activity in the EU.

I am glad to say that by and large, the Indian community in Belgium and Luxembourg has stayed safe and well. As for our Mission, we have been complying with the Belgian Government’s advisories and encouraging Indian nationals and the Indian-origin community in Belgium and Luxembourg to do so as well.

Fortunately, as we are in close touch with the Indian community leaders, we were able to alert and advise them, render consular services and help many to depart from here well before the lockdown in Belgium (March 18, 2020) – which was before the announcement, by Government of India, of restrictions on travel to India.

Since then, Indian nationals who stayed back, professionals employed here and students &nbsp;- those who have contacted us seeking information or help have been attended to individually. They have been briefed about the lockdown in India – the necessary quarantine of incoming travellers and advised that till flights to India and within India are restored, the best thing to do would be to prepare for an extended stay wherever they are. In many cases, our Mission has connected stranded visitors and students with local doctors, grocers or suppliers of ready meals. As required, we have, in consultation with local authorities, assisted Indian nationals in securing an extension of their visas. In order to avoid uncertainty and stress to Indian students, our Mission’s officers swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide our students accurate information about measures being taken by them to facilitate accommodation, services etc in the unforeseen situation.

I am happy to say that our officers have received very positive feedback, and they continue to take care to reassure each caller, note the particular circumstances in each case and prioritise requests received for assisted departures.

WION: How are India and EU collaborating in the fight against COVID pandemic?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: We have been consulting closely. We decided to postpone the India-EU Summit which had been scheduled for March 13, 2020; once the lockdown was announced in India, we coordinated to ensure the continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU and the repatriation of European nationals. About 20,000 EU citizens in the different states of India have been assisted in taking special flights back to the EU Member States. Our Government has evacuated Indian nationals from Italy and Hague (stranded en route from US/Canada to India).

Our leaders have been speaking to each other, sharing experiences and discussing joint efforts for reviving the global economy. On March 24, 2020, Hon'ble Prime Minister received a call from H.E. Ursula Von Der Leyen, President of the European Commission – the two leaders discussed the global situation in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, PM&nbsp;expressed his condolences at the loss of life in the European Union due to COVID-19 and emphasized the need for coordination and cooperation among all nations to fight the pandemic. The PM &nbsp;spoke about the steps taken by India to contain the spread of the Coronavirus. President Von Der Leyen praised PM’s leadership in taking early measures – which, she said, had been key to containing the spread of the virus in India.

She also expressed her appreciation for the assistance rendered to the European citizens stranded in India in this situation. Von Der Leyen emphasized the importance of maintaining a steady supply of essential items - including medicines - and coordinating research as well as vaccine development; and the two leaders discussed possible cooperation, within the G-20 framework, to address the health crisis and revive global economic growth.

The EU’s High Representative in charge of the EU’s Foreign and Security Policy, Mr Josep Borrell and Hble External Affairs Minister of India have, similarly, spoken and exchanged views on the challenges India and the EU are facing respectively; and India’s &nbsp;Foreign Secretary and his EU counterpart, Mme Helga Schmid, Secretary-General of the European External Action Services have also spoken telephonically.

India and the EU, in any case, share a deep commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development, preserving a rules-based international order, rules-based international trade with WTO at its core and we have a convergence on most global issues – whether it is climate change or connectivity, EU is supportive of India’s International Solar Alliance (ISA) initiative and the Climate and Disaster Resilience Initiatives (CDRI). Now, all these are most relevant – perhaps a reprioritization of some elements of our co-operation &nbsp;– such as healthcare and research - would be necessary in response to the emerging world scenario and infusion of a greater sense of urgency in others areas - like climate change, enhancing trade and investment flows in both directions etc.

WION: Have we shared any Indian model?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: As a part of our regular exchanges, our Mission here has been sharing the developments in India, briefing EU partners on the methodology that we have followed in combating SPREAD of COVID 19 in India including the macro-level response of Government since January 2020.

WION: How are Indian diplomats doing, how has diplomacy changed due to COVID?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: So far we have been coping fairly well. Of course, we have been working from home. We have faced no difficulty in reaching our Embassy whenever it has been necessary to go into the office - with due precautions. We have meticulously complied with the local Government’s advisories and ensured that the Indian Mission and community co-operate and contribute to making the Belgian Government’s containment strategy work. One of our main priorities, naturally, has been to co-ordinate closely local authorities in assisting the Indian diaspora with their visa issues and resolving any other problems faced by stranded Indians.

We are engaging – almost as smoothly as before - with our counterparts in the Foreign Ministries of Belgium and Luxembourg and the European Commission/European External Action Services in the context of our normal diplomatic work. However, naturally, it is not business as usual; for example, we have certainly lost valuable time in implementing the India-EU Road Map due to the postponement of the 15th India EU Summit. But we remain positive and look forward to a strengthened India-EU partnership. But we all agree that in diplomacy, face to face meetings and negotiations are almost indispensable. So much of communication relies on a personal touch. Presently we are drawing on a bank of goodwill built-in energetic pre-COVID diplomatic efforts.

India has briefed European Union on the methodology it is following in combating the spread of COVID-19 including "macro-level response of the government since January 2020".

India has briefed European Union on the methodology it is following in combating the spread of COVID-19 including "macro-level response of the government since January 2020". Speaking to WION's Principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, India's envoy to EU Gaitri Issar Kumar said mission swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide Indian students on accommodation, services etc and New Delhi has made sure that continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU. WION: How is the situation in EU now and role played by the Indian mission in Brussels in taking care of Indian citizens? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: The EU has been affected more directly in a way, as the virus seems to have reached directly and spread very rapidly in Europe – first in Italy followed by Spain, Belgium, Germany and the other EU Member States. Today, the situation in the EU, after a worrisome period, seems to be improving as per reports. The lockdown and containment measures – including the closing of borders -- though challenging for EU citizens and governments alike, have proven to be successful. The EU leadership quickly took steps to ensure the uninterrupted flow of essential supplies through the EU’s internal borders by creating “green lanes” and that helped to avoid shortages in supermarkets across the EU. Healthcare systems are being revamped across the European Union, people seem to have settled down into the new normal and social distancing rules are being followed with considerable discipline. Of course, as in the rest of the world, the pandemic has caused a shut down of normal economic activity in the EU. I am glad to say that by and large, the Indian community in Belgium and Luxembourg has stayed safe and well. As for our Mission, we have been complying with the Belgian Government’s advisories and encouraging Indian nationals and the Indian-origin community in Belgium and Luxembourg to do so as well. Fortunately, as we are in close touch with the Indian community leaders, we were able to alert and advise them, render consular services and help many to depart from here well before the lockdown in Belgium (March 18, 2020) – which was before the announcement, by Government of India, of restrictions on travel to India. Since then, Indian nationals who stayed back, professionals employed here and students - those who have contacted us seeking information or help have been attended to individually. They have been briefed about the lockdown in India – the necessary quarantine of incoming travellers and advised that till flights to India and within India are restored, the best thing to do would be to prepare for an extended stay wherever they are. In many cases, our Mission has connected stranded visitors and students with local doctors, grocers or suppliers of ready meals. As required, we have, in consultation with local authorities, assisted Indian nationals in securing an extension of their visas. In order to avoid uncertainty and stress to Indian students, our Mission’s officers swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide our students accurate information about measures being taken by them to facilitate accommodation, services etc in the unforeseen situation. I am happy to say that our officers have received very positive feedback, and they continue to take care to reassure each caller, note the particular circumstances in each case and prioritise requests received for assisted departures. WION: How are India and EU collaborating in the fight against COVID pandemic? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: We have been consulting closely. We decided to postpone the India-EU Summit which had been scheduled for March 13, 2020; once the lockdown was announced in India, we coordinated to ensure the continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU and the repatriation of European nationals. About 20,000 EU citizens in the different states of India have been assisted in taking special flights back to the EU Member States. Our Government has evacuated Indian nationals from Italy and Hague (stranded en route from US/Canada to India). Our leaders have been speaking to each other, sharing experiences and discussing joint efforts for reviving the global economy. On March 24, 2020, Hon'ble Prime Minister received a call from H.E. Ursula Von Der Leyen, President of the European Commission – the two leaders discussed the global situation in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, PM expressed his condolences at the loss of life in the European Union due to COVID-19 and emphasized the need for coordination and cooperation among all nations to fight the pandemic. The PM spoke about the steps taken by India to contain the spread of the Coronavirus. President Von Der Leyen praised PM’s leadership in taking early measures – which, she said, had been key to containing the spread of the virus in India. She also expressed her appreciation for the assistance rendered to the European citizens stranded in India in this situation. Von Der Leyen emphasized the importance of maintaining a steady supply of essential items - including medicines - and coordinating research as well as vaccine development; and the two leaders discussed possible cooperation, within the G-20 framework, to address the health crisis and revive global economic growth. The EU’s High Representative in charge of the EU’s Foreign and Security Policy, Mr Josep Borrell and Hble External Affairs Minister of India have, similarly, spoken and exchanged views on the challenges India and the EU are facing respectively; and India’s Foreign Secretary and his EU counterpart, Mme Helga Schmid, Secretary-General of the European External Action Services have also spoken telephonically. India and the EU, in any case, share a deep commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development, preserving a rules-based international order, rules-based international trade with WTO at its core and we have a convergence on most global issues – whether it is climate change or connectivity, EU is supportive of India’s International Solar Alliance (ISA) initiative and the Climate and Disaster Resilience Initiatives (CDRI). Now, all these are most relevant – perhaps a reprioritization of some elements of our co-operation – such as healthcare and research - would be necessary in response to the emerging world scenario and infusion of a greater sense of urgency in others areas - like climate change, enhancing trade and investment flows in both directions etc. WION: Have we shared any Indian model? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: As a part of our regular exchanges, our Mission here has been sharing the developments in India, briefing EU partners on the methodology that we have followed in combating SPREAD of COVID 19 in India including the macro-level response of Government since January 2020. WION: How are Indian diplomats doing, how has diplomacy changed due to COVID? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: So far we have been coping fairly well. Of course, we have been working from home. We have faced no difficulty in reaching our Embassy whenever it has been necessary to go into the office - with due precautions. We have meticulously complied with the local Government’s advisories and ensured that the Indian Mission and community co-operate and contribute to making the Belgian Government’s containment strategy work. One of our main priorities, naturally, has been to co-ordinate closely local authorities in assisting the Indian diaspora with their visa issues and resolving any other problems faced by stranded Indians. We are engaging – almost as smoothly as before - with our counterparts in the Foreign Ministries of Belgium and Luxembourg and the European Commission/European External Action Services in the context of our normal diplomatic work. However, naturally, it is not business as usual; for example, we have certainly lost valuable time in implementing the India-EU Road Map due to the postponement of the 15th India EU Summit. But we remain positive and look forward to a strengthened India-EU partnership. But we all agree that in diplomacy, face to face meetings and negotiations are almost indispensable. So much of communication relies on a personal touch. Presently we are drawing on a bank of goodwill built-in energetic pre-COVID diplomatic efforts.

India briefed EU on methodology followed in combating spread of COVID-19: India's envoy to EU Gaitri Issar Kumar

West Bengal Medical officer Doctor Biplab Kanti Dasgupta who was diagnosed with COVID-19 passed away at a hospital here on Sunday.

Dasgupta has becomes the first case of a doctor succumbing to the deadly infection in the state.

The doctor (60) along with another man (34), both diagnosed with the disease and on ventilators died at a hospital here.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-australia-launches-app-to-trace-patients-contacts-294845">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus: Australia launches app to trace patients' contacts</a>

Dasgupta was in charge of the central medical store wing of West Bengal government's health and family welfare department.

The resident of Haridevpur, who was admitted to hospital on April 18 with respiratory distress and other co-morbidities,&nbsp;passed away at around 1:20 am on Sunday.

