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India's health ministry reported 1,229 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/is-india-on-right-track-to-defeat-coronavirus-what-numbers-tell-294174">coronavirus </a>cases and 34 new deaths in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/78-districts-havent-reported-any-fresh-coronavirus-cases-growth-of-virus-not-exponential-government-294272">Also Read:&nbsp;78 districts haven't reported any fresh coronavirus cases, says Government</a>

The are 16,689 active cases in the country with 686 deaths due to the virus even as 4,325 patients have been cured of the virus, the health ministry informed.

The number of infections has now risen to 21,700.

Meanwhile, West Bengal chief secretary Rajiva Sinha said: "In India, close to 70 per cent cases are asymptomatic and doctors are worried on how to identify them. If the lockdown opens on May 4, then it will be a big challenge."

The Gujarat government informed today that 45 people who had tested positive for coronavirus were discharged. They have now agreed to donate blood plasma, as they have developed antibodies, the state government said.

Tamil Nadu on Thursday reported 54 more coronavirus cases taking the total number of COVID-19 cases to 1,683 which includes 908 active cases. Twenty people have died due to the virus in the state.

In J&amp;K, twenty new cases were reported today with the number of confirmed coronavirus cases going up to 427.

In Ranchi in Jharkhand, four more persons tested positive for coronavirus with the total number of cases rising to 53.

in Karnataka, 18 new cases of the virus were reported with the number of cases rising to 445.

India's health ministry reported 1,229 new coronavirus cases and 34 new deaths in the last 24 hours. Also Read: 78 districts haven't reported any fresh coronavirus cases, says Government The are 16,689 active cases in the country with 686 deaths due to the virus even as 4,325 patients have been cured of the virus, the health ministry informed.

India's health ministry reported 1,229 new coronavirus cases and 34 new deaths in the last 24 hours. Also Read: 78 districts haven't reported any fresh coronavirus cases, says Government The are 16,689 active cases in the country with 686 deaths due to the virus even as 4,325 patients have been cured of the virus, the health ministry informed. The number of infections has now risen to 21,700. Meanwhile, West Bengal chief secretary Rajiva Sinha said: "In India, close to 70 per cent cases are asymptomatic and doctors are worried on how to identify them. If the lockdown opens on May 4, then it will be a big challenge." The Gujarat government informed today that 45 people who had tested positive for coronavirus were discharged. They have now agreed to donate blood plasma, as they have developed antibodies, the state government said. Tamil Nadu on Thursday reported 54 more coronavirus cases taking the total number of COVID-19 cases to 1,683 which includes 908 active cases. Twenty people have died due to the virus in the state. In J&K, twenty new cases were reported today with the number of confirmed coronavirus cases going up to 427. In Ranchi in Jharkhand, four more persons tested positive for coronavirus with the total number of cases rising to 53. in Karnataka, 18 new cases of the virus were reported with the number of cases rising to 445.

India reports 1,229 new coronavirus cases, 34 new deaths; 21,700 infected nationwide

Indian envoy to Japan Sanjay Kumar Verma has said that Indian and Japanese scientist&nbsp;are in touch with each other for a solution to the COVID-19 crisis.

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, envoy Sanjay Verma said&nbsp;Japanese PM Abe has "expressed his respect&nbsp;for PM Modi for demonstrating leadership in the South Asian region such as by hosting summit by video conference".

He also spoke about how the mission has reached out to the Indian community who are stranded&nbsp;saying no decision has been taken with regard for Indians nationals who want to go back to India and logistics and other arrangements still have to be put in place.

WION: How Indian mission is taking care of Indians in Japan.

Sanjay Kumar Verma: I would like to congratulate&nbsp;WION for doing a series of interviews with Indian envoys who are facing the brunt of COVID19 pandemic, trying to reach out the larger Indian diaspora everywhere in the world.

As far as Japan is concerned, it has close to about 40,000 Indians, resident here and the number had gone up by about 4000 last year itself.

Out of this number, 2000 are students who are pursuing there under graduations, post graduations&nbsp;and doctoral&nbsp;courses.

We are in regular contact with most of them, we have already publicised&nbsp;our hotline number on our website and other social media handles and we are glad to inform you we are receiving the number of calls and emails from those Indians who have got any concern regarding the stay in Japan.

Our consulate general, in Osaka, is also doing the same and we do talk to each other often to keep our policy outreach and initiatives&nbsp;convergent to each other.

Largely we are trying to tell our fellow citizens to avoid any panic or misinformation while following instructions of Japanese authorities and keep up with prescribed&nbsp;precautions to protect themselves and maintain a good immunity of themselves.

Very recently, the ministry of Ayush has adopted&nbsp;yoga and Ayurveda protocol to boost immunity and that is something that is practised&nbsp;extensively by Indians and very many Japanese here. Video of PM Modi on yoga has attracted a lot of attention by Indians in Japan&nbsp;and many of them following routine and protocol as demonstrated by the honourable PM.

Various kinds of concern and it is not abnormal to have such concerns, many of them have already finished designated courses in universities and engineering&nbsp;colleges and they are eager to go back to India. Another category of Indians, who are temporary&nbsp;residents here and largely short term professionals&nbsp;and visiting business personnel in addition to students and researchers who are facing restrictions&nbsp;of travel and are unable to go back to India at the moment.

We are trying to extend as much help possible to them, including advise and logistics&nbsp;supports as well. We have been able to talk to some of the vendors who have been able to subside accommodation. There has been an&nbsp;issue for some of them running out of medications they had brought from India.

We helped in that as well, on the basis of prescription they have been able to procure such medicines from the Japanese market. Also, many issues on visa extensions and we actively collaborated with Japanese authorities and we were able to get visa extensions&nbsp;easily, and I am glad to share with&nbsp;you, we do not know any Indian who has approached us for visa extension and has not been able to get it done.

So in general, there are Indian nationals&nbsp;who have a concern and those concerns are taken care of. There are Indians nationals who want to go back to India but for that logistics and other arrangements have to be put in place only when the decision&nbsp;in that respect is taken.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/send-us-home-plead-220-indians-stranded-in-japan-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-293777">Also read:&nbsp;'Send us home', plead 220 Indians stranded in Japan amid coronavirus pandemic</a>

WION: How is the NRI community helping in the mission's efforts?&nbsp;

Sanjay Kumar Verma: Indians residing in Japan are actually the extensions of our helping hand to fellow Indians and I must put it on record that all Indian associations all over Japan have been proactive&nbsp;and have been talking to us, have been liaising&nbsp;with us, thereby reaching to stranded Indians or Indians in difficulty or helping them out, whichever&nbsp;way they can.

Such helping hands have been highly appreciated and we have been able to get them on virtual platforms&nbsp;and meet them on virtual platforms, talk to them. Decimate&nbsp;information, facts, and they take&nbsp;it upon themself to decimate further to there members and that has worked very well and we happy to collaborate with Indian associations in Japan.&nbsp;

WION:&nbsp;How are India and Japan cooperating in the containment of COVID-19 crisis.&nbsp;

Sanjay Kumar Verma: India and Japan have the unique advantage of having a special strategic global partnership. We are working very closely&nbsp;to address the humanitarian crisis emanating from COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic and to find ways to minimise the impact on our societies. and economies.

This has been done bilaterally, both PMs spoke&nbsp;to each other and exchanged notes and exchanged&nbsp;details of best practises which are being followed. That was done on April 10 and they exchanged notes again on the G20 platform and a lot of global consensus and challenges emerging out of COVID-19 pandemic.

PM Abe of Japan expressed his respect&nbsp;for PM Modi for demonstrating leadership in south Asian region such as by hosting summit by video conference and establishing emergency fund besides expressing gratitude&nbsp;for Indian govt's&nbsp;assistance in facilitating the departure of stranded Japanese&nbsp;nationals in India and asked for our continues and continued cooperation in that respect.

We have earlier seen a situation in which many Indians nationals were crew&nbsp;members on luxury&nbsp;cruiseliner&nbsp;diamond princess were evacuated from Japan. PM Modi thanked the Japanese govt for the assistance they provided&nbsp;for the evacuation&nbsp;in February.

As far as the scientific community&nbsp;is concerned, they are in regular touch for scientific and technological intervention that could be thought of in order to&nbsp;control the situation better.&nbsp;

WION: What is India's view about the Japan model and have shared the Indian model?

Sanjay Kumar Verma: Japan model focuses on containment and suppression based on clusters and we can see from the data which comes out from Japanese official&nbsp;systems, it shows a good achievement and result and this has been able to restrict the number of cases in Japan which about 1/10th of India's population.

We have shared the best practices&nbsp;which have been followed in India as well which has been received&nbsp;with great appreciation&nbsp;by Japanese officials and leadership.

We have also&nbsp;talked about the traditional&nbsp;Indian medicine practices in Ayurveda and traditional&nbsp;Indian practices such as Yoga in order to increase the immunity of a person so that COVID 19 infection can be warded off. This has been received very well by the Japanese society at large.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: How are Indian diplomats faring?

Sanjay Kumar Verma: Diplomats are the one who are most of the time at the frontline in such a situation&nbsp;and I am very glad to share that Indian embassy in Tokyo and the consulate general of India in Osaka have been doing whatever they can in order to secure the wellbeing of each and every Indian national in Japan.

We have been advising them, we have been facilitating them, we have been trying to find solutions to the problems, unique&nbsp;or collective and all these things have been able to make there lives in Japan easier. As far as diplomats in these 2 Indian missions are concerned, I have the only word of appreciation for all of them.

They have been helping out, both the govt and Indians nationals in Japan while maintaining and taking all the precautions that they are required to take to avoid getting infected themselves.

We hope that this helping hand will go a long way in comforting our nationals in Japan as well as in further solidifying the bilateral&nbsp;relationship between Japan and India.

Indian envoy to Japan Sanjay Kumar Verma has said that Indian and Japanese scientist are in touch with each other for a solution to the COVID-19 crisis. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, envoy Sanjay Verma said Japanese PM Abe has "expressed his respect for PM Modi for demonstrating leadership in the South Asian region such as by hosting summit by video conference".

