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As coronavirus cases on a rise in Tamil Nadu,&nbsp;Chief Minister K Palaniswami ordered a complete lockdown in five cities -- Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem and Madurai. The lockdown will&nbsp;be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai, and for the same timings from April 26 to April 28 in&nbsp;Tiruppur and Salem.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-government-announces-complete-lockdown-in-five-cities-including-chennai-and-coimbatore-294568">Also read:&nbsp;Tamil Nadu government announces complete lockdown in five cities, including Chennai and Coimbatore</a>

The decision of the complete lockdown was taken in a review meeting after the coronavirus cases toll crossed 1,600.&nbsp;After the announcement was made on Friday, people flocked to the markets from early morning on Saturday. Long queues were spotted outside various supermarkets and vegetable markets. People rushed to stock up on enough groceries and dairy items to sustain them for the next four days.&nbsp;People hoping to stay at home and order through food delivery apps were unable to do so due to the long queues and unavailability of essentials.

The online vegetable and food delivery apps will be allowed to home deliver groceries and food, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys. However, people, who have till now been used to going to the market anytime between 6am-1pm, panicked fearing uncertainty about the lockdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1684-more-cases-reported-in-last-24-hours-taking-indias-covid-19-tally-to-23077-294444">Also read:&nbsp;1,684 more cases reported in last 24 hours taking India's COVID-19 tally to 23,077</a>

The idea of the lockdown was to contain the spread of the virus by completely shutting down the movement of public in the streets. However, as people rushed to the markets on Saturday morning, the crowded streets did not see a lot of precautions related to social distancing.

According to the data released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 72 new coronavirus cases were reported as of April&nbsp;25 morning in the state. This brings the total reported positive cases of coronavirus&nbsp;to 1,755 in Tamil Nadu, with 22 deaths and 886 recovered patients.

As Tamil Nadu is one of the worst-hit states in the country, the state has identified hotspots.&nbsp;As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu.

As coronavirus cases on a rise in Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister K Palaniswami ordered a complete lockdown in five cities -- Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem and Madurai.

As coronavirus cases on a rise in Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister K Palaniswami ordered a complete lockdown in five cities -- Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem and Madurai. The lockdown will be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai, and for the same timings from April 26 to April 28 in Tiruppur and Salem. Also read: Tamil Nadu government announces complete lockdown in five cities, including Chennai and Coimbatore The decision of the complete lockdown was taken in a review meeting after the coronavirus cases toll crossed 1,600. After the announcement was made on Friday, people flocked to the markets from early morning on Saturday. Long queues were spotted outside various supermarkets and vegetable markets. People rushed to stock up on enough groceries and dairy items to sustain them for the next four days. People hoping to stay at home and order through food delivery apps were unable to do so due to the long queues and unavailability of essentials. The online vegetable and food delivery apps will be allowed to home deliver groceries and food, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys. However, people, who have till now been used to going to the market anytime between 6am-1pm, panicked fearing uncertainty about the lockdown. Also read: 1,684 more cases reported in last 24 hours taking India's COVID-19 tally to 23,077 The idea of the lockdown was to contain the spread of the virus by completely shutting down the movement of public in the streets. However, as people rushed to the markets on Saturday morning, the crowded streets did not see a lot of precautions related to social distancing. According to the data released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 72 new coronavirus cases were reported as of April 25 morning in the state. This brings the total reported positive cases of coronavirus to 1,755 in Tamil Nadu, with 22 deaths and 886 recovered patients. As Tamil Nadu is one of the worst-hit states in the country, the state has identified hotspots. As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu.

Panic buying reported in Tamil Nadu ahead of complete lockdown; 72 new cases

Air India earned praises from all over the country for operating several rescue missions of bringing stranded Indians back home when coronavirus hit the country.

Sadly, the Air India crew has been subjected to societal problems since the start of the virus in India. As Air India employes have had to write a letter to the authorities again, this time the problem is not from the society. Air India employees write a letter to the Minister of Civil Aviation, Hardeep Singh Puri, requesting him to intervene and stop the salary cuts of the employees.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exemplary-act-spicejet-to-airlift-boxer-dingko-singh-from-imphal-to-delhi-for-cancer-treatment-receives-plaudits-from-kiren-rijiju-294502">Also read:&nbsp;Exemplary act': SpiceJet to airlift boxer Dingko Singh from Imphal to Delhi for cancer treatment; receives plaudits from Kiren Rijiju</a>

"We the employees of Air India and its subsidiaries are writing to you at the backdrop of unilateral pay cut imposed on employees of Air India Ltd for three months against the government's instructions. While all the PSU's are following the directions of the Government, it is agonizing to note Air India has imposed pay cut in wake of COVID- 19 crisis. It is explicitly reflected as COVID-19 pay cut in March 2020 salary slip," the letter reads.

The letter was written as the employees received a 10 per cent&nbsp;salary cut in the salary that was credited to their accounts on April 18. The employees believe that after running several relief flights for the nation, this&nbsp;pay cut, in such tough times,&nbsp;will negatively affect their morale.&nbsp;

"In spite of instructions from the Government of India, concerning the welfare of the employees and directions to make payment of wages on the due date, the management of Air India defaulted on timely payment of salary which was paid on 18th April 2020 with a 10 percent pay cut. The Flying crew are yet to receive 70 percent of their wages for the work done in the month of February 2020," the letter reads.

"We request you to countermand Air India Committee's decision on COVID pay cut which is against the Government Directives and also treat us at par with other PSU's during lockdown," requested the employees. They also requested for government support on all fronts so that they employees can keep continuing helping the nation through their relief missions.

Air India earned praises from all over the country for operating several rescue missions of bringing stranded Indians back home when coronavirus hit the country.

Air India earned praises from all over the country for operating several rescue missions of bringing stranded Indians back home when coronavirus hit the country. Sadly, the Air India crew has been subjected to societal problems since the start of the virus in India. As Air India employes have had to write a letter to the authorities again, this time the problem is not from the society. Air India employees write a letter to the Minister of Civil Aviation, Hardeep Singh Puri, requesting him to intervene and stop the salary cuts of the employees. Also read: Exemplary act': SpiceJet to airlift boxer Dingko Singh from Imphal to Delhi for cancer treatment; receives plaudits from Kiren Rijiju "We the employees of Air India and its subsidiaries are writing to you at the backdrop of unilateral pay cut imposed on employees of Air India Ltd for three months against the government's instructions. While all the PSU's are following the directions of the Government, it is agonizing to note Air India has imposed pay cut in wake of COVID- 19 crisis. It is explicitly reflected as COVID-19 pay cut in March 2020 salary slip," the letter reads. The letter was written as the employees received a 10 per cent salary cut in the salary that was credited to their accounts on April 18. The employees believe that after running several relief flights for the nation, this pay cut, in such tough times, will negatively affect their morale. "In spite of instructions from the Government of India, concerning the welfare of the employees and directions to make payment of wages on the due date, the management of Air India defaulted on timely payment of salary which was paid on 18th April 2020 with a 10 percent pay cut. The Flying crew are yet to receive 70 percent of their wages for the work done in the month of February 2020," the letter reads. "We request you to countermand Air India Committee's decision on COVID pay cut which is against the Government Directives and also treat us at par with other PSU's during lockdown," requested the employees. They also requested for government support on all fronts so that they employees can keep continuing helping the nation through their relief missions.

Air India employees receive 10% salary cut; request Minister of Civil Aviation to intervene

India's relationship with the Arab world was impacted in the last few weeks and one of the major reasons was fake Twitter handles used from Pakistan to defame India. However, the Indian administration has started to use diplomatic channels to reset the ties.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier had telephonic conservations with his counterparts from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman, where he stressed on India's "Think West" foreign policy. He reportedly also highlighted the need for a collaborative and coordinated strategy to tackle the COVID-19 crisis.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wont-let-fake-tweets-create-discord-gulf-countries-assure-india-294638">Won't let fake tweets create discord, Gulf countries assure India</a>

The Minister of External Affairs (MEA) S Jaishankar also extended his greetings on the holy month of Ramzan to the foreign ministers of the Middle East countries and thanked them for supporting the Indian diaspora. The foreign ministers of Gulf nations also lauded the contribution of the Indian community during the coronavirus outbreak and promised to support them.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/twitter-suspends-isis-fake-account-being-used-to-spread-fake-news-against-india-in-gulf-countries-294510">Twitter suspends ISI's fake account being used to spread fake news against India in Gulf countries</a>

India is also supplying drugs, including hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar.&nbsp;

After Kuwait's request, India has also sent a specialised team of medical professionals for training purposes related to coronavirus.&nbsp;

The Indo-Gulf talks also touched upon the negative social media campaign and the two sides agreed to have a zero-tolerance policy towards such incidents.&nbsp;

This comes after a number of parody accounts on Twitter spread fake information which strained the ties between both the regions.&nbsp;

India also vowed that it will help in the evacuation at the earliest of the medical personnel from the Gulf who are stranded in India.&nbsp;

The recovery plan post-COVID-19 was also discussed, along with talks on energy and volatility in the oil market.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India's relationship with the Arab world was impacted in the last few weeks and one of the major reasons was fake Twitter handles used from Pakistan to defame India.