The other 34-year-old patient from the city`s Garden Reach area who had tested positive for the disease and admitted on April 23 to the hospital also succumbed around 7 am at the same facility.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-worth-the-time-us-president-donald-trump-says-about-media-briefings-after-backtracking-on-his-controversial-comment-294807">Also read:&nbsp;Not worth the time: US President Donald Trump says about media briefings after backtracking on his controversial comment</a>

"We are deeply saddened by the news of Dr. Biplab Kanti Dasgupta, ADHS, Central Medical Store, WBHS passing away in the early hours of April 26," read a message from West Bengal Doctors Forum (WBDF).

The WBDF said: "This is the first reported death of a member of our medical fraternity, in the state, who was tested positive for COVID-19. Unfortunately, his spouse has also tested positive for Corona. Our prayers are with her and we wish her a speedy recovery. "Pointing out that over the last few weeks more and more healthcare workers are diagnosed with COVID-19, the WBDF urged health and administrative authorities to "proactively look into the matter as it is a matter of grave concern".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-should-provide-rs-7500-per-month-for-three-months-to-those-who-lost-livelihood-in-lockdown-sitaram-yechury-294844">Also read:&nbsp;Govt should provide Rs 7,500 per month for three months to those who lost livelihood in lockdown: Sitaram Yechury</a>

"With limited resources at disposal, we cannot afford to have a situation where the shortage of healthcare providers pose a threat to the delivery of care."

The Forum also requested the State administration to issue a separate medical bulletin daily to appraise about the condition of the healthcare workers under treatment and quarantine.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee too condoled the demise of Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta saying his sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will "ever be in our hearts."

"We have lost Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta Assistant Director, Health Services, West Bengal in the early hours of today. He was Assistant Director of Health Services, Central Medical Stores. We are deeply pained with his untimely demise," the Chief Minister said in a tweet.

"His sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will ever be in our hearts and will make our COVID warriors fight the deadly virus with even greater determination. My heartfelt condolence to Dr Dasgupta`s bereaved family members and colleagues," she added.

West Bengal Medical officer Doctor Biplab Kanti Dasgupta who was diagnosed with COVID-19 passed away at a hospital here on Sunday. Dasgupta has becomes the first case of a doctor succumbing to the deadly infection in the state.

West Bengal Medical officer Doctor Biplab Kanti Dasgupta who was diagnosed with COVID-19 passed away at a hospital here on Sunday. Dasgupta has becomes the first case of a doctor succumbing to the deadly infection in the state. The doctor (60) along with another man (34), both diagnosed with the disease and on ventilators died at a hospital here. Also read: Coronavirus: Australia launches app to trace patients' contacts Dasgupta was in charge of the central medical store wing of West Bengal government's health and family welfare department. The resident of Haridevpur, who was admitted to hospital on April 18 with respiratory distress and other co-morbidities, passed away at around 1:20 am on Sunday. The other 34-year-old patient from the city`s Garden Reach area who had tested positive for the disease and admitted on April 23 to the hospital also succumbed around 7 am at the same facility. Also read: Not worth the time: US President Donald Trump says about media briefings after backtracking on his controversial comment "We are deeply saddened by the news of Dr. Biplab Kanti Dasgupta, ADHS, Central Medical Store, WBHS passing away in the early hours of April 26," read a message from West Bengal Doctors Forum (WBDF). The WBDF said: "This is the first reported death of a member of our medical fraternity, in the state, who was tested positive for COVID-19. Unfortunately, his spouse has also tested positive for Corona. Our prayers are with her and we wish her a speedy recovery. "Pointing out that over the last few weeks more and more healthcare workers are diagnosed with COVID-19, the WBDF urged health and administrative authorities to "proactively look into the matter as it is a matter of grave concern". Also read: Govt should provide Rs 7,500 per month for three months to those who lost livelihood in lockdown: Sitaram Yechury "With limited resources at disposal, we cannot afford to have a situation where the shortage of healthcare providers pose a threat to the delivery of care." The Forum also requested the State administration to issue a separate medical bulletin daily to appraise about the condition of the healthcare workers under treatment and quarantine. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee too condoled the demise of Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta saying his sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will "ever be in our hearts." "We have lost Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta Assistant Director, Health Services, West Bengal in the early hours of today. He was Assistant Director of Health Services, Central Medical Stores. We are deeply pained with his untimely demise," the Chief Minister said in a tweet. "His sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will ever be in our hearts and will make our COVID warriors fight the deadly virus with even greater determination. My heartfelt condolence to Dr Dasgupta`s bereaved family members and colleagues," she added.

Doctor dies of COVID-19 in West Bengal; CM Mamata condoles

A CBI team has taken DHFL promoters, Kapil and Dhiraj Wadhawan, into custody after Satara Police provided them with the requisite assistance.

The arrest procedures are going on.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-uns-train-possibly-spotted-in-resort-town-rumours-surrounding-his-death-continue-294813">Also read:&nbsp;Kim Jong Un's train possibly spotted in resort town; rumours surrounding his death continue</a>

Earlier, Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on April 22 had said that the state police has written to both the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) intimating them that Kapil Wadhawan and Dheeraj Wadhawan along with their family members will be released from quarantine and the agencies could come and take necessary action against them.

The Wadhawan brothers are accused in multi-crore Dewan Housing Finance Limited (DHFL) scam and Yes Bank scam.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gujarat-based-company-develops-reusable-ppe-kits-294820">Also read:&nbsp;Gujarat-based company develops reusable PPE kits</a>

23 members of the Wadhawan family were placed under institutional quarantine by the local police after they travelled to their farmhouse in Mahabaleshwar from Khandala amid the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown.

DHFL promoters Kapil and Dheeraj Wadhawan had not appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) last month in connection with the probe against Yes Bank promoter Rana Kapoor and others for money laundering.

A CBI team has taken DHFL promoters, Kapil and Dhiraj Wadhawan, into custody after Satara Police provided them with the requisite assistance. The arrest procedures are going on.

A CBI team has taken DHFL promoters, Kapil and Dhiraj Wadhawan, into custody after Satara Police provided them with the requisite assistance. The arrest procedures are going on. Also read: Kim Jong Un's train possibly spotted in resort town; rumours surrounding his death continue Earlier, Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on April 22 had said that the state police has written to both the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) intimating them that Kapil Wadhawan and Dheeraj Wadhawan along with their family members will be released from quarantine and the agencies could come and take necessary action against them. The Wadhawan brothers are accused in multi-crore Dewan Housing Finance Limited (DHFL) scam and Yes Bank scam. Also read: Gujarat-based company develops reusable PPE kits 23 members of the Wadhawan family were placed under institutional quarantine by the local police after they travelled to their farmhouse in Mahabaleshwar from Khandala amid the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown. DHFL promoters Kapil and Dheeraj Wadhawan had not appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) last month in connection with the probe against Yes Bank promoter Rana Kapoor and others for money laundering.

CBI takes DHFL promoters, Kapil and Dhiraj Wadhawan, into custody

A 52-year-old head constable of Mumbai Police, who was battling coronavirus for past few days, has passed away.

"Mumbai Police regrets to inform you of the sad demise of Head Constable Sandip Surve, aged 52. Shri. Surve had been fighting Coronavirus for the past few days," said Mumbai Police in a tweet.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-complaints-of-faulty-kits-by-several-nations-china-confiscates-89-million-face-masks-294838">Also read:&nbsp;Amid complaints of faulty kits by several nations, China confiscates 89 million face masks</a>

"Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones," it added.

Mumbai had on Saturday confirmed 281 new positive cases and 12 deaths, taking the total number of people infected with coronavirus in the city to 4,870, the state health officials had said.&nbsp;

A 52-year-old head constable of Mumbai Police, who was battling coronavirus for past few days, has passed away. "Mumbai Police regrets to inform you of the sad demise of Head Constable Sandip Surve, aged 52.

A 52-year-old head constable of Mumbai Police, who was battling coronavirus for past few days, has passed away. "Mumbai Police regrets to inform you of the sad demise of Head Constable Sandip Surve, aged 52. Shri. Surve had been fighting Coronavirus for the past few days," said Mumbai Police in a tweet. Also read: Amid complaints of faulty kits by several nations, China confiscates 89 million face masks "Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones," it added. Mumbai had on Saturday confirmed 281 new positive cases and 12 deaths, taking the total number of people infected with coronavirus in the city to 4,870, the state health officials had said.

Mumbai Police head constable succumbs to coronavirus

CPI-M General Secretary Sitaram Yechury has targeted the Central government over its handling of COVID-19 lockdown in the country and demanded that the government transfer Rs 7,500 per month, for the next three months, to the accounts of people who lost their livelihood due to the crisis.

He pointed out that the unemployment rate in the country shot up from 7.5 per cent to 23.6 per cent from early March to April 20.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-lauds-india-post-postmen-for-their-stupendous-efforts-during-lockdown-294785">Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown</a>

"It is imperative that immediately the Central government transfers Rs 7,500 per month for the next three months to all who have lost their livelihoods. Surely, if a staggering Rs 7.76 lakhs of crores of loans taken by the super rich and corporates can be waived off by your government during the last five years, there should be no shortage of funds to feed and support the majority of our people," he said in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The CPI-M leader also questioned the manner in which the lockdown was imposed in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-1990-new-cases-india-witnesses-highest-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hour-period-294814">Also read:&nbsp;With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest coronavirus cases in 24-hour period</a>

"Since the lockdown, the urge among the migrant workers to return to their homes has seen surging crowds in huge numbers seeking to leave for their homes as they have lost all means of livelihood and shelter. This in itself negated one of the objectives of the lockdown, of maintaining physical distancing in order to contain community transmission of the pandemic," he wrote.

"Since the announcement of the lockdown, we had suggested that the Central government must immediately provide free food to all the needy. Huge stocks of foodgrains are rotting in our central godowns. These should be sent to the states for free distribution. Neither of these demands has even been considered by the government with you as the Prime Minister," he added.

India is under a nation-wide lockdown which was imposed on March 25 and later extended on April 14 to May 3 to stem the spread of coronavirus.&nbsp;

CPI-M General Secretary Sitaram Yechury has targeted the Central government over its handling of COVID-19 lockdown in the country and demanded that the government transfer Rs 7,500 per month, for the next three months, to the accounts of people who lost their livelihood due to the crisis.

CPI-M General Secretary Sitaram Yechury has targeted the Central government over its handling of COVID-19 lockdown in the country and demanded that the government transfer Rs 7,500 per month, for the next three months, to the accounts of people who lost their livelihood due to the crisis. He pointed out that the unemployment rate in the country shot up from 7.5 per cent to 23.6 per cent from early March to April 20. Also read: PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown "It is imperative that immediately the Central government transfers Rs 7,500 per month for the next three months to all who have lost their livelihoods. Surely, if a staggering Rs 7.76 lakhs of crores of loans taken by the super rich and corporates can be waived off by your government during the last five years, there should be no shortage of funds to feed and support the majority of our people," he said in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The CPI-M leader also questioned the manner in which the lockdown was imposed in the country. Also read: With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest coronavirus cases in 24-hour period "Since the lockdown, the urge among the migrant workers to return to their homes has seen surging crowds in huge numbers seeking to leave for their homes as they have lost all means of livelihood and shelter. This in itself negated one of the objectives of the lockdown, of maintaining physical distancing in order to contain community transmission of the pandemic," he wrote. "Since the announcement of the lockdown, we had suggested that the Central government must immediately provide free food to all the needy. Huge stocks of foodgrains are rotting in our central godowns. These should be sent to the states for free distribution. Neither of these demands has even been considered by the government with you as the Prime Minister," he added. India is under a nation-wide lockdown which was imposed on March 25 and later extended on April 14 to May 3 to stem the spread of coronavirus.