Indian envoy to Japan Sanjay Kumar Verma has said that Indian and Japanese scientist are in touch with each other for a solution to the COVID-19 crisis. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, envoy Sanjay Verma said Japanese PM Abe has "expressed his respect for PM Modi for demonstrating leadership in the South Asian region such as by hosting summit by video conference". He also spoke about how the mission has reached out to the Indian community who are stranded saying no decision has been taken with regard for Indians nationals who want to go back to India and logistics and other arrangements still have to be put in place. WION: How Indian mission is taking care of Indians in Japan. Sanjay Kumar Verma: I would like to congratulate WION for doing a series of interviews with Indian envoys who are facing the brunt of COVID19 pandemic, trying to reach out the larger Indian diaspora everywhere in the world. As far as Japan is concerned, it has close to about 40,000 Indians, resident here and the number had gone up by about 4000 last year itself. Out of this number, 2000 are students who are pursuing there under graduations, post graduations and doctoral courses. We are in regular contact with most of them, we have already publicised our hotline number on our website and other social media handles and we are glad to inform you we are receiving the number of calls and emails from those Indians who have got any concern regarding the stay in Japan. Our consulate general, in Osaka, is also doing the same and we do talk to each other often to keep our policy outreach and initiatives convergent to each other. Largely we are trying to tell our fellow citizens to avoid any panic or misinformation while following instructions of Japanese authorities and keep up with prescribed precautions to protect themselves and maintain a good immunity of themselves. Very recently, the ministry of Ayush has adopted yoga and Ayurveda protocol to boost immunity and that is something that is practised extensively by Indians and very many Japanese here. Video of PM Modi on yoga has attracted a lot of attention by Indians in Japan and many of them following routine and protocol as demonstrated by the honourable PM. Various kinds of concern and it is not abnormal to have such concerns, many of them have already finished designated courses in universities and engineering colleges and they are eager to go back to India. Another category of Indians, who are temporary residents here and largely short term professionals and visiting business personnel in addition to students and researchers who are facing restrictions of travel and are unable to go back to India at the moment. We are trying to extend as much help possible to them, including advise and logistics supports as well. We have been able to talk to some of the vendors who have been able to subside accommodation. There has been an issue for some of them running out of medications they had brought from India. We helped in that as well, on the basis of prescription they have been able to procure such medicines from the Japanese market. Also, many issues on visa extensions and we actively collaborated with Japanese authorities and we were able to get visa extensions easily, and I am glad to share with you, we do not know any Indian who has approached us for visa extension and has not been able to get it done. So in general, there are Indian nationals who have a concern and those concerns are taken care of. There are Indians nationals who want to go back to India but for that logistics and other arrangements have to be put in place only when the decision in that respect is taken. Also read: 'Send us home', plead 220 Indians stranded in Japan amid coronavirus pandemic WION: How is the NRI community helping in the mission's efforts? Sanjay Kumar Verma: Indians residing in Japan are actually the extensions of our helping hand to fellow Indians and I must put it on record that all Indian associations all over Japan have been proactive and have been talking to us, have been liaising with us, thereby reaching to stranded Indians or Indians in difficulty or helping them out, whichever way they can. Such helping hands have been highly appreciated and we have been able to get them on virtual platforms and meet them on virtual platforms, talk to them. Decimate information, facts, and they take it upon themself to decimate further to there members and that has worked very well and we happy to collaborate with Indian associations in Japan. WION: How are India and Japan cooperating in the containment of COVID-19 crisis. Sanjay Kumar Verma: India and Japan have the unique advantage of having a special strategic global partnership. We are working very closely to address the humanitarian crisis emanating from COVID-19 pandemic and to find ways to minimise the impact on our societies. and economies. This has been done bilaterally, both PMs spoke to each other and exchanged notes and exchanged details of best practises which are being followed. That was done on April 10 and they exchanged notes again on the G20 platform and a lot of global consensus and challenges emerging out of COVID-19 pandemic. PM Abe of Japan expressed his respect for PM Modi for demonstrating leadership in south Asian region such as by hosting summit by video conference and establishing emergency fund besides expressing gratitude for Indian govt's assistance in facilitating the departure of stranded Japanese nationals in India and asked for our continues and continued cooperation in that respect. We have earlier seen a situation in which many Indians nationals were crew members on luxury cruiseliner diamond princess were evacuated from Japan. PM Modi thanked the Japanese govt for the assistance they provided for the evacuation in February. As far as the scientific community is concerned, they are in regular touch for scientific and technological intervention that could be thought of in order to control the situation better. WION: What is India's view about the Japan model and have shared the Indian model? Sanjay Kumar Verma: Japan model focuses on containment and suppression based on clusters and we can see from the data which comes out from Japanese official systems, it shows a good achievement and result and this has been able to restrict the number of cases in Japan which about 1/10th of India's population. We have shared the best practices which have been followed in India as well which has been received with great appreciation by Japanese officials and leadership. We have also talked about the traditional Indian medicine practices in Ayurveda and traditional Indian practices such as Yoga in order to increase the immunity of a person so that COVID 19 infection can be warded off. This has been received very well by the Japanese society at large. Sidhant Sibal: How are Indian diplomats faring? Sanjay Kumar Verma: Diplomats are the one who are most of the time at the frontline in such a situation and I am very glad to share that Indian embassy in Tokyo and the consulate general of India in Osaka have been doing whatever they can in order to secure the wellbeing of each and every Indian national in Japan. We have been advising them, we have been facilitating them, we have been trying to find solutions to the problems, unique or collective and all these things have been able to make there lives in Japan easier. As far as diplomats in these 2 Indian missions are concerned, I have the only word of appreciation for all of them. They have been helping out, both the govt and Indians nationals in Japan while maintaining and taking all the precautions that they are required to take to avoid getting infected themselves. We hope that this helping hand will go a long way in comforting our nationals in Japan as well as in further solidifying the bilateral relationship between Japan and India.

Indian, Japanese scientists in touch for COVID-19 solution, says Indian envoy to Japan

Plasma therapy to fight <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/21797-covid-19-cases-in-india-confirmed-says-icmr-5-lakh-samples-tested-294152">COVID-19</a> infection has been a much discussed topic over the last few months.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/is-india-on-right-track-to-defeat-coronavirus-what-numbers-tell-294174">Also Read:&nbsp;Is India on right track to defeat coronavirus?&nbsp;</a>

On April 20, the ICMR gave permission to a Bengaluru-based research team to carry out a clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of convalescent plasma as a therapy to combat coronavirus.

Convalescent plasma therapy is an experimental procedure for COVID-19 patients. In this treatment, plasma from a recovered COVID-19 patient is transfused into a coronavirus patient who is in critical condition.

The principle behind this therapy is that immunity can be transferred from a healthy person to a sick patient using convalescent plasma. The blood of the recovered patient would have developed antibodies against COVID-19, which may be beneficial to treat severely sick patients.&nbsp;

Dr Vishal Rao, a renowned Oncologist from Bengaluru, and his team are researching three different approaches to treating COVID-19 as of now - convalescent plasma protocol, cytokine therapy protocol and mesenchymal protocol for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.

"In principle what we decided was that there are four groups of patients in COVID-19 which can be divided into three stages. Now 80 per cent of them do not require any treatment other than home rest and isolation. Another 15 per cent will require ICU admission at some point in time. Another 5 per cent will require ventilator support. Now the Cytokine therapy will be targeted on patients who are symptomatic - those who have fever, cough, cold without breathlessness. The second group of patients are those who have breathlessness and on them we are proposing to use Convalescent Plasma. When it comes to the ventilator-dependent patients - Mesenchymal protocol can be used," Dr Vishal Rao told WION.&nbsp;

In 2014, the World Health Organisation (WHO) had recommended plasma therapy to treat the Ebola virus disease. The plasma therapy was also used during Spanish flu pandemic and the H1N1 infection of 2009 as well.&nbsp;

The US-FDA has granted permission for use of convalescent plasma in COVID-19 patients with the therapy being administered in some critical cases. China, where the outbreak first emerged, had used this treatment to treat critical COVID-19 patients as well. Two trials of plasma therapy were conducted on 15 coronavirus patients and they showed improvement.&nbsp;

"The most important aspect here is safety of the clinical trial. When any new therapy is added to any new illness, we need to test its efficacy and check whether it is useful or not and whether it creates any complications," Dr Vishal Rao said.&nbsp;

The therapy, through transfusion of convalescent plasma, may prevent infection or blunt the severity of the infection in individuals with relatively recent exposure to the virus. In India, the Government Medical College in Delhi is also carrying out a trial for the same therapy.&nbsp;

"The way the immune system responds in every virus and every infection is different. Will the same tablet work in every patient? We know the answer is no. In the same way we don’t know how it will work in the current setting. Will it be helpful? What are the complications that might happen? As this is a new virus, our body is responding to it in a different way. That is why it is called a novel coronavirus," Dr Vishal Rao asserted.&nbsp;

The researchers are now arranging the required protocols to be met to start the clinical trial. Fortunately, they don’t have to wait too long for the results. The initial response after administering the plasma to the patient will be within a span of 48 hours.&nbsp;

The first set of results will be assessed within a week of the trials beginning. The trial will be based out of HCG Hospitals in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

According to data from cochrane community - a global independent network of researchers, at least 400 clinical trials are registered across the world for COVID-19 pandemic of which 55 are focused on Convalescent plasma usage.&nbsp;

Plasma therapy to fight COVID-19 infection has been a much discussed topic over the last few months. Also Read: Is India on right track to defeat coronavirus? On April 20, the ICMR gave permission to a Bengaluru-based research team to carry out a clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of convalescent plasma as a therapy to combat coronavirus.

Plasma therapy to fight COVID-19 infection has been a much discussed topic over the last few months. Also Read: Is India on right track to defeat coronavirus? On April 20, the ICMR gave permission to a Bengaluru-based research team to carry out a clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of convalescent plasma as a therapy to combat coronavirus. Convalescent plasma therapy is an experimental procedure for COVID-19 patients. In this treatment, plasma from a recovered COVID-19 patient is transfused into a coronavirus patient who is in critical condition. The principle behind this therapy is that immunity can be transferred from a healthy person to a sick patient using convalescent plasma. The blood of the recovered patient would have developed antibodies against COVID-19, which may be beneficial to treat severely sick patients. Dr Vishal Rao, a renowned Oncologist from Bengaluru, and his team are researching three different approaches to treating COVID-19 as of now - convalescent plasma protocol, cytokine therapy protocol and mesenchymal protocol for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. "In principle what we decided was that there are four groups of patients in COVID-19 which can be divided into three stages. Now 80 per cent of them do not require any treatment other than home rest and isolation. Another 15 per cent will require ICU admission at some point in time. Another 5 per cent will require ventilator support. Now the Cytokine therapy will be targeted on patients who are symptomatic - those who have fever, cough, cold without breathlessness. The second group of patients are those who have breathlessness and on them we are proposing to use Convalescent Plasma. When it comes to the ventilator-dependent patients - Mesenchymal protocol can be used," Dr Vishal Rao told WION. In 2014, the World Health Organisation (WHO) had recommended plasma therapy to treat the Ebola virus disease. The plasma therapy was also used during Spanish flu pandemic and the H1N1 infection of 2009 as well. The US-FDA has granted permission for use of convalescent plasma in COVID-19 patients with the therapy being administered in some critical cases. China, where the outbreak first emerged, had used this treatment to treat critical COVID-19 patients as well. Two trials of plasma therapy were conducted on 15 coronavirus patients and they showed improvement. "The most important aspect here is safety of the clinical trial. When any new therapy is added to any new illness, we need to test its efficacy and check whether it is useful or not and whether it creates any complications," Dr Vishal Rao said. The therapy, through transfusion of convalescent plasma, may prevent infection or blunt the severity of the infection in individuals with relatively recent exposure to the virus. In India, the Government Medical College in Delhi is also carrying out a trial for the same therapy. "The way the immune system responds in every virus and every infection is different. Will the same tablet work in every patient? We know the answer is no. In the same way we don’t know how it will work in the current setting. Will it be helpful? What are the complications that might happen? As this is a new virus, our body is responding to it in a different way. That is why it is called a novel coronavirus," Dr Vishal Rao asserted. The researchers are now arranging the required protocols to be met to start the clinical trial. Fortunately, they don’t have to wait too long for the results. The initial response after administering the plasma to the patient will be within a span of 48 hours. The first set of results will be assessed within a week of the trials beginning. The trial will be based out of HCG Hospitals in Bengaluru. According to data from cochrane community - a global independent network of researchers, at least 400 clinical trials are registered across the world for COVID-19 pandemic of which 55 are focused on Convalescent plasma usage.