India's relationship with the Arab world was impacted in the last few weeks and one of the major reasons was fake Twitter handles used from Pakistan to defame India. However, the Indian administration has started to use diplomatic channels to reset the ties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier had telephonic conservations with his counterparts from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman, where he stressed on India's "Think West" foreign policy. He reportedly also highlighted the need for a collaborative and coordinated strategy to tackle the COVID-19 crisis. Also read | Won't let fake tweets create discord, Gulf countries assure India The Minister of External Affairs (MEA) S Jaishankar also extended his greetings on the holy month of Ramzan to the foreign ministers of the Middle East countries and thanked them for supporting the Indian diaspora. The foreign ministers of Gulf nations also lauded the contribution of the Indian community during the coronavirus outbreak and promised to support them. Also read | Twitter suspends ISI's fake account being used to spread fake news against India in Gulf countries India is also supplying drugs, including hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar. After Kuwait's request, India has also sent a specialised team of medical professionals for training purposes related to coronavirus. The Indo-Gulf talks also touched upon the negative social media campaign and the two sides agreed to have a zero-tolerance policy towards such incidents. This comes after a number of parody accounts on Twitter spread fake information which strained the ties between both the regions. India also vowed that it will help in the evacuation at the earliest of the medical personnel from the Gulf who are stranded in India. The recovery plan post-COVID-19 was also discussed, along with talks on energy and volatility in the oil market.

Diplomacy at work to ease off straining Indo-Arab ties

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, has banned all kinds of public gathering till June end. The order was directed to the officials in a meeting chaired by the chief minister. The meeting followed the protocols of social distancing.

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मुख्यमंत्री श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/myogiadityanath?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@myogiadityanath</a> जी ने अपने सरकारी आवास, लखनऊ पर प्रदेश में <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> के संबंध में गठित समितियों के अध्यक्षों के साथ समीक्षा बैठक की। <a href="https://t.co/5CXOofcO0m">pic.twitter.com/5CXOofcO0m</a>
— CM Office, GoUP (@CMOfficeUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOfficeUP/status/1253938523696017410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The decision has been made to contain the spread of coronavirus, which has been rising rapidly in the state. Uttar Pradesh is one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus cases in the country. As of Saturday morning, total positive coronavirus cases in the state are 1,621, while 247 patients have recovered.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-health-officials-to-set-camp-in-worst-hit-15-districts-to-oversee-coronavirus-response-294296">Also read:&nbsp;UP health officials to set camp in worst-hit 15 districts to oversee coronavirus response</a>

He further instructed all the officials to make sure that the rules of lockdown are properly implemented and proper precautions are being taken.

The situation in Agra, one of the most affected cities in the state, has not shown any signs of improvement as the cases have been on a constant rise. A special team, sent to the city to read the situation, has blamed the local administration for late implementation of lockdown rules.

Following the rise in number is positive cases, he has also ordered the health officials to set up camp in the districts where there are more than 20 positive cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-adityanath-pulls-up-officials-in-gautam-buddh-nagar-hotspot-of-covid-19-cases-in-up-289508">Watch: Adityanath pulls up officials in Gautam Buddh Nagar, hotspot of COVID-19 cases in UP</a>

While the Yogi Adityanath&nbsp;issued a directive for the officials to implement the precautionary measures in a better way, videos of a group of 69 coronavirus patients seen waiting on a footpath took over the internet. The patients, who were being transferred from Agra to Etawah in a city bus, had to wait on the footpath outside the locked doors of a government medical college.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, has banned all kinds of public gathering till June end. The order was directed to the officials in a meeting chaired by the chief minister.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, has banned all kinds of public gathering till June end. The order was directed to the officials in a meeting chaired by the chief minister. The meeting followed the protocols of social distancing. मुख्यमंत्री श्री @myogiadityanath जी ने अपने सरकारी आवास, लखनऊ पर प्रदेश में #COVID19 के संबंध में गठित समितियों के अध्यक्षों के साथ समीक्षा बैठक की। pic.twitter.com/5CXOofcO0m — CM Office, GoUP (@CMOfficeUP) April 25, 2020 × The decision has been made to contain the spread of coronavirus, which has been rising rapidly in the state. Uttar Pradesh is one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus cases in the country. As of Saturday morning, total positive coronavirus cases in the state are 1,621, while 247 patients have recovered. Also read: UP health officials to set camp in worst-hit 15 districts to oversee coronavirus response He further instructed all the officials to make sure that the rules of lockdown are properly implemented and proper precautions are being taken. The situation in Agra, one of the most affected cities in the state, has not shown any signs of improvement as the cases have been on a constant rise. A special team, sent to the city to read the situation, has blamed the local administration for late implementation of lockdown rules. Following the rise in number is positive cases, he has also ordered the health officials to set up camp in the districts where there are more than 20 positive cases. Watch: Adityanath pulls up officials in Gautam Buddh Nagar, hotspot of COVID-19 cases in UP While the Yogi Adityanath issued a directive for the officials to implement the precautionary measures in a better way, videos of a group of 69 coronavirus patients seen waiting on a footpath took over the internet. The patients, who were being transferred from Agra to Etawah in a city bus, had to wait on the footpath outside the locked doors of a government medical college.

Yogi Adityanath bans all public gatherings in UP till June 30

In Tamil Nadu, the Intense lockdown to come into effect in 5 cities on Sunday 6 AM as Tamil Nadu has recorded 1600+ cases of pandemic COVID-19.

Tamil Nadu: Records 1600+ cases, intense lockdown to come into effect in 5 cities on Sunday 6 AM

By Anshu Dubey

Dr. Uma Madhusudana a doctor hailing from Mysuru and practicing at the South Windsor Hospital in Connecticut, US made it to the headlines across the globe on Tuesday after she was given a 100-car salute by Americans for her extraordinary service rendered during the COVID-19 outbreak.

The video of the applaud went viral on social media in no time that exhibited an entourage of people driving their cars. Dr. Uma could also be seen standing in her front yard and waving at the parade.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-we-have-placed-order-of-95-lakhs-covid-19-test-kits-to-south-korea-indian-envoy-294667">EXCLUSIVE: We have placed order of 9.5 lakhs COVID-19 test kits to South Korea: Indian envoy</a> 
&nbsp; 
In an exclusive chat with WION, Dr. Uma spoke about her experiences as a frontline warrior fighting day in and out against the pandemic, shared her fears, and a message to all healthcare workers fighting the battle in India.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Here are excerpts from the interview:

WION: In these times of stress and strife it was one of those visuals where humanity, reverence and gratitude all rolled into one which brought smiles to everyone who witnessed the video. What did you feel and what was going through your mind?

Dr. Uma: First of all I would like to thank the South Windsor town where I live who organised this for the frontline workers and I was fortunate to be one of them. It was really overwhelming, emotional and so much of gratitude, appreciation, love, and care for all of us and when this video went viral I was thinking why, but I did see that the same thing got replicated in one of the cities in India referring to this video and now I feel even more good about this. 
&nbsp; 
WION: The kind and scale of toll COVID-19 has taken, can you sum up your experience as an expert and the message that you have for people in India which is getting into seemingly the most critical and serious phase now? 
&nbsp; 
Dr. Uma: The effects of COVID-19 has been far-reaching on many levels. It has jeopardized the nation's health, economy, everything. So I would say social distancing is the way to go to contain this disease and also to be abiding by the govt rules of social distancing, handwashing and not touching the face, wearing masks. All of this is very important so that we can together prevent the spread of this disease.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: Several frontline health workers would want to hear from you in India on how to cope and deal with this contagion and handle themselves and the patients under such stressful circumstances. Your message to them?