Govt should provide Rs 7,500 per month for three months to those who lost livelihood in lockdown: Sitaram Yechury

With an alarming increase in the traffic for child pornorgraphy from India, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR)&nbsp;has issued a notice to social media platforms like Google, Twitter and WhatsApp highlighting its concern.

NCPCR started an independent investigation on&nbsp;Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), and based on the evidence procured from the investigation, the online platforms have been given till the end of April to respond back to the notice issued to them.

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The increase in traffic has taken place during the lockdown period, according to the report.

The report by India Child Protection Fund (ICPF) titled 'Child Sexual Abuse Material in India'. The research revealed demand of obscene content in over 100 cities in India, mainly&nbsp;New Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar and Indore' New Delhi topped the list. The overall demand for child pornography was an average of 5 million per month in 100 cities on the public web during December 2019, which has now alarmingly spiked.

"ICPF has warned that this indicates millions of paedophiles, child rapists and child pornography addicts have migrated online, making the Internet extremely unsafe for children. Without stringent action, this could result in a drastic rise in sexual crimes against children," said&nbsp;ICPF.

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In the notice sent to Twitter India, NCPCR said, "It is seen that as per your standard terms and conditions, a person of 13 years and above is eligible to open an account on Twitter. If you are allowing children at the age of 13 to open an account, the commission is of the view that you can't allow the other users to publish, propagate pornographic material, links etc. on Twitter. Another concern of the commission is that the accessibility of the pornographic material to the children through these links on Twitter."

In a similar notice to Google India, NCPCR wrote, "It is noticed during inquiry that pornographic material is accessible through the apps available on Google Play Store. By mere downloading these apps from the platform the user can access such material. This is enabling accessibility of the children to such material. There is also possibility that the CSAM is also available on these apps making it much grave issue."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-coronavirus-fight-is-people-driven-says-pm-narendra-modi-in-mann-ki-baat-294821">Also read:&nbsp;India's coronavirus fight is people-driven, says PM Narendra Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat'</a>

During the investigation, it was noticed that&nbsp;certain links are&nbsp;available to join 'encrypted WhatsApp groups' and the CSAM and pornographic material is easily present in these groups. These links were available on the internet, and anyone could join these encrypted WhatsApp groups and access CSAM content.

"The links to these groups were found to be propagated by various handles on Twitter. The commission is of the view that propagating links of these WhatsApp groups on Twitter handles is a serious matter,' NCPCR informed WhatsApp India in its notice.

According to the ICPF, there has been an increase in demand for phrases like 'child porn', 'sexy child', and 'teen sex videos', as noticed by online data monitoring websites.

Data from Pornhub also revealed&nbsp;that traffic from India has increased by 95 per cent between March 24 and March 26 2020, as compared to their average traffic, the ICPF claimed.

Addressing the media,&nbsp;Nivedita Ahuja, spokesperson for the ICPF said,&nbsp;"This is a blatant violation of the directions of the Honourable Supreme Court, and a violation of national policy. Pornographic websites are playing hide-and-seek with Indian law and judiciary by simply changing their website URLs."

NCPCR expressed its concern over the safety of minors in this lockdown period after the investigation revealed the chilling reality of CSAM content in the country.

With an alarming increase in the traffic for child pornorgraphy from India, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has issued a notice to social media platforms like Google, Twitter and WhatsApp highlighting its concern.

With an alarming increase in the traffic for child pornorgraphy from India, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has issued a notice to social media platforms like Google, Twitter and WhatsApp highlighting its concern. NCPCR started an independent investigation on Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), and based on the evidence procured from the investigation, the online platforms have been given till the end of April to respond back to the notice issued to them. Also read: With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest coronavirus cases in 24-hour period The increase in traffic has taken place during the lockdown period, according to the report. The report by India Child Protection Fund (ICPF) titled 'Child Sexual Abuse Material in India'. The research revealed demand of obscene content in over 100 cities in India, mainly New Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar and Indore' New Delhi topped the list. The overall demand for child pornography was an average of 5 million per month in 100 cities on the public web during December 2019, which has now alarmingly spiked. "ICPF has warned that this indicates millions of paedophiles, child rapists and child pornography addicts have migrated online, making the Internet extremely unsafe for children. Without stringent action, this could result in a drastic rise in sexual crimes against children," said ICPF. Also read: Shoes replace protesters as Swiss climate activists obey virus restrictions In the notice sent to Twitter India, NCPCR said, "It is seen that as per your standard terms and conditions, a person of 13 years and above is eligible to open an account on Twitter. If you are allowing children at the age of 13 to open an account, the commission is of the view that you can't allow the other users to publish, propagate pornographic material, links etc. on Twitter. Another concern of the commission is that the accessibility of the pornographic material to the children through these links on Twitter." In a similar notice to Google India, NCPCR wrote, "It is noticed during inquiry that pornographic material is accessible through the apps available on Google Play Store. By mere downloading these apps from the platform the user can access such material. This is enabling accessibility of the children to such material. There is also possibility that the CSAM is also available on these apps making it much grave issue." Also read: India's coronavirus fight is people-driven, says PM Narendra Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat' During the investigation, it was noticed that certain links are available to join 'encrypted WhatsApp groups' and the CSAM and pornographic material is easily present in these groups. These links were available on the internet, and anyone could join these encrypted WhatsApp groups and access CSAM content. "The links to these groups were found to be propagated by various handles on Twitter. The commission is of the view that propagating links of these WhatsApp groups on Twitter handles is a serious matter,' NCPCR informed WhatsApp India in its notice. According to the ICPF, there has been an increase in demand for phrases like 'child porn', 'sexy child', and 'teen sex videos', as noticed by online data monitoring websites. Data from Pornhub also revealed that traffic from India has increased by 95 per cent between March 24 and March 26 2020, as compared to their average traffic, the ICPF claimed. Addressing the media, Nivedita Ahuja, spokesperson for the ICPF said, "This is a blatant violation of the directions of the Honourable Supreme Court, and a violation of national policy. Pornographic websites are playing hide-and-seek with Indian law and judiciary by simply changing their website URLs." NCPCR expressed its concern over the safety of minors in this lockdown period after the investigation revealed the chilling reality of CSAM content in the country.

95% increase in online traffic of child sexual abuse content in India; NCPCR issues notice

With a rise in the temperature in the country,&nbsp;Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued a set of guidelines compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) advising people about&nbsp;ideal temperature of an air-conditioner during the lockdown.

There has been an increase in the usage of air conditioners and desert coolers as the public has been spending more time at home under the lockdown in the bustling heat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-coronavirus-fight-is-people-driven-says-pm-narendra-modi-in-mann-ki-baat-294821">Also read:&nbsp;India's coronavirus fight is people-driven, says PM Narendra Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat'</a>

Due to this, there have been several concerns over the use of ACs and coolers over what temperature should&nbsp;we use the AC at this point of time.

As per the 18-page guideline, the temperature of the home-run AC should be between 24-30 degrees Celcius and the humidity should be between 40-70 per cent.

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"Recirculation of cool air by room air conditioners must be accompanied by outdoor air intake through slightly open windows and exhaust by natural exfiltration," the advisory said.

“Too much humidity leads to higher levels of dust mites and fungi, two of the worst culprits for indoor allergy sufferers. Mold and fungi are known to exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma,” it added.

The centre also advised people to keep rooms ventilated when ACs are not in use, and to keep the windows partly kept open while using electric fans.

For commercial, industrial facilities, the government has suggested ventilation with outdoor air.&nbsp;“The mechanical exhaust air shall be 70-80 percent of the fresh air quantity to maintain necessary positive pressure in the space,” the advisory read.

With a rise in the temperature in the country, Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued a set of guidelines compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) advising people about ideal temperature of an air-conditioner during the lockdown.

With a rise in the temperature in the country, Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued a set of guidelines compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) advising people about ideal temperature of an air-conditioner during the lockdown. There has been an increase in the usage of air conditioners and desert coolers as the public has been spending more time at home under the lockdown in the bustling heat. Also read: India's coronavirus fight is people-driven, says PM Narendra Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat' Due to this, there have been several concerns over the use of ACs and coolers over what temperature should we use the AC at this point of time. As per the 18-page guideline, the temperature of the home-run AC should be between 24-30 degrees Celcius and the humidity should be between 40-70 per cent. Also read: PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown "Recirculation of cool air by room air conditioners must be accompanied by outdoor air intake through slightly open windows and exhaust by natural exfiltration," the advisory said. “Too much humidity leads to higher levels of dust mites and fungi, two of the worst culprits for indoor allergy sufferers. Mold and fungi are known to exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma,” it added. The centre also advised people to keep rooms ventilated when ACs are not in use, and to keep the windows partly kept open while using electric fans. For commercial, industrial facilities, the government has suggested ventilation with outdoor air. “The mechanical exhaust air shall be 70-80 percent of the fresh air quantity to maintain necessary positive pressure in the space,” the advisory read.

24-30 degree celsius is the ideal temperature for your AC, says CPWD in a guideline

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat at 11 am on Sunday as the country continues to be in a lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus pandemic.

PM Modi addresses 64th edition of 'Mann Ki Baat'

The Federation of Resident Doctors` Association (FORDA) wrote to the Union Health Minister, Dr Harsh Vardhan, requesting him to arrange&nbsp;accommodation facilities for resident doctors advised for home quarantine.

Explaining their anxiety for the safety of their family members, the letter stated the recent reports of resident doctors being tested positive for coronavirus. Sue to that, some resident doctors, who were their primary contacts, have been advised to home quarantine. Some resident doctors stay in hostels allotted on the hospital campus while many stay at their homes in various locations.

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"There are aged family members as well as young children at home who are the most vulnerable to this disease. The doctors themselves might be a source of infection for their family members. Therefore, it is necessary to provide separate accommodation or the resident doctors who are primary contacts, till they test negative for the virus," the letter reads.

The letter assured that the medical fraternity stands together with the nation in the times of a global pandemic. "We appreciate the efforts of the Government of India in providing accommodation and other facilities for the doctors on COVID-19 duties," it said.

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The letter came a day after Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij requested Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to provide accommodation facilities to the government officials who travel from Haryana to Delhi for their work.

"I request the Arvind Kejriwal government that those Delhi government employees who reside in Haryana, the arrangements for their stay should be made in the national capital itself and no passes should be issued to them for visiting their homes (in Haryana)," Vij, who is also the state's Health Minister, said.

The Federation of Resident Doctors` Association (FORDA) wrote to the Union Health Minister, Dr Harsh Vardhan, requesting him to arrange accommodation facilities for resident doctors advised for home quarantine.

The Federation of Resident Doctors` Association (FORDA) wrote to the Union Health Minister, Dr Harsh Vardhan, requesting him to arrange accommodation facilities for resident doctors advised for home quarantine. Explaining their anxiety for the safety of their family members, the letter stated the recent reports of resident doctors being tested positive for coronavirus. Sue to that, some resident doctors, who were their primary contacts, have been advised to home quarantine. Some resident doctors stay in hostels allotted on the hospital campus while many stay at their homes in various locations. Also read: Air India employees receive 10% salary cut; request Minister of Civil Aviation to intervene "There are aged family members as well as young children at home who are the most vulnerable to this disease. The doctors themselves might be a source of infection for their family members. Therefore, it is necessary to provide separate accommodation or the resident doctors who are primary contacts, till they test negative for the virus," the letter reads. The letter assured that the medical fraternity stands together with the nation in the times of a global pandemic. "We appreciate the efforts of the Government of India in providing accommodation and other facilities for the doctors on COVID-19 duties," it said. Also read: Donate blood plasma, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal appeals to recovered COVID-19 patients The letter came a day after Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij requested Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to provide accommodation facilities to the government officials who travel from Haryana to Delhi for their work. "I request the Arvind Kejriwal government that those Delhi government employees who reside in Haryana, the arrangements for their stay should be made in the national capital itself and no passes should be issued to them for visiting their homes (in Haryana)," Vij, who is also the state's Health Minister, said.