Bengaluru team to conduct trial on convalescent plasma therapy for COVID-19 patients

The Indian Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Thursday said that over 1409 positive cases have been reported in the past 24 hours, which takes the total confirmed cases to 21,393 in India. Health Ministry Joint Secretary Lav Agarwal said that there are 12 districts that did not have a fresh case in the last 28 days or more.

Indian Health Ministry briefs media on COVID-19 situation

India's health ministry said that 1,409 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/21797-covid-19-cases-in-india-confirmed-says-icmr-5-lakh-samples-tested-294152">coronavirus</a> cases were reported in the last 24 hours taking the total number of confirmed cases to 21,393 in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-karnataka-record-more-covid-19-cases-294249">Also Read:&nbsp;Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka record more COVID-19 cases</a>

Twelve districts did not have any fresh case in the last 28 days, the health ministry informed.&nbsp;

"There are now 78 districts in the country including in Union territories&nbsp;that have not reported any fresh cases during the last 14 days," health ministry official Lav Agarwal said.

A government official said during the press conference that there has been minimum spread of the virus.&nbsp;

"We have utilized this time to prepare ourselves for the future. Growth in coronavirus cases has been more or less linear, not exponential," CK Mishra, chairman of the empowered group on coronavirus said.

"On March 23, we had done 14,915 tests across the country and on April 22, we have done more than 5 lakh tests. If a rough calculation is done it is about 33 times in 30 days," the empowered group on COVID-19 added while asserting that ramping of testing needs to be carried out.

"In last 30 days of lockdown, we have been able to cut transmission, minimise spread, consistently ramp up our testing and utilize the time to prepare ourselves for future," CK Mishra added.

India's health ministry said that 1,409 coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours taking the total number of confirmed cases to 21,393 in the country.

India's health ministry said that 1,409 coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours taking the total number of confirmed cases to 21,393 in the country. Also Read: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka record more COVID-19 cases Twelve districts did not have any fresh case in the last 28 days, the health ministry informed. "There are now 78 districts in the country including in Union territories that have not reported any fresh cases during the last 14 days," health ministry official Lav Agarwal said. A government official said during the press conference that there has been minimum spread of the virus. "We have utilized this time to prepare ourselves for the future. Growth in coronavirus cases has been more or less linear, not exponential," CK Mishra, chairman of the empowered group on coronavirus said. "On March 23, we had done 14,915 tests across the country and on April 22, we have done more than 5 lakh tests. If a rough calculation is done it is about 33 times in 30 days," the empowered group on COVID-19 added while asserting that ramping of testing needs to be carried out. "In last 30 days of lockdown, we have been able to cut transmission, minimise spread, consistently ramp up our testing and utilize the time to prepare ourselves for future," CK Mishra added.

78 districts haven't reported any fresh coronavirus cases, growth of virus not exponential: Government

Andhra Pradesh on Thursday reported 80 more cases of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/21797-covid-19-cases-in-india-confirmed-says-icmr-5-lakh-samples-tested-294152"> coronavirus </a>in the last 24 hours taking the number of cases to 893.&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 govt takes 30% cut in salary to overcome COVID-19 crisis</a>

As the virus continued to spread, Rajasthan recorded 49 new cases of COVID-19 with the total number of cases climbing to 1,937.

Twenty-seven people have died due to the virus in Rajasthan.

Meanwhile, Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced insurance of Rs 10 lakh each to all journalists who are reporting during COVID-19 pandemic.

The state saw the number of COVID-19 cases rise to 270 including 24 linked to foreign nationals. Three people have lost their lives due to the virus, Haryana health Department said.

The finance ministry announced today that Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief at current rates will be continued to be paid even as the government asked the defence forces to put the acquisition process on hold due to the pandemic.

The Karnataka government said 16 new coronavirus cases have been reported taking the number of cases to 443. Seventeen people have died in the state due to the virus.

Amid the escalting infections, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said today that 5,00,542 samples from 4,851,72 individuals have been tested with 21797 samples found to be COVID-19 positive.

Andhra Pradesh on Thursday reported 80 more cases of coronavirus in the last 24 hours taking the number of cases to 893. Also Read: Kerala govt takes 30% cut in salary to overcome COVID-19 crisis As the virus continued to spread, Rajasthan recorded 49 new cases of COVID-19 with the total number of cases climbing to 1,937.

Andhra Pradesh on Thursday reported 80 more cases of coronavirus in the last 24 hours taking the number of cases to 893. Also Read: Kerala govt takes 30% cut in salary to overcome COVID-19 crisis As the virus continued to spread, Rajasthan recorded 49 new cases of COVID-19 with the total number of cases climbing to 1,937. Twenty-seven people have died due to the virus in Rajasthan. Meanwhile, Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced insurance of Rs 10 lakh each to all journalists who are reporting during COVID-19 pandemic. The state saw the number of COVID-19 cases rise to 270 including 24 linked to foreign nationals. Three people have lost their lives due to the virus, Haryana health Department said. The finance ministry announced today that Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief at current rates will be continued to be paid even as the government asked the defence forces to put the acquisition process on hold due to the pandemic. The Karnataka government said 16 new coronavirus cases have been reported taking the number of cases to 443. Seventeen people have died in the state due to the virus. Amid the escalting infections, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said today that 5,00,542 samples from 4,851,72 individuals have been tested with 21797 samples found to be COVID-19 positive.

Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka record more COVID-19 cases

Indian envoy to Australia Gitesh Sarma has said that New Delhi is sympathetic to the country's requirement for medicine in the backdrop of COVID crisis and "India and Australia are part of such global efforts" are part of global efforts against the crisis. &nbsp;

Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Gitesh Sarma spoke at length on the situation of the Indian community with both sides "working closely" for the "welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia".

WION: How is India and Australia cooperating on Covid crisis? Especially on Hydroxychloroquine.

Gitesh Sarma: As close friends and partners, India and Australia are closely engaged with each other and also other partners in responding to this global COVID19 pandemic crisis. During their telephone call earlier this month, our Prime Ministers had extensive discussions on the pandemic and the domestic response strategies being adopted on both the sides. We have also agreed on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in the context of this health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. Another area of focus, where both the sides are working closely, is the welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia who has been impacted by this crisis. &nbsp;I can inform you that India, taking into account our strong ties, looks with sympathy at Australia’s drug requirements. There have been frequent contacts at high levels and senior officials where issues of mutual concern are discussed, including in the pandemic context.

WION: Have u shared any covid containment models with Australia? 
 
Gitesh Sarma: It needs to be underlined that both our countries fully agree on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in this unprecedented health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. &nbsp;We share a special relationship, which provides the backdrop against which we discuss issues of concern freely and frankly. Institutions on both sides are in touch with each other to take this forward. Globally, there are opportunities for sharing experiences in the fight against the pandemic. &nbsp;India and Australia are part of such global efforts.

WION: Are you involving local Indian communities to help stranded Indians? 
 
Gitesh Sarma: &nbsp;The 700,000 strong Indian diaspora in Australia, is a very important component of our relations with Australia and a tremendous asset in times like this. &nbsp;Ever since the outbreak of the pandemic, the High Commission and all our Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth have been working very closely with local Indian diaspora associations to provide emergency relief assistance to Indian nationals in need across the country.

It would not be amiss to say that the local diaspora community plays a lead role in our efforts to ensure the welfare of the stranded Indians. Whether it is an entity representing the entire country or a state or a language or a religion or even a profession, I am happy to share that every section of the diaspora has risen to the occasion and contributed its might to the common cause.

A few months back, large parts of Australia were ravaged by bushfires. &nbsp;

The Indian diaspora was active in providing relief to those affected. &nbsp;And the same spirit has come to the fore in the current situation. We are deeply encouraged by the sense of service shown by the Indian community in Australia in this hour of need. I would like to convey my appreciation and gratitude for their selfless service to the needy.

WION: How is the Indian mission taking care of Indians stranded in Australia?&nbsp;

Gitesh Sarma: There are more than 2.5 lakh Indian nationals in Australia, including 90,000 students. We have a multi-pronged strategy to review and respond to the needs of the Indian community in the evolving situation. &nbsp;To start, a robust system to ensure proper information, guidance and the effective response have been put in place to inform, guide and respond to the needs of our nationals. The system includes a 24x7 Emergency Helpline in the Mission and our 3 Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, leveraging our Social media presence where we have a combined following of more than 200,000. &nbsp;Our social media outreach to the Indian community has been made more responsive keeping the pandemic situation in mind. &nbsp;We have conducted video conferences with stranded students and Indian nationals. &nbsp;Overall, our sense is that they have shown immense courage in dealing with this situation and we are proud of them.

To take care of the immediate and urgent needs of the affected Indian nationals, especially the Indian students facing financial hardship, a nationwide system has been set up with partner diaspora organisations, with assistance from the Mission to provide take away meals and basic provisions. Till now, around 30,000 meal packs/grocery kits have been distributed to needy persons. &nbsp;We are happy to say that the Indian diaspora has taken, in many instances, its own initiatives to provide relief to stranded Indians.

Mission has also worked with the Indian Medical Association of Australia and other Indian diasporas in the health sector to set up “Virtual Clinic” for enabling basic access to healthcare in difficult situations. &nbsp;Mission and our Consulates have also attended to requests for accommodation assistance from those in acute distress, in partnership with diaspora partner organisations &amp; individuals although there are challenges here.

We are aware that a number of stranded Indians would like to return home. &nbsp;Right now, the message is to stay where they are until things change. We look forward to being able to provide credible information on resumption of flights as and when available. On the external front, Mission is closely engaged with key Australian authorities including the Dept of Foreign Affairs &amp; Trade, Dept of Health, Dept of Education and Universities at various levels to provide practical relief to the affected Indian nationals.

There are also individual cases where the High Commission has had to find creative solutions in very challenging conditions to provide relief keeping in mind humanitarian aspects. Recently a number of Australian Universities have announced their own plans to support international students impacted by the pandemic. &nbsp;The sense we get is that the pandemic situation is seen as a short-term challenge. &nbsp;Australian Universities are interested in attracting international students by offering high-quality education. &nbsp;Australian educational institutions greatly value the presence of Indian students.

Indian envoy to Australia Gitesh Sarma has said that New Delhi is sympathetic to the country's requirement for medicine in the backdrop of COVID crisis and "India and Australia are part of such global efforts" are part of global efforts against the crisis.