Dr. Uma: My message to the healthcare or the frontline workers would be that this is the stage that is filled with fear and anxiety but I feel we are the ones who are chosen to be in the frontline battle. Hence the most important thing is that we need to be confident about what we are doing. Protection is very important, so protect yourself with proper PPEs, handwashing, wearing masks and I would like to stress on emotional and mental health. Mental health is such a big component when we are going through this COVID-19 for all the frontline workers. For example, I work at Heart for Healthcare, we have a support system where we can call in since we can't express our feelings to our families, as they are stressed too for us going to work every day and returning. Hence we need a support system where we can share counselling, which may be a very big part at this point in time. Do exercises, yoga, watch TV, whatever you can de-stress with. It is very very important that we stay physically and mentally healthy to work as a team and come out strong.&nbsp;

It's not just about me, it's for all the frontline workers &nbsp;and it's a big shout out to all of them risking their lives on the frontline 
&nbsp;

By Anshu Dubey Dr. Uma Madhusudana a doctor hailing from Mysuru and practicing at the South Windsor Hospital in Connecticut, US made it to the headlines across the globe on Tuesday after she was given a 100-car salute by Americans for her extraordinary service rendered during the COVID-19 outbreak.

By Anshu Dubey Dr. Uma Madhusudana a doctor hailing from Mysuru and practicing at the South Windsor Hospital in Connecticut, US made it to the headlines across the globe on Tuesday after she was given a 100-car salute by Americans for her extraordinary service rendered during the COVID-19 outbreak. The video of the applaud went viral on social media in no time that exhibited an entourage of people driving their cars. Dr. Uma could also be seen standing in her front yard and waving at the parade. Also read | EXCLUSIVE: We have placed order of 9.5 lakhs COVID-19 test kits to South Korea: Indian envoy In an exclusive chat with WION, Dr. Uma spoke about her experiences as a frontline warrior fighting day in and out against the pandemic, shared her fears, and a message to all healthcare workers fighting the battle in India. Here are excerpts from the interview: WION: In these times of stress and strife it was one of those visuals where humanity, reverence and gratitude all rolled into one which brought smiles to everyone who witnessed the video. What did you feel and what was going through your mind? Dr. Uma: First of all I would like to thank the South Windsor town where I live who organised this for the frontline workers and I was fortunate to be one of them. It was really overwhelming, emotional and so much of gratitude, appreciation, love, and care for all of us and when this video went viral I was thinking why, but I did see that the same thing got replicated in one of the cities in India referring to this video and now I feel even more good about this. WION: The kind and scale of toll COVID-19 has taken, can you sum up your experience as an expert and the message that you have for people in India which is getting into seemingly the most critical and serious phase now? Dr. Uma: The effects of COVID-19 has been far-reaching on many levels. It has jeopardized the nation's health, economy, everything. So I would say social distancing is the way to go to contain this disease and also to be abiding by the govt rules of social distancing, handwashing and not touching the face, wearing masks. All of this is very important so that we can together prevent the spread of this disease. WION: Several frontline health workers would want to hear from you in India on how to cope and deal with this contagion and handle themselves and the patients under such stressful circumstances. Your message to them? Dr. Uma: My message to the healthcare or the frontline workers would be that this is the stage that is filled with fear and anxiety but I feel we are the ones who are chosen to be in the frontline battle. Hence the most important thing is that we need to be confident about what we are doing. Protection is very important, so protect yourself with proper PPEs, handwashing, wearing masks and I would like to stress on emotional and mental health. Mental health is such a big component when we are going through this COVID-19 for all the frontline workers. For example, I work at Heart for Healthcare, we have a support system where we can call in since we can't express our feelings to our families, as they are stressed too for us going to work every day and returning. Hence we need a support system where we can share counselling, which may be a very big part at this point in time. Do exercises, yoga, watch TV, whatever you can de-stress with. It is very very important that we stay physically and mentally healthy to work as a team and come out strong. It's not just about me, it's for all the frontline workers and it's a big shout out to all of them risking their lives on the frontline

EXCLUSIVE: Indian origin doctor, who received grand reception in US, says health workers should remain 'confident'

Expressing concerns over the Centre's decision to stop the hike in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief to all government employees and pensioners, Congress leader and former PM Manmohan Singh on Saturday said that it is not necessary to impose hardships on government servants.

"I sincerely believe it is not necessary at this stage to impose hardships on government servants and also on the armed forces people," said the former Prime Minister in a video message put out on Congress' Twitter handle.

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As <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID</a> spreads, Modi Govt hurts 1.1cr Central Govt employees instead of providing relief. Withdrawing DA instead of cutting wasteful expenditure like Central Vista project is insensitive &amp; inhumane. Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh, Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> &amp; others express deep concern. <a href="https://t.co/M6WQ0tojxG">pic.twitter.com/M6WQ0tojxG</a>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1253877689926193153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Ministry of Finance on Thursday stopped a hike in dearness allowance (DA) for the central government employees and dearness relief (DR) for the central government pensioners till July next year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-sonia-gandhi-urges-government-to-provide-relief-package-for-msme-sector-294217">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus: Sonia Gandhi urges government to provide relief package for MSME sector</a>

According to the order issued, no arrears will be paid for the period from January 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021.

"In view of the crisis arising out of COVID-19, it has been decided that the additional instalment of dearness allowance payable to Central Government employees and dearness relief to Central Government pensioners, due from January 1, 2020, shall not be paid," the order said.

Expressing concerns over the Centre's decision to stop the hike in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief to all government employees and pensioners, Congress leader and former PM Manmohan Singh on Saturday said that it is not necessary to impose hardships on government servants.

Expressing concerns over the Centre's decision to stop the hike in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief to all government employees and pensioners, Congress leader and former PM Manmohan Singh on Saturday said that it is not necessary to impose hardships on government servants. "I sincerely believe it is not necessary at this stage to impose hardships on government servants and also on the armed forces people," said the former Prime Minister in a video message put out on Congress' Twitter handle. As #COVID spreads, Modi Govt hurts 1.1cr Central Govt employees instead of providing relief. Withdrawing DA instead of cutting wasteful expenditure like Central Vista project is insensitive & inhumane. Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh, Shri @RahulGandhi & others express deep concern. pic.twitter.com/M6WQ0tojxG — Congress (@INCIndia) April 25, 2020 × The Ministry of Finance on Thursday stopped a hike in dearness allowance (DA) for the central government employees and dearness relief (DR) for the central government pensioners till July next year. Also read: Coronavirus: Sonia Gandhi urges government to provide relief package for MSME sector According to the order issued, no arrears will be paid for the period from January 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021. "In view of the crisis arising out of COVID-19, it has been decided that the additional instalment of dearness allowance payable to Central Government employees and dearness relief to Central Government pensioners, due from January 1, 2020, shall not be paid," the order said.

No need to halt DA/DR hikes at this stage, says Manmohan Singh in a video message

In India, 57 fatalities have been reported in last 24 hrs due to pandemic Coronavirus (COVID-19). This was highest single-day death toll in India so far.

India: 57 fatalities in last 24 hrs due to COVID-19, records highest single-day death toll

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, in a meeting with ''COVID-19 management Team-11 on Thursday, ordered senior administrative and health officers to set up camps in all the coronavirus-hit districts. This decision has been made to make sure all the precautions are taken and containment measures are implemented in all the districts which have more than 20 cases.

The decision was taken after the chief minister held a meeting to review the coronavirus situation in the state. "He has directed to post senior administrative and health officers in each district with 20 or more coronavirus cases," said Additional Chief Secretary, Information, Awanish Awasthi.

"There are 15 such districts in the state. As officers are already there in Gautam Buddh Nagar, in the rest 14, they will be sent. These officers will have to camp there for a week and oversee the implementation of lockdown and other health-related issues," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/coronavirus-crisis-a-lot-needs-to-be-done-for-the-migrant-labour-293978">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus crisis: &nbsp;A lot needs to be done for the migrant labour</a>

Yogi Adityanath also&nbsp;asked his officials to tighten the checking of vehicles being used during the transportation of essential goods. "Such vehicles should be run only with driver and helper. If anyone is found carrying passengers or misusing it, the vehicle will be seized. This is a strict warning for drivers," Awasthi said.

A health department official reported 58 new positive cases which increased the total positive cases to 1,507 in Uttar Pradesh. Agra, Lucknow, Noida, Ghaziabad, Meerut, Moradabad, Saharanpur, Raebareli, Bijnore, Shamli and&nbsp;Amroha are few of the most affected areas by the virus.&nbsp;

Awasthi also informed that a record volume of ration has been distributed in the state through the Public Distribution System (PDS). "Currently, 53,000 fertilizer outlets, 33,000 pesticide outlets and 36,000 seed outlets are operating in the state to facilitate agricultural activities", he said.&nbsp;Rs 16,413 crore have been paid to cane farmers in the state.