Doctors urge Health Minister to arrange accommodation for medical officials who are on house quarantine

Assam Chief Secretary, Kumar Sanjay Krishna on Saturday informed that no decision has been taken by the government pertaining to relaxation of ongoing lockdown such as opening of salons, shops, etc.

A decision in this regard will be taken on April 27, Monday.

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This comes just a day after the Spokesperson of the Home Affairs tweeted stating that "All registered shops registered under Shops and Establishment Act of respective States/ UTs, including shops in residential complexes, neighborhood and standalone shops exempted from lockdown restrictions."

"Market complexes, except those within the limits of municipal corporations and municipalities, are allowed to open. Mandatory: 50 per cent strength of workers, wearing of masks and observing Social Distancing. Relaxations not applicable in Hotspots/containment zones."

The entire country is under lockdown till May 3 as the number of cases of coronavirus are growing each day.

With 1,429 more COVID-19 cases reported in the last 24 hours, India's count of coronavirus cases has reached 24,506, said Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday.

Out of these, 18,668 patients are active cases and 5063 cases have been cured and discharged, or migrated.The death toll stands at 775, with as many as 57 deaths reported in the last 24 hours.

Assam Chief Secretary, Kumar Sanjay Krishna on Saturday informed that no decision has been taken by the government pertaining to relaxation of ongoing lockdown such as opening of salons, shops, etc.

Assam Chief Secretary, Kumar Sanjay Krishna on Saturday informed that no decision has been taken by the government pertaining to relaxation of ongoing lockdown such as opening of salons, shops, etc. A decision in this regard will be taken on April 27, Monday. Also read: 4,291 of total 14,378 COVID-19 cases related to Nizamuddin Markaz: Health Ministry This comes just a day after the Spokesperson of the Home Affairs tweeted stating that "All registered shops registered under Shops and Establishment Act of respective States/ UTs, including shops in residential complexes, neighborhood and standalone shops exempted from lockdown restrictions." "Market complexes, except those within the limits of municipal corporations and municipalities, are allowed to open. Mandatory: 50 per cent strength of workers, wearing of masks and observing Social Distancing. Relaxations not applicable in Hotspots/containment zones." The entire country is under lockdown till May 3 as the number of cases of coronavirus are growing each day. With 1,429 more COVID-19 cases reported in the last 24 hours, India's count of coronavirus cases has reached 24,506, said Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday. Out of these, 18,668 patients are active cases and 5063 cases have been cured and discharged, or migrated.The death toll stands at 775, with as many as 57 deaths reported in the last 24 hours.

Assam government to take decision on opening of shops on April 27

Gulf countries have assured India that they will have zero tolerance to any attempts to create discord after a sudden spike was seen in a number of fake Twitter handles of Arabic royalties emerged tweeting anti-India material.

It was conveyed to external affairs minister S Jaishankar during his phone conversations with foreign ministers of five&nbsp;West Asian countries to greet them on the beginning of the holy month of Ramazan.

India's EAM spoke to the foreign minister of&nbsp;Saudi Arabia and Oman on April 23 and FMs of Qatar, UAE and Palestine on April 24. He had earlier spoken to FMs of Bahrain, Kuwait and Algeria.

Sources told WION, "Gulf countries are very sensitive to attempts to create social disharmony and have zero tolerance in this regard." and "negative social media posts from fake handles have come in for adverse attention of these governments."

Earlier this week it emerged that a Twitter handle @ pak_fauj had changed its name to Omani Royalty and tweeted anti-India propaganda which was quoted by many in Pakistan. The Omani Princess issued a statement later clarifying someone is impersonating her.

During the EAM's conversation with FMs of the Gulf region both sides realised&nbsp;that such attempts are also "intended to create discord in the special relations that exist between India and countries of the region"

The foreign minister of the Gulf cooperation council countries also appreciated the "rich contributions made by Indians living and working in their respective countries to its growth and prosperity" with EAM thanking them for going the "extra mile in taking care of the welfare of Indians in these trying times".

Jointly dealing with the COVID-19 crisis dominated the talks with appreciation being expressed for India for sending medicines.

Many Gulf countries have requested essential&nbsp;medicines like Hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol with New Delhi sending aid and supplies to the region on a commercial basis. India is sending Hydroxychloroquine to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Egypt and Palestine.

As part of outreach to the extended neighbourhood, India sent its rapid response teams to Kuwait to help the country deal with the COVID-19&nbsp;crisis.

The discussion also focused on the oil prices and its implications given the fact that India is a key market for crude from the Gulf.

New Delhi has also told them that it will give "sympathetic consideration" to the request of some Gulf countries to allow their medical personnel stranded in India to go back.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to nine West Asian leaders on COVID-19. These include Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Palestine, Jordan and&nbsp;Eqypt.

During the talks, PM Modi spoke at length on the priority New Delhi attached to "Think West" and emphasised on the need for coordinated efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

Gulf countries have assured India that they will have zero tolerance to any attempts to create discord after a sudden spike was seen in a number of fake Twitter handles of Arabic royalties emerged tweeting anti-India material.

Gulf countries have assured India that they will have zero tolerance to any attempts to create discord after a sudden spike was seen in a number of fake Twitter handles of Arabic royalties emerged tweeting anti-India material. It was conveyed to external affairs minister S Jaishankar during his phone conversations with foreign ministers of five West Asian countries to greet them on the beginning of the holy month of Ramazan. India's EAM spoke to the foreign minister of Saudi Arabia and Oman on April 23 and FMs of Qatar, UAE and Palestine on April 24. He had earlier spoken to FMs of Bahrain, Kuwait and Algeria. Sources told WION, "Gulf countries are very sensitive to attempts to create social disharmony and have zero tolerance in this regard." and "negative social media posts from fake handles have come in for adverse attention of these governments." Earlier this week it emerged that a Twitter handle @ pak_fauj had changed its name to Omani Royalty and tweeted anti-India propaganda which was quoted by many in Pakistan. The Omani Princess issued a statement later clarifying someone is impersonating her. During the EAM's conversation with FMs of the Gulf region both sides realised that such attempts are also "intended to create discord in the special relations that exist between India and countries of the region" The foreign minister of the Gulf cooperation council countries also appreciated the "rich contributions made by Indians living and working in their respective countries to its growth and prosperity" with EAM thanking them for going the "extra mile in taking care of the welfare of Indians in these trying times". Jointly dealing with the COVID-19 crisis dominated the talks with appreciation being expressed for India for sending medicines. Many Gulf countries have requested essential medicines like Hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol with New Delhi sending aid and supplies to the region on a commercial basis. India is sending Hydroxychloroquine to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Egypt and Palestine. As part of outreach to the extended neighbourhood, India sent its rapid response teams to Kuwait to help the country deal with the COVID-19 crisis. The discussion also focused on the oil prices and its implications given the fact that India is a key market for crude from the Gulf. New Delhi has also told them that it will give "sympathetic consideration" to the request of some Gulf countries to allow their medical personnel stranded in India to go back. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to nine West Asian leaders on COVID-19. These include Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Palestine, Jordan and Eqypt. During the talks, PM Modi spoke at length on the priority New Delhi attached to "Think West" and emphasised on the need for coordinated efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

Won't let fake tweets create discord, Gulf countries assure India

A total of 205 people belonging to Ladakh who returned from abroad and were quarantined at an Indian Army facility at Jodhpur have now arrived at Leh, after completing the isolation period, Northern Command said.

"#OpNamaste #CoronaMuktAwaam 205 foreign returnees belonging to Ladakh arrived at Leh, after completing quarantine at an Indian Army facility at Jodhpur. Reception and screening at Leh Airfield facilitated by #FireAndFuryCorps," Northern Command said in a tweet.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OpNamaste?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OpNamaste</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronaMuktAwaam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronaMuktAwaam</a> 
205 foreign returnees belonging to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ladakh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ladakh</a> arrived at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Leh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Leh</a>, after completing quarantine at an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> facility at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jodhpur?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jodhpur</a>. Reception &amp; screening at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Leh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Leh</a> Airfield facilitated by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FireAndFuryCorps?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FireAndFuryCorps</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adgpi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IAF_MCC</a><a href="https://twitter.com/lg_ladakh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lg_ladakh</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeCanWeCare?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeCanWeCare</a> <a href="https://t.co/UEXcculX5G">pic.twitter.com/UEXcculX5G</a>
— NorthernComd.IA (@NorthernComd_IA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NorthernComd_IA/status/1253865164815794176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Indian Air Force (IAF) too tweeted to inform that on Friday, its C130 and IL-76 aircraft airlifted 52 and 205 evacuees from Jaisalmer to Srinagar and Jodhpur to Leh respectively.

"#HarKaamDeshKeNaam 24 Apr 20, IAF`s C130 &amp; IL-76 aircraft airlifted 52 &amp; 205 evacuees from Jaisalmer to Srinagar &amp; Jodhpur to Leh respectively. All these people tested negative for #coronavirus after the quarantine period," said IAF in a tweet.

A total of 205 people belonging to Ladakh who returned from abroad and were quarantined at an Indian Army facility at Jodhpur have now arrived at Leh, after completing the isolation period, Northern Command said.

A total of 205 people belonging to Ladakh who returned from abroad and were quarantined at an Indian Army facility at Jodhpur have now arrived at Leh, after completing the isolation period, Northern Command said. "#OpNamaste #CoronaMuktAwaam 205 foreign returnees belonging to Ladakh arrived at Leh, after completing quarantine at an Indian Army facility at Jodhpur. Reception and screening at Leh Airfield facilitated by #FireAndFuryCorps," Northern Command said in a tweet. #OpNamaste #CoronaMuktAwaam 205 foreign returnees belonging to #Ladakh arrived at #Leh, after completing quarantine at an #IndianArmy facility at #Jodhpur. Reception & screening at #Leh Airfield facilitated by #FireAndFuryCorps.@adgpi@IAF_MCC@lg_ladakh#WeCanWeCare pic.twitter.com/UEXcculX5G — NorthernComd.IA (@NorthernComd_IA) April 25, 2020 × Indian Air Force (IAF) too tweeted to inform that on Friday, its C130 and IL-76 aircraft airlifted 52 and 205 evacuees from Jaisalmer to Srinagar and Jodhpur to Leh respectively. "#HarKaamDeshKeNaam 24 Apr 20, IAF`s C130 & IL-76 aircraft airlifted 52 & 205 evacuees from Jaisalmer to Srinagar & Jodhpur to Leh respectively. All these people tested negative for #coronavirus after the quarantine period," said IAF in a tweet.

205 foreign returnees arrive at Leh after completing quarantine at Jodhpur's army facility

Non - Essential stores set to reopen from today,shopping malls shuts | India Lockdown Government allows non essential shops to reopen from today. A major relief for small shop owners, but the shopping malls will be shut. Earlier only essential shops were open.

Non - Essential stores set to reopen from today,shopping malls shuts

Two Chinese pharma companies, which supplied 5.5 lakh rapid testing kits for COVID-19 to India, said they are ready to cooperate with Indian agencies looking into allegations of poor accuracy of their products.

In separate statements, Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Livzon Diagnostics said they follow strict quality control of their products, asserting that specified guidelines must be followed in the storage of the kits as well in their usages to get accurate results.

India's apex medical research body ICMR on Tuesday advised states to stop using the rapid antibody test kits for next two days till it examines their quality following complaints that they are not fully effective in detecting coronavirus infection.

Last week, India procured 5.5 lakh rapid antibody test kits from these two Chinese firms and they were distributed to several states reporting rising cases of coronavirus infection.

While Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech supplied 3 lakh test kits, Livzon Diagnostics delivered 2.5 lakh.

Livzon Diagnostics, in its statement, said: "We are shocked to receive negative reports from India related to poor accuracy of COVID 19 rapid testing kits made in China including our brand.

We have shown great concern on this issue, and we are willing to coordinate with the related government departments for investigation."