Indian envoy to Australia Gitesh Sarma has said that New Delhi is sympathetic to the country's requirement for medicine in the backdrop of COVID crisis and "India and Australia are part of such global efforts" are part of global efforts against the crisis. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Gitesh Sarma spoke at length on the situation of the Indian community with both sides "working closely" for the "welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia". WION: How is India and Australia cooperating on Covid crisis? Especially on Hydroxychloroquine. Gitesh Sarma: As close friends and partners, India and Australia are closely engaged with each other and also other partners in responding to this global COVID19 pandemic crisis. During their telephone call earlier this month, our Prime Ministers had extensive discussions on the pandemic and the domestic response strategies being adopted on both the sides. We have also agreed on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in the context of this health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. Another area of focus, where both the sides are working closely, is the welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia who has been impacted by this crisis. I can inform you that India, taking into account our strong ties, looks with sympathy at Australia’s drug requirements. There have been frequent contacts at high levels and senior officials where issues of mutual concern are discussed, including in the pandemic context. WION: Have u shared any covid containment models with Australia? Gitesh Sarma: It needs to be underlined that both our countries fully agree on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in this unprecedented health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. We share a special relationship, which provides the backdrop against which we discuss issues of concern freely and frankly. Institutions on both sides are in touch with each other to take this forward. Globally, there are opportunities for sharing experiences in the fight against the pandemic. India and Australia are part of such global efforts. WION: Are you involving local Indian communities to help stranded Indians? Gitesh Sarma: The 700,000 strong Indian diaspora in Australia, is a very important component of our relations with Australia and a tremendous asset in times like this. Ever since the outbreak of the pandemic, the High Commission and all our Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth have been working very closely with local Indian diaspora associations to provide emergency relief assistance to Indian nationals in need across the country. It would not be amiss to say that the local diaspora community plays a lead role in our efforts to ensure the welfare of the stranded Indians. Whether it is an entity representing the entire country or a state or a language or a religion or even a profession, I am happy to share that every section of the diaspora has risen to the occasion and contributed its might to the common cause. A few months back, large parts of Australia were ravaged by bushfires. The Indian diaspora was active in providing relief to those affected. And the same spirit has come to the fore in the current situation. We are deeply encouraged by the sense of service shown by the Indian community in Australia in this hour of need. I would like to convey my appreciation and gratitude for their selfless service to the needy. WION: How is the Indian mission taking care of Indians stranded in Australia? Gitesh Sarma: There are more than 2.5 lakh Indian nationals in Australia, including 90,000 students. We have a multi-pronged strategy to review and respond to the needs of the Indian community in the evolving situation. To start, a robust system to ensure proper information, guidance and the effective response have been put in place to inform, guide and respond to the needs of our nationals. The system includes a 24x7 Emergency Helpline in the Mission and our 3 Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, leveraging our Social media presence where we have a combined following of more than 200,000. Our social media outreach to the Indian community has been made more responsive keeping the pandemic situation in mind. We have conducted video conferences with stranded students and Indian nationals. Overall, our sense is that they have shown immense courage in dealing with this situation and we are proud of them. To take care of the immediate and urgent needs of the affected Indian nationals, especially the Indian students facing financial hardship, a nationwide system has been set up with partner diaspora organisations, with assistance from the Mission to provide take away meals and basic provisions. Till now, around 30,000 meal packs/grocery kits have been distributed to needy persons. We are happy to say that the Indian diaspora has taken, in many instances, its own initiatives to provide relief to stranded Indians. Mission has also worked with the Indian Medical Association of Australia and other Indian diasporas in the health sector to set up “Virtual Clinic” for enabling basic access to healthcare in difficult situations. Mission and our Consulates have also attended to requests for accommodation assistance from those in acute distress, in partnership with diaspora partner organisations & individuals although there are challenges here. We are aware that a number of stranded Indians would like to return home. Right now, the message is to stay where they are until things change. We look forward to being able to provide credible information on resumption of flights as and when available. On the external front, Mission is closely engaged with key Australian authorities including the Dept of Foreign Affairs & Trade, Dept of Health, Dept of Education and Universities at various levels to provide practical relief to the affected Indian nationals. There are also individual cases where the High Commission has had to find creative solutions in very challenging conditions to provide relief keeping in mind humanitarian aspects. Recently a number of Australian Universities have announced their own plans to support international students impacted by the pandemic. The sense we get is that the pandemic situation is seen as a short-term challenge. Australian Universities are interested in attracting international students by offering high-quality education. Australian educational institutions greatly value the presence of Indian students.

Sympathetic to Australia's requirement on medicines, says Indian envoy to Australia

Eleven members of a family have tested positive for coronavirus in the densely populated Chudiwalan area of Jama Masjid in Delhi.

Among the infected are a two-month-old child and a six-year-old boy.

The entire area, including all nearby lanes, have now been sealed by the authorities.

One of the family members had returned from abroad and was found to be coronavirus positive. He is currently in a quarantine centre at Max Hospital.

The family of 18 members was tested in a private lab in Daryaganj. Out of them, 11 family members tested positive for the virus.

The government is now trying to identify all those people who came in contact with this family.

Meanwhile, Delhi has so far registered 2,248 coronavirus cases and 48 deaths. The number of hotspot areas in Delhi has increased to 90.

The total cases of COVID-19 in the country, including 77 foreign nationals mounted to 21,393, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) said on Thursday.

Of the total cases at least 16,454 are active, while 257 people have recovered and 681 people have lost their lives.

Eleven members of a family have tested positive for coronavirus in the densely populated Chudiwalan area of Jama Masjid in Delhi. Among the infected are a two-month-old child and a six-year-old boy.

Eleven members of a family have tested positive for coronavirus in the densely populated Chudiwalan area of Jama Masjid in Delhi. Among the infected are a two-month-old child and a six-year-old boy. The entire area, including all nearby lanes, have now been sealed by the authorities. One of the family members had returned from abroad and was found to be coronavirus positive. He is currently in a quarantine centre at Max Hospital. The family of 18 members was tested in a private lab in Daryaganj. Out of them, 11 family members tested positive for the virus. The government is now trying to identify all those people who came in contact with this family. Meanwhile, Delhi has so far registered 2,248 coronavirus cases and 48 deaths. The number of hotspot areas in Delhi has increased to 90. The total cases of COVID-19 in the country, including 77 foreign nationals mounted to 21,393, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) said on Thursday. Of the total cases at least 16,454 are active, while 257 people have recovered and 681 people have lost their lives.

Eleven members of a family in Delhi test positive for coronavirus

The finance ministry on Thursday decided to put on hold increment in dearness allowance (DA) for 50 lakh central government employees and 61 lakh pensioners till July 2021 due to the COVID-19 crisis.

"Given the crisis arising out of COVID-19, it has been decided that additional instalment of dearness allowance payable to central government employees and dearness relief (DR) to central government pensioners due from January 1, 2020, shall not be paid.

&nbsp;"The additional instalment of DA and DR due from July 1, 2020, and January 1, 2021, shall also not be paid," the Department of Expenditure said in an office memorandum.

However, DA and DR at current rates will continue to be paid. 
&nbsp; 
According to sources, the combined savings on account of freezing of these instalments of DA and DR to central government employees and pensioners would be Rs 37,530 crore in the current financial year and 2021-22. 
&nbsp; 
Generally, the states follow the Centre order on DA and DR. 
&nbsp; 
It is estimated that the savings on the suspension of these instalments of DA and DR of state government employees and pensioners will be Rs 82,566 crore, the sources said.

Thus, the combined savings of the Centre and states will be Rs 1.20 lakh crore, which will help in fighting the battle against COVID-19 and its fallout.

The last DA hike for central government employees was effected last month effective January 1. 2020.

The Union Cabinet had approved a 4 per cent increase in DA for government employees and pensioners to 21 per cent.

With Thursday's decision, this 4 per cent hike has been put on hold.

The finance ministry on Thursday decided to put on hold increment in dearness allowance (DA) for 50 lakh central government employees and 61 lakh pensioners till July 2021 due to the COVID-19 crisis.

The finance ministry on Thursday decided to put on hold increment in dearness allowance (DA) for 50 lakh central government employees and 61 lakh pensioners till July 2021 due to the COVID-19 crisis. "Given the crisis arising out of COVID-19, it has been decided that additional instalment of dearness allowance payable to central government employees and dearness relief (DR) to central government pensioners due from January 1, 2020, shall not be paid. "The additional instalment of DA and DR due from July 1, 2020, and January 1, 2021, shall also not be paid," the Department of Expenditure said in an office memorandum. However, DA and DR at current rates will continue to be paid. According to sources, the combined savings on account of freezing of these instalments of DA and DR to central government employees and pensioners would be Rs 37,530 crore in the current financial year and 2021-22. Generally, the states follow the Centre order on DA and DR. It is estimated that the savings on the suspension of these instalments of DA and DR of state government employees and pensioners will be Rs 82,566 crore, the sources said. Thus, the combined savings of the Centre and states will be Rs 1.20 lakh crore, which will help in fighting the battle against COVID-19 and its fallout. The last DA hike for central government employees was effected last month effective January 1. 2020. The Union Cabinet had approved a 4 per cent increase in DA for government employees and pensioners to 21 per cent. With Thursday's decision, this 4 per cent hike has been put on hold.

Finance Ministry freezes increment on dearness allowance, dearness relief for central govt employees, pensioners

Sonia Gandhi on Thursday accused the BJP of spreading the virus of communal prejudice and hatred in the country. She believes that&nbsp;grave damage is being done to social harmony, and her party will have to work hard to repair this damage.

Sonia Gandhi was addressing a meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) -- which&nbsp;saw attendance of former prime minister Manmohan Singh, former Congress president Rahul Gandhi and top Congress leaders through video conference. This is the second time the Congress' top decision-making body, is meeting through video-conferencing in since the lockdown was enforced to contain the coronavirus threat. 
 
"Let me also share with you something that should worry each and every one of us as Indians. When we should be tackling the coronavirus unitedly, the BJP continues to spread the virus of communal prejudice and hatred," she said.

"We have repeatedly urged PM there is no alternative to testing, tracing and quarantine. Unfortunately, testing still remains low, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinas-faulty-test-kits-deal-a-body-blow-to-indias-fight-against-wuhan-virus-293858">testing kits</a> still in short supply," she noted.

Talking about how she has written several times to the Prime Minister, Gandhi asked the central government to increase the testing for coronavirus, and expressed concern over the rapidly increasing number of positive cases since the past three weeks. She also said she has suggested&nbsp;several measures and constructive cooperation to the central government.

"Unfortunately, they have been acted upon only partially and in a miserly way. The compassion, large-heartedness and alacrity that should be forthcoming from the central government is conspicuous by its absence," she said.

Claiming that around 12 crore people have lost jobs due to the the lockdown, she asked the government to provide food and financial security to the jobless and the the migrants who are stranded far from homes. She also urged the government to provide a relief package for the MSME sector.

"The central government does not appear to have a clear idea on how the situation will be managed after May 03. A lockdown of the present nature after that date would be even more devastating," she said.

Former prime Minister Manmohan Singh said proper cooperation between the Centre and states is necessary to fight this pandemic. However, he added that the success of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-growth-will-drop-to-05-per-cent-this-year-says-imf-chief-economist-gita-gopinath-294062">the lockdown will be judged finally on India's ability to tackle COVID-19</a>.&nbsp;

Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot said unless the central government comes forward to financially help states, the fight against COVID-19 will get weakened. "Unless there is a big financial package for states, how will normalcy return to states post lockdown," he asked.

Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel added that the fight against COVID-19 cannot be won&nbsp;unless the Centre rises to the occasion and provides financial assistance to states.

Puducherry chief minister V Narayanasamy claimed the Union government has not given any assistance to the states. and saisd, "We are not enemies but have to act and work together."

Gandhi said trade, commerce and industry have come to a virtual halt and crores of livelihoods have been destroyed. She told her party to focus on successfully engaging with health, food security and livelihood issues.&nbsp;The fight against COVID-19 would very much depend upon the availability of resources, he noted.

Sonia Gandhi on Thursday accused the BJP of spreading the virus of communal prejudice and hatred in the country. She believes that grave damage is being done to social harmony, and her party will have to work hard to repair this damage.

Sonia Gandhi on Thursday accused the BJP of spreading the virus of communal prejudice and hatred in the country. She believes that grave damage is being done to social harmony, and her party will have to work hard to repair this damage. Sonia Gandhi was addressing a meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) -- which saw attendance of former prime minister Manmohan Singh, former Congress president Rahul Gandhi and top Congress leaders through video conference. This is the second time the Congress' top decision-making body, is meeting through video-conferencing in since the lockdown was enforced to contain the coronavirus threat. "Let me also share with you something that should worry each and every one of us as Indians. When we should be tackling the coronavirus unitedly, the BJP continues to spread the virus of communal prejudice and hatred," she said. "We have repeatedly urged PM there is no alternative to testing, tracing and quarantine. Unfortunately, testing still remains low, testing kits still in short supply," she noted. Talking about how she has written several times to the Prime Minister, Gandhi asked the central government to increase the testing for coronavirus, and expressed concern over the rapidly increasing number of positive cases since the past three weeks. She also said she has suggested several measures and constructive cooperation to the central government. "Unfortunately, they have been acted upon only partially and in a miserly way. The compassion, large-heartedness and alacrity that should be forthcoming from the central government is conspicuous by its absence," she said. Claiming that around 12 crore people have lost jobs due to the the lockdown, she asked the government to provide food and financial security to the jobless and the the migrants who are stranded far from homes. She also urged the government to provide a relief package for the MSME sector. "The central government does not appear to have a clear idea on how the situation will be managed after May 03. A lockdown of the present nature after that date would be even more devastating," she said. Former prime Minister Manmohan Singh said proper cooperation between the Centre and states is necessary to fight this pandemic. However, he added that the success of the lockdown will be judged finally on India's ability to tackle COVID-19. Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot said unless the central government comes forward to financially help states, the fight against COVID-19 will get weakened. "Unless there is a big financial package for states, how will normalcy return to states post lockdown," he asked. Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel added that the fight against COVID-19 cannot be won unless the Centre rises to the occasion and provides financial assistance to states. Puducherry chief minister V Narayanasamy claimed the Union government has not given any assistance to the states. and saisd, "We are not enemies but have to act and work together." Gandhi said trade, commerce and industry have come to a virtual halt and crores of livelihoods have been destroyed. She told her party to focus on successfully engaging with health, food security and livelihood issues. The fight against COVID-19 would very much depend upon the availability of resources, he noted.

Coronavirus: Sonia Gandhi urges government to provide relief package for MSME sector

Air pollution over northern India has plummeted to a 20-year-low for this time of the year, according to satellite data published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

The US space agency's satellite sensors observed aerosol levels at a 20-year low post the countrywide lockdown, implemented to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

"We knew we would see changes in atmospheric composition in many places during the lockdown," said Pawan Gupta, a Universities Space Research Association (USRA) scientist at NASA''s Marshall Space Flight Center. "But I have never seen aerosol values so low in the Indo-Gangetic Plain at this time of year," added Mr Gupta.

Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Alice G Wells tweeted, "These images from NASA were taken each spring starting in 2016 and show a 20-year low in airborne particle levels over India. When India and the world are ready to work and travel again, let's not forget that collaborative action can result in cleaner air."

The data published with maps show aerosol optical depth (AOD) in 2020 compared to the average for 2016-2019. Aerosol optical depth is a measure of how light is absorbed or reflected by airborne particles as it travels through the atmosphere.

If aerosols are concentrated near the surface, an optical depth of 1 or above indicates very hazy conditions. An optical depth, or thickness, of less than 0.1 over the entire atmospheric vertical column is considered "clean." The data were retrieved by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Terra satellite.

In the first few days of the lockdown, it was difficult to observe a change in the pollution signature. "We saw an aerosol decrease in the first week of the shutdown, but that was due to a combination of rain and the lockdown," said Mr Gupta.

Around March 27, heavy rain poured over vast areas of northern India and helped clear the air of aerosols. Aerosol concentrations usually increase again after such heavy precipitation.

"After the rainfall, I was really impressed that aerosol levels did not go up and return to normal. We saw a gradual decrease and things have been staying at the level we might expect without anthropogenic emissions," Mr Gupta said.

On March 25, the Indian government placed its 1.3 billion citizens under a strict lockdown to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The countrywide mandate decreased activity at factories and severely reduced car, bus, truck and aeroplane traffic. Every year, aerosols from anthropogenic (human-made) sources contribute to unhealthy levels of air pollution in many Indian cities.

Aerosols are tiny solid and liquid particles suspended in the air that reduce visibility and can damage the human lungs and heart.

In southern India though, the story is a little hazier. Satellite data show aerosol levels have not yet decreased to the same extent. In fact, levels seem to be slightly higher than in the past four years. The reasons are unclear but could be related to recent weather patterns, agricultural fires, winds or other factors.

"This a model scientific experiment," Robert Levy, program leader for NASA's MODIS aerosol products, said about the lockdown and its effects on pollution.

"We have a unique opportunity to learn how the atmosphere reacts to sharp and sudden reductions in emissions from certain sectors. This can help us separate how natural and human sources of aerosols affect the atmosphere," Mr Levy added.

Air pollution over northern India has plummeted to a 20-year-low for this time of the year, according to satellite data published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

Air pollution over northern India has plummeted to a 20-year-low for this time of the year, according to satellite data published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The US space agency's satellite sensors observed aerosol levels at a 20-year low post the countrywide lockdown, implemented to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. "We knew we would see changes in atmospheric composition in many places during the lockdown," said Pawan Gupta, a Universities Space Research Association (USRA) scientist at NASA''s Marshall Space Flight Center. "But I have never seen aerosol values so low in the Indo-Gangetic Plain at this time of year," added Mr Gupta. Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Alice G Wells tweeted, "These images from NASA were taken each spring starting in 2016 and show a 20-year low in airborne particle levels over India. When India and the world are ready to work and travel again, let's not forget that collaborative action can result in cleaner air." The data published with maps show aerosol optical depth (AOD) in 2020 compared to the average for 2016-2019. Aerosol optical depth is a measure of how light is absorbed or reflected by airborne particles as it travels through the atmosphere. If aerosols are concentrated near the surface, an optical depth of 1 or above indicates very hazy conditions. An optical depth, or thickness, of less than 0.1 over the entire atmospheric vertical column is considered "clean." The data were retrieved by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Terra satellite. In the first few days of the lockdown, it was difficult to observe a change in the pollution signature. "We saw an aerosol decrease in the first week of the shutdown, but that was due to a combination of rain and the lockdown," said Mr Gupta. Around March 27, heavy rain poured over vast areas of northern India and helped clear the air of aerosols. Aerosol concentrations usually increase again after such heavy precipitation. "After the rainfall, I was really impressed that aerosol levels did not go up and return to normal. We saw a gradual decrease and things have been staying at the level we might expect without anthropogenic emissions," Mr Gupta said. On March 25, the Indian government placed its 1.3 billion citizens under a strict lockdown to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The countrywide mandate decreased activity at factories and severely reduced car, bus, truck and aeroplane traffic. Every year, aerosols from anthropogenic (human-made) sources contribute to unhealthy levels of air pollution in many Indian cities. Aerosols are tiny solid and liquid particles suspended in the air that reduce visibility and can damage the human lungs and heart. In southern India though, the story is a little hazier. Satellite data show aerosol levels have not yet decreased to the same extent. In fact, levels seem to be slightly higher than in the past four years. The reasons are unclear but could be related to recent weather patterns, agricultural fires, winds or other factors. "This a model scientific experiment," Robert Levy, program leader for NASA's MODIS aerosol products, said about the lockdown and its effects on pollution. "We have a unique opportunity to learn how the atmosphere reacts to sharp and sudden reductions in emissions from certain sectors. This can help us separate how natural and human sources of aerosols affect the atmosphere," Mr Levy added.

Air pollution over North India plummets to 20-year-low amid lockdown, says NASA

The Maharashtra government has decided to aggressively evacuate suspected coronavirus patients from Dharavi and other hotspots and put them in institutional quarantine, Health Minister Rajesh Tope said on Wednesday.

The densely populated Dharavi slum area here has reported close to 190 cases of coronavirus infection so far. "Houses in Dharavi are very small and 10-12 people live in a house. Even if we advise home quarantine, the shortage of space defeats the purpose," he said.

The people who were in close contact with a COVID-19 patient would be evacuated so that further spread of the infection is stopped, Mr Tope said.

"We have discussed the issue with Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and Mumbai municipal commissioner Pravin Pardeshi. We have agreed that home quarantine would not be helpful in Dharavi area where space shortage is a major challenge," he said.

Grounds of schools can be used for institutional quarantine shelters and authorities have already started working on arranging artificial oxygen supply in such places, Mr Tope said.

"We can easily quarantine as many as 73,000 people. The total capacity of the state for isolation is around 1.55 lakh beds," the health minister said.

The "death percentage" among COVID-19 patients has now come down from seven to five which was a good sign, he added. "Daily 13 per cent of people are getting better in Maharashtra alone. The state has so far carried out more than 90,000 tests to detect coronavirus infection. Today we performed as many as 7,112 tests.

"Still, we have decided to increase testing further for early detection," he said.

"Photo booths" for sample collection are operational in Kasturba Hospital and similar booths will be set up in other places, he said. With these booths, the person collecting swab samples does not need to wear PPE kit, he said.

The Maharashtra government has decided to aggressively evacuate suspected coronavirus patients from Dharavi and other hotspots and put them in institutional quarantine, Health Minister Rajesh Tope said on Wednesday.

The Maharashtra government has decided to aggressively evacuate suspected coronavirus patients from Dharavi and other hotspots and put them in institutional quarantine, Health Minister Rajesh Tope said on Wednesday. The densely populated Dharavi slum area here has reported close to 190 cases of coronavirus infection so far. "Houses in Dharavi are very small and 10-12 people live in a house. Even if we advise home quarantine, the shortage of space defeats the purpose," he said. The people who were in close contact with a COVID-19 patient would be evacuated so that further spread of the infection is stopped, Mr Tope said. "We have discussed the issue with Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and Mumbai municipal commissioner Pravin Pardeshi. We have agreed that home quarantine would not be helpful in Dharavi area where space shortage is a major challenge," he said. Grounds of schools can be used for institutional quarantine shelters and authorities have already started working on arranging artificial oxygen supply in such places, Mr Tope said. "We can easily quarantine as many as 73,000 people. The total capacity of the state for isolation is around 1.55 lakh beds," the health minister said. The "death percentage" among COVID-19 patients has now come down from seven to five which was a good sign, he added. "Daily 13 per cent of people are getting better in Maharashtra alone. The state has so far carried out more than 90,000 tests to detect coronavirus infection. Today we performed as many as 7,112 tests. "Still, we have decided to increase testing further for early detection," he said. "Photo booths" for sample collection are operational in Kasturba Hospital and similar booths will be set up in other places, he said. With these booths, the person collecting swab samples does not need to wear PPE kit, he said.