He also assured that the state is taking care that students do not miss out their education. Till now 93,652 e-contents have been uploaded by universities and institutions, and 6.8 lakh students are taking part in online classes.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, in a meeting with ''COVID-19 management Team-11 on Thursday, ordered senior administrative and health officers to set up camps in all the coronavirus-hit districts.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, in a meeting with ''COVID-19 management Team-11 on Thursday, ordered senior administrative and health officers to set up camps in all the coronavirus-hit districts. This decision has been made to make sure all the precautions are taken and containment measures are implemented in all the districts which have more than 20 cases. The decision was taken after the chief minister held a meeting to review the coronavirus situation in the state. "He has directed to post senior administrative and health officers in each district with 20 or more coronavirus cases," said Additional Chief Secretary, Information, Awanish Awasthi. "There are 15 such districts in the state. As officers are already there in Gautam Buddh Nagar, in the rest 14, they will be sent. These officers will have to camp there for a week and oversee the implementation of lockdown and other health-related issues," he added. Also read: Coronavirus crisis: A lot needs to be done for the migrant labour Yogi Adityanath also asked his officials to tighten the checking of vehicles being used during the transportation of essential goods. "Such vehicles should be run only with driver and helper. If anyone is found carrying passengers or misusing it, the vehicle will be seized. This is a strict warning for drivers," Awasthi said. A health department official reported 58 new positive cases which increased the total positive cases to 1,507 in Uttar Pradesh. Agra, Lucknow, Noida, Ghaziabad, Meerut, Moradabad, Saharanpur, Raebareli, Bijnore, Shamli and Amroha are few of the most affected areas by the virus. Awasthi also informed that a record volume of ration has been distributed in the state through the Public Distribution System (PDS). "Currently, 53,000 fertilizer outlets, 33,000 pesticide outlets and 36,000 seed outlets are operating in the state to facilitate agricultural activities", he said. Rs 16,413 crore have been paid to cane farmers in the state. He also assured that the state is taking care that students do not miss out their education. Till now 93,652 e-contents have been uploaded by universities and institutions, and 6.8 lakh students are taking part in online classes.

UP health officials to set camp in worst-hit 15 districts to oversee coronavirus response

The state of Maharashtra has now become the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic in India. The number of cases is surging. Watch report.

Coronavirus Pandemic: Drones being used in Dharavi for surveillance

A tigress died of kidney failure in Delhi zoo on Friday amid the coronavirus fears.The authorities have sent the samples for the testing. The 14-year-old big cat named Kalpana died on Wednesday evening and the carcass was cremated on Thursday following directions to minimise human-animal interface, an official from the Environment Ministry said.

A tigress died of kidney failure in Delhi zoo on Friday amid the coronavirus fears.The authorities have sent the samples for the testing. The 14-year-old big cat named Kalpana died on Wednesday evening and the carcass was cremated on Thursday following directions to minimise human-animal interface, an official from the Environment Ministry said. Also read: Tigers, lions test positive for COVID-19 in New York zoo "Only a few officials were present during cremation of the tiger carcass, which was done in accordance with guidelines issued in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak," he said, adding, "Samples have been sent to Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, for coronavirus testing." The latest incident comes a day after five tigers and three lions at New York zoo tested positive for COVID-19. The cats caught the infection from a staff member who was showing no symptoms at the time. Scientists believe the coronavirus disease originated in bats in China before it transmitted to humans. The virus can inject itself into cells by binding to a cell surface protein known as ACE2, which is present in many species of animals as well. According to several reports, cat families can be infected with coronavirus while dog species are said to be safe.

Tigress dies in Delhi zoo; sample sent for coronavirus testing

India's decision to export hydroxychloroquine has received praise from across the world and the Russian Envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev was the latest to laud India's move. Watch report.

Russia lauds India's COVID-19 response: Move to export HCQ 'Nobel'

No source of income, but many mouths to feed is a painful situation faced by the lesser fortunate sections of society, but when it comes to transgenders living in the&nbsp;periphery, it only gets even more worrisome.

However, the transgender community in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-government-announces-complete-lockdown-in-five-cities-including-chennai-and-coimbatore-294568">Chennai</a> and other parts of Tamil Nadu have ensured that they combine their efforts and resources to ensure that they safely tide over the present crisis.&nbsp;

"In our community, we have hardly any savings and don’t think much about the future needs, but now amid the lockdown, the sources of income have vanished and we can’t&nbsp;even seek alms, but we have managed so far with the largesse of many well-wishers, corporates and NGOs” Jaya, General manager of Sahodaran, an organization that works for the LGBTIQ community told WION.&nbsp;

The transgender community has over 2,000 members across Chennai city and have been sourcing and distributing the available resources, relief material among themselves,&nbsp;while also donating a considerable bit of it to the needy and homeless.&nbsp;

“With the support of the police department, we have been able to reach out across the city and distribute over 300 bags of essentials that include rice, oil, sugar, pulses&nbsp;and also soaps. There were few drivers who volunteered to help with logistics, while our sister organization Thozhi provided us a vehicle for free and another for a very low cost. Beyond Chennai, we have also been asking our friends to provide succor in cash&nbsp;or kind to our community who are living in other districts of the state.” Jaya added.&nbsp;

When most ration card holders get their share of essentials and a small dole in cash, many in the transgender community don’t get it as they&nbsp;do not possess ration cards.

“I requested various government officials and highlighted the plight of our community, after which they offered to provide the essentials and Rs.1000 in cash for everyone with a transgender card. We also use the supplies to prepare&nbsp;food and share it with the needy and homeless who have no place to go” Radha, a transgender who contested in the 2019 Lok Sabha Election from Central Chennai constituency told WION.&nbsp;

Transgenders Durga Sri and Maya Sri saw an opportunity in adversity with the government’s door-to-door surveillance effort to contain COVID-19. They work&nbsp;for a little over five hours every morning, covering about 160 homes and checking for coronavirus symptoms and assessing the condition of the aged and the vulnerable groups.&nbsp;

“We get to earn Rs.15,000 a month, thanks to a police official who suggested that we take up this opportunity offered by the civic body in Chennai. This work is temporary&nbsp;would last only about two months, but they provide us PPEs and fresh meals. I have been involved in social work and this campaign is a blessing in disguise. I’m born and raised here and the people accept us for who we are and cooperate with us, we would be&nbsp;grateful if we get permanent jobs” Durga Sri told WION.

No source of income, but many mouths to feed is a painful situation faced by the lesser fortunate sections of society, but when it comes to transgenders living in the periphery, it only gets even more worrisome.

No source of income, but many mouths to feed is a painful situation faced by the lesser fortunate sections of society, but when it comes to transgenders living in the periphery, it only gets even more worrisome. However, the transgender community in Chennai and other parts of Tamil Nadu have ensured that they combine their efforts and resources to ensure that they safely tide over the present crisis. "In our community, we have hardly any savings and don’t think much about the future needs, but now amid the lockdown, the sources of income have vanished and we can’t even seek alms, but we have managed so far with the largesse of many well-wishers, corporates and NGOs” Jaya, General manager of Sahodaran, an organization that works for the LGBTIQ community told WION. The transgender community has over 2,000 members across Chennai city and have been sourcing and distributing the available resources, relief material among themselves, while also donating a considerable bit of it to the needy and homeless. “With the support of the police department, we have been able to reach out across the city and distribute over 300 bags of essentials that include rice, oil, sugar, pulses and also soaps. There were few drivers who volunteered to help with logistics, while our sister organization Thozhi provided us a vehicle for free and another for a very low cost. Beyond Chennai, we have also been asking our friends to provide succor in cash or kind to our community who are living in other districts of the state.” Jaya added. When most ration card holders get their share of essentials and a small dole in cash, many in the transgender community don’t get it as they do not possess ration cards. “I requested various government officials and highlighted the plight of our community, after which they offered to provide the essentials and Rs.1000 in cash for everyone with a transgender card. We also use the supplies to prepare food and share it with the needy and homeless who have no place to go” Radha, a transgender who contested in the 2019 Lok Sabha Election from Central Chennai constituency told WION. Transgenders Durga Sri and Maya Sri saw an opportunity in adversity with the government’s door-to-door surveillance effort to contain COVID-19. They work for a little over five hours every morning, covering about 160 homes and checking for coronavirus symptoms and assessing the condition of the aged and the vulnerable groups. “We get to earn Rs.15,000 a month, thanks to a police official who suggested that we take up this opportunity offered by the civic body in Chennai. This work is temporary would last only about two months, but they provide us PPEs and fresh meals. I have been involved in social work and this campaign is a blessing in disguise. I’m born and raised here and the people accept us for who we are and cooperate with us, we would be grateful if we get permanent jobs” Durga Sri told WION.