The company said it fulfilled all required quality control standards prescribed by Chinese government and that the company has been exporting the product to at least 10 countries including Brazil, Peru, Columbia and several European nations.

"The test kits should be stored at a temperature between 2 and 30-degree Celsius and should not be frozen. If the storage temperature is too high, the accuracy of the test may be influenced," it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-rapid-testing-paused-due-to-issues-with-chinese-kits-293997">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: Rapid testing paused due to issues with Chinese kits</a>

In its statement, Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech said the company has been exporting the kits to more than 70 countries and that the product was validated and approved by the ICMR through National Institute of Virology in Pune.

"In the process of exporting the products to overseas countries, Wondfo fully cooperates with relevant health authorities in each country to carry out various verifications on the sensitivity and specificity of our products," it said.

The statements by the two companies were released to the media by an official of the Chinese embassy here.

At present, the government hospitals have been using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests to detect coronavirus from the throat or nasal swab samples of people.

These take around five to six hours to show the results.

In the rapid antibody tests, the blood samples of suspected patients are taken, and it normally takes around 15-30 minutes to give the result.

India has been facing a severe shortage of testing kits in view of rising cases of the coronavirus.

Two Chinese pharma companies, which supplied 5.5 lakh rapid testing kits for COVID-19 to India, said they are ready to cooperate with Indian agencies looking into allegations of poor accuracy of their products.

Two Chinese pharma companies, which supplied 5.5 lakh rapid testing kits for COVID-19 to India, said they are ready to cooperate with Indian agencies looking into allegations of poor accuracy of their products. In separate statements, Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Livzon Diagnostics said they follow strict quality control of their products, asserting that specified guidelines must be followed in the storage of the kits as well in their usages to get accurate results. India's apex medical research body ICMR on Tuesday advised states to stop using the rapid antibody test kits for next two days till it examines their quality following complaints that they are not fully effective in detecting coronavirus infection. Last week, India procured 5.5 lakh rapid antibody test kits from these two Chinese firms and they were distributed to several states reporting rising cases of coronavirus infection. While Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech supplied 3 lakh test kits, Livzon Diagnostics delivered 2.5 lakh. Livzon Diagnostics, in its statement, said: "We are shocked to receive negative reports from India related to poor accuracy of COVID 19 rapid testing kits made in China including our brand. We have shown great concern on this issue, and we are willing to coordinate with the related government departments for investigation." The company said it fulfilled all required quality control standards prescribed by Chinese government and that the company has been exporting the product to at least 10 countries including Brazil, Peru, Columbia and several European nations. "The test kits should be stored at a temperature between 2 and 30-degree Celsius and should not be frozen. If the storage temperature is too high, the accuracy of the test may be influenced," it said. Also read: COVID-19: Rapid testing paused due to issues with Chinese kits In its statement, Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech said the company has been exporting the kits to more than 70 countries and that the product was validated and approved by the ICMR through National Institute of Virology in Pune. "In the process of exporting the products to overseas countries, Wondfo fully cooperates with relevant health authorities in each country to carry out various verifications on the sensitivity and specificity of our products," it said. The statements by the two companies were released to the media by an official of the Chinese embassy here. At present, the government hospitals have been using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests to detect coronavirus from the throat or nasal swab samples of people. These take around five to six hours to show the results. In the rapid antibody tests, the blood samples of suspected patients are taken, and it normally takes around 15-30 minutes to give the result. India has been facing a severe shortage of testing kits in view of rising cases of the coronavirus.

Chinese suppliers of faulty rapid kits say they are ready to cooperate with Indian agencies

The ministry's order comes just days after it gave the go-ahead for shops selling electric fans and books for students to reopen, marking a significant easing of restrictions to restore economic activity in the country.

Major relief for India's small shop owners

India confirmed on Saturday 1,429 new coronavirus infections in the last 24 hours, raising the total figures to 24,506, health officials said.

Also, with 57 new deaths, the total number of coronavirus fatalities rose to 775, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dharavi-slum-area-in-mumbai-reports-six-new-covid-19-cases-294592">Dharavi slum area in Mumbai reports six new COVID-19 cases</a>

The health ministry also said 5,063 people in India have been cured, discharged or migrated. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tigress-dies-in-delhi-zoo-sample-sent-for-coronavirus-testing-294640">Tigress dies in Delhi zoo; sample sent for coronavirus testing</a>

The latest figures also suggested that Maharashtra continues to remain the worst-hit state, both in terms of cases and deaths with 6,817 infections, including 301 deaths.&nbsp;

After, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Delhi follows with 2,815 and 2,514 coronavirus cases. Gujarat is the only state after Maharashtra that has seen more than 100 deaths.&nbsp;

As India completes today a month of the nationwide lockdown, the Ministry of Home Affairs gave certain relaxations with the opening of shops in market complexes outside municipality areas with 50 per cent staff and following mandatory precautions like wearing of masks and social distancing guidelines.

India earlier extended the 21-day nationwide lockdown for another 19 days till May 3 to contain the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

India confirmed on Saturday 1,429 new coronavirus infections in the last 24 hours, raising the total figures to 24,506, health officials said. Also, with 57 new deaths, the total number of coronavirus fatalities rose to 775, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

India confirmed on Saturday 1,429 new coronavirus infections in the last 24 hours, raising the total figures to 24,506, health officials said. Also, with 57 new deaths, the total number of coronavirus fatalities rose to 775, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. Also read | Dharavi slum area in Mumbai reports six new COVID-19 cases The health ministry also said 5,063 people in India have been cured, discharged or migrated. Also read | Tigress dies in Delhi zoo; sample sent for coronavirus testing The latest figures also suggested that Maharashtra continues to remain the worst-hit state, both in terms of cases and deaths with 6,817 infections, including 301 deaths. After, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Delhi follows with 2,815 and 2,514 coronavirus cases. Gujarat is the only state after Maharashtra that has seen more than 100 deaths. As India completes today a month of the nationwide lockdown, the Ministry of Home Affairs gave certain relaxations with the opening of shops in market complexes outside municipality areas with 50 per cent staff and following mandatory precautions like wearing of masks and social distancing guidelines. India earlier extended the 21-day nationwide lockdown for another 19 days till May 3 to contain the spread of the virus.

Coronavirus in India: Infections rise to 1,429; death toll at 775

Indian-American lawyer Seema Nanda on Saturday announced her decision to step down as the CEO of the Democratic National Committee, the top administrative position in the main Opposition party, ahead of the presidential elections in November, reported news agency PTI.

Indian-American lawyer Seema Nanda on Saturday announced her decision to step down as the CEO of the Democratic National Committee, the top administrative position in the main Opposition party, ahead of the presidential elections in November, reported news agency PTI. Nanda, 48, became the first Indian-American to be appointed as the CEO of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) in June, 2018. She did not give any reason for leaving the top position, the report added. The Washington Post reported that Nanda's sudden exit from the DNC was part of the effort of the former US Vice President Joe Biden who is the presumptive presidential nominee of the Democratic Party. She would be replaced by Mary Beth Cahill, who had previously managed John Kerry's 2004 presidential campaign. "After two years, I will be stepping down as CEO of the DNC. I couldn't be prouder of the infrastructure we have built, the primary process we have run, and the team we have built," Nanda announced in a tweet on Friday. "I look forward to continuing the fight for our democracy and to elect Democrats everywhere," she said. With the two key endorsements, decks are now clear for a direct contest between Biden and incumbent President Donald Trump, who is seeking re-election. Under US laws, an individual can serve a maximum of two four-year terms. (With inputs from PTI)

Indian-American Seema Nanda to step down as CEO of Democratic Party 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday lauded the India Post and the postmen for their contribution in maintaining the supply of essentials, and medical equipment&nbsp;across the country during lockdown phase.

Re-tweeting a tweet shared by Communications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, PM Modi said, "Kudos to the India Post Office Network, our hardworking postmen for their stupendous efforts in assisting people during this time.

"Earlier, quoting an article from an English daily RS Prasad had highlighted the contributions of the India Post Office Network, which is one of the world`s largest postal networks, during the lockdown phase.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Kudos to the <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaPostOffice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaPostOffice</a> Network, our hardworking postmen for their stupendous efforts in assisting people during this time. <a href="https://t.co/fN9aMQdEXX">https://t.co/fN9aMQdEXX</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1254053038559342594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"From doorstep delivery of Essentials, Financial transactions, Medical equipment, etc to ensuring food and ration for the needy. During Lockdown India Post Office is delivering Hope, Assurance, and Happiness to citizens through its services," Prasad`s tweet read.

Amid the challenges posed by the Coronavirus, India Post is making efforts to provide relief to people by delivering life-saving drugs to patients living in remote areas and providing pension and social security benefits through Aadhar-enabled payment system.

(With inputs from ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday lauded the India Post and the postmen for their contribution in maintaining the supply of essentials, and medical equipment across the country during lockdown phase.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday lauded the India Post and the postmen for their contribution in maintaining the supply of essentials, and medical equipment across the country during lockdown phase. Re-tweeting a tweet shared by Communications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, PM Modi said, "Kudos to the India Post Office Network, our hardworking postmen for their stupendous efforts in assisting people during this time. "Earlier, quoting an article from an English daily RS Prasad had highlighted the contributions of the India Post Office Network, which is one of the world`s largest postal networks, during the lockdown phase. Kudos to the @IndiaPostOffice Network, our hardworking postmen for their stupendous efforts in assisting people during this time. https://t.co/fN9aMQdEXX — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 25, 2020 × "From doorstep delivery of Essentials, Financial transactions, Medical equipment, etc to ensuring food and ration for the needy. During Lockdown India Post Office is delivering Hope, Assurance, and Happiness to citizens through its services," Prasad`s tweet read. Amid the challenges posed by the Coronavirus, India Post is making efforts to provide relief to people by delivering life-saving drugs to patients living in remote areas and providing pension and social security benefits through Aadhar-enabled payment system. (With inputs from ANI)

PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown

India has suspended the use of Chinese-supplied rapid testing kits for detecting the deadly coronavirus disease (COVID-19) after several states complained results were inaccurate.

India has suspended use of Chinese test kits

India has placed an order of 9.5 lakh COVID test kits from South Korea even as focus is on increasing with a subsidiary of South Korean company starting to manufacture kits in Manesar. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Indian envoy to South Korea Sripriya Ranganathan said the aim is to "get best possible prices and the best possible quality and the shortest possible delivery schedule".She also said that the Indian Foreign Secretary and Korean vice foreign minister along with members of other Indo Pacific countries are speaking on a weekly basis on how best they can work to tackle the crisis.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1684-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hours-confirmed-cases-nationwide-at-23077-india-health-ministry-294534">1,684 coronavirus cases in 24 hours, confirmed cases nationwide at 23,077: India health ministry</a>

Sidhant Sibal: What is the role played by the Indian mission in South Korea in taking care of Indian citizens?

Sripriya Ranganathan: Our mission in Seoul has been constantly engaged with the community right from the start of the pandemic in Korea. We have about 13000 people that include, large number of students, and they are spread out all across the country. So what we have tried to do, taking in view the advice of the Korean government, that there should be social distancing and that we should refrain from unavoidable travel and so on. We have used video conferencing and we have also used our website and social media platforms to remain in constant touch with our community. My officers have been holding weekly video conferences with representatives of all our community association as well as with student body leaders so that we are able to inform them of the advice of the periodic update that has been coming from the Korean govt and we have also been able to hear from them the kind of difficulties they are facing. We have been able to reassure them we are there whenever they have any difficulties, I think this has been very effective, in that we have managed to give our people the confidence that there is no reason for them to panic and the very positive outcome has been we have not had a single case of a positive person being defected from amongst our own community in Korea and God willing that will remain the same. We have also been supporting those of our community in need by supplying masks and hand sanitizers through various community associations when they were finding it difficult to find them in the open market. 
&nbsp; 
SS: How India &amp; South Korea are cooperating to tackle the COVID-19 crisis?