Aggressive evacuation of suspected patients in Dharavi planned: Maharashtra Minister

As the country awaits the end of lockdown 2.0, reports are coming in about COVID-19 peaking in the next month.

According to media reports, the pandemic could peak in summers especially between May-June. As per the estimations and calculations by experts, cases are expected to be at least thrice the present number.&nbsp;

The estimations have been made by studying the rise of cases using different basis, i.e. time, percentage and reproduction of cases. These models observe and calculate how the outbreak can unfold in different scenarios. This, in turn, helps the government in deciding their next steps and being prepared.&nbsp;

The cases due to this virus may peak between May-June with the reproduction rate being 0.8.

If the reports are to be believed, the cases can drop down to zero by Mid-June only if the lockdown is extended till the end of May. Whereas, the process of eliminating the positive cases will continue till September 15 if the lockdown is extended till May 15 and is followed by social distancing.

Meanwhile, as per the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry, the total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and the death toll is 640. The tally of those cured, discharged from hospital stands at 3870.

In the last 24 hours, the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients jumped to 1383 and fatalities to 50.

As the country awaits the end of lockdown 2.0, reports are coming in about COVID-19 peaking in the next month. According to media reports, the pandemic could peak in summers especially between May-June.

As the country awaits the end of lockdown 2.0, reports are coming in about COVID-19 peaking in the next month. According to media reports, the pandemic could peak in summers especially between May-June. As per the estimations and calculations by experts, cases are expected to be at least thrice the present number. The estimations have been made by studying the rise of cases using different basis, i.e. time, percentage and reproduction of cases. These models observe and calculate how the outbreak can unfold in different scenarios. This, in turn, helps the government in deciding their next steps and being prepared. The cases due to this virus may peak between May-June with the reproduction rate being 0.8. If the reports are to be believed, the cases can drop down to zero by Mid-June only if the lockdown is extended till the end of May. Whereas, the process of eliminating the positive cases will continue till September 15 if the lockdown is extended till May 15 and is followed by social distancing. Meanwhile, as per the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry, the total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and the death toll is 640. The tally of those cured, discharged from hospital stands at 3870. In the last 24 hours, the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients jumped to 1383 and fatalities to 50.

'Worst is yet to come': Pandemic could peak in India during May-June

In this segment of Straight Talk, WION in an exclusive conversation spoke to IMF Chief Economist Gita Gopinath on India's GDP growth in 2020.

WION exclusive Straight Talk with IMF Chief Economist  Gita Gopinath on Indian Economy

Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami today issued a statement assuring the healthcare workers that the government would support them in the fight against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/states-advised-not-to-use-rapid-testing-kits-for-two-days-need-to-be-validated-government-293806">coronavirus </a>pandemic which has turned out to be a challenge for humanity.&nbsp;

The statement comes after two major incidents in Chennai city alone, where the final journey and last rites of two doctors who died fighting COVID-19 epidemic was disrupted and prevented by agitated commoners.&nbsp;

About a week ago, an orthopedic surgeon who hailed from the neighboring state of Andhra Pradesh had died in Chennai due to COVID-19.&nbsp;

When the authorities had decided to cremate his mortal remains at a government crematorium, they faced stiff opposition from the public in the locality. The opposition from the public are said to have been caused over unfounded allegations that the cremation could lead to the spread of the virus. It was after the intervention of several higher authorities that the doctor’s mortal remains were cremated.&nbsp;

A similar incident took place during the late hours of Sunday, when an ambulance carrying the mortal remains of a senior doctor was attacked, forcing the injured passengers to flee from cemeteries in two localities. The burial was performed amid police protection only in the wee hours of Monday.

The government appealed to the public to cooperate and consider all those working towards saving lives as equal to God.

Health workers, medical professionals, police and civic authorities leave behind their families and risk their personal safety to prevent the spread of the virus.

“Our government considers every life important and is taking decisions and announcing welfare measures in this regard. The efforts of front-line workers is being lauded across the country.”

The chief minister stated that the recent incidents had caused him deep pain and anguish, despite the clear guidelines that the government had issued for cremating or burying the dead.&nbsp;

“I would like to emphasize that the State government will take suitable action to prevent such incidents. Doctors and frontline workers need not fear. The government stands in solidarity with you,” the chief minister said.

While the Chennai City Police has arrested over 21 individuals for the violence that occurred on Sunday night, the city police commissioner has also stated that those who oppose and obstruct the cremation of coronavirus casualties would be dealt with strictly.

Chennai city police tweeted that “Those who obstruct the burials or cremations of coronavirus casualties would be booked under the Goondas Act.”

Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami today issued a statement assuring the healthcare workers that the government would support them in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic which has turned out to be a challenge for humanity.

Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami today issued a statement assuring the healthcare workers that the government would support them in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic which has turned out to be a challenge for humanity. The statement comes after two major incidents in Chennai city alone, where the final journey and last rites of two doctors who died fighting COVID-19 epidemic was disrupted and prevented by agitated commoners. About a week ago, an orthopedic surgeon who hailed from the neighboring state of Andhra Pradesh had died in Chennai due to COVID-19. When the authorities had decided to cremate his mortal remains at a government crematorium, they faced stiff opposition from the public in the locality. The opposition from the public are said to have been caused over unfounded allegations that the cremation could lead to the spread of the virus. It was after the intervention of several higher authorities that the doctor’s mortal remains were cremated. A similar incident took place during the late hours of Sunday, when an ambulance carrying the mortal remains of a senior doctor was attacked, forcing the injured passengers to flee from cemeteries in two localities. The burial was performed amid police protection only in the wee hours of Monday. The government appealed to the public to cooperate and consider all those working towards saving lives as equal to God. Health workers, medical professionals, police and civic authorities leave behind their families and risk their personal safety to prevent the spread of the virus. “Our government considers every life important and is taking decisions and announcing welfare measures in this regard. The efforts of front-line workers is being lauded across the country.” The chief minister stated that the recent incidents had caused him deep pain and anguish, despite the clear guidelines that the government had issued for cremating or burying the dead. “I would like to emphasize that the State government will take suitable action to prevent such incidents. Doctors and frontline workers need not fear. The government stands in solidarity with you,” the chief minister said. While the Chennai City Police has arrested over 21 individuals for the violence that occurred on Sunday night, the city police commissioner has also stated that those who oppose and obstruct the cremation of coronavirus casualties would be dealt with strictly. Chennai city police tweeted that “Those who obstruct the burials or cremations of coronavirus casualties would be booked under the Goondas Act.”

All those working towards saving lives equal to God, Tamil Nadu govt after doctors’ funeral attacked

An increase in the number of Pakistani accounts changing the name to Arabic names or after names of Arabic royalty has been seen.

A Pakistani ID @pak_fauj changed its name to Omani Royalty Mona bint Fahd al Said @SayyidaMona to spread propaganda and tweeted anti-India rant.

Twitter gives the option of changing one's Twitter name, username and description but its history is not managed publicly.

The handle Pak Army took full advantage of it and changed its profile's identity to show it as the profile of Omani Princes. What followed an anti-India tweet on ties between India and the Gulf which was retweeted by many including by Pakistani media personnel.

Incidentally, to save itself from being reported and get blocked by Twitter, the account had "parody" mentioned in its bio, something not noticed by many. Twitter doesn't block parody accounts. &nbsp;

The name of the account was changed recently so this username is present in Twitter cache since a simple search of @pak_fauj will lead to the parody account @SayyidaMona. Also, many old tweets by the account were not deleted, perhaps to show it is an old account.

The unique twitter ID of @SayyidaMona is 2870592601 which cannot be modified or transferred. Interestingly, WION was able to crawl out several old tweets from the same account which have been deleted now and it clearly shows Pakistan's ISPR is behind the account. Links from deleted tweet - pic.twitter.com/rYCleSt8SN and pic.twitter.com/LLt3FN1Yed when in google searches shows number of Pakistan army links.

Omani Princess clarifies

Meanwhile, the Omani Princess Mona bint Fahd who was impersonated has issued a statement. In the statement, she said,"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."

Adding,"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."

Indian envoy to Oman Munu Mahawar thanked the Omani princes for clarification. In a tweet he said,"I thank HH @MonaFahad13 for clarification on fake social media posts attributed to her" and India values its "friendly relations with Oman and will continue working closely with the Government and people of Oman to further strengthen our special relationship."

Pak FM quotes non-existent Omani statement

Wednesday's case of Pakistani accounts changing the name has been the only case. A number of Pakistani accounts have been seen trying to change names into Arabic sounding names and tweet anti-India material. And while this is happening, Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi was seen fishing in troubled waters.

Highlighting the huge Indian diaspora in Gulf, he said, "Gulf..for example Oman has said Indians working in the country should leave".

No such thing has been said by the Oman govt and it seems he was attributing it fake tweet which was attributed to Omani princess. He also said he will write to Gulf foreign ministers and ask them to reset ties with India over the situation of Muslims in the country, something that will not find many takers in the region.

An increase in the number of Pakistani accounts changing the name to Arabic names or after names of Arabic royalty has been seen. A Pakistani ID @pak_fauj changed its name to Omani Royalty Mona bint Fahd al Said @SayyidaMona to spread propaganda and tweeted anti-India rant.

An increase in the number of Pakistani accounts changing the name to Arabic names or after names of Arabic royalty has been seen. A Pakistani ID @pak_fauj changed its name to Omani Royalty Mona bint Fahd al Said @SayyidaMona to spread propaganda and tweeted anti-India rant. Twitter gives the option of changing one's Twitter name, username and description but its history is not managed publicly. The handle Pak Army took full advantage of it and changed its profile's identity to show it as the profile of Omani Princes. What followed an anti-India tweet on ties between India and the Gulf which was retweeted by many including by Pakistani media personnel. Incidentally, to save itself from being reported and get blocked by Twitter, the account had "parody" mentioned in its bio, something not noticed by many. Twitter doesn't block parody accounts. The name of the account was changed recently so this username is present in Twitter cache since a simple search of @pak_fauj will lead to the parody account @SayyidaMona. Also, many old tweets by the account were not deleted, perhaps to show it is an old account. The unique twitter ID of @SayyidaMona is 2870592601 which cannot be modified or transferred. Interestingly, WION was able to crawl out several old tweets from the same account which have been deleted now and it clearly shows Pakistan's ISPR is behind the account. Links from deleted tweet - pic.twitter.com/rYCleSt8SN and pic.twitter.com/LLt3FN1Yed when in google searches shows number of Pakistan army links. Omani Princess clarifies Meanwhile, the Omani Princess Mona bint Fahd who was impersonated has issued a statement. In the statement, she said,"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." Adding,"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." Indian envoy to Oman Munu Mahawar thanked the Omani princes for clarification. In a tweet he said,"I thank HH @MonaFahad13 for clarification on fake social media posts attributed to her" and India values its "friendly relations with Oman and will continue working closely with the Government and people of Oman to further strengthen our special relationship." Pak FM quotes non-existent Omani statement Wednesday's case of Pakistani accounts changing the name has been the only case. A number of Pakistani accounts have been seen trying to change names into Arabic sounding names and tweet anti-India material. And while this is happening, Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi was seen fishing in troubled waters. Highlighting the huge Indian diaspora in Gulf, he said, "Gulf..for example Oman has said Indians working in the country should leave". No such thing has been said by the Oman govt and it seems he was attributing it fake tweet which was attributed to Omani princess. He also said he will write to Gulf foreign ministers and ask them to reset ties with India over the situation of Muslims in the country, something that will not find many takers in the region.