Transgender community helps the needy during extended lockdown in Chennai

While the world is dealing with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-may-have-four-times-more-covid-19-cases-than-reported-study-294601">COVID-19 </a>crisis, China earlier this month announced a new governance system for disputed islands in South China Sea that has irked not only its neighbours but has drawn sharp reactions from countries like US and Australia.&nbsp;

Earlier this month China approved the establishment of two districts to administer disputed Paracel &amp; Spratly island in the South China Sea. Each district will have a local government with the government for the Spratly island being located on Fiery Cross Reef, an area fortified by China by land reclamation. One of the new district created in Sansha city in Hainan province will administer Paracel island.&nbsp;

Before that Bejing had issued new names for 25 islands/ reef &amp; 55 undersea entities in the South China Sea in a bid to "reaffirm" its sovereignty in the region.

This has led to angry responses from the country's neighbourhood and from Washingon and Canberra. Vietnam strongly protests Chinese action saying it violates the country's sovereignty and are invalid. An angry Philippines filed a diplomatic protest at the Chinese embassy in Manila. Australian foreign minister Marise Payne while condemning China's action in South China Sea said it is "vital all countries ease tensions so they can focus on combating COVID-19."

Meanwhile, US slamming Bejing said the country is using COVID-19 distraction to further its hold in the South China Sea. US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said, "Even as we fight the outbreak, we must remember that the long-term threats to our shared security have not disappeared. In fact, they’ve become more prominent."

Explaining, "Beijing has moved to take advantage of the distraction, from China’s new unilateral announcement of administrative districts over disputed islands and maritime areas in the South China Sea, its sinking of a Vietnamese fishing vessel earlier this month, and its “research stations” on Fiery Cross Reef and Subi Reef."

He said,"important to highlight how the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is exploiting the world’s focus on the COVID-19 crisis by continuing its provocative behavior" and "The CCP is exerting military pressure and coercing its neighbors in the SCS, even going so far as to sink a Vietnamese fishing vessel. The U.S. strongly opposes China’s bullying and we hope other nations will hold them to account too."

Japan has also lodged a strong protest with the Chinese government ship crossing into Japanese territorial waters near Senkaku Island in East China sea. Tokyo says 4 Chinese coast guard vessels have sailed in the area for 90 minutes. China claims ownership over senkaku island and calls them as diaoyu.

While the world is dealing with the COVID-19 crisis, China earlier this month announced a new governance system for disputed islands in South China Sea that has irked not only its neighbours but has drawn sharp reactions from countries like US and Australia.

While the world is dealing with the COVID-19 crisis, China earlier this month announced a new governance system for disputed islands in South China Sea that has irked not only its neighbours but has drawn sharp reactions from countries like US and Australia. Earlier this month China approved the establishment of two districts to administer disputed Paracel & Spratly island in the South China Sea. Each district will have a local government with the government for the Spratly island being located on Fiery Cross Reef, an area fortified by China by land reclamation. One of the new district created in Sansha city in Hainan province will administer Paracel island. Before that Bejing had issued new names for 25 islands/ reef & 55 undersea entities in the South China Sea in a bid to "reaffirm" its sovereignty in the region. This has led to angry responses from the country's neighbourhood and from Washingon and Canberra. Vietnam strongly protests Chinese action saying it violates the country's sovereignty and are invalid. An angry Philippines filed a diplomatic protest at the Chinese embassy in Manila. Australian foreign minister Marise Payne while condemning China's action in South China Sea said it is "vital all countries ease tensions so they can focus on combating COVID-19." Meanwhile, US slamming Bejing said the country is using COVID-19 distraction to further its hold in the South China Sea. US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said, "Even as we fight the outbreak, we must remember that the long-term threats to our shared security have not disappeared. In fact, they’ve become more prominent." Explaining, "Beijing has moved to take advantage of the distraction, from China’s new unilateral announcement of administrative districts over disputed islands and maritime areas in the South China Sea, its sinking of a Vietnamese fishing vessel earlier this month, and its “research stations” on Fiery Cross Reef and Subi Reef." He said,"important to highlight how the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is exploiting the world’s focus on the COVID-19 crisis by continuing its provocative behavior" and "The CCP is exerting military pressure and coercing its neighbors in the SCS, even going so far as to sink a Vietnamese fishing vessel. The U.S. strongly opposes China’s bullying and we hope other nations will hold them to account too." Japan has also lodged a strong protest with the Chinese government ship crossing into Japanese territorial waters near Senkaku Island in East China sea. Tokyo says 4 Chinese coast guard vessels have sailed in the area for 90 minutes. China claims ownership over senkaku island and calls them as diaoyu.

China exploiting world’s focus on COVID-19, Pompeo on South China Sea dispute

There were 1,752 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-cm-requests-pm-to-help-bring-back-the-remains-of-nkrs-who-died-due-to-non-covid-reasons-in-gulf-countries-294540">coronavirus</a> cases with 37 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, the country's health department said on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-may-see-second-wave-of-covid-19-outbreak-in-monsoon-say-scientists-294483">Also Read: India may see second wave of COVID-19 outbreak in monsoon, say scientists</a>

The total number of cases has now risen to 23,452, including 1,7915 active cases.

724 people have died due to the virus in the country.

Mumbai's slum area Dharavi reported six new coronavirus cases taking the number of positive cases in the area to 220 which includes 14 deaths.

Kerala reported three new coronavirus cases in Kasaragod district in the last 24 hours, taking total number of cases in the state to 450.&nbsp;

In Karnataka, 29 new cases of coronavirus were detected taking the total number of cases in the state to 474. Eighteen people have died due to the virus in the state. There are 304 active cases in the state out of which five patients are in the ICU, the state health department informed.

In West Bengal, 51 more coronavirus cases were detected taking the total number of cases in the state to 385 on Friday evena as the Punjab government reported eleven more cases of the virus.

In Punjab, the death toll reached 17 after the number of cases reached 298.

&nbsp;&nbsp;

There were 1,752 new coronavirus cases with 37 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, the country's health department said on Friday. Also Read: India may see second wave of COVID-19 outbreak in monsoon, say scientists The total number of cases has now risen to 23,452, including 1,7915 active cases.

There were 1,752 new coronavirus cases with 37 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, the country's health department said on Friday. Also Read: India may see second wave of COVID-19 outbreak in monsoon, say scientists The total number of cases has now risen to 23,452, including 1,7915 active cases. 724 people have died due to the virus in the country. Mumbai's slum area Dharavi reported six new coronavirus cases taking the number of positive cases in the area to 220 which includes 14 deaths. Kerala reported three new coronavirus cases in Kasaragod district in the last 24 hours, taking total number of cases in the state to 450. In Karnataka, 29 new cases of coronavirus were detected taking the total number of cases in the state to 474. Eighteen people have died due to the virus in the state. There are 304 active cases in the state out of which five patients are in the ICU, the state health department informed. In West Bengal, 51 more coronavirus cases were detected taking the total number of cases in the state to 385 on Friday evena as the Punjab government reported eleven more cases of the virus. In Punjab, the death toll reached 17 after the number of cases reached 298.

Dharavi slum area in Mumbai reports six new COVID-19 cases

After a review meeting, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, orders have been issued for a complete lockdown in five cities of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur and Salem.

The lockdown will be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai. Tiruppur and Salem, however, will be on the lockdown from April 26 to April 28 between&nbsp;6 a.m. to 9 p.m.&nbsp;

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Complete lockdown to be enforced in Chennai, Coimbatore &amp; Madurai from April 26 to April 29 between 6 AM&amp;9PM. In Salem&amp;Tiruppur, complete lockdown will be enforced from April 26 &amp; April 28 between 6 AM &amp; 9 PM. Online food delivery to be allowed: Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi Palaniswami <a href="https://t.co/vJnGL8ZUef">pic.twitter.com/vJnGL8ZUef</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1253619843762454529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, food delivery will be allowed through food delivery apps during the lockdown, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys.

According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Tamil Nadu has 1,629 coronavirus cases, including 662 cured and 18 deaths.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-social-distancing-encouraged-at-tamil-nadu-ministers-event-in-madurai-293995">Also read:&nbsp;No social distancing encouraged at Tamil Nadu Minister’s event in Madurai</a>

With such a high number of&nbsp;positive coronavirus cases, Tamil Nadu is one of the worst coronavirus-hit state in the country. To contain the spread of the virus, Tamil Nadu government identified hotspots in the state.&nbsp;As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu. Some hotspots have also been identified within Chennai and Coimbatore. While there are&nbsp;13 urban red zones in Chennai, Coimbatore has 10 urban and 8 rural red zones.