SR: I think India and the Republic of Korea have a great deal to offer each other in this time of crisis. We already have had and are continuing to have regular conversations between our leadership, our Prime Minister and Korean President had spoken on April 9, in which they had apprised each other of the respective approaches, the solution they have devised for handling the crisis in India and in Korea respectively and had also agreed that all possible assistance will be extended by both our govt to each other at this time of need. Our foreign secretary and Korean vice foreign minister have been speaking on weekly basis along with other members of the Indo pacific countries, and we have been talking about how best we can pool our, thoughts and idea and work out the way forward to get out of the crisis at the earliest. In terms of medical supplies, we are finding that there is a lot of scope of sourcing our needs, in terms of COVID test kits as well as other protective clothing and so on from Korean companies who have created a niche for themself by way of quality and price competitiveness of what they have to offer. Our ICMR has already approved the products of some of the Korean companies and many of our agencies, both central govt, and state govt agencies placed orders for about 9.5 lakh test kits, we are expecting around 2 million tests kits to be sourced from Korea in the coming weeks, we are also hoping very much that Korean companies will be able to manufacture from India so that our needs for much needed medical supplies can be met from India. In fact, one of the Korean companies has made a beginning in this direction. Its Indian subsidiary has started manufacturing from its Manesar plant for COVID-19 test kits, this company has received its licence from ICMR on April 14 and it has started manufacturing from April 20. Looking ahead, I expect that Indian and Korean research institutions and scientists alike will be able to work together so that they are able the leverage the respective strengthens in coming up with innovative solutions that will help our govts in addressing this pandemic.&nbsp;

SS: What are we are purchasing in terms of PPE or ventilators from South Korea? 
SR: As I mentioned a short while ago, at the moment, we have negotiated for picking up of a large number of COVID-19 test kits from Korean companies, this has been possible because there are a number of Korean companies that have reoriented there manufacturing to start producing COVID-19 test kits, and also because these companies have got the requisite certification and so on and are also authorized to export by the Korean government, this apart, we have also been looking at how far Korean companies can meet our country's need of protective clothing, mask, gloves, ventilators and so on. What the embassy has been doing is to work on the basis of requirements that have been indicated to our ministry by ICMR, try to find the companies that are qualified and have the necessary background and experience to supply these items and are constantly keeping our ICMR informed of the products that are available here, the technical specifications, prices and so on and once ICMR works out what are the products that are most suitable, most required by our people, we are proceeding to negotiate further with those companies so that we are able to get best possible prices and the best possible quality and the shortest possible delivery schedule from these companies. We have been working in constant coordination with our ministry, with the ICMR, with other central govt agencies, with various state govt agencies in this very important exercise.

SS: What do you think about the South Korea model and have we shared any Indian model? 
SR: I must say the South Korean Government's strategy, which is the 3-T strategy--testing, &nbsp;tracing and treating has been very very effective in enabling the govt to bring the outbreak under check. They have used a lot of technology in the efforts, which is focused on aggressive and early testing to the widest possible degree. They have used technology, which includes GPS data, CCTV data, credit card transactions data to map the movement of people who have been detected as COVID-19 positive, put this information out very widely through the messaging system, local district offices and social media platforms. As a result of this and as a result of the wholehearted cooperation, which the people of Korea have given to the govt in the effort they have really managed to bring down the number of new cases to an amazing degree and today cases of less than 10 are added per day, which I think is remarkable by any standards. At the same time, the kind of steps, we have taken in India which includes, the prime minister's call for a Janta curfew, the lockdown we have managed to implement in our country this has won respect in Korea for what we are trying to do, given the size of our population and the scale of operation we have to undertake and there is a lot of optimism that these measures will help us keep the virus under check in our own country. In so far, what we have in common, there is shared faith in the traditional system of medicines, traditional methods to build up immunity which will sit alongside conventional western methods of medicine. Just as we have a lot of faith in yoga and in turmeric, ginger and other such herbs in building up our immune systems in the overall psychological health of our people, the Koreans have a lot of faith in yoga and ginseng and turmeric has become quite a rage over here and in these aspects, we have a lot in common. As I have mentioned earlier, our PM has spoken to the president of Korea, our Foreign secretary and Korean vice foreign minister and other foreign secretaries of the Indo-Pacific countries are speaking on the regular basis and I have no doubt we will continue to share ideas, information and best practices that will enable us to work together to counter the pandemic.

SS: How are the Indian diplomats faring.. it hasn't been easy for diplomats too?

SR: It is certainly been an unusual time for all of us at the embassy, the usual methods that we used to reach out to Koreans and others in Korea have not been possible in this situation. We have been very very disciplined and clear that we have to follow the advice that has been given by Korean authorities from time to time so we have been practising social distancing and we have been rigorous in our use of hand sanitizers, mask and so on. As to the extent possible, our local staff have been encouraged to work from home, so that we are able to reduce the risk by use of public transport and enable them to continue the work while they remain safe at home. We have been using technology to do as much as we can so that we don't lose the momentum that we have gained with all our work in the past few months. This is something we have used not only in our interaction with the Indian community and others who are spread across the country but also with the people back home in India were people we have used video conference and telephone calls to keep up the momentum. This apart from our cultural centre has remained very vibrant. We have taken our yoga sessions, dance classes online, in fact, we are trying to do some experiments on providing classes on Indian cooking online. Our yoga teacher is also doing her bit to keep all off use at the embassy healthy. We have been doing our yoga every day just before lunch so that we build up our own immunity. Off course as I have mentioned earlier the embassy is continuing to work hard, to really serve as a bridge between agencies back home in India, our ministry, ICMR as well as our various state govt who are looking for support by way of sourcing of much-needed COVID-19 related material and the companies here in Korea which are qualified and certified to export many of these products. We have been liaising with people at both ends so that we are able to figure out what exactly is needed by our agencies in India and try to make the best possible match with what Koreans have to offer, so this is how we are adjusting to new COVID 19 realities. 
&nbsp;

India has placed an order of 9.5 lakh COVID test kits from South Korea even as focus is on increasing with a subsidiary of South Korean company starting to manufacture kits in Manesar.

India has placed an order of 9.5 lakh COVID test kits from South Korea even as focus is on increasing with a subsidiary of South Korean company starting to manufacture kits in Manesar. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Indian envoy to South Korea Sripriya Ranganathan said the aim is to "get best possible prices and the best possible quality and the shortest possible delivery schedule".She also said that the Indian Foreign Secretary and Korean vice foreign minister along with members of other Indo Pacific countries are speaking on a weekly basis on how best they can work to tackle the crisis. Also read | 1,684 coronavirus cases in 24 hours, confirmed cases nationwide at 23,077: India health ministry Sidhant Sibal: What is the role played by the Indian mission in South Korea in taking care of Indian citizens? Sripriya Ranganathan: Our mission in Seoul has been constantly engaged with the community right from the start of the pandemic in Korea. We have about 13000 people that include, large number of students, and they are spread out all across the country. So what we have tried to do, taking in view the advice of the Korean government, that there should be social distancing and that we should refrain from unavoidable travel and so on. We have used video conferencing and we have also used our website and social media platforms to remain in constant touch with our community. My officers have been holding weekly video conferences with representatives of all our community association as well as with student body leaders so that we are able to inform them of the advice of the periodic update that has been coming from the Korean govt and we have also been able to hear from them the kind of difficulties they are facing. We have been able to reassure them we are there whenever they have any difficulties, I think this has been very effective, in that we have managed to give our people the confidence that there is no reason for them to panic and the very positive outcome has been we have not had a single case of a positive person being defected from amongst our own community in Korea and God willing that will remain the same. We have also been supporting those of our community in need by supplying masks and hand sanitizers through various community associations when they were finding it difficult to find them in the open market. SS: How India & South Korea are cooperating to tackle the COVID-19 crisis? SR: I think India and the Republic of Korea have a great deal to offer each other in this time of crisis. We already have had and are continuing to have regular conversations between our leadership, our Prime Minister and Korean President had spoken on April 9, in which they had apprised each other of the respective approaches, the solution they have devised for handling the crisis in India and in Korea respectively and had also agreed that all possible assistance will be extended by both our govt to each other at this time of need. Our foreign secretary and Korean vice foreign minister have been speaking on weekly basis along with other members of the Indo pacific countries, and we have been talking about how best we can pool our, thoughts and idea and work out the way forward to get out of the crisis at the earliest. In terms of medical supplies, we are finding that there is a lot of scope of sourcing our needs, in terms of COVID test kits as well as other protective clothing and so on from Korean companies who have created a niche for themself by way of quality and price competitiveness of what they have to offer. Our ICMR has already approved the products of some of the Korean companies and many of our agencies, both central govt, and state govt agencies placed orders for about 9.5 lakh test kits, we are expecting around 2 million tests kits to be sourced from Korea in the coming weeks, we are also hoping very much that Korean companies will be able to manufacture from India so that our needs for much needed medical supplies can be met from India. In fact, one of the Korean companies has made a beginning in this direction. Its Indian subsidiary has started manufacturing from its Manesar plant for COVID-19 test kits, this company has received its licence from ICMR on April 14 and it has started manufacturing from April 20. Looking ahead, I expect that Indian and Korean research institutions and scientists alike will be able to work together so that they are able the leverage the respective strengthens in coming up with innovative solutions that will help our govts in addressing this pandemic. SS: What are we are purchasing in terms of PPE or ventilators from South Korea? SR: As I mentioned a short while ago, at the moment, we have negotiated for picking up of a large number of COVID-19 test kits from Korean companies, this has been possible because there are a number of Korean companies that have reoriented there manufacturing to start producing COVID-19 test kits, and also because these companies have got the requisite certification and so on and are also authorized to export by the Korean government, this apart, we have also been looking at how far Korean companies can meet our country's need of protective clothing, mask, gloves, ventilators and so on. What the embassy has been doing is to work on the basis of requirements that have been indicated to our ministry by ICMR, try to find the companies that are qualified and have the necessary background and experience to supply these items and are constantly keeping our ICMR informed of the products that are available here, the technical specifications, prices and so on and once ICMR works out what are the products that are most suitable, most required by our people, we are proceeding to negotiate further with those companies so that we are able to get best possible prices and the best possible quality and the shortest possible delivery schedule from these companies. We have been working in constant coordination with our ministry, with the ICMR, with other central govt agencies, with various state govt agencies in this very important exercise. SS: What do you think about the South Korea model and have we shared any Indian model? SR: I must say the South Korean Government's strategy, which is the 3-T strategy--testing, tracing and treating has been very very effective in enabling the govt to bring the outbreak under check. They have used a lot of technology in the efforts, which is focused on aggressive and early testing to the widest possible degree. They have used technology, which includes GPS data, CCTV data, credit card transactions data to map the movement of people who have been detected as COVID-19 positive, put this information out very widely through the messaging system, local district offices and social media platforms. As a result of this and as a result of the wholehearted cooperation, which the people of Korea have given to the govt in the effort they have really managed to bring down the number of new cases to an amazing degree and today cases of less than 10 are added per day, which I think is remarkable by any standards. At the same time, the kind of steps, we have taken in India which includes, the prime minister's call for a Janta curfew, the lockdown we have managed to implement in our country this has won respect in Korea for what we are trying to do, given the size of our population and the scale of operation we have to undertake and there is a lot of optimism that these measures will help us keep the virus under check in our own country. In so far, what we have in common, there is shared faith in the traditional system of medicines, traditional methods to build up immunity which will sit alongside conventional western methods of medicine. Just as we have a lot of faith in yoga and in turmeric, ginger and other such herbs in building up our immune systems in the overall psychological health of our people, the Koreans have a lot of faith in yoga and ginseng and turmeric has become quite a rage over here and in these aspects, we have a lot in common. As I have mentioned earlier, our PM has spoken to the president of Korea, our Foreign secretary and Korean vice foreign minister and other foreign secretaries of the Indo-Pacific countries are speaking on the regular basis and I have no doubt we will continue to share ideas, information and best practices that will enable us to work together to counter the pandemic. SS: How are the Indian diplomats faring.. it hasn't been easy for diplomats too? SR: It is certainly been an unusual time for all of us at the embassy, the usual methods that we used to reach out to Koreans and others in Korea have not been possible in this situation. We have been very very disciplined and clear that we have to follow the advice that has been given by Korean authorities from time to time so we have been practising social distancing and we have been rigorous in our use of hand sanitizers, mask and so on. As to the extent possible, our local staff have been encouraged to work from home, so that we are able to reduce the risk by use of public transport and enable them to continue the work while they remain safe at home. We have been using technology to do as much as we can so that we don't lose the momentum that we have gained with all our work in the past few months. This is something we have used not only in our interaction with the Indian community and others who are spread across the country but also with the people back home in India were people we have used video conference and telephone calls to keep up the momentum. This apart from our cultural centre has remained very vibrant. We have taken our yoga sessions, dance classes online, in fact, we are trying to do some experiments on providing classes on Indian cooking online. Our yoga teacher is also doing her bit to keep all off use at the embassy healthy. We have been doing our yoga every day just before lunch so that we build up our own immunity. Off course as I have mentioned earlier the embassy is continuing to work hard, to really serve as a bridge between agencies back home in India, our ministry, ICMR as well as our various state govt who are looking for support by way of sourcing of much-needed COVID-19 related material and the companies here in Korea which are qualified and certified to export many of these products. We have been liaising with people at both ends so that we are able to figure out what exactly is needed by our agencies in India and try to make the best possible match with what Koreans have to offer, so this is how we are adjusting to new COVID 19 realities.