Pak account poses as 'Omani princess' tweets anti-India material; princess clarifies

A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan has tested positive for coronvirus in the national capital. The jawan, working as a nursing assistant, has been admitted to an isolation ward in a Delhi hospital.

The jawan was part of a battalion deployed in Kupwara district in north Kashmir.

The constable was asked to undertake a coronavirus test in Delhi at the end of his leave period on April 7 before joining his unit, as per the standard operating procedure.

He was already in 14-day quarantine and his result was reported positive on Tuesday, an official said.

Early this month, a doctor of the paramilitary was found positive for COVID-19.

A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan has tested positive for coronvirus in the national capital. The jawan, working as a nursing assistant, has been admitted to an isolation ward in a Delhi hospital.

A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan has tested positive for coronvirus in the national capital. The jawan, working as a nursing assistant, has been admitted to an isolation ward in a Delhi hospital. The jawan was part of a battalion deployed in Kupwara district in north Kashmir. The constable was asked to undertake a coronavirus test in Delhi at the end of his leave period on April 7 before joining his unit, as per the standard operating procedure. He was already in 14-day quarantine and his result was reported positive on Tuesday, an official said. Early this month, a doctor of the paramilitary was found positive for COVID-19.

CRPF jawan tests positive for coronavirus, admitted to hospital

The nationwide lockdown has entered the 28th day even as the number of Coronavirus positive cases continues to rise daily.&nbsp;

As per the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry, the total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and the death toll is 640. The tally of those cured, discharged from hospital stands at 3870.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-cases-pass-25-million-death-toll-rises-to-177415-293909">Also read: Global coronavirus cases pass 2.5 million; death toll rises to 177,415</a>

In the last 24 hours, the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients jumped to 1383 and fatalities to 50. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinas-faulty-test-kits-deal-a-body-blow-to-indias-fight-against-wuhan-virus-293858">Also read: China's faulty test kits deal a body blow to India's fight against Wuhan virus</a> 
 
Maharashtra reported 6191 cases of the coronavirus disease, including 722 discharges and 251 deaths. Gujarat has now become the second-worst hit state with 2178 active cases and Delhi follows with 2156 infections. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-treatment-chloroquine-and-hydroxychloroquine-can-cause-heart-problems-292401">COVID-19 treatment: Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine can cause heart problems</a>

Globally, COVID-19 has now infected 2,563,384 people worldwide and 177,415 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Around 681,477 people of that tally have recovered.

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

The nationwide lockdown has entered the 28th day even as the number of Coronavirus positive cases continues to rise daily. As per the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry, the total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and the death toll is 640.

The nationwide lockdown has entered the 28th day even as the number of Coronavirus positive cases continues to rise daily. As per the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry, the total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and the death toll is 640. The tally of those cured, discharged from hospital stands at 3870. Also read: Global coronavirus cases pass 2.5 million; death toll rises to 177,415 In the last 24 hours, the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients jumped to 1383 and fatalities to 50. Also read: China's faulty test kits deal a body blow to India's fight against Wuhan virus Maharashtra reported 6191 cases of the coronavirus disease, including 722 discharges and 251 deaths. Gujarat has now become the second-worst hit state with 2178 active cases and Delhi follows with 2156 infections. COVID-19 treatment: Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine can cause heart problems Globally, COVID-19 has now infected 2,563,384 people worldwide and 177,415 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 681,477 people of that tally have recovered. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

India's coronavirus case tally nears 20,000; death toll reaches 640

The Indian Council of Medical Research has said that the rapid testing kits distributed to different states in India by the center will have to be validated before they could be put to use. Watch report.

ICMR: COVID-19 rapid testing kits needs validation first

Shops selling educational books and electric fans, services of bedside attendants of senior citizens and public utilities, including recharge facilities for prepaid mobile phones have been allowed during the lockdown period.

The orders were issued by the home ministry on Tuesday night after receiving some queries with regard to exemptions of specific services and activities allowed through the guidelines issued so far.

The home ministry also said bread factories and flour mills located in urban areas can restart operations during the ongoing lockdown to combat the novel coronavirus outbreak.

Shops selling educational books for students and electric fans will be allowed to open during the lockdown, which is scheduled to end on May 3.

Bedside attendants and care givers of senior citizens residing in their homes and public utilities, including recharge facilities for prepaid mobile connection will be allowed to offer services, the ministry said in its order.

Food processing units such as bread factories, milk processing plants, flour mills, dal mills etc., located in urban areas will be allowed to function during the lockdown.

Facilities for export or import such as pack houses, inspection and treatment facilities for seeds and horticulture produce, research establishments dealing with the agriculture and horticulture activities have been exempted from the purview of the lockdown.

Inter and intra-state movement of planting materials and honey bee colonies, honey and other beehive products will also be allowed to function, the order said.

Forest offices, forestry plantation and related activities, including silviculture operations, are allowed during the lockdown.

However, the ministry made it clear that social distancing for offices, workshops, factories and establishments must be ensured.

The home ministry also allowed sign-on and sign-off of Indian seafarers at Indian ports and their movement for the aforesaid purpose as per a standard operating protocol (SOP).

It said that change of crew of a ship (seafarers) is an important measure for operation of merchant ships.

The SOP has been formulated to streamline the sign-on and sign-off of Indian seafarers at Indian ports for merchant shipping vessels, the ministry added.

For sign-on, the ship owner or recruitment and placement service (RPS) agency will identify the Indian seafarers for joining a vessel.

The seafarers will intimate their travel and contact history for the last 28 days to the ship owner or RPS agency by email, as per procedure laid down by Director General of Shipping (DGS).

The seafarer would be examined by a DGS-approved medical examiner, as per the guidelines prescribed for this purpose.

At the same time, the seafarer shall also be screened, and his travel and contact history examined for the last 28 days; seafarers found to be asymptomatic for COVID-19 and otherwise suitable may be processed for sign-on.

The local authority in the area where the seafarer resides will be intimated about his clearance for sign-on and for issue of a transit pass from the place of residence to the place of embarkation on the shipping vessel.

The transit pass for such movement by road, for the seafarer and one driver, may be issued by the government of the State or Union Territory where the seafarer resides.

For sign-off, the master of a vessel, coming from any foreign port, or a coastal vessel from any Indian port, while arriving at its port of call in India, shall ascertain the state of health of each person on board the vessel and submit a Maritime Declaration of Health to the health authorities of the port and to the port authorities.

In addition, the information required by the local health authorities of the port, like temperature chart, individual health declaration, etc. Shall also be provided by the master as per the directives of the health authorities of the port.

Port health authorities shall grant pratique to the vessel prior to berthing as per necessary health protocols.

The Indian seafarer arriving on the vessel would undergo the COVID-19 test for confirmation that he or she is negative for the infection.

After disembarking and till the time the seafarer reaches the testing facility within the port premises, it will be ensured by the ship owner that all safety precautions as per standard health protocol are observed.

Till the time test reports of the seafarer are received, they shall be kept in the quarantine facility by the port or the state health authorities.

If the seafarer is tested as positive for COVID-19, he or she will be dealt with as per the procedures laid down by Health Ministry.

For the seafarer tested negative and signed off, the local authority in the area where the seafarer disembarks will be intimated about his or her clearance for sign-off, and for issue of a transit pass from the place of disembarkation to the place of his or her residence.

The social distancing and other hygiene norms, as per standard health protocol, would be followed by the vehicle transporting the seafarer to his destination.

The lockdown was first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 24 in a bid to combat the coronavirus pandemic. It was later extended till May 3.

Shops selling educational books and electric fans, services of bedside attendants of senior citizens and public utilities, including recharge facilities for prepaid mobile phones have been allowed during the lockdown period.

Shops selling educational books and electric fans, services of bedside attendants of senior citizens and public utilities, including recharge facilities for prepaid mobile phones have been allowed during the lockdown period. The orders were issued by the home ministry on Tuesday night after receiving some queries with regard to exemptions of specific services and activities allowed through the guidelines issued so far. The home ministry also said bread factories and flour mills located in urban areas can restart operations during the ongoing lockdown to combat the novel coronavirus outbreak. Shops selling educational books for students and electric fans will be allowed to open during the lockdown, which is scheduled to end on May 3. Bedside attendants and care givers of senior citizens residing in their homes and public utilities, including recharge facilities for prepaid mobile connection will be allowed to offer services, the ministry said in its order. Food processing units such as bread factories, milk processing plants, flour mills, dal mills etc., located in urban areas will be allowed to function during the lockdown. Facilities for export or import such as pack houses, inspection and treatment facilities for seeds and horticulture produce, research establishments dealing with the agriculture and horticulture activities have been exempted from the purview of the lockdown. Inter and intra-state movement of planting materials and honey bee colonies, honey and other beehive products will also be allowed to function, the order said. Forest offices, forestry plantation and related activities, including silviculture operations, are allowed during the lockdown. However, the ministry made it clear that social distancing for offices, workshops, factories and establishments must be ensured. The home ministry also allowed sign-on and sign-off of Indian seafarers at Indian ports and their movement for the aforesaid purpose as per a standard operating protocol (SOP). It said that change of crew of a ship (seafarers) is an important measure for operation of merchant ships. The SOP has been formulated to streamline the sign-on and sign-off of Indian seafarers at Indian ports for merchant shipping vessels, the ministry added. For sign-on, the ship owner or recruitment and placement service (RPS) agency will identify the Indian seafarers for joining a vessel. The seafarers will intimate their travel and contact history for the last 28 days to the ship owner or RPS agency by email, as per procedure laid down by Director General of Shipping (DGS). The seafarer would be examined by a DGS-approved medical examiner, as per the guidelines prescribed for this purpose. At the same time, the seafarer shall also be screened, and his travel and contact history examined for the last 28 days; seafarers found to be asymptomatic for COVID-19 and otherwise suitable may be processed for sign-on. The local authority in the area where the seafarer resides will be intimated about his clearance for sign-on and for issue of a transit pass from the place of residence to the place of embarkation on the shipping vessel. The transit pass for such movement by road, for the seafarer and one driver, may be issued by the government of the State or Union Territory where the seafarer resides. For sign-off, the master of a vessel, coming from any foreign port, or a coastal vessel from any Indian port, while arriving at its port of call in India, shall ascertain the state of health of each person on board the vessel and submit a Maritime Declaration of Health to the health authorities of the port and to the port authorities. In addition, the information required by the local health authorities of the port, like temperature chart, individual health declaration, etc. Shall also be provided by the master as per the directives of the health authorities of the port. Port health authorities shall grant pratique to the vessel prior to berthing as per necessary health protocols. The Indian seafarer arriving on the vessel would undergo the COVID-19 test for confirmation that he or she is negative for the infection. After disembarking and till the time the seafarer reaches the testing facility within the port premises, it will be ensured by the ship owner that all safety precautions as per standard health protocol are observed. Till the time test reports of the seafarer are received, they shall be kept in the quarantine facility by the port or the state health authorities. If the seafarer is tested as positive for COVID-19, he or she will be dealt with as per the procedures laid down by Health Ministry. For the seafarer tested negative and signed off, the local authority in the area where the seafarer disembarks will be intimated about his or her clearance for sign-off, and for issue of a transit pass from the place of disembarkation to the place of his or her residence. The social distancing and other hygiene norms, as per standard health protocol, would be followed by the vehicle transporting the seafarer to his destination. The lockdown was first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 24 in a bid to combat the coronavirus pandemic. It was later extended till May 3.

Shops selling educational books, electric fans, prepaid phone recharge allowed during coronavirus lockdown

A migrant couple from Rajasthan, stranded in Tripura due to the coronavirus-enforced lockdown, has named its newborn baby ‘Lockdown’.&nbsp;

Sanjay Bauri said he and his pregnant wife, Manju, had come to Tripura from Dausa district of Rajasthan six months ago to sell toys, steel utensils and plastic products on the streets of Agartala.

“My wife gave birth to a baby boy at the state-run Indira Gandhi Memorial (IGM) Hospital here six days ago. We named him ‘Lockdown’ remembering all the problems we had to face during this tough time,” Bauri told reporters.

The baby was born on April 13.

"The baby is fine. We are getting food from the administration. He is fine," Bauri said.

Many hawkers like the Bauri couple who had come to Tripura from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, got stranded in the northeastern state due to the lockdown.

Including them, 63 migrant vendors are left stranded in Badharghat.

"We tried to return to our native places and went to Badharghat Railway Station, only to find the train services suspended," Bauri said.

Manju wants to return home as soon as the lockdown is lifted. “We will leave for our village as soon as the lockdown is lifted. But we will never forget the kind gesture of the GRP personnel," he said.

Earlier, a Raipur couple named their newborn twins -- Corona and Covid. The twins, they said, would remind them about all the hardships they conquered amid the lockdown.

The twins were born on the intervening night of March 26-27 at a government hospital in Raipur.

However, the couple said they may change their decision later and rename their kids.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/twins-born-during-coronavirus-lockdown-in-raipur-named-corona-and-covid-290283">Also read | Twins, born during coronavirus lockdown in Raipur, named 'Corona' and 'Covid'</a>

A migrant couple from Rajasthan, stranded in Tripura due to the coronavirus-enforced lockdown, has named its newborn baby ‘Lockdown’. Sanjay Bauri said he and his pregnant wife, Manju, had come to Tripura from Dausa district of Rajasthan six months ago to sell toys, steel utensils and plastic products on the streets of Agartala.

A migrant couple from Rajasthan, stranded in Tripura due to the coronavirus-enforced lockdown, has named its newborn baby ‘Lockdown’. Sanjay Bauri said he and his pregnant wife, Manju, had come to Tripura from Dausa district of Rajasthan six months ago to sell toys, steel utensils and plastic products on the streets of Agartala. “My wife gave birth to a baby boy at the state-run Indira Gandhi Memorial (IGM) Hospital here six days ago. We named him ‘Lockdown’ remembering all the problems we had to face during this tough time,” Bauri told reporters. The baby was born on April 13. "The baby is fine. We are getting food from the administration. He is fine," Bauri said. Many hawkers like the Bauri couple who had come to Tripura from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, got stranded in the northeastern state due to the lockdown. Including them, 63 migrant vendors are left stranded in Badharghat. "We tried to return to our native places and went to Badharghat Railway Station, only to find the train services suspended," Bauri said. Manju wants to return home as soon as the lockdown is lifted. “We will leave for our village as soon as the lockdown is lifted. But we will never forget the kind gesture of the GRP personnel," he said. Earlier, a Raipur couple named their newborn twins -- Corona and Covid. The twins, they said, would remind them about all the hardships they conquered amid the lockdown. The twins were born on the intervening night of March 26-27 at a government hospital in Raipur. However, the couple said they may change their decision later and rename their kids. Also read | Twins, born during coronavirus lockdown in Raipur, named 'Corona' and 'Covid'

Rajasthan couple stranded in Tripura names their newborn 'Lockdown'

US tech giant Facebook announced that it would invest Rs 43,547 crore ($5.7 billion) in Jio to expand its presence in India. Facebook's investment translates into 9.9 percent stake in Jio. This would be Facebook's biggest minority shareholding ever.

Facebook to invest $5.7 BN in Jio: Acquire 9.99% stake

Microsoft co-founder&nbsp;Bill Gates on Wednesday in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended his leadership and proactive measures the government took to flatten the curve.&nbsp;

''We commend your leadership and the proactive measures you and your government have taken to flatten the curve of the COVID-19 infection rate in India, such as adopting a national lockdown expanding focused testing to identify hot spots for isolation, quarantining, and care, and significantly increasing health expenditures to strengthen the health system response and promote R&amp;D and digital innovation,'' Gates wrote in the letter.

''Grateful to see that you’re seeking to balance public health imperatives with the need to ensure adequate social protection for all Indians,'' he added.

Gates also lauded the Modi government for fully utilising&nbsp;its exceptional digital capabilities.

''I’m glad your government is fully utilizing its exceptional digital capabilities in its COVID-19 response and has launched the Aarogya Setu digital app for coronavirus tracking, contact tracing, and to connect people to health services,'' he added.

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates on Wednesday in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended his leadership and proactive measures the government took to flatten the curve.

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates on Wednesday in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended his leadership and proactive measures the government took to flatten the curve. ''We commend your leadership and the proactive measures you and your government have taken to flatten the curve of the COVID-19 infection rate in India, such as adopting a national lockdown expanding focused testing to identify hot spots for isolation, quarantining, and care, and significantly increasing health expenditures to strengthen the health system response and promote R&D and digital innovation,'' Gates wrote in the letter. ''Grateful to see that you’re seeking to balance public health imperatives with the need to ensure adequate social protection for all Indians,'' he added. Gates also lauded the Modi government for fully utilising its exceptional digital capabilities. ''I’m glad your government is fully utilizing its exceptional digital capabilities in its COVID-19 response and has launched the Aarogya Setu digital app for coronavirus tracking, contact tracing, and to connect people to health services,'' he added.

Bill Gates commends PM Modi's leadership, proactive measures amid COVID-19

The total number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-rapid-testing-paused-due-to-issues-with-chinese-kits-293997">coronavirus</a> cases in India has risen to 20, 471 with 15,859 active cases, the health ministry said today.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ordinance-brought-in-to-protect-health-workers-from-being-attacked-javadekar-294029">Also Read: Ordinance brought in to protect health workers from being attacked, says Javadekar</a>

The number of deaths due to the virus has risen to 652 with 1,486 new cases in the last 24 hours and 49 deaths, the ministry said.

Mumbai on Wednesday reported nine more coronavirus cases in Dharavi with the number of cases rising to 189 in the city's slum area.

Twelve people have died due to COVID-19 in Dharavi which has greatly worried health workers in Maharashtra state which has seen the largest coronavirus cases in India.

In Tamil Nadu, thirty-three more people have tested positive for coronavirus taking the number of COVID-19 cases to 1,629. Eighteen people have died due to the virus in the state.

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that 11 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state today with the number of cases rising to 437 of which 127 are active cases.

Bihar on Wednesday reported five more coronavirus cases taking the total number of cases in the state to 141.

Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh state health department reported no new case of COVID-19 infection&nbsp;today.

 
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The total number of coronavirus cases in India has risen to 20, 471 with 15,859 active cases, the health ministry said today. Also Read: Ordinance brought in to protect health workers from being attacked, says Javadekar The number of deaths due to the virus has risen to 652 with 1,486 new cases in the last 24 hours and 49 deaths, the ministry said.

The total number of coronavirus cases in India has risen to 20, 471 with 15,859 active cases, the health ministry said today. Also Read: Ordinance brought in to protect health workers from being attacked, says Javadekar The number of deaths due to the virus has risen to 652 with 1,486 new cases in the last 24 hours and 49 deaths, the ministry said. Mumbai on Wednesday reported nine more coronavirus cases in Dharavi with the number of cases rising to 189 in the city's slum area. Twelve people have died due to COVID-19 in Dharavi which has greatly worried health workers in Maharashtra state which has seen the largest coronavirus cases in India. In Tamil Nadu, thirty-three more people have tested positive for coronavirus taking the number of COVID-19 cases to 1,629. Eighteen people have died due to the virus in the state. Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that 11 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state today with the number of cases rising to 437 of which 127 are active cases. Bihar on Wednesday reported five more coronavirus cases taking the total number of cases in the state to 141. Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh state health department reported no new case of COVID-19 infection today.

Confirmed coronavirus cases cross 20,000 in India; 652 dead

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 will ensure safety of healthcare workers. ''The Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 manifests our commitment to protect each and every healthcare worker who is bravely battling COVID-19 on the frontline,'' Modi tweeted hours after the government brought an ordinance to end violence against health workers The Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 manifests our commitment to protect each and every healthcare worker who is bravely battling COVID-19 on the frontline.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 will ensure safety of healthcare workers. ''The Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 manifests our commitment to protect each and every healthcare worker who is bravely battling COVID-19 on the frontline,'' Modi tweeted hours after the government brought an ordinance to end violence against health workers The Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 manifests our commitment to protect each and every healthcare worker who is bravely battling COVID-19 on the frontline. It will ensure safety of our professionals. There can be no compromise on their safety! — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2020 × ''It will ensure safety of our professionals. There can be no compromise on their safety!'' he added. The government has brought an ordinance to end violence against health workers which carries imprisonment from 6 months to 7 years if anyone is found guilty. "No incident of violence or harassment against them will be tolerated. An ordinance has been brought in, it will be implemented after the President's sanction," Union minister Prakash Javadekar said earlier. "They can be penalized for Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 Lakh," the minister said, adding, "amendment to be made to the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 and the ordinance will be implemented." "Such crime will now be cognizable and non-bailable. The investigation will be done within 30 days," Javadekar added. "If damage is done to the vehicles or clinics of healthcare workers, then a compensation amounting to twice the market value of the damaged property will be taken from the accused," the minister asserted.

'No compromise on their safety', tweets Modi after ordinance to end violence against health workers 

The Indian Central government on April 22 said that it has brought an ordinance to end violence against health workers. The ordinance carries imprisonment from 6 months to 7 years if anyone found guilty.

Indian government acts against attack on medics

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