After a review meeting, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, orders have been issued for a complete lockdown in five cities of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur and Salem.

After a review meeting, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, orders have been issued for a complete lockdown in five cities of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur and Salem. The lockdown will be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai. Tiruppur and Salem, however, will be on the lockdown from April 26 to April 28 between 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Complete lockdown to be enforced in Chennai, Coimbatore & Madurai from April 26 to April 29 between 6 AM&9PM. In Salem&Tiruppur, complete lockdown will be enforced from April 26 & April 28 between 6 AM & 9 PM. Online food delivery to be allowed: Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi Palaniswami pic.twitter.com/vJnGL8ZUef — ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2020 × However, food delivery will be allowed through food delivery apps during the lockdown, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys. According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Tamil Nadu has 1,629 coronavirus cases, including 662 cured and 18 deaths. Also read: No social distancing encouraged at Tamil Nadu Minister’s event in Madurai With such a high number of positive coronavirus cases, Tamil Nadu is one of the worst coronavirus-hit state in the country. To contain the spread of the virus, Tamil Nadu government identified hotspots in the state. As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu. Some hotspots have also been identified within Chennai and Coimbatore. While there are 13 urban red zones in Chennai, Coimbatore has 10 urban and 8 rural red zones.

Tamil Nadu government announces complete lockdown in five cities, including Chennai and Coimbatore

Cops in Tamil Nadu stopped three young men who were travelling on a single bike without mask. Tamil Nadu police did a prank, which they are unlikely to forget for the rest of their lives.

Tamil Nadu police goes extra, pranks lockdown violators to teach a lesson

Two 60-year-old male patients, who died at a SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have tested positive for COVID-19&nbsp;taking the number of deaths due to coronavirus in the state to 32.

According to the state Health Department, a resident of Ramganj, who had&nbsp;comorbidity of coronary artery disease,&nbsp;was admitted to the SMS Hospital on April 22 and took his last breath on April 23. He was detected positive for COVID-19 on April 23.

Another patient, a resident of MD road, was brought dead to the SMS Hospital on April 22. As he was a suspected COVID-19 patient, a sample was taken which was reported positive on April 23.

Meanwhile, a 70-year-old female from Adarsh Nagar who tested positive for coronavirus on April 21 also succumbed to the infection today. She also had comorbidity of coronary artery disease, the health officials said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-couple-stranded-in-tripura-names-their-newborn-lockdown-293913">Also read:&nbsp;Rajasthan couple stranded in Tripura names their newborn 'Lockdown'</a>

These figures have taken the total number of positive cases in Rajasthan to 1,890, with 27 deaths in the state.&nbsp;

The department also shared the details of evacuees from Iran who were quarantined at the Army facility in Jaisalmer and now have been shifted to various places in Jammu and Kashmir. On April 21, 180 evacuees were rushed to Srinagar, while 225 were moved to Ladakh on April 22. On Friday, 52 were taken to Srinagar. With 44 fresh cases reported in Rajasthan today, 2,008 people are infected with virus in the state so far.&nbsp;

Two 60-year-old male patients, who died at a SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have tested positive for COVID-19 taking the number of deaths due to coronavirus in the state to 32.

Two 60-year-old male patients, who died at a SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have tested positive for COVID-19 taking the number of deaths due to coronavirus in the state to 32. According to the state Health Department, a resident of Ramganj, who had comorbidity of coronary artery disease, was admitted to the SMS Hospital on April 22 and took his last breath on April 23. He was detected positive for COVID-19 on April 23. Another patient, a resident of MD road, was brought dead to the SMS Hospital on April 22. As he was a suspected COVID-19 patient, a sample was taken which was reported positive on April 23. Meanwhile, a 70-year-old female from Adarsh Nagar who tested positive for coronavirus on April 21 also succumbed to the infection today. She also had comorbidity of coronary artery disease, the health officials said. Also read: Rajasthan couple stranded in Tripura names their newborn 'Lockdown' These figures have taken the total number of positive cases in Rajasthan to 1,890, with 27 deaths in the state. The department also shared the details of evacuees from Iran who were quarantined at the Army facility in Jaisalmer and now have been shifted to various places in Jammu and Kashmir. On April 21, 180 evacuees were rushed to Srinagar, while 225 were moved to Ladakh on April 22. On Friday, 52 were taken to Srinagar. With 44 fresh cases reported in Rajasthan today, 2,008 people are infected with virus in the state so far.

Two 60-year-old male patients test positive of coronavirus post-death

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;to intervene in bringing back bodies of the Keralites who died in Gulf countries of reasons other than COVID-19 infection.

"I would like to draw your attention to the grievances received from Non-resident Keralites Associations (NRKs) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries on the delay caused in bringing home the mortal remains of NRKs who had expired due to reasons other than the COVID-19 infection," read the letter by the CM.

"It is learnt that a clearance certificate&nbsp;from the Indian Embassies is required to process the application of bringing home the mortal remains of the dead. The Embassies are insisting on the production of a no-objection certificate from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), New Delhi," it read.

The letter also pointed out that according to a notification by the government, no such certificate is needed to bring back&nbsp;the mortal remains of the deceased who died due to reasons other than coronavirus.

"To enable to bring back the bodies of the NRIs whose deaths occurred due to reasons other than COVID-19 infection, without necessary procedural hassles, I request your kind intervention," read the letter further.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-government-takes-30-per-cent-cut-in-salary-to-overcome-covid-19-induced-financial-crisis-294132">Also read:&nbsp;Kerala government takes 30 per cent cut in salary to overcome COVID-19-induced financial crisis</a>

The bodies are now being brought back to the country in cargo planes as passenger flights have been halted due to lockdown restrictions.

"They are already under tremendous stress and anxiety due to the lockdown imposed in those countries and the consequent stoppage of international flights", he said.

Meanwhile, 324 out of a total of 447 coronavirus cases have recovered, with only three reported deaths. The chief minister has asked the health officials to conduct more tests in the state.

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene in bringing back bodies of the Keralites who died in Gulf countries of reasons other than COVID-19 infection.

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene in bringing back bodies of the Keralites who died in Gulf countries of reasons other than COVID-19 infection. "I would like to draw your attention to the grievances received from Non-resident Keralites Associations (NRKs) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries on the delay caused in bringing home the mortal remains of NRKs who had expired due to reasons other than the COVID-19 infection," read the letter by the CM. "It is learnt that a clearance certificate from the Indian Embassies is required to process the application of bringing home the mortal remains of the dead. The Embassies are insisting on the production of a no-objection certificate from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), New Delhi," it read. The letter also pointed out that according to a notification by the government, no such certificate is needed to bring back the mortal remains of the deceased who died due to reasons other than coronavirus. "To enable to bring back the bodies of the NRIs whose deaths occurred due to reasons other than COVID-19 infection, without necessary procedural hassles, I request your kind intervention," read the letter further. Also read: Kerala government takes 30 per cent cut in salary to overcome COVID-19-induced financial crisis The bodies are now being brought back to the country in cargo planes as passenger flights have been halted due to lockdown restrictions. "They are already under tremendous stress and anxiety due to the lockdown imposed in those countries and the consequent stoppage of international flights", he said. Meanwhile, 324 out of a total of 447 coronavirus cases have recovered, with only three reported deaths. The chief minister has asked the health officials to conduct more tests in the state.

Kerala CM requests PM to help bring back the remains of NKRs who died due to non-COVID reasons in Gulf countries

India's health ministry said today that in the last 24 hours, 1,684 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iit-professor-develops-software-to-detect-covid-19-within-five-seconds-using-x-ray-scan-294473">coronavirus</a> cases were reported in the country with the total number of confirmed cases rising to 23,077.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-may-see-second-wave-of-covid-19-outbreak-in-monsoon-say-scientists-294483">Also Read:&nbsp;India may see second wave of COVID-19 outbreak in monsoon, say, scientists</a>

"In the last 28 days, 15 districts have had no new case. There are 80 districts in the country that have reported no new cases in last 14 days," health ministry official Lav Agarwal said while briefing reporters at a press conference.

The official said India's recovery rate of coronavirus is now at 20.57 per cent.

The National Centre for Disease Control declared that "surveillance" is its "primary weapon" in the fight against coronavirus.

"About 9.45 lakh people are on surveillance system," Sujeet Singh, Director of National Centre for Disease Control, said.

Amid the crisis, the Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) wrote to the West Bengal chief secretary after visiting hospitals dealing with coronavirus patients in Kolkata, and said that wait-time for COVID=19 test results for some patients was over 5 days. It recommended increasing tests to 2,500-5000 a day.