EXCLUSIVE: We have placed order of 9.5 lakhs COVID-19 test kits to South Korea: Indian envoy

<p content="BANGALORE, India, April 25, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown." data-reactid="12" type="text">To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown.

<p content="BANGALORE, India, April 25, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown." data-reactid="12" type="text">The COVID e-Pass system is an application where the state nodal officers will approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company will then be allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota. The companies will be able to do this&nbsp;on their own, without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass will be delivered to the applicant in a PDF format and an SMS. Carrying a photo identification card will be compulsory for all the applicants.

<p content="The COVID e-Pass system is a trust-based application where the state nodal officers must approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company is then allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota, on their own without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass is delivered to the applicant in pdf and SMS with an instruction to carry a valid photo ID. State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute." data-reactid="13" type="text"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-coronavirus-pandemic-is-this-a-world-war-in-disguise-294597">Also read:&nbsp;WION Edit: Coronavirus pandemic - is this a world war in disguise?</a>

<p content="The COVID e-Pass system is a trust-based application where the state nodal officers must approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company is then allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota, on their own without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass is delivered to the applicant in pdf and SMS with an instruction to carry a valid photo ID. State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute." data-reactid="13" type="text">State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute.

<p content="This easy to use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry &amp;amp; Karnataka State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, expressed satisfaction with the working of the system and stated that the solution will provide relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel for managing nationwide supply chains." data-reactid="14" type="text">This easy-to-use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry and Karnataka.

<p content="This easy to use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry &amp;amp; Karnataka State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, expressed satisfaction with the working of the system and stated that the solution will provide relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel for managing nationwide supply chains." data-reactid="14" type="text">State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, said he is very much satisfied with this system as it provides relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel while managing nationwide supply chains.

<p content="This easy to use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry &amp;amp; Karnataka State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, expressed satisfaction with the working of the system and stated that the solution will provide relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel for managing nationwide supply chains." data-reactid="14" type="text"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ramzan-in-the-times-of-coronavirus-294615">Also read:&nbsp;Ramzan in the times of coronavirus</a>

<p content="The e-Pass platform has also been integrated with Aarogya Setu, government's COVID-19 contact tracing app which has an estimated one million new users registering every hour, and a total of 70 million registrants. The first phase of this integration will allow the e-Pass system to poll Aarogya Setu to check the health indicator of the individuals before generating the ePass. The copy of the ePass is also deposited in the individual's Aarogya Setu app for easyaccess and verification." data-reactid="15" type="text">The e-Pass platform has also been integrated with Aarogya Setu, government's COVID-19 contact tracing app. The first phase of this integration will allow the e-Pass system to poll Aarogya Setu to check the health indicator of the individuals before generating the ePass. The copy of the ePass is also deposited in the individual's Aarogya Setu app for easy access and verification.

<p content="'The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones'- Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated 'Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown.' About eGov Foundation eGov Foundation was established in 2003 by Nandan Nilekani and Srikanth Nadhamuni to partner with city administrators in their drive to leverage the transformative power of technology for a better quality of life in our cities and to make them sustainable." data-reactid="16" type="text">"The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly, it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones," said&nbsp;Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation.

<p content="'The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones'- Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated 'Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown.' About eGov Foundation eGov Foundation was established in 2003 by Nandan Nilekani and Srikanth Nadhamuni to partner with city administrators in their drive to leverage the transformative power of technology for a better quality of life in our cities and to make them sustainable." data-reactid="16" type="text">Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated "Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown."

To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown.

To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown. The COVID e-Pass system is an application where the state nodal officers will approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company will then be allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota. The companies will be able to do this on their own, without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass will be delivered to the applicant in a PDF format and an SMS. Carrying a photo identification card will be compulsory for all the applicants. Also read: WION Edit: Coronavirus pandemic - is this a world war in disguise? State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute. This easy-to-use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry and Karnataka. State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, said he is very much satisfied with this system as it provides relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel while managing nationwide supply chains. Also read: Ramzan in the times of coronavirus The e-Pass platform has also been integrated with Aarogya Setu, government's COVID-19 contact tracing app. The first phase of this integration will allow the e-Pass system to poll Aarogya Setu to check the health indicator of the individuals before generating the ePass. The copy of the ePass is also deposited in the individual's Aarogya Setu app for easy access and verification. "The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly, it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones," said Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation. Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated "Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown."

eGov Foundation Launches COVID e-Pass Platform to make transportation of essential goods easier

The state government on Saturday appealed to the Arvind Kejriwal dispensation to make staying arrangements for Haryana residents who are employed with the Delhi government, saying their daily movement increases the risk of COVID-19 spread.

Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij on Saturday said Sonipat, which borders Delhi, has so far reported 17 coronavirus cases and claimed 13 of them were found to have contracted the infection in the national capital.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/donate-blood-plasma-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-appeals-to-recovered-covid-19-patients-294509">Also read:&nbsp;Donate blood plasma, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal appeals to recovered COVID-19 patients</a>

He said a Delhi police personnel, who resides in Jhajjar, was also found coronavirus positive. Besides, a few COVID-19 positive cases in Gurgaon were found to have contracted infection in Delhi, he said.

"This situation poses grave danger and increases risk of infection manifold to Haryana," he said.

Likewise, he said, there are many areas including Gurgaon, Jhajjar, Bahadurgarh and Faridabad, where Haryana residents who are employed in Delhi commute daily between their homes and workplace.

"I request the Arvind Kejriwal government that those Delhi government employees who reside in Haryana, the arrangements for their stay should be made in the national capital itself and no passes should be issued to them for visiting their homes (in Haryana)," Vij, who is also the state's Health Minister, said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-hope-people-appreciate-value-of-sport-and-fitness-after-crisis-bhaichung-bhutia-opens-up-on-life-under-lockdown-impact-of-pandemic-on-global-football-and-more-294612">Also read:&nbsp;Exclusive: 'Hope people appreciate value of sport and fitness after crisis' - Bhaichung Bhutia opens up on life under lockdown, impact of pandemic on global football and more</a>

He said as these employees are issued passes by the Delhi government, despite heavy police presence at the inter-state borders, the authorities in Haryana have to allow them.

"The Delhi government should not issue passes and make arrangements for their stay in the national capital," he said.

Vij said he has directed Haryana's Director General of Police to completely seal off the borders with Delhi and ensure anyone, who is not authorised, does not enter the state.

On Delhi employees who travel to Haryana using passes, he said, "If the Kejriwal government does not stop issuing these passes and make arrangements for their stay, we may be forced to think about the next course of action".

The state government on Saturday appealed to the Arvind Kejriwal dispensation to make staying arrangements for Haryana residents who are employed with the Delhi government, saying their daily movement increases the risk of COVID-19 spread.

The state government on Saturday appealed to the Arvind Kejriwal dispensation to make staying arrangements for Haryana residents who are employed with the Delhi government, saying their daily movement increases the risk of COVID-19 spread. Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij on Saturday said Sonipat, which borders Delhi, has so far reported 17 coronavirus cases and claimed 13 of them were found to have contracted the infection in the national capital. Also read: Donate blood plasma, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal appeals to recovered COVID-19 patients He said a Delhi police personnel, who resides in Jhajjar, was also found coronavirus positive. Besides, a few COVID-19 positive cases in Gurgaon were found to have contracted infection in Delhi, he said. "This situation poses grave danger and increases risk of infection manifold to Haryana," he said. Likewise, he said, there are many areas including Gurgaon, Jhajjar, Bahadurgarh and Faridabad, where Haryana residents who are employed in Delhi commute daily between their homes and workplace. "I request the Arvind Kejriwal government that those Delhi government employees who reside in Haryana, the arrangements for their stay should be made in the national capital itself and no passes should be issued to them for visiting their homes (in Haryana)," Vij, who is also the state's Health Minister, said. Also read: Exclusive: 'Hope people appreciate value of sport and fitness after crisis' - Bhaichung Bhutia opens up on life under lockdown, impact of pandemic on global football and more He said as these employees are issued passes by the Delhi government, despite heavy police presence at the inter-state borders, the authorities in Haryana have to allow them. "The Delhi government should not issue passes and make arrangements for their stay in the national capital," he said. Vij said he has directed Haryana's Director General of Police to completely seal off the borders with Delhi and ensure anyone, who is not authorised, does not enter the state. On Delhi employees who travel to Haryana using passes, he said, "If the Kejriwal government does not stop issuing these passes and make arrangements for their stay, we may be forced to think about the next course of action".

Kejriwal should arrange stay of Delhi govt employees from Haryana: Anil Vij

Union Health Ministry on Saturday said that 1490 new cases and 56 deaths recorded in the last 24 hours.

India's total number of coronavirus positive cases has crossed 24,942 (including 18,953 active cases, 5210 cured/discharged/migrated and 779 deaths), according to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.&nbsp;

Seven new cases of coronavirus were reported from Kerala on Saturday taking the total number of infected persons in the state to 457 and seven people were cured, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said.

Meanwhile, four more persons tested positive for COVID-19 in Ranchi on Saturday, said Ranchi Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) director Dr DK Singh.

Union Health Ministry on Saturday said that 1490 new cases and 56 deaths recorded in the last 24 hours. India's total number of coronavirus positive cases has crossed 24,942 (including 18,953 active cases, 5210 cured/discharged/migrated and 779 deaths), according to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Union Health Ministry on Saturday said that 1490 new cases and 56 deaths recorded in the last 24 hours. India's total number of coronavirus positive cases has crossed 24,942 (including 18,953 active cases, 5210 cured/discharged/migrated and 779 deaths), according to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Seven new cases of coronavirus were reported from Kerala on Saturday taking the total number of infected persons in the state to 457 and seven people were cured, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said. Meanwhile, four more persons tested positive for COVID-19 in Ranchi on Saturday, said Ranchi Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) director Dr DK Singh.

COVID-19 death toll touches 779 as number of cases rises to 24,942 in India

The Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) on Saturday wrote to West Bengal Chief Secretary (CS) Rajiva Sinha, sharing its observations from spot visits in Howrah and raised issues with regard to quarantine centres and surveillance zones.

