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India's defence minister Rajnath Singh had out photographs of a virtual meeting on April 1 using the video conferencing app Zoom which is a widely used tool during the pandemic-induced lockdown.

However, like many online platforms today, this one too comes with a string of privacy concerns. The Indian government today warned netizens that Zoom is not safe.&nbsp;

The advisory from the ministry of home affairs says that the app should not be used by government offices or officials for work.

It comes after India's computer emergency response team - the country's top cybersecurity agency had warned users that Zoom is vulnerable to cyberattacks including the risk of data leaks.

The passwords have gone public on Zoom and hackers have invaded into video calls but what if some want to continue to use it?

The cyber coordination center of the MHA has issued a set of guidelines. The measures include private users to protect themselves. According to the guidlenes, one must set a new user ID and password for each meeting and use the "waiting room" feature so that users can enter only when the host allows.

Allowing screen sharing only by the host and not allow removed participants to re-join by disabling the feature and disable the file transfer option if not required.

The guidelines say click on security and then click on lock meeting once all attendees have joined and restricted the recording feature.

The video meetings when over should be ended rather than just left by the host, as well as the participants and remember to sign out when not in use.

Pressure has been mounting on the makers of Zoom, it has already been banned for usage in Germany, Singapore and Taiwan. The firm has admitted that it routed some user data through China, they said it was a mistake and they were coping with the increase in traffic amid the coronavirus fears.&nbsp;

Safety in the online world remains a threat.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh had out photographs of a virtual meeting on April 1 using the video conferencing app Zoom which is a widely used tool during the pandemic-induced lockdown.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh had out photographs of a virtual meeting on April 1 using the video conferencing app Zoom which is a widely used tool during the pandemic-induced lockdown. However, like many online platforms today, this one too comes with a string of privacy concerns. The Indian government today warned netizens that Zoom is not safe. The advisory from the ministry of home affairs says that the app should not be used by government offices or officials for work. It comes after India's computer emergency response team - the country's top cybersecurity agency had warned users that Zoom is vulnerable to cyberattacks including the risk of data leaks. The passwords have gone public on Zoom and hackers have invaded into video calls but what if some want to continue to use it? The cyber coordination center of the MHA has issued a set of guidelines. The measures include private users to protect themselves. According to the guidlenes, one must set a new user ID and password for each meeting and use the "waiting room" feature so that users can enter only when the host allows. Allowing screen sharing only by the host and not allow removed participants to re-join by disabling the feature and disable the file transfer option if not required. The guidelines say click on security and then click on lock meeting once all attendees have joined and restricted the recording feature. The video meetings when over should be ended rather than just left by the host, as well as the participants and remember to sign out when not in use. Pressure has been mounting on the makers of Zoom, it has already been banned for usage in Germany, Singapore and Taiwan. The firm has admitted that it routed some user data through China, they said it was a mistake and they were coping with the increase in traffic amid the coronavirus fears. Safety in the online world remains a threat.

Don't use Zoom app for work: MHA directs government officials

All five persons who died due to coronavirus in Bhopal were victims of the 1984 gas tragedy in the Madhya Pradesh capital, an official said on Wednesday. On March 21, some organisations working for the survivors of Bhopal gas tragedy wrote to the authorities concerned, saying such people were more vulnerable to the coronavirus infection than normal individuals.

“All the five persons who died after contracting COVID-19 here were victims of the Bhopal gas tragedy,” the official said. The Bhopal Memorial Hospital and Research Center (BMHRC), a dedicated facility for the treatment of gas mishap survivors, was recently turned into a medical facility for coronavirus patients, causing hardship to these people, Rachna Dhingra, member of the NGO Bhopal Group for Information and Action, told PTI.

The first coronavirus victim from Bhopal, a 55-year-old man, died at a city hospital on April 5 due to negligence of authorities, she alleged. Another 80-year-old gas tragedy victim, who was a retired employee of the Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), was also not given due medical care. He died on April 8 and his sample came out positive for coronavirus on April 11, Dhingra said.

Besides, a 40-year-old gas tragedy victim, who was suffering from oral cancer for more than a year, died on April 12 and his sample test report later came out positive for coronavirus, she said. Another 52-year-old gas mishap survivor, who suffered from a permanent injury, had history of tuberculosis and could not get prompt care for his respiratory problems. He recently tested positive for coronavirus and died on his way to the COVID-19 ward at Hamidia hospital, she said. Also, a 75-year-old senior journalist, who survived the gas tragedy, died on April 11 and his sample test report came out positive for coronairus on Tuesday, she said.

On March 21, some organisations working for the welfare of gas tragedy survivors wrote to the state and central authorities concerned, saying an overwhelming number of gas victims suffer from respiratory, cardiovascular, kidney problems and cancer as a result of exposure to the toxic gas that leaked at the Union Carbide factory here in 1984. They claimed that these survivors were at least five times more vulnerable to COVID-19 than other people. Instead of paying special attention to the needs of Bhopal gas victims, the state government took over BMHRCand turned it into a medical facility for COVID-19 patients, Dhingra said. For last 22 days, no gas victim was even allowed to avail emergency services there, she said.

Dhingra said before BMHRC was converted into a dedicated facility for coronavirus patients, 86 gas tragedy survivors were admitted there. After it was made a hospital for COVID-19 patients, all except five were discharged. Out of these five, a 68-year-old woman died at the hospital due to ailments related to the gas mishap, she said.

Besides, out of the gas tragedy survivors discharged from BMHRC, two persons, both aged around 70, died at their homes while another one died at a city hospital due to the gas leak mishap related illnesses, she said. In a letter to gas relief hospital’s monitoring committee chairman, retd Justice V K Agrawal, the NGOs pointed out all these aspects and urged him to re-start the medical facility for gas victims considering their vulnerability. The NGOs have also filed a writ petition in the Madhya Pradesh High Court, demanding that gas victims be provided a dedicated medical facility for their treatment, as was the practice earlier.

Meanwhile, taking note of the death of five gas tragedy victims due to coronavirus, the state government has decided to categorise BMHRC as a ‘COVID Health Centre’ where gas mishap survivors can continue to avail treatment for their ailments. An order to this effect was issued late Tuesday evening, a health department official said. “Now, gas victims can continue to get treatment as usual in BMHRC, he said. Bhopal Divisional Commissioner Kalpana Shrivastava said the earlier decision to make BMHRC a dedicated facility for COVID-19 patients was taken at the “government level”.

Dhingra said the Out Patient Departments (OPDs) in other government hospitals of Bhopal continue to remain open for gas incident survivors. Arif Aqueel, the former state minister of Bhopal Gas Tragedy Relief and Rehabilitation Department, said the earlier decision to close BMHRC for gas victims was not in the interest of these people, and they should be given treatment at this facility on priority, especially in the OPD.

All five persons who died due to coronavirus in Bhopal were victims of the 1984 gas tragedy in the Madhya Pradesh capital, an official said on Wednesday. On March 21, some organisations working for the survivors of Bhopal gas tragedy wrote to the authorities concerned, saying such people were more vulnerable to the coronavirus infection than normal individuals.

All five persons who died due to coronavirus in Bhopal were victims of the 1984 gas tragedy in the Madhya Pradesh capital, an official said on Wednesday. On March 21, some organisations working for the survivors of Bhopal gas tragedy wrote to the authorities concerned, saying such people were more vulnerable to the coronavirus infection than normal individuals. “All the five persons who died after contracting COVID-19 here were victims of the Bhopal gas tragedy,” the official said. The Bhopal Memorial Hospital and Research Center (BMHRC), a dedicated facility for the treatment of gas mishap survivors, was recently turned into a medical facility for coronavirus patients, causing hardship to these people, Rachna Dhingra, member of the NGO Bhopal Group for Information and Action, told PTI. The first coronavirus victim from Bhopal, a 55-year-old man, died at a city hospital on April 5 due to negligence of authorities, she alleged. Another 80-year-old gas tragedy victim, who was a retired employee of the Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), was also not given due medical care. He died on April 8 and his sample came out positive for coronavirus on April 11, Dhingra said. Besides, a 40-year-old gas tragedy victim, who was suffering from oral cancer for more than a year, died on April 12 and his sample test report later came out positive for coronavirus, she said. Another 52-year-old gas mishap survivor, who suffered from a permanent injury, had history of tuberculosis and could not get prompt care for his respiratory problems. He recently tested positive for coronavirus and died on his way to the COVID-19 ward at Hamidia hospital, she said. Also, a 75-year-old senior journalist, who survived the gas tragedy, died on April 11 and his sample test report came out positive for coronairus on Tuesday, she said. On March 21, some organisations working for the welfare of gas tragedy survivors wrote to the state and central authorities concerned, saying an overwhelming number of gas victims suffer from respiratory, cardiovascular, kidney problems and cancer as a result of exposure to the toxic gas that leaked at the Union Carbide factory here in 1984. They claimed that these survivors were at least five times more vulnerable to COVID-19 than other people. Instead of paying special attention to the needs of Bhopal gas victims, the state government took over BMHRCand turned it into a medical facility for COVID-19 patients, Dhingra said. For last 22 days, no gas victim was even allowed to avail emergency services there, she said. Dhingra said before BMHRC was converted into a dedicated facility for coronavirus patients, 86 gas tragedy survivors were admitted there. After it was made a hospital for COVID-19 patients, all except five were discharged. Out of these five, a 68-year-old woman died at the hospital due to ailments related to the gas mishap, she said. Besides, out of the gas tragedy survivors discharged from BMHRC, two persons, both aged around 70, died at their homes while another one died at a city hospital due to the gas leak mishap related illnesses, she said. In a letter to gas relief hospital’s monitoring committee chairman, retd Justice V K Agrawal, the NGOs pointed out all these aspects and urged him to re-start the medical facility for gas victims considering their vulnerability. The NGOs have also filed a writ petition in the Madhya Pradesh High Court, demanding that gas victims be provided a dedicated medical facility for their treatment, as was the practice earlier. Meanwhile, taking note of the death of five gas tragedy victims due to coronavirus, the state government has decided to categorise BMHRC as a ‘COVID Health Centre’ where gas mishap survivors can continue to avail treatment for their ailments. An order to this effect was issued late Tuesday evening, a health department official said. “Now, gas victims can continue to get treatment as usual in BMHRC, he said. Bhopal Divisional Commissioner Kalpana Shrivastava said the earlier decision to make BMHRC a dedicated facility for COVID-19 patients was taken at the “government level”. Dhingra said the Out Patient Departments (OPDs) in other government hospitals of Bhopal continue to remain open for gas incident survivors. Arif Aqueel, the former state minister of Bhopal Gas Tragedy Relief and Rehabilitation Department, said the earlier decision to close BMHRC for gas victims was not in the interest of these people, and they should be given treatment at this facility on priority, especially in the OPD.

All 5 who died of COVID-19 in Bhopal were 1984 gas tragedy victims

A new case of coronavirus has been reported from Delhi. A 19-year old food delivery agent working in Malviya Nagar of South Delhi has tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The agent was in contact with several restaurants and had delivered food till April 12.

COVID-19 cases surge in India: Food delivery agent in New Delhi tests positive

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday called for a united fight against COVID-19, and said a lockdown was no solution to defeat the coronavirus. He added aggressive testing was the main weapon and it should be used strategically.

"A misconception that I want to clear is, in no way does a lockdown defeat the virus, it stops the virus for sometime. It's just a pause button," said Rahul, in press briefing through video conferencing.

So, while he said he differed with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he did not want to "get involved in 'Tu Tu Main Main' (blame game) as the country is fighting a tough battle against the virus and we will only be successful to contain it when everybody works together."

"There should be no declaration of victory, it is a long fight. I disagree with PM Modi on a lot of issues but we have to unite and not fight. We have to defeat the virus together," he said.

Lockdown is said to have allowed time and space to put in medical resources, ramp up testing abilities, prepare hospitals, and get ventilators for patients. It has been substantially proved -- across the world -- that lockdown did impact COVID-19 tally positively.

Twitterverse latched onto this, and consequently, Rahul Gandhi trended for hours.

On one hand, people asked him for an alternative to lockdown -- because,&nbsp;kya karein otherwise?&nbsp;and on the other, doled out some harmless humour, and some valuable advice.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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So basically <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulGandhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulGandhi</a> did nothing since start on Covid with no contribution to PM relief fund, now he comes up with prepared Q &amp; A n starts giving govt advice which gov is actually doing it..kudos..!! <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> has done everything to control virus and helping indians
— Naveen Singh (@Rebel_Naveen22) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rebel_Naveen22/status/1250745661307453440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulGandhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulGandhi</a> has put several BJP MPs MLAs and numerous IT Cell wannabes to work. Hahahaha <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulSpeaksForIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulSpeaksForIndia</a>
— Akshay Khatry (@AkshayKhatry) <a href="https://twitter.com/AkshayKhatry/status/1250745581988806656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Rahul Gandhi: Lockdown is not the Solution. 
Also Rahul Gandhi: Lockdown relaxation may cause danger of Spread of Coronavirus.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulGandhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulGandhi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulSpeaksforIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulSpeaksforIndia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid_19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid_19</a> <a href="https://t.co/DdRlNHGYZy">pic.twitter.com/DdRlNHGYZy</a>
— Vikash P Tiwari (@bana_rasiya) <a href="https://twitter.com/bana_rasiya/status/1250698783123402752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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So <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulGandhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulGandhi</a> gave an actual press conference on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID</a> and did not give any tasks? Strong leaders are supposed to ask us to bang plates or light lamps no?
— Prabha پربھا (@deepsealioness) <a href="https://twitter.com/deepsealioness/status/1250747642897854464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Harmless and vaulable, as we said!

Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi talked of exit strategies too. He concluded his address by saying the government should think of the exit strategy and economic burden which is going to come in months.&nbsp;

"Decide what your exit strategy would be after the lockdown," he said.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday called for a united fight against COVID-19, and said a lockdown was no solution to defeat the coronavirus. He added aggressive testing was the main weapon and it should be used strategically.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday called for a united fight against COVID-19, and said a lockdown was no solution to defeat the coronavirus. He added aggressive testing was the main weapon and it should be used strategically. "A misconception that I want to clear is, in no way does a lockdown defeat the virus, it stops the virus for sometime. It's just a pause button," said Rahul, in press briefing through video conferencing. So, while he said he differed with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he did not want to "get involved in 'Tu Tu Main Main' (blame game) as the country is fighting a tough battle against the virus and we will only be successful to contain it when everybody works together." "There should be no declaration of victory, it is a long fight. I disagree with PM Modi on a lot of issues but we have to unite and not fight. We have to defeat the virus together," he said. Lockdown is said to have allowed time and space to put in medical resources, ramp up testing abilities, prepare hospitals, and get ventilators for patients. It has been substantially proved -- across the world -- that lockdown did impact COVID-19 tally positively. Twitterverse latched onto this, and consequently, Rahul Gandhi trended for hours. On one hand, people asked him for an alternative to lockdown -- because, kya karein otherwise? and on the other, doled out some harmless humour, and some valuable advice. So basically #RahulGandhi did nothing since start on Covid with no contribution to PM relief fund, now he comes up with prepared Q & A n starts giving govt advice which gov is actually doing it..kudos..!! @narendramodi has done everything to control virus and helping indians — Naveen Singh (@Rebel_Naveen22) April 16, 2020 × #RahulGandhi has put several BJP MPs MLAs and numerous IT Cell wannabes to work. Hahahaha #RahulSpeaksForIndia — Akshay Khatry (@AkshayKhatry) April 16, 2020 × Rahul Gandhi: Lockdown is not the Solution. Also Rahul Gandhi: Lockdown relaxation may cause danger of Spread of Coronavirus.#RahulGandhi#RahulSpeaksforIndia#Covid_19 pic.twitter.com/DdRlNHGYZy — Vikash P Tiwari (@bana_rasiya) April 16, 2020 × So #RahulGandhi gave an actual press conference on #COVID and did not give any tasks? Strong leaders are supposed to ask us to bang plates or light lamps no? — Prabha پربھا (@deepsealioness) April 16, 2020 × Harmless and vaulable, as we said! Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi talked of exit strategies too. He concluded his address by saying the government should think of the exit strategy and economic burden which is going to come in months. "Decide what your exit strategy would be after the lockdown," he said.

'Lockdown is only a pause button to coronavirus': Rahul's assertion has Twitter confused

India's health ministry said today that 325 districts in the country have no cases of coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-reports-165-more-coronavirus-cases-107-more-in-mumbai-292910">Also Read:&nbsp;Maharashtra reports 165 more coronavirus cases; 107 more in Mumbai</a>

Indian Council of Medical Research's(ICMR) Raman R Gangakhedkar said: "2,90,401 people have been tested so far, of which 30,043 being tested on Thursday."

"26,331 tests were done at ICMR's 176 labs and 3,712 tests at 78 private labs," Gangakhedkar added.

During the press conference, the ministry of health said that an action plan has been prepared on strengthening surveillance while utilizing the services of the World Health Organisation’s national polio network.

The MHA has been monitoring lockdown violations on a daily basis including the congregation of people and opening of shops and establishments, the information and broadcasting ministry said.&nbsp;

Quarantine measures have also been ascertained, the ministry added.

India's health ministry said today that 325 districts in the country have no cases of coronavirus. Also Read: Maharashtra reports 165 more coronavirus cases; 107 more in Mumbai Indian Council of Medical Research's(ICMR) Raman R Gangakhedkar said: "2,90,401 people have been tested so far, of which 30,043 being tested on Thursday.

India's health ministry said today that 325 districts in the country have no cases of coronavirus. Also Read: Maharashtra reports 165 more coronavirus cases; 107 more in Mumbai Indian Council of Medical Research's(ICMR) Raman R Gangakhedkar said: "2,90,401 people have been tested so far, of which 30,043 being tested on Thursday." "26,331 tests were done at ICMR's 176 labs and 3,712 tests at 78 private labs," Gangakhedkar added. During the press conference, the ministry of health said that an action plan has been prepared on strengthening surveillance while utilizing the services of the World Health Organisation’s national polio network. The MHA has been monitoring lockdown violations on a daily basis including the congregation of people and opening of shops and establishments, the information and broadcasting ministry said. Quarantine measures have also been ascertained, the ministry added.

325 districts in India have no coronavirus cases: Health ministry

Joint Secretary of Health Ministry Lav Agarwal briefed the media on pandemic COVID-19 status across the country. Watch the video for more information.

Indian Health Ministry briefs media on COVID-19 status: All modes of transport to remain closed

Maharashtra on Monday reported 165 more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-72-families-in-south-delhi-quarantined-after-pizza-delivery-boy-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-292819">coronavirus </a>cases with Mumbai reporting 107 cases, the state health department said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-5-who-died-of-covid-19-in-bhopal-were-1984-gas-tragedy-victims-292766">Also Read:&nbsp;All 5 who died of COVID-19 in Bhopal were 1984 gas tragedy victims</a>

The number of coronavirus cases in Maharashtra has now risen to 3,081.

The Andhra Pradesh government reported nine more cases of coronavirus with cases in Krishna, Kurnool and West Godavari districts.

The total number of coronavirus cases has now risen to 534. Fourteen people have died due to the virus with twenty patients who have been discharged.

In Rajasthan twenty-five&nbsp;new coronavirus cases were reported with Ajmer, Bikaner, Jhunjhunu, Jodhpur and Tonk reporting COVID-19 cases.

The total number of coronavirus cases has now risen to 1,101.

As the number of cases continued to rise, the health ministry said 12,380 coronavirus cases have been reported so far in the country with 414 deaths.

Maharashtra on Monday reported 165 more coronavirus cases with Mumbai reporting 107 cases, the state health department said. Also Read: All 5 who died of COVID-19 in Bhopal were 1984 gas tragedy victims The number of coronavirus cases in Maharashtra has now risen to 3,081.

Maharashtra on Monday reported 165 more coronavirus cases with Mumbai reporting 107 cases, the state health department said. Also Read: All 5 who died of COVID-19 in Bhopal were 1984 gas tragedy victims The number of coronavirus cases in Maharashtra has now risen to 3,081. The Andhra Pradesh government reported nine more cases of coronavirus with cases in Krishna, Kurnool and West Godavari districts. The total number of coronavirus cases has now risen to 534. Fourteen people have died due to the virus with twenty patients who have been discharged. In Rajasthan twenty-five new coronavirus cases were reported with Ajmer, Bikaner, Jhunjhunu, Jodhpur and Tonk reporting COVID-19 cases. The total number of coronavirus cases has now risen to 1,101. As the number of cases continued to rise, the health ministry said 12,380 coronavirus cases have been reported so far in the country with 414 deaths.

Maharashtra reports 165 more coronavirus cases; 107 more in Mumbai

World Is One News, WION exclusively speaks to Mr. Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Indian Ambassador to United States of America.

Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Indian envoy to US Exclusively speaks to WION

Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K. Palanisamy said today that 25 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-earmarks-170-covid-19-hotspot-districts-207-potential-ones-292791">coronavirus </a>cases were reported in the state taking the number of confirmed cases to 1,267.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-72-families-in-south-delhi-quarantined-after-pizza-delivery-boy-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-292819">Also Read:&nbsp;Also Read: At least 72 families in Delhi quarantined after pizza delivery boy tests positive</a>&nbsp;

In Mumbai which has been badly hit with the COVID-19 epidemic, two family members of an officer posted at Byculla fire station tested positive for coronavirus.

In Pune, a 65-year-old woman who had tested positive for coronavirus died on Wednesday night taking the death toll due to the virus at 44.

Maharashtra has been the hardest hit due to the coronavirus. In Mumbai's Dharavi slum area eleven more coronavirus cases were reported taking the total number of coronavirus positive cases in the area to 71, BMC officials informed.

Meanwhile, the Karnataka's minority welfare, waqf &amp; hajj department announced that no public shall be allowed to perform congregational prayers in mosques across the state during Ramzan due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K. Palanisamy said today that 25 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state taking the number of confirmed cases to 1,267.

Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K. Palanisamy said today that 25 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state taking the number of confirmed cases to 1,267. Also Read: Also Read: At least 72 families in Delhi quarantined after pizza delivery boy tests positive In Mumbai which has been badly hit with the COVID-19 epidemic, two family members of an officer posted at Byculla fire station tested positive for coronavirus. In Pune, a 65-year-old woman who had tested positive for coronavirus died on Wednesday night taking the death toll due to the virus at 44. Maharashtra has been the hardest hit due to the coronavirus. In Mumbai's Dharavi slum area eleven more coronavirus cases were reported taking the total number of coronavirus positive cases in the area to 71, BMC officials informed. Meanwhile, the Karnataka's minority welfare, waqf & hajj department announced that no public shall be allowed to perform congregational prayers in mosques across the state during Ramzan due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Eleven more coronavirus cases reported in Mumbai's Dharavi; confirmed cases rise to 71

Indian envoy to United States Taranjit Singh Sandhu has said India &amp; US have been closely cooperating on COVID crisis, with India's Indian Council of Medical Research and America's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention being in touch at the technical level. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Sandhu talked about how the mission is reaching out to over 200,000 students &amp; thousands of Indian community members. His message to the Indian community, that they must stay where ever they are and follow local advisories.

WION: How are Indian students doing, are all safe? And visa issues, especially H1B remains a top concern. 
&nbsp; 
Taranjit Singh Sandhu: Students are of special category, there are a total of 200,000 Indian students in united states and when this health emergency struck, we immediately, got in touch with them through traditional means of our website, emails, social media but we also created a unique platform--a student peer support line through which we got in touch with different association and bodies. We have almost 8 thousand contacts and through them, we were in touch with 50 thousand students. We have been able to interact with them, in fact very recently we through Instagram, I spoke to almost 25,000 students on the weekend, we have been approached by the students via the various mechanism. We were able to find out they had problems regarding accommodation which we immediately contacted the university authorities. Most of the university authorities have accommodated the students on the campus, in some cases where there was an issue we got in touch with local associations, many of them are of Indian origin and they have come forward and offered, free accommodation to many of our students including some of them who were having problems with getting supplies those also have been accommodated. Our consulates and embassies are in touch with them, whenever they require any assistance or any supply, help, we provide them. Many of them also have medical issues, which we through the Indian American doctors, through telephones and telelines we have been able to provide them medical emergency assistance and finally, we had issues with visas and we are in touch with US authorities and we are trying to facilitate the resolution of these issues. like to mention, we have come out with 20 detailed advisories which layout what all the students need to do to resolve many of these problems.&nbsp;

 
WION: How is the mission reaching out to the Indian community as COVID spreads in the US?&nbsp;

Taranjit Singh Sandhu: As regards the Indian community, just to put it in perspective there are 200,000 students, 600,000 green card holders, there are 125,000 H1Bs and in addition, regularly there are a large number of Indian tourist who travels. On March 11th we proactively reached out through our website, through our social media accounts, through Indian community leaders and we informed them of the situation, the developing and the evolving situation and whoever wanted to return we facilitated there return between 11th to 22nd March, In fact, A number of OCI cardholders, whose parents were based in India, number of other emergency cases including were some deaths took place, we facilitated there return. Besides, we also set up 24*7 helpline since March 11 they are continuously functioning, many of Indian nationals and other Indian origin persons residing in the US have continuously contacted us through these medium and whatever assistance we have required we have tried to facilitate that.&nbsp;

WION: What will you&nbsp;suggest to the Indian community? US is the worst-hit country in the world?

Taranjit Singh Sandhu: Through your medium, I would like to request Indian nationals that it is very very important, that they follow the medical directives that are being issued by local authorities, by the state authorities, by the US authorities even in India and 2 very essential aspects of those are, one avoid any travel, second, keep a social distance. Other medical advisories are very common, and they are also requested to follow them. The number of cases so far have been very limited and that shows, that most of the students are closely following the advisories. My request again will be, please, ensure your wellbeing and also the well being of the people around you, and the others in the community, that is extremely important.&nbsp;

 
WION: How are the Indian diplomats doing, given how Indian diplomats now face the biggest challenge of the century, the COVID crisis, from China to US?

Taranjit Singh Sandhu: I must compliment all the Indian diplomats, who are posted in the embassy and the consulate. They have come forward and faced this challenge, with full responsibility and all our missions have been functioning and they continue to function even in extreme circumstances and by god's grace, everybody so far is safe. We will continue to be of assistance, Indian nationals and others whoever will seek assistance.&nbsp;

WION: How was your conversation with PM over the COVID crisis?

Taranjit Singh Sandhu: The leadership in India, particularly the prime minister has taken a very proactive interest in our activities. First and foremost he held a video conference where he gave us a lot of encouragement and a lot of support and also inquired about the welfare of all the officers and their family and that itself served as great encouragement for us. Secondly, he was very clear in instructing us, that the welfare of Indian nationals and welfare of Indian origin people, is important, so we have been very proactivity in touch with different community members and association including students who regularly check on their welfare and whenever any problem comes to our notice, we try to resolve and facilitate with the local authorities. Finally, the PM mentioned, that it is important, to follow what progress is taking place, especially, in term so of medicine and diagnostic and we keeping close track in that aspect and we keeping ICMR and other important medical authorities in India fully informed.

WION: How are India and US coordinating on COVID crisis, we gave Hydroxychloroquine to US, has it reached us? Any more Indian help to US?

Taranjit Singh Sandhu: On the issue of coronavirus, there has been close cooperation between the 2 sides, at the leadership level, President Trump called PM Modi, EAM has been in touch with the secretary of state and deputy secretary of state who is part of the core team in Washington DC has been in touch with the foreign secretary. At the technical level, there has been close cooperation between CDC and ICMR. They have in past too collaboration to create some vaccines, including the rotavirus, then they have worked toward developing medicines, also on diagnostics kits. In the area of medicine, there has been close cooperation between the 2 sides, we have recently supplied Hydroxychloroquine to US, in fact, president trump has publicly appreciated Indian act, there is strong cooperation between India and the US and there is a partnership which is ongoing. &nbsp;

Indian envoy to United States Taranjit Singh Sandhu has said India & US have been closely cooperating on COVID crisis, with India's Indian Council of Medical Research and America's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention being in touch at the technical level.

Indian envoy to United States Taranjit Singh Sandhu has said India & US have been closely cooperating on COVID crisis, with India's Indian Council of Medical Research and America's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention being in touch at the technical level. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Sandhu talked about how the mission is reaching out to over 200,000 students & thousands of Indian community members. His message to the Indian community, that they must stay where ever they are and follow local advisories. WION: How are Indian students doing, are all safe? And visa issues, especially H1B remains a top concern. Taranjit Singh Sandhu: Students are of special category, there are a total of 200,000 Indian students in united states and when this health emergency struck, we immediately, got in touch with them through traditional means of our website, emails, social media but we also created a unique platform--a student peer support line through which we got in touch with different association and bodies. We have almost 8 thousand contacts and through them, we were in touch with 50 thousand students. We have been able to interact with them, in fact very recently we through Instagram, I spoke to almost 25,000 students on the weekend, we have been approached by the students via the various mechanism. We were able to find out they had problems regarding accommodation which we immediately contacted the university authorities. Most of the university authorities have accommodated the students on the campus, in some cases where there was an issue we got in touch with local associations, many of them are of Indian origin and they have come forward and offered, free accommodation to many of our students including some of them who were having problems with getting supplies those also have been accommodated. Our consulates and embassies are in touch with them, whenever they require any assistance or any supply, help, we provide them. Many of them also have medical issues, which we through the Indian American doctors, through telephones and telelines we have been able to provide them medical emergency assistance and finally, we had issues with visas and we are in touch with US authorities and we are trying to facilitate the resolution of these issues. like to mention, we have come out with 20 detailed advisories which layout what all the students need to do to resolve many of these problems. WION: How is the mission reaching out to the Indian community as COVID spreads in the US? Taranjit Singh Sandhu: As regards the Indian community, just to put it in perspective there are 200,000 students, 600,000 green card holders, there are 125,000 H1Bs and in addition, regularly there are a large number of Indian tourist who travels. On March 11th we proactively reached out through our website, through our social media accounts, through Indian community leaders and we informed them of the situation, the developing and the evolving situation and whoever wanted to return we facilitated there return between 11th to 22nd March, In fact, A number of OCI cardholders, whose parents were based in India, number of other emergency cases including were some deaths took place, we facilitated there return. Besides, we also set up 24*7 helpline since March 11 they are continuously functioning, many of Indian nationals and other Indian origin persons residing in the US have continuously contacted us through these medium and whatever assistance we have required we have tried to facilitate that. WION: What will you suggest to the Indian community? US is the worst-hit country in the world? Taranjit Singh Sandhu: Through your medium, I would like to request Indian nationals that it is very very important, that they follow the medical directives that are being issued by local authorities, by the state authorities, by the US authorities even in India and 2 very essential aspects of those are, one avoid any travel, second, keep a social distance. Other medical advisories are very common, and they are also requested to follow them. The number of cases so far have been very limited and that shows, that most of the students are closely following the advisories. My request again will be, please, ensure your wellbeing and also the well being of the people around you, and the others in the community, that is extremely important. WION: How are the Indian diplomats doing, given how Indian diplomats now face the biggest challenge of the century, the COVID crisis, from China to US? Taranjit Singh Sandhu: I must compliment all the Indian diplomats, who are posted in the embassy and the consulate. They have come forward and faced this challenge, with full responsibility and all our missions have been functioning and they continue to function even in extreme circumstances and by god's grace, everybody so far is safe. We will continue to be of assistance, Indian nationals and others whoever will seek assistance. WION: How was your conversation with PM over the COVID crisis? Taranjit Singh Sandhu: The leadership in India, particularly the prime minister has taken a very proactive interest in our activities. First and foremost he held a video conference where he gave us a lot of encouragement and a lot of support and also inquired about the welfare of all the officers and their family and that itself served as great encouragement for us. Secondly, he was very clear in instructing us, that the welfare of Indian nationals and welfare of Indian origin people, is important, so we have been very proactivity in touch with different community members and association including students who regularly check on their welfare and whenever any problem comes to our notice, we try to resolve and facilitate with the local authorities. Finally, the PM mentioned, that it is important, to follow what progress is taking place, especially, in term so of medicine and diagnostic and we keeping close track in that aspect and we keeping ICMR and other important medical authorities in India fully informed. WION: How are India and US coordinating on COVID crisis, we gave Hydroxychloroquine to US, has it reached us? Any more Indian help to US? Taranjit Singh Sandhu: On the issue of coronavirus, there has been close cooperation between the 2 sides, at the leadership level, President Trump called PM Modi, EAM has been in touch with the secretary of state and deputy secretary of state who is part of the core team in Washington DC has been in touch with the foreign secretary. At the technical level, there has been close cooperation between CDC and ICMR. They have in past too collaboration to create some vaccines, including the rotavirus, then they have worked toward developing medicines, also on diagnostics kits. In the area of medicine, there has been close cooperation between the 2 sides, we have recently supplied Hydroxychloroquine to US, in fact, president trump has publicly appreciated Indian act, there is strong cooperation between India and the US and there is a partnership which is ongoing.

COVID-19 crisis: India's ICMR & America's CDC in touch, says Indian envoy to US; details on ground account of how mission reaching to Indian community

Alcohol prices in the grey market have more than quadrupled and online searches for how to make homemade alcohol have soared during the nationwide coronavirus lockdown, with bars and liquor stores shut for weeks across most parts of the country.

Many are turning to illegal liquor, say customs and police officials, who have seen a marked increase in seizures of hooch, which has in the past claimed thousands of lives among the poor unable to afford branded booze.

"I paid 700 rupees for a 170 rupees whisky bottle," said Manish, who was asked to visit a nearby milk shop in Mumbai at dawn to take delivery clandestinely.

"Many are willing to pay even higher prices for liquor, but can't get any. I was lucky as I at least got some," said Manish, who gave only his first name.

According to Google Trends, online searches for "how to make alcohol at home" peaked in India during the week of March 22-28, the same week Prime Minister Narendra Modi imposed the nationwide lockdown.

In late March, grey-market sellers were charging double the price, but premiums have been rising daily with liquor shops being sealed to prevent illegal sales, say excise officials.

The lockdown has now been extended to May 3 as the number of virus cases crossed 10,000.

"Even habitual drinkers hold limited stocks which must have been exhausted by now. In coming weeks, more and more consumers will try to buy from the grey market," said an excise official from Maharashtra. 
As branded liquor prices have surged, some consumers such as Naresh, from Indore, have been forced to drink homemade drinks, often known as "country liquor".

"Even hooch is so expensive. In normal circumstances I could have bought branded liquor at this price," he said, declining to give his family name.

More than a dozen consumers spoke to Reuters and said a 180 ml hooch bottle was now selling at over 250 rupees, up from roughly 60 rupees. All declined to be fully identified.

In Uttar Pradesh, two people died last week after drinking home-brewed liquor, while five others were admitted to hospital in critical condition, police said.

Liquor scarcity has also sparked break-ins at wine shops and fraud, with buyers conned into making online payments for liquor that never arrived, a police official in Pune said.

Local media have reported at least a dozen cases of suicide due to alcohol withdrawal symptoms, and at least two northeast states have opted to reopen alcohol stores this week to address consumer demand. 
"I feel good that (liquor) shops have opened today. I used to get bored at home as we were only sitting (at home) but now this (liquor) will entertain me," a customer who gave his name as Santosh said in Guwahati, Assam.

Alcohol prices in the grey market have more than quadrupled and online searches for how to make homemade alcohol have soared during the nationwide coronavirus lockdown, with bars and liquor stores shut for weeks across most parts of the country.

Alcohol prices in the grey market have more than quadrupled and online searches for how to make homemade alcohol have soared during the nationwide coronavirus lockdown, with bars and liquor stores shut for weeks across most parts of the country. Many are turning to illegal liquor, say customs and police officials, who have seen a marked increase in seizures of hooch, which has in the past claimed thousands of lives among the poor unable to afford branded booze. "I paid 700 rupees for a 170 rupees whisky bottle," said Manish, who was asked to visit a nearby milk shop in Mumbai at dawn to take delivery clandestinely. "Many are willing to pay even higher prices for liquor, but can't get any. I was lucky as I at least got some," said Manish, who gave only his first name. According to Google Trends, online searches for "how to make alcohol at home" peaked in India during the week of March 22-28, the same week Prime Minister Narendra Modi imposed the nationwide lockdown. In late March, grey-market sellers were charging double the price, but premiums have been rising daily with liquor shops being sealed to prevent illegal sales, say excise officials. The lockdown has now been extended to May 3 as the number of virus cases crossed 10,000. "Even habitual drinkers hold limited stocks which must have been exhausted by now. In coming weeks, more and more consumers will try to buy from the grey market," said an excise official from Maharashtra. As branded liquor prices have surged, some consumers such as Naresh, from Indore, have been forced to drink homemade drinks, often known as "country liquor". "Even hooch is so expensive. In normal circumstances I could have bought branded liquor at this price," he said, declining to give his family name. More than a dozen consumers spoke to Reuters and said a 180 ml hooch bottle was now selling at over 250 rupees, up from roughly 60 rupees. All declined to be fully identified. In Uttar Pradesh, two people died last week after drinking home-brewed liquor, while five others were admitted to hospital in critical condition, police said. Liquor scarcity has also sparked break-ins at wine shops and fraud, with buyers conned into making online payments for liquor that never arrived, a police official in Pune said. Local media have reported at least a dozen cases of suicide due to alcohol withdrawal symptoms, and at least two northeast states have opted to reopen alcohol stores this week to address consumer demand. "I feel good that (liquor) shops have opened today. I used to get bored at home as we were only sitting (at home) but now this (liquor) will entertain me," a customer who gave his name as Santosh said in Guwahati, Assam.

'How to make alcohol at home' among top online searches as liquor prices soar amid lockdown

India on Wednesday came down hard on the US Commission on International Religious Freedom for its criticism of the country based on a "misguided" report that COVID-19 patients in a hospital in Ahmedabad were segregated on the basis of their religious identities.

The US Commission expressed concerns over the way India is fighting the coronavirus pandemic following a media report that a government-run hospital in Ahmedabad segregated the infected patients on the basis of their religions.

"As if its peremptory commentary on religious freedom in India is not enough, the USCIRF is now spreading misguided reports on the professional medical protocols followed to deal with the spread of COVID-19 in India," MEA Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said.

He said no segregation of patients is being done in the civil hospital on the basis of religion as clarified by the Gujarat government.

Mr Srivastava said the USCIRF "must stop adding religious colour to our national goal of fighting the pandemic and distract from larger efforts".

Earlier in a tweet, the Commission said it was concerned over the reports of Hindu and Muslim patients being separated in the hospital. 
"Such actions only help to further increase ongoing stigmatization of Muslims in #India and exacerbate false rumours of Muslims spreading #COVID19," it said.

The USCIRF had earlier criticised India on the Citizenship (Amendment) Act.

India on Wednesday came down hard on the US Commission on International Religious Freedom for its criticism of the country based on a "misguided" report that COVID-19 patients in a hospital in Ahmedabad were segregated on the basis of their religious identities.

India on Wednesday came down hard on the US Commission on International Religious Freedom for its criticism of the country based on a "misguided" report that COVID-19 patients in a hospital in Ahmedabad were segregated on the basis of their religious identities. The US Commission expressed concerns over the way India is fighting the coronavirus pandemic following a media report that a government-run hospital in Ahmedabad segregated the infected patients on the basis of their religions. "As if its peremptory commentary on religious freedom in India is not enough, the USCIRF is now spreading misguided reports on the professional medical protocols followed to deal with the spread of COVID-19 in India," MEA Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said. He said no segregation of patients is being done in the civil hospital on the basis of religion as clarified by the Gujarat government. Mr Srivastava said the USCIRF "must stop adding religious colour to our national goal of fighting the pandemic and distract from larger efforts". Earlier in a tweet, the Commission said it was concerned over the reports of Hindu and Muslim patients being separated in the hospital. "Such actions only help to further increase ongoing stigmatization of Muslims in #India and exacerbate false rumours of Muslims spreading #COVID19," it said. The USCIRF had earlier criticised India on the Citizenship (Amendment) Act.

India blasts US religious freedom body for 'spreading misguided reports

A consignment of 5,50,000 antibody testing kits and 100,000 RNA extraction kits was dispatched by Chinese firms to India on Thursday morning for use in the country’s efforts to prevent and control the spread of Covid-19

MEA clears customs for speedy delivery of supplies from China

Apple Inc on Wednesday released a smaller iPhone priced at $399, cutting the starting price for the company`s smartphone line in a move to broaden its appeal to budget-conscious customers as the coronavirus hobbles the global economy.

The lower-cost model could also attract more consumers to Apple services, a growing driver of revenue. Shares of Apple fell 0.8%, less than the 2.1% decline of the S&amp;P 500 index.

Apple will start taking orders for the phone on its website on Friday, with the delivery of devices expected to start April 24.

The iPhone SE will start at $50 less than what was previously the cheapest iPhone available, the iPhone 8, which will be retired. The SE comes with a 4.7-inch display and the same processor chip as Apple`s most advanced phone, the 11 Pro. The SE lacks Apple`s facial recognition system to unlock the device, instead of relying on a fingerprint sensor similar to older models. While the new iPhone adds features such as wireless charging and a high-end camera, it lacks connectivity for 5G, the next generation of mobile data networks.

The announcement comes as the United States and much of the world is reeling from the novel coronavirus, although U.S. political leaders have begun to talk about ending stay-at-home orders and restarting the economy, hoping record deaths and falling hospitalizations represent a peak.

Previous iPhones have been unveiled in a polished presentation in front of fans, but large events remain banned in Apple`s home base of Santa Clara County, California, where public officials ordered the first lockdowns in the United States to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. 
Apple`s cheaper phone reflects the coronavirus-driven economic downturn and job loss.

Ben Bajarin, principal analyst for consumer market intelligence at Creative Strategies, said that Apple likely realized many customers were buying older models such as the iPhone 8 rather than the newer iPhone 11 Pro at $999, "and a big part of that is probably price." Those budget-minded iPhone buyers may have been turned off by the iPhone 8's ageing chips and camera.

Apple is "addressing that head-on with a device and price that can still get people on the latest technology," he said. "Having a device you`re sure is going to last a long time is exactly what (consumers) want." 
The new aluminum-and-glass SE - which comes in black, white and red, looks much like an iPhone 8.

The cheaper phone enters a cut-throat market for value phones, especially in China, where Apple derives about 17% of sales. In China, rivals such as Xiaomi Corp last month announced models with 5G features starting at about $425.

But Bajarin said buyers interested in 5G may gravitate toward flagship phones, while budget buyers “are not people that would give a hoot about 5G.”

With wavering hardware sales, Apple has been investing in subscription services such as its Apple TV+ streaming television service, Apple Music and iCloud. The new SE will come bundled with a one free year of the streaming television service, similar to Apple`s flagship devices released last fall.

"Given its price tag, (the iPhone SE) is unlikely to be that impactful for Apple’s financials, but could help widen the installed base, which will be helpful long term for Apple’s services revenue," said James Cordwell, an analyst with Atlantic Equities.

Horace Dediu, an analyst with Asymco, said that budget-minded phone buyers may not pay attention to whether a device has Apple`s latest chips, but third-party app developers do. If more iPhone users have powerful hardware, he said, it could encourage developers to create apps with augmented reality and artificial intelligence that could help the devices stand out against competitors.

The coronavirus has created a volatile start to the year. Sales in China, the first nation hit by the virus, plunged, then rebounded as the country began to reopen. Sales of 500,000 phones in February rose to 2.5 million phones in March, according to government sales data there.

Apple will begin selling the new model online while its stores around the world are closed, except those within its greater China sales region. 
Apple gets about 31% of its sales from its elegant stores and website, with 69% coming from partners such as mobile carriers and other retailers.

Apple said partners would decide whether to sell the phones in their physical stores. Many of Apple`s resellers are trying to guide customers toward online sales. Major partners such as Best Buy Inc have reduced their hours, and AT&amp;T Inc has closed about 40% of its U.S. retail stores.

Best Buy said customers would be able to pre-order the new iPhone on its website and either have it shipped to their home or use the company's curbside pickup option. Verizon Communications Inc, which has stopped selling any phones in physical stores, told Reuters on Wednesday that it will not sell the iPhone SE in stores. T-Mobile US Inc did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Apple Inc on Wednesday released a smaller iPhone priced at $399, cutting the starting price for the company`s smartphone line in a move to broaden its appeal to budget-conscious customers as the coronavirus hobbles the global economy.

Apple Inc on Wednesday released a smaller iPhone priced at $399, cutting the starting price for the company`s smartphone line in a move to broaden its appeal to budget-conscious customers as the coronavirus hobbles the global economy. The lower-cost model could also attract more consumers to Apple services, a growing driver of revenue. Shares of Apple fell 0.8%, less than the 2.1% decline of the S&P 500 index. Apple will start taking orders for the phone on its website on Friday, with the delivery of devices expected to start April 24. The iPhone SE will start at $50 less than what was previously the cheapest iPhone available, the iPhone 8, which will be retired. The SE comes with a 4.7-inch display and the same processor chip as Apple`s most advanced phone, the 11 Pro. The SE lacks Apple`s facial recognition system to unlock the device, instead of relying on a fingerprint sensor similar to older models. While the new iPhone adds features such as wireless charging and a high-end camera, it lacks connectivity for 5G, the next generation of mobile data networks. The announcement comes as the United States and much of the world is reeling from the novel coronavirus, although U.S. political leaders have begun to talk about ending stay-at-home orders and restarting the economy, hoping record deaths and falling hospitalizations represent a peak. Previous iPhones have been unveiled in a polished presentation in front of fans, but large events remain banned in Apple`s home base of Santa Clara County, California, where public officials ordered the first lockdowns in the United States to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. Apple`s cheaper phone reflects the coronavirus-driven economic downturn and job loss. Ben Bajarin, principal analyst for consumer market intelligence at Creative Strategies, said that Apple likely realized many customers were buying older models such as the iPhone 8 rather than the newer iPhone 11 Pro at $999, "and a big part of that is probably price." Those budget-minded iPhone buyers may have been turned off by the iPhone 8's ageing chips and camera. Apple is "addressing that head-on with a device and price that can still get people on the latest technology," he said. "Having a device you`re sure is going to last a long time is exactly what (consumers) want." The new aluminum-and-glass SE - which comes in black, white and red, looks much like an iPhone 8. The cheaper phone enters a cut-throat market for value phones, especially in China, where Apple derives about 17% of sales. In China, rivals such as Xiaomi Corp last month announced models with 5G features starting at about $425. But Bajarin said buyers interested in 5G may gravitate toward flagship phones, while budget buyers “are not people that would give a hoot about 5G.” With wavering hardware sales, Apple has been investing in subscription services such as its Apple TV+ streaming television service, Apple Music and iCloud. The new SE will come bundled with a one free year of the streaming television service, similar to Apple`s flagship devices released last fall. "Given its price tag, (the iPhone SE) is unlikely to be that impactful for Apple’s financials, but could help widen the installed base, which will be helpful long term for Apple’s services revenue," said James Cordwell, an analyst with Atlantic Equities. Horace Dediu, an analyst with Asymco, said that budget-minded phone buyers may not pay attention to whether a device has Apple`s latest chips, but third-party app developers do. If more iPhone users have powerful hardware, he said, it could encourage developers to create apps with augmented reality and artificial intelligence that could help the devices stand out against competitors. The coronavirus has created a volatile start to the year. Sales in China, the first nation hit by the virus, plunged, then rebounded as the country began to reopen. Sales of 500,000 phones in February rose to 2.5 million phones in March, according to government sales data there. Apple will begin selling the new model online while its stores around the world are closed, except those within its greater China sales region. Apple gets about 31% of its sales from its elegant stores and website, with 69% coming from partners such as mobile carriers and other retailers. Apple said partners would decide whether to sell the phones in their physical stores. Many of Apple`s resellers are trying to guide customers toward online sales. Major partners such as Best Buy Inc have reduced their hours, and AT&T Inc has closed about 40% of its U.S. retail stores. Best Buy said customers would be able to pre-order the new iPhone on its website and either have it shipped to their home or use the company's curbside pickup option. Verizon Communications Inc, which has stopped selling any phones in physical stores, told Reuters on Wednesday that it will not sell the iPhone SE in stores. T-Mobile US Inc did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Apple rolls out cheaper iPhone as pandemic curbs spending

Government of India's newly launched app Aarogya Setu (health bridge) has become an instant hit among smartphone user. It is the world's fastest-growing mobile app with more than 50 million users. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-case-in-india-cross-11000-death-toll-reaches-377-292560">Also read: Coronavirus case in India cross 11,000; death toll reaches 377</a>

This makes it the fastest App to exceed 50 million installs on the platform, at just 13 days after launching in India on April 2.

Before Aarogya Setu Niantic’s smash hit Pokémon GO had passed this milestone in just 19 days in 2016. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-extends-lockdown-till-may-3-as-coronavirus-cases-cross-10000-292393">Also read: PM Narendra Modi extends lockdown till May 3 as coronavirus cases cross 10,000</a> 
 
The Aarogya Setu (health bridge) mobile app was launched by the government of India to help people assess themselves the risk of catching coronavirus infection and alert authorities if they have come in close contact with a person infected with the deadly virus.

Yesterday, PM Modi appealed to every citizen to download and use the Aarogya Setu App. This app has been developed especially to track coronavirus cases.

This app is designed to help control the spread of coronavirus and make its information accessible to the common people. This special app also helps in finding out corona positive people present nearby.

After downloading, this app asks if you have cough, fever or trouble breathing etc. If you do not have any such problem, you will be in the Green Zone.

This app tells the user to keep the mobile phone's Bluetooth and location devices on. Whenever the user visits a crowded place, this app keeps sending messages from nearby mobile phones through the Bluetooth. When the user stands near someone who is also a normal it shows green zone. But if that person becomes corona positive after 10 days, this app will alert you immediately.

In such a situation, the user can get himself or herself checked also. This app also tells about hotspots, so that the user can change the route.

This app has launched by the Ministry of Human Resource Development is associated with Digital India for the health and well-being of every Indian. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Government of India's newly launched app Aarogya Setu (health bridge) has become an instant hit among smartphone user. It is the world's fastest-growing mobile app with more than 50 million users.

Government of India's newly launched app Aarogya Setu (health bridge) has become an instant hit among smartphone user. It is the world's fastest-growing mobile app with more than 50 million users. Also read: Coronavirus case in India cross 11,000; death toll reaches 377 This makes it the fastest App to exceed 50 million installs on the platform, at just 13 days after launching in India on April 2. Before Aarogya Setu Niantic’s smash hit Pokémon GO had passed this milestone in just 19 days in 2016. Also read: PM Narendra Modi extends lockdown till May 3 as coronavirus cases cross 10,000 The Aarogya Setu (health bridge) mobile app was launched by the government of India to help people assess themselves the risk of catching coronavirus infection and alert authorities if they have come in close contact with a person infected with the deadly virus. Yesterday, PM Modi appealed to every citizen to download and use the Aarogya Setu App. This app has been developed especially to track coronavirus cases. This app is designed to help control the spread of coronavirus and make its information accessible to the common people. This special app also helps in finding out corona positive people present nearby. After downloading, this app asks if you have cough, fever or trouble breathing etc. If you do not have any such problem, you will be in the Green Zone. This app tells the user to keep the mobile phone's Bluetooth and location devices on. Whenever the user visits a crowded place, this app keeps sending messages from nearby mobile phones through the Bluetooth. When the user stands near someone who is also a normal it shows green zone. But if that person becomes corona positive after 10 days, this app will alert you immediately. In such a situation, the user can get himself or herself checked also. This app also tells about hotspots, so that the user can change the route. This app has launched by the Ministry of Human Resource Development is associated with Digital India for the health and well-being of every Indian. (With inputs from agencies)

Aarogya Setu beats 'Pokémon GO' record, crosses 50 million downloads in 13 Days

Telangana on Tuesday reported 52 new<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1036-people-have-been-cured-of-the-virus-indias-health-ministry-292457"> coronavirus</a> cases with the total number of cases rising to 644.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-mumbai-reports-204-cases-11-deaths-in-one-day-292480">Also Read: Mumbai reports 204 cases, 11 deaths in one day</a>

Eighteen people have died due to the virus in Telangana, with 110 patients cured.

Meanwhile, in Assam, a woman from Dhubri tested positive for coronavirus.

"She is the wife of a coronavirus patient who is connected both with Nizamuddin Markaz and the Athgaon Kabristan congregation in Guwahati," Assam health minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma said.

The number of coronavirus patients in the state has now risen to 32 in the state.

Meanwhile, the Railways announced today that all passenger train services will remain cancelled&nbsp;across the country till May 3 after PM Modi declared an extension of the lockdown in the country.

There is no plan to run any special train to clear the passenger rush, the railway ministry declared.

In Maharashtra, police registered cases against &nbsp;800-1000 unidentified people in connection with the incident of gathering in Bandra.

The people were booked under Section 3 of the Epidemic Act.&nbsp;

Telangana on Tuesday reported 52 new coronavirus cases with the total number of cases rising to 644. Also Read: Mumbai reports 204 cases, 11 deaths in one day Eighteen people have died due to the virus in Telangana, with 110 patients cured.

Telangana on Tuesday reported 52 new coronavirus cases with the total number of cases rising to 644. Also Read: Mumbai reports 204 cases, 11 deaths in one day Eighteen people have died due to the virus in Telangana, with 110 patients cured. Meanwhile, in Assam, a woman from Dhubri tested positive for coronavirus. "She is the wife of a coronavirus patient who is connected both with Nizamuddin Markaz and the Athgaon Kabristan congregation in Guwahati," Assam health minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma said. The number of coronavirus patients in the state has now risen to 32 in the state. Meanwhile, the Railways announced today that all passenger train services will remain cancelled across the country till May 3 after PM Modi declared an extension of the lockdown in the country. There is no plan to run any special train to clear the passenger rush, the railway ministry declared. In Maharashtra, police registered cases against 800-1000 unidentified people in connection with the incident of gathering in Bandra. The people were booked under Section 3 of the Epidemic Act.

Police registers cases against 'unidentified' people over gathering at Bandra

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) will issue the first stage Long Range Forecast (LRF) for south-west Monsoon season (June-September) rainfall on Wednesday.

The Ministry of Earth Sciences is set to release the forecast through online video conferencing and live streaming from the national capital as part of social distancing measures put in place in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

The Ministry of Earth Sciences Secretary will brief the press through online video conferencing and live streaming from the national capital.

The LRF is the operational monsoon season forecast issued by the weather department from June to September for the entire country. This forecast, however, does not include regional level rainfall or specify quantum rainfall for the forecast period each year, the MeT department issues LRF in two stages.&nbsp;

The first stage forecast is issued in April and the second one is issued in June. These forecasts are issued using Statistical Ensemble Forecasting System (SEFS) and dynamical coupled Ocean-Atmospheric models.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) will issue the first stage Long Range Forecast (LRF) for south-west Monsoon season (June-September) rainfall on Wednesday.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) will issue the first stage Long Range Forecast (LRF) for south-west Monsoon season (June-September) rainfall on Wednesday. The Ministry of Earth Sciences is set to release the forecast through online video conferencing and live streaming from the national capital as part of social distancing measures put in place in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. The Ministry of Earth Sciences Secretary will brief the press through online video conferencing and live streaming from the national capital. The LRF is the operational monsoon season forecast issued by the weather department from June to September for the entire country. This forecast, however, does not include regional level rainfall or specify quantum rainfall for the forecast period each year, the MeT department issues LRF in two stages. The first stage forecast is issued in April and the second one is issued in June. These forecasts are issued using Statistical Ensemble Forecasting System (SEFS) and dynamical coupled Ocean-Atmospheric models.

IMD to issue long range forecast for south-west monsoon season rainfall today

Despite 21 days of stringent lockdown measures, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-extends-lockdown-till-may-3-as-coronavirus-cases-cross-10000-292393">coronavirus</a> continues to spread rapidly across India. The deadly virus has which has infected more than 10,000 people in the country.&nbsp;

The increase in cases has forced the government to extend social isolation norms till May.

Reports suggest that&nbsp;initial steps of caution and swift action in treating the sick helped India in containing the virus.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended the lockdown by another 19 days but, also highlighted how India had effectively fared well as compared to other countries in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic.

But, the contrarian view argues that India was not carrying out enough tests to assess the situation. Before PM Modi announced lockdown measures across the country, India recorded 536 cases of infection, nine deaths and had carried out 22,694 tests.

However, during the period of lockdown, more than 2,15,000 tests were conducted and the total number of cases surpassed 10,000 with close to 339 deaths.&nbsp;

Medical practitioners and experts had raised concerns over the scale of testing in India but, there has been a significant drop in new cases as the government is expanding testing centres to non-hotspots areas and conducting more tests.&nbsp;

The data on daily additional cases also suggest that India is not heading towards geometrical progression in its COVID-19 cases. In fact, there is a&nbsp;massive dip in new cases registered on some days.

A few days ago, the ministry of health and family welfare highlighted the importance of containment measures and projected what would have been the case if India had acted otherwise. In a scenario where had India not considered lockdown - the number of cases would have reached 2 lakh cases by April 11 and by April 15 --the number of cases would have surged to 8 lakh cases.

Under scenario two, where containment measures is being adopted without lockdown, the number of cases would have reached over 45,000 cases by April 11 and by April 15, the number of cases would have surpassed over one lakh cases.

However, in the current scenario where India has enforced both containment measures and a lockdown, the number of coronavirus cases have been restricted to over 10,000 cases.

As of today, the virus has infected more than 10,000 people and has killed over 339 people in India.=, however, increased testing and lockdown measures continue to dispel skepticism surrounding the outbreak in India.

In fact, the data on new cases, and earlier projections have reaffirmed India's resilience in fighting the virus.

Despite 21 days of stringent lockdown measures, coronavirus continues to spread rapidly across India. The deadly virus has which has infected more than 10,000 people in the country.

Despite 21 days of stringent lockdown measures, coronavirus continues to spread rapidly across India. The deadly virus has which has infected more than 10,000 people in the country. The increase in cases has forced the government to extend social isolation norms till May. Reports suggest that initial steps of caution and swift action in treating the sick helped India in containing the virus. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended the lockdown by another 19 days but, also highlighted how India had effectively fared well as compared to other countries in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. But, the contrarian view argues that India was not carrying out enough tests to assess the situation. Before PM Modi announced lockdown measures across the country, India recorded 536 cases of infection, nine deaths and had carried out 22,694 tests. However, during the period of lockdown, more than 2,15,000 tests were conducted and the total number of cases surpassed 10,000 with close to 339 deaths. Medical practitioners and experts had raised concerns over the scale of testing in India but, there has been a significant drop in new cases as the government is expanding testing centres to non-hotspots areas and conducting more tests. The data on daily additional cases also suggest that India is not heading towards geometrical progression in its COVID-19 cases. In fact, there is a massive dip in new cases registered on some days. A few days ago, the ministry of health and family welfare highlighted the importance of containment measures and projected what would have been the case if India had acted otherwise. In a scenario where had India not considered lockdown - the number of cases would have reached 2 lakh cases by April 11 and by April 15 --the number of cases would have surged to 8 lakh cases. Under scenario two, where containment measures is being adopted without lockdown, the number of cases would have reached over 45,000 cases by April 11 and by April 15, the number of cases would have surpassed over one lakh cases. However, in the current scenario where India has enforced both containment measures and a lockdown, the number of coronavirus cases have been restricted to over 10,000 cases. As of today, the virus has infected more than 10,000 people and has killed over 339 people in India.=, however, increased testing and lockdown measures continue to dispel skepticism surrounding the outbreak in India. In fact, the data on new cases, and earlier projections have reaffirmed India's resilience in fighting the virus.

What changes after 21 days of lockdown: India's coronavirus trajectory

According to a study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) researchers have found the presence of different kinds of coronavirus in bat species. Watch report.

ICMR: Detection of 'Bat coronavirus' in India

The central government on Wednesday, released fresh guidelines for the COVID-19 lockdown, which has been extended till May 3.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-case-in-india-cross-11000-death-toll-reaches-377-292560">Also read: Coronavirus case in India cross 11,000; death toll reaches 377</a>

According to the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), additional public activities will be allowed from April 20, like agriculture, horticulture activities and procurement of the same.&nbsp; 
 
As per the new guidelines for extended lockdown in the country, wearing of face mask is now compulsory in all public places and workplaces. Spitting in public places shall be punishable with a fine.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Contd... 
Consolidated Revised Guidelines for containment of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> (2/2)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHome</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHomeSaveLives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHomeSaveLives</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHomeStaySafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHomeStaySafe</a> <a href="https://t.co/h9qj8KeQg5">pic.twitter.com/h9qj8KeQg5</a>
— Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs/status/1250284110636957698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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All agricultural &amp; horticultural activities to remain fully functional, such as - Shops of agriculture machinery, its spare parts (including its supply chain) and repairs to remain open. Movement (inter &amp; intrastate) of harvesting &amp; sowing related machines to remain operational.

Mandis' operated by APMC or as notified by the state/UT govt. Direct marketing operations by the state/UT govts or by industry, directly from farmers/group of farmers, FPOs co-operatives etc.

MNREGA workers are allowed to work with strict implementation of social distancing and wearing a face mask.

Bank branches and ATMs, IT vendors for banking operations, banking correspondents, ATM operation and cash management agencies to remain functional from now on.

Meanwhile, A total number of 11,439 cases of coronavirus have been reported in India. So far, 377 people have succumbed to the infection in the country, while 1306 patients have been cured. There are 9756 active cases in the country, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.&nbsp;

The ministry also said that 1076 new cases and 38 deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours.

The central government on Wednesday, released fresh guidelines for the COVID-19 lockdown, which has been extended till May 3. Also read: Coronavirus case in India cross 11,000; death toll reaches 377 According to the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), additional public activities will be allowed from April 20, like agriculture, horticulture activities and procurement of the same.

The central government on Wednesday, released fresh guidelines for the COVID-19 lockdown, which has been extended till May 3. Also read: Coronavirus case in India cross 11,000; death toll reaches 377 According to the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), additional public activities will be allowed from April 20, like agriculture, horticulture activities and procurement of the same. As per the new guidelines for extended lockdown in the country, wearing of face mask is now compulsory in all public places and workplaces. Spitting in public places shall be punishable with a fine. Contd... Consolidated Revised Guidelines for containment of #COVID19 (2/2)#StayHome #StayHomeSaveLives #StayHomeStaySafe pic.twitter.com/h9qj8KeQg5 — Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) April 15, 2020 × All agricultural & horticultural activities to remain fully functional, such as - Shops of agriculture machinery, its spare parts (including its supply chain) and repairs to remain open. Movement (inter & intrastate) of harvesting & sowing related machines to remain operational. Mandis' operated by APMC or as notified by the state/UT govt. Direct marketing operations by the state/UT govts or by industry, directly from farmers/group of farmers, FPOs co-operatives etc. MNREGA workers are allowed to work with strict implementation of social distancing and wearing a face mask. Bank branches and ATMs, IT vendors for banking operations, banking correspondents, ATM operation and cash management agencies to remain functional from now on. Meanwhile, A total number of 11,439 cases of coronavirus have been reported in India. So far, 377 people have succumbed to the infection in the country, while 1306 patients have been cured. There are 9756 active cases in the country, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The ministry also said that 1076 new cases and 38 deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours.

Centre releases new lockdown guidelines till May 3, makes wearing of face mask compulsory

The man, whose social media posts allegedly led to a gathering of large number of migrant workers in suburban Bandra on Tuesday, has been arrested by Mumbai Police.

Vinay Dubey, a resident of neighbouring Navi Mumbai, was arrested in the early hours of Wednesday after he was questioned over his posts on Facebook and other social media platforms. He was initially detained by Navi Mumbai police and later handed over to the police in suburban Bandra.

Dubey had uploaded a video on social media in which he demanded that the Maharashtra government make travel arrangements for migrants, who are stranded due to the coronavirus-enforced lockdown and want to go back to their native places.

Dubey had also tweeted about the issue and called for a national-level protest if trains are not arranged till April 18 to ferry migrants workers to their native places.

He has been booked under IPC Sections 153 A (promoting disharmony, enmity or feelings of hatred between different groups), 117 (abetting commission of offence), 188 (disobedience of order by public servant), 269, 270 (negligent and malignant act likely to spread infection of disease danger to life) and provisions of the Epidemic Diseases Act, he said.

The police suspect his social media messages contributed to the protest by more than 1,000 migrant workers, most of them from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, near Bandra railway station on Tuesday afternoon. They were demanding that the state government make transport arrangements so that they can go back to their native towns and villages.

(with inputs form agencies)

The man, whose social media posts allegedly led to a gathering of large number of migrant workers in suburban Bandra on Tuesday, has been arrested by Mumbai Police.

The man, whose social media posts allegedly led to a gathering of large number of migrant workers in suburban Bandra on Tuesday, has been arrested by Mumbai Police. Vinay Dubey, a resident of neighbouring Navi Mumbai, was arrested in the early hours of Wednesday after he was questioned over his posts on Facebook and other social media platforms. He was initially detained by Navi Mumbai police and later handed over to the police in suburban Bandra. Dubey had uploaded a video on social media in which he demanded that the Maharashtra government make travel arrangements for migrants, who are stranded due to the coronavirus-enforced lockdown and want to go back to their native places. Dubey had also tweeted about the issue and called for a national-level protest if trains are not arranged till April 18 to ferry migrants workers to their native places. He has been booked under IPC Sections 153 A (promoting disharmony, enmity or feelings of hatred between different groups), 117 (abetting commission of offence), 188 (disobedience of order by public servant), 269, 270 (negligent and malignant act likely to spread infection of disease danger to life) and provisions of the Epidemic Diseases Act, he said. The police suspect his social media messages contributed to the protest by more than 1,000 migrant workers, most of them from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, near Bandra railway station on Tuesday afternoon. They were demanding that the state government make transport arrangements so that they can go back to their native towns and villages. (with inputs form agencies)

Coronavirus: Man who incited migrants to assemble in Mumbai's Bandra held

Life under lockdown can be tough. You cannot go out. There is no school. nor college. Shopping malls are closed so are restaurants and clubs...

You are locked indoors but who said you cannot go places virtually?

Enter social media. With one click and scroll, you can cross borders, climb mountains and jam to the latest track. Social media has become India's favourite lockdown pastime.

Ask an Indian and he or she will most likely point at the phone. Indians have become hooked to social media.

Data is proof.

An average Indian is opening Facebook 20.9 times a day. In February, the number was 13.9.

India went into lockdown on the 24th of march and by March 29, an average Indian was opening Instagram 19 times a day. These numbers are from market intelligence platform-- Kalagato.

It says TikTok has emerged as one of the biggest gainers. It's session time has risen to 56.9 minutes. TikTok's varied content, despite the security concerns, seems to have worked magic with Indian users.

Live dot me too has seen an uptick in user base. Its time spent has grown 315% per cent between 2nd of February and 29th of march. With an average user clicking on the app at least 11.8 times a day.

A daily active user base is not something too many apps can boast of.

Twitter is at number 1 in India. Its daily active users have grown 30 per cent. Experts say-- it's courtesy the lack of newspapers. Live dot me is at number 2. Tiktok has been a gainer here too but misinformation and fake news remain a matter of big concern for this Chinese app. The numbers for Facebook and Instagram are not too impressive. That said, one must keep in mind that both these apps already have a loyal fan base. At the end of the day, there is one thing that all of these numbers are pointing at...

How are Indians passing their time in the lockdown?

Tik tok tik tok tik tok.

Life under lockdown can be tough. You cannot go out. There is no school. nor college. Shopping malls are closed so are restaurants and clubs... You are locked indoors but who said you cannot go places virtually?

Life under lockdown can be tough. You cannot go out. There is no school. nor college. Shopping malls are closed so are restaurants and clubs... You are locked indoors but who said you cannot go places virtually? Enter social media. With one click and scroll, you can cross borders, climb mountains and jam to the latest track. Social media has become India's favourite lockdown pastime. Ask an Indian and he or she will most likely point at the phone. Indians have become hooked to social media. Data is proof. An average Indian is opening Facebook 20.9 times a day. In February, the number was 13.9. India went into lockdown on the 24th of march and by March 29, an average Indian was opening Instagram 19 times a day. These numbers are from market intelligence platform-- Kalagato. It says TikTok has emerged as one of the biggest gainers. It's session time has risen to 56.9 minutes. TikTok's varied content, despite the security concerns, seems to have worked magic with Indian users. Live dot me too has seen an uptick in user base. Its time spent has grown 315% per cent between 2nd of February and 29th of march. With an average user clicking on the app at least 11.8 times a day. A daily active user base is not something too many apps can boast of. Twitter is at number 1 in India. Its daily active users have grown 30 per cent. Experts say-- it's courtesy the lack of newspapers. Live dot me is at number 2. Tiktok has been a gainer here too but misinformation and fake news remain a matter of big concern for this Chinese app. The numbers for Facebook and Instagram are not too impressive. That said, one must keep in mind that both these apps already have a loyal fan base. At the end of the day, there is one thing that all of these numbers are pointing at... How are Indians passing their time in the lockdown? Tik tok tik tok tik tok.

How are Indians passing their time in the lockdown?

A potentially pathogenic coronavirus has been detected in Indian bats, stressing the need for enhancing screening for the deadly viruses in them. This was discovered under a study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), which was a step towards understanding the coronavirus circulation in Indian bats.&nbsp;

There have been studies and theories that the coronavirus pandemic which spread from Wuhan in China had originated from bats.

The ICMR study for the first time has found the presence of a different kind of coronavirus, bat coronavirus (BtCoV) in two bat species from these four states. According to the study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research, there is no evidence to suggest that the bat coronaviruses can cause disease in humans.

Bats from the Rousettus and