Meanwhile, in Bihar 15 more coronavirus cases were reported taking the number of cases to 197 even as Uttarakhand police informed that 2,112 cases have been registered and 9,320 people arrested in connection with violation the norms of the lockdown.

India's health ministry said today that in the last 24 hours, 1,684 coronavirus cases were reported in the country with the total number of confirmed cases rising to 23,077.

India's health ministry said today that in the last 24 hours, 1,684 coronavirus cases were reported in the country with the total number of confirmed cases rising to 23,077. Also Read: India may see second wave of COVID-19 outbreak in monsoon, say, scientists "In the last 28 days, 15 districts have had no new case. There are 80 districts in the country that have reported no new cases in last 14 days," health ministry official Lav Agarwal said while briefing reporters at a press conference. The official said India's recovery rate of coronavirus is now at 20.57 per cent. The National Centre for Disease Control declared that "surveillance" is its "primary weapon" in the fight against coronavirus. "About 9.45 lakh people are on surveillance system," Sujeet Singh, Director of National Centre for Disease Control, said. Amid the crisis, the Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) wrote to the West Bengal chief secretary after visiting hospitals dealing with coronavirus patients in Kolkata, and said that wait-time for COVID=19 test results for some patients was over 5 days. It recommended increasing tests to 2,500-5000 a day. Meanwhile, in Bihar 15 more coronavirus cases were reported taking the number of cases to 197 even as Uttarakhand police informed that 2,112 cases have been registered and 9,320 people arrested in connection with violation the norms of the lockdown.

1,684 coronavirus cases in 24 hours, confirmed cases nationwide at 23,077: India health ministry

India has built a new bridge in Arunachal Pradesh area, a region claimed by China. This can strain the relationship between China and India.

It is a new all-weather access point in the disputed part of Indo-China border. The bridge, which can bear 40 tons of weight, will enable faster movement of troops and artillery. This can be another reason for the Chinese government to object on the bridge.

It has been made at a time when the tension between the two nations is high as&nbsp;Beijing accused India of blocking its companies in the South Asian nation after New Delhi tightened laws for foreign investment.&nbsp;

While there has been no comment from the Chinese government yet,&nbsp;Indian Army spokesman Aman Anand said, “India and China have different perceptions of the border. Perceived transgressions are result of the perceived boundary.”

“That part of the border has always had a tendency to friction point between India and China. Lack of reliable and all weather connectivity was vulnerability,” said Nitin Gokhale, a New Delhi-based strategic affairs expert to a media organization. “The new bridge and improved road overcomes that and ensures uninterrupted supply to troops.”

The new bridge has been made under the initiative of ramping up its infrastructure along the border, but also strides one of the main access routes of the Chinese Army into India from Tibet.

India has built a new bridge in Arunachal Pradesh area, a region claimed by China. This can strain the relationship between China and India. It is a new all-weather access point in the disputed part of Indo-China border.

India has built a new bridge in Arunachal Pradesh area, a region claimed by China. This can strain the relationship between China and India. It is a new all-weather access point in the disputed part of Indo-China border. The bridge, which can bear 40 tons of weight, will enable faster movement of troops and artillery. This can be another reason for the Chinese government to object on the bridge. It has been made at a time when the tension between the two nations is high as Beijing accused India of blocking its companies in the South Asian nation after New Delhi tightened laws for foreign investment. While there has been no comment from the Chinese government yet, Indian Army spokesman Aman Anand said, “India and China have different perceptions of the border. Perceived transgressions are result of the perceived boundary.” “That part of the border has always had a tendency to friction point between India and China. Lack of reliable and all weather connectivity was vulnerability,” said Nitin Gokhale, a New Delhi-based strategic affairs expert to a media organization. “The new bridge and improved road overcomes that and ensures uninterrupted supply to troops.” The new bridge has been made under the initiative of ramping up its infrastructure along the border, but also strides one of the main access routes of the Chinese Army into India from Tibet.

India's new bridge along the Indo-China border can strain relationship with China

Twitter has suspended a fake account which was used by Pakistan's spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to spread false news about India in the Gulf states. The suspended Twitter account is @idanialusaf, it was impersonating Noura bint Faisal, a princess of Saudi Arabia by creating a fake ID named @NouraAlSaud and was involved in anti-India propaganda operated from Pakistan.

Twitter suspends an account if it has been reported as violating the micro-blogging platform's rules surrounding abuse. The account can be suspended on it is indulges in abusive behaviour, like sending threats to others or impersonating other accounts.

Indian security agencies say ISI has been spreading hatred against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Gulf countries by using several fake accounts on social media platforms. The intelligence agencies have prepared a dossier of Pakistan's involvement in activities of spreading anti-India messages through fake or hacked accounts on social media.

Investigators revealed that fake accounts are being created in the name of royal family members of Gulf countries to spread hatred about India.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/50-terrorists-gunned-down-in-jammu-and-kashmir-this-year-18-eliminated-during-lockdown-294459">Also read:&nbsp;50 terrorists gunned down in Jammu and Kashmir this year; 18 eliminated during lockdown</a>

This revelation comes after another twitter account ID @pak_fauj was found to have changed its name to Mona bint Fahd al Said @SayyidaMona a member of the Oman royal family. This account has also been used to spread anti-India propaganda.

Several anti-India tweets on ties between India and the Gulf were made from this twitter handle which was retweeted by many including Pakistani media personnel.

The dossier prepared by security agencies and accessed by Zee News reveals that hundreds of such Twitter accounts have been used to spread hatred against India and are being operated from Pakistan, but have assumed identities of persons from Gulf nations to push the narrative that there is a backlash against Indian government in Gulf.

An Indian security official said, "How ISI executed the fake news campaign; it first dug out old tweets put out by Indians in Gulf with negative references to Muslims and through ISI handles popularised it. It adopted two methods for popularising- fake handles purportedly belonging to high profile people in Gulf like royal family and journalists."

A cyber expert Jiten Jain said, "Interesting aspect was that those ISI handles that were claiming that they were India or Pakistan based, started showing themselves to be Gulf based to push the narrative that there is a backlash against Indian govt in Gulf. ISI is using name of royal families to spread hatred against India."

The Gulf nations have been very appreciative of PM Modi’s efforts to reduce tension and bring stability in the region, especially during the COVID-19 crisis, and the Pakistani spy agency is trying to create a divide.

Omani Princess Mona bint Fahd whose identity was used to create the fake profile issued a statement saying, "Friends, first of all I thank you for your concern to verify the offensive post published through an account impersonating me, which you are sure that I have no connection with it."

She confirmed that her social media presence is restricted to two accounts. "With full trust in all of you in strengthening awareness among all regarding such activities, which are not acceptable to the Omani society, I confirm again that my presence in social media is restricted on the following accounts: @hhmonaalsaid &nbsp; and @MonaFahad 13," she said.

On Twitter, one can change their name, username and description but its history is not managed publicly. A handle, Pak Army (@pak_fauj) took advantage of this and changed its profile’s identity to that of a fake profile of Oman’s Princess. Many prominent people started retweeting its messages thinking it to be a genuine profile. It is likely that this profile was reported to Twitter, and to save itself from getting blocked the account added the word ‘parody’ in its bio. Twitter does not block parody accounts.

The Indian security agencies suspect that the ISI was behind the two hashtags - #ShameOnModi and #ChaosInIndia that was trending on Tuesday and Wednesday. A Pakistan-managed Twitter account had changed its handle name to pose as an Omani princess and tweeted anti-India material on Tuesday.

Interestingly, several old anti-India tweets from the same account, which has now been deleted, were also detected which indicated that the two Pakistani agencies - ISI and Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) - were operating it.

The ISI is alleged to be behind the propaganda running on social media platforms claiming that Muslims are not safe in India. It may be recalled that the ISI’s cyber cell used the same tactics during the Delhi riots to spread fear and hatred among the Indian Muslims and instigated them to join the jihad against India.

Twitter has suspended a fake account which was used by Pakistan's spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to spread false news about India in the Gulf states.