In the letter to Sinha, IMCT head Apurva Chandra, Additional Secretary with the Central government, also enquired about personal protective equipment (PPE) stock and contact tracing and quarantine of individuals, who returned from Delhi's Markaz event.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-explicitly-appeasing-minority-community-governor-attacks-bengal-cm-294466">Also read:&nbsp;Mamata explicitly appeasing minority community: Governor attacks Bengal CM</a>

Talking about its visit to Damorjala quarantine centre, Chandra said there are 80 inmates in the 118 capacity quarantine centre who were sent for testing in a "cramped van without maintaining any social distance. "The government officials have taken away the mobile phones of these inmates and they could not inform their families about their condition.

"Since the State government has taken away mobiles from inmates in hospitals, the inmates of the quarantine centre were apprehensive as they had no information about the safety of their kin admitted to COVID hospitals. Effectively, an inmate is relieved only after two weeks of quarantine even if he has tested negative and there remains a possibility of his catching infection during the period," he said.

With reference to the Sanjivan Multi-speciality hospital at Uluberia in Howrah, the ICMT chief has stated that it is a 320-bedded hospital, which is currently treating 70 COVID-19 patients. However, doctors and healthcare staff here are placed in rotational quarantine for 14 days, which reduces staff strength to one-fourth of normal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1684-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hours-confirmed-cases-nationwide-at-23077-india-health-ministry-294534">Also read:&nbsp;1,684 coronavirus cases in 24 hours, confirmed cases nationwide at 23,077: India health ministry</a>

"Thus, it may not be in a position to accommodate additional patients without augmentation of health workers. The hospital management is trying to train interns and other skilled professionals and also seeking permission to engage them which needs to be facilitated," the IMCT noted.

The ICMT leader has highlighted that in Salkia containment zone, the health professionals are not part of the surveillance team and are likely to join on Monday.

The IMCT may be provided with full records of the surveillance carried out in the containment zone and it would also like to interact with food and civil supply officials on how the supply of essential commodities is being ensured to the residents in the containment zones, he said. It has sought information regarding the inventories for 30 days for PPE kits and other safety equipment available in all COVID hospitals, and testing and quarantine of those returning from abroad as well as tracing of individuals from the Markaz event in Delhi.

The IMCT on Friday had inspected a quarantine centre, Sanjiban Hospital and other COVID-19 hotspots. The IMCT visited Dumurjala stadium, a quarantine centre and Sanjiban Hospital and various other red zones in Howrah district for inspection, after which the team returned to Kolkata.

Meanwhile, senior Trinamool Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Derek O' Brien hit out at the IMCT, stating that its West Bengal visit served no purpose as the teams are visiting districts with no hotspots.

Calling IMCT as India's Most Callous Team, he claimed that the committee's real aim is to spread the "political virus."

"IMCT Bengal visit served no purpose - Visiting districts with no hotspots - Asking for committee already in place Real aim is to spread the political virus. Doing it shamelessly. Blatantly. Take ur pick. IMCT= India's Most Callous Team IMCT= I Must Cause Trouble (in Bengal)," he tweeted.

The Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) on Saturday wrote to West Bengal Chief Secretary (CS) Rajiva Sinha, sharing its observations from spot visits in Howrah and raised issues with regard to quarantine centres and surveillance zones.

The Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) on Saturday wrote to West Bengal Chief Secretary (CS) Rajiva Sinha, sharing its observations from spot visits in Howrah and raised issues with regard to quarantine centres and surveillance zones. In the letter to Sinha, IMCT head Apurva Chandra, Additional Secretary with the Central government, also enquired about personal protective equipment (PPE) stock and contact tracing and quarantine of individuals, who returned from Delhi's Markaz event. Also read: Mamata explicitly appeasing minority community: Governor attacks Bengal CM Talking about its visit to Damorjala quarantine centre, Chandra said there are 80 inmates in the 118 capacity quarantine centre who were sent for testing in a "cramped van without maintaining any social distance. "The government officials have taken away the mobile phones of these inmates and they could not inform their families about their condition. "Since the State government has taken away mobiles from inmates in hospitals, the inmates of the quarantine centre were apprehensive as they had no information about the safety of their kin admitted to COVID hospitals. Effectively, an inmate is relieved only after two weeks of quarantine even if he has tested negative and there remains a possibility of his catching infection during the period," he said. With reference to the Sanjivan Multi-speciality hospital at Uluberia in Howrah, the ICMT chief has stated that it is a 320-bedded hospital, which is currently treating 70 COVID-19 patients. However, doctors and healthcare staff here are placed in rotational quarantine for 14 days, which reduces staff strength to one-fourth of normal. Also read: 1,684 coronavirus cases in 24 hours, confirmed cases nationwide at 23,077: India health ministry "Thus, it may not be in a position to accommodate additional patients without augmentation of health workers. The hospital management is trying to train interns and other skilled professionals and also seeking permission to engage them which needs to be facilitated," the IMCT noted. The ICMT leader has highlighted that in Salkia containment zone, the health professionals are not part of the surveillance team and are likely to join on Monday. The IMCT may be provided with full records of the surveillance carried out in the containment zone and it would also like to interact with food and civil supply officials on how the supply of essential commodities is being ensured to the residents in the containment zones, he said. It has sought information regarding the inventories for 30 days for PPE kits and other safety equipment available in all COVID hospitals, and testing and quarantine of those returning from abroad as well as tracing of individuals from the Markaz event in Delhi. The IMCT on Friday had inspected a quarantine centre, Sanjiban Hospital and other COVID-19 hotspots. The IMCT visited Dumurjala stadium, a quarantine centre and Sanjiban Hospital and various other red zones in Howrah district for inspection, after which the team returned to Kolkata. Meanwhile, senior Trinamool Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Derek O' Brien hit out at the IMCT, stating that its West Bengal visit served no purpose as the teams are visiting districts with no hotspots. Calling IMCT as India's Most Callous Team, he claimed that the committee's real aim is to spread the "political virus." "IMCT Bengal visit served no purpose - Visiting districts with no hotspots - Asking for committee already in place Real aim is to spread the political virus. Doing it shamelessly. Blatantly. Take ur pick. IMCT= India's Most Callous Team IMCT= I Must Cause Trouble (in Bengal)," he tweeted.

IMCT chief writes to West Bengal CS, shares concerns with regard to quarantine centres, surveillance zones

In the wake of COVID-19 crisis, GVK MIAL managing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has put together measures to curb the spread of coronavirus.

The airport has formulated standard operating procedures for post-lockdown safety of the passengers, which include social distancing, stringent thermal screening, positioning temporary quarantine centres and also continues to sanitise and disinfect the airport to ensure safety and well-being of the passengers when operations resume.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dharavi-slum-area-in-mumbai-reports-six-new-covid-19-cases-294592">Also read:&nbsp;Dharavi slum area in Mumbai reports six new COVID-19 cases</a>

"To enable safety precautions at the airport, CSMIA plans to maintain social distancing through distinctive markings at both the terminals, maintaining 1.5 metres distance between each passenger," GVK MIAL said in a statement on Saturday.

The special markings will be spread across the entry gate, check-in counters, self-check-in kiosks, security checkpoints, food courts, lounge area and the boarding area among others. Furthermore, the seating arrangements at the food court as well as in the terminal building are reshuffled in a manner that promotes social distancing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-man-arrested-for-religious-discrimination-against-a-delivery-boy-294431">Also read:&nbsp;Mumbai man arrested for religious discrimination against a delivery boy</a>

Besides, CSMIA has also created quarantine centres at both the terminals of the airport in case any passenger shows symptoms of the deadly virus during screening which will be conducted before entering the terminal building.

The airport will be assigning their personnel to assist travellers at the self-check-in kiosks to help with the boarding copy and other details along with stationing hand sanitisers at all the touchpoints. CSMIA said it puts special emphasis on the need for passengers to wear masks and gloves during the entire course of their travel. It encourages passengers to check-in online from the comfort of their home or office the use of card payment transaction and contactless payment at the airport restaurants and retail stores.

GVK Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) is a public-private partnership joint venture between a GVK-led consortium and the Airports Authority of India (AAI).

The new integrated Terminal 2 at CSMIA enhances the airport`s capacity to service 40 million passengers and 1.6 million tonnes of cargo annually.

In the wake of COVID-19 crisis, GVK MIAL managing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has put together measures to curb the spread of coronavirus.

In the wake of COVID-19 crisis, GVK MIAL managing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has put together measures to curb the spread of coronavirus. The airport has formulated standard operating procedures for post-lockdown safety of the passengers, which include social distancing, stringent thermal screening, positioning temporary quarantine centres and also continues to sanitise and disinfect the airport to ensure safety and well-being of the passengers when operations resume. Also read: Dharavi slum area in Mumbai reports six new COVID-19 cases "To enable safety precautions at the airport, CSMIA plans to maintain social distancing through distinctive markings at both the terminals, maintaining 1.5 metres distance between each passenger," GVK MIAL said in a statement on Saturday. The special markings will be spread across the entry gate, check-in counters, self-check-in kiosks, security checkpoints, food courts, lounge area and the boarding area among others. Furthermore, the seating arrangements at the food court as well as in the terminal building are reshuffled in a manner that promotes social distancing. Also read: Mumbai man arrested for religious discrimination against a delivery boy Besides, CSMIA has also created quarantine centres at both the terminals of the airport in case any passenger shows symptoms of the deadly virus during screening which will be conducted before entering the terminal building. The airport will be assigning their personnel to assist travellers at the self-check-in kiosks to help with the boarding copy and other details along with stationing hand sanitisers at all the touchpoints. CSMIA said it puts special emphasis on the need for passengers to wear masks and gloves during the entire course of their travel. It encourages passengers to check-in online from the comfort of their home or office the use of card payment transaction and contactless payment at the airport restaurants and retail stores. GVK Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) is a public-private partnership joint venture between a GVK-led consortium and the Airports Authority of India (AAI). The new integrated Terminal 2 at CSMIA enhances the airport`s capacity to service 40 million passengers and 1.6 million tonnes of cargo annually.

Mumbai airport gears up to restart operations with safety measures in place

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking a financial package for MSME sector.&nbsp;

''If ignored, MSME crisis has the potential of having a devastating and expansive ripple effect on our economy,'' the Congress president said in her letter.&nbsp;

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Congress President Sonia Gandhi writes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the grave economic crisis facing the nation. She reiterated the concerns of MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) &amp; suggested five concrete ideas for redressal: Congress. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://t.co/XPVTHvjDOS">pic.twitter.com/XPVTHvjDOS</a>
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Congress party has sought Rs 1 lakh crore 'MSME Wage Protection' package, credit guarantee of an equivalent amount, along with 24X7 helpline to guide them, according to the letter.

Every single day of the lockdown comes at a cost of Rs 30,000 crore to the sector, she said and added, all MSMEs have lost sales orders, and seen a complete cessation of their work.&nbsp;

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking a financial package for MSME sector. ''If ignored, MSME crisis has the potential of having a devastating and expansive ripple effect on our economy,'' the Congress president said in her letter.

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking a financial package for MSME sector. ''If ignored, MSME crisis has the potential of having a devastating and expansive ripple effect on our economy,'' the Congress president said in her letter. Congress President Sonia Gandhi writes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the grave economic crisis facing the nation. She reiterated the concerns of MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) & suggested five concrete ideas for redressal: Congress. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/XPVTHvjDOS — ANI (@ANI) April 25, 2020 × Congress party has sought Rs 1 lakh crore 'MSME Wage Protection' package, credit guarantee of an equivalent amount, along with 24X7 helpline to guide them, according to the letter. Every single day of the lockdown comes at a cost of Rs 30,000 crore to the sector, she said and added, all MSMEs have lost sales orders, and seen a complete cessation of their work.

Sonia Gandhi writes to PM Modi, seeks financial package for MSME sector

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