Twitter has suspended a fake account which was used by Pakistan's spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to spread false news about India in the Gulf states. The suspended Twitter account is @idanialusaf, it was impersonating Noura bint Faisal, a princess of Saudi Arabia by creating a fake ID named @NouraAlSaud and was involved in anti-India propaganda operated from Pakistan. Twitter suspends an account if it has been reported as violating the micro-blogging platform's rules surrounding abuse. The account can be suspended on it is indulges in abusive behaviour, like sending threats to others or impersonating other accounts. Indian security agencies say ISI has been spreading hatred against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Gulf countries by using several fake accounts on social media platforms. The intelligence agencies have prepared a dossier of Pakistan's involvement in activities of spreading anti-India messages through fake or hacked accounts on social media. Investigators revealed that fake accounts are being created in the name of royal family members of Gulf countries to spread hatred about India. Also read: 50 terrorists gunned down in Jammu and Kashmir this year; 18 eliminated during lockdown This revelation comes after another twitter account ID @pak_fauj was found to have changed its name to Mona bint Fahd al Said @SayyidaMona a member of the Oman royal family. This account has also been used to spread anti-India propaganda. Several anti-India tweets on ties between India and the Gulf were made from this twitter handle which was retweeted by many including Pakistani media personnel. The dossier prepared by security agencies and accessed by Zee News reveals that hundreds of such Twitter accounts have been used to spread hatred against India and are being operated from Pakistan, but have assumed identities of persons from Gulf nations to push the narrative that there is a backlash against Indian government in Gulf. An Indian security official said, "How ISI executed the fake news campaign; it first dug out old tweets put out by Indians in Gulf with negative references to Muslims and through ISI handles popularised it. It adopted two methods for popularising- fake handles purportedly belonging to high profile people in Gulf like royal family and journalists." A cyber expert Jiten Jain said, "Interesting aspect was that those ISI handles that were claiming that they were India or Pakistan based, started showing themselves to be Gulf based to push the narrative that there is a backlash against Indian govt in Gulf. ISI is using name of royal families to spread hatred against India." The Gulf nations have been very appreciative of PM Modi’s efforts to reduce tension and bring stability in the region, especially during the COVID-19 crisis, and the Pakistani spy agency is trying to create a divide. Omani Princess Mona bint Fahd whose identity was used to create the fake profile issued a statement saying, "Friends, first of all I thank you for your concern to verify the offensive post published through an account impersonating me, which you are sure that I have no connection with it." She confirmed that her social media presence is restricted to two accounts. "With full trust in all of you in strengthening awareness among all regarding such activities, which are not acceptable to the Omani society, I confirm again that my presence in social media is restricted on the following accounts: @hhmonaalsaid and @MonaFahad 13," she said. On Twitter, one can change their name, username and description but its history is not managed publicly. A handle, Pak Army (@pak_fauj) took advantage of this and changed its profile’s identity to that of a fake profile of Oman’s Princess. Many prominent people started retweeting its messages thinking it to be a genuine profile. It is likely that this profile was reported to Twitter, and to save itself from getting blocked the account added the word ‘parody’ in its bio. Twitter does not block parody accounts. The Indian security agencies suspect that the ISI was behind the two hashtags - #ShameOnModi and #ChaosInIndia that was trending on Tuesday and Wednesday. A Pakistan-managed Twitter account had changed its handle name to pose as an Omani princess and tweeted anti-India material on Tuesday. Interestingly, several old anti-India tweets from the same account, which has now been deleted, were also detected which indicated that the two Pakistani agencies - ISI and Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) - were operating it. The ISI is alleged to be behind the propaganda running on social media platforms claiming that Muslims are not safe in India. It may be recalled that the ISI’s cyber cell used the same tactics during the Delhi riots to spread fear and hatred among the Indian Muslims and instigated them to join the jihad against India.

Twitter suspends ISI's fake account being used to spread fake news against India in Gulf countries

The domestic stock markets were trading in the red on Friday amid weak global cues. The decision of Franklin Templeton Mutual Fund (MF) yesterday to wind up six of its debt schemes also eroded sentiment.&nbsp;

BSE Sensex ended at 31,327, down 536 points or 1.7 per cent while Nifty lost 160 points or 1.71 per cent to settle at 9,154.40 levels.

Franklin Templeton Mutual Fund today announced it would wind up six yield-oriented, managed credit funds in India, effective April 23, citing severe market dislocation and illiquidity caused by the coronavirus.

"The decision has been taken to protect value for investors via a managed sale of the portfolio," the Fund said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the rupee depreciated by 40 paise to settle at 76.46 (provisional) against the US dollar on Friday, tracking weak domestic equities and a strengthening greenback overseas.

Forex traders said market sentiment weakened after a potential antiviral drug for coronavirus reportedly failed its first trial.

The rupee opened lower at 76.30 at the interbank forex market and then fell further to 76.47 and finally closed at 76.46, down 40 paise over its last close.

The rupee had settled at 76.06 against the US dollar on Thursday. 
&nbsp;The dollar index, which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies, advanced by 0.31 per cent to 100.74.

(With inputs from agencies)

The domestic stock markets were trading in the red on Friday amid weak global cues. The decision of Franklin Templeton Mutual Fund (MF) yesterday to wind up six of its debt schemes also eroded sentiment.

The domestic stock markets were trading in the red on Friday amid weak global cues. The decision of Franklin Templeton Mutual Fund (MF) yesterday to wind up six of its debt schemes also eroded sentiment. BSE Sensex ended at 31,327, down 536 points or 1.7 per cent while Nifty lost 160 points or 1.71 per cent to settle at 9,154.40 levels. Franklin Templeton Mutual Fund today announced it would wind up six yield-oriented, managed credit funds in India, effective April 23, citing severe market dislocation and illiquidity caused by the coronavirus. "The decision has been taken to protect value for investors via a managed sale of the portfolio," the Fund said in a statement. Meanwhile, the rupee depreciated by 40 paise to settle at 76.46 (provisional) against the US dollar on Friday, tracking weak domestic equities and a strengthening greenback overseas. Forex traders said market sentiment weakened after a potential antiviral drug for coronavirus reportedly failed its first trial. The rupee opened lower at 76.30 at the interbank forex market and then fell further to 76.47 and finally closed at 76.46, down 40 paise over its last close. The rupee had settled at 76.06 against the US dollar on Thursday. The dollar index, which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies, advanced by 0.31 per cent to 100.74. (With inputs from agencies)

Sensex slips 536 points, Nifty ends at 9,154; financials decline

Rajasthan today reported forty-four cases &amp; three deaths taking the total number of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iit-professor-develops-software-to-detect-covid-19-within-five-seconds-using-x-ray-scan-294473"> coronavirus</a> cases to 2008 in the state.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-may-see-second-wave-of-covid-19-outbreak-in-monsoon-say-scientists-294483">Also Read:&nbsp;India may see second wave of COVID-19 outbreak in monsoon, say scientists</a>

According to the Rajasthan health department, 31 people have died due to the virus in the state.

Meanwhile, AIIMS authorities said that at least 40 healthcare staff including doctors, nurses and paramedics posted at the gastroenterology department at AIIMS are under self-quarantine after a nurse was detected with COVID-19.

Andhra Pradesh reported 62 more cases and&nbsp;two deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases in the state jumping to 955.

There are 781 active COVID-19 cases with 29 fatalities in Andhra Pradesh.

Amid the coronavirus crisis, Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking to bring back the bodies of NRIs whose death occurred due to reasons other than COVID-19 even as Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal appealed to people who have recovered from coronavirus to donate blood plasma. 
&nbsp;

Rajasthan today reported forty-four cases & three deaths taking the total number of coronavirus cases to 2008 in the state. Also Read: India may see second wave of COVID-19 outbreak in monsoon, say scientists According to the Rajasthan health department, 31 people have died due to the virus in the state.

Rajasthan today reported forty-four cases & three deaths taking the total number of coronavirus cases to 2008 in the state. Also Read: India may see second wave of COVID-19 outbreak in monsoon, say scientists According to the Rajasthan health department, 31 people have died due to the virus in the state. Meanwhile, AIIMS authorities said that at least 40 healthcare staff including doctors, nurses and paramedics posted at the gastroenterology department at AIIMS are under self-quarantine after a nurse was detected with COVID-19. Andhra Pradesh reported 62 more cases and two deaths in the last 24 hours with the total number of cases in the state jumping to 955. There are 781 active COVID-19 cases with 29 fatalities in Andhra Pradesh. Amid the coronavirus crisis, Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking to bring back the bodies of NRIs whose death occurred due to reasons other than COVID-19 even as Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal appealed to people who have recovered from coronavirus to donate blood plasma.

Donate blood plasma, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal appeals to recovered COVID-19 patients

Jimmy Xavier who is a radio jockey contracted COVID-19. He went to the quarantine period as an infected person and also as a radio jockey. Who later described stories of his quarantine and others. In an exclusive conversation, he spoke to WION. Watch report.

COVID-19 survivor Jimmy Xavier speaks to WION about his quarantine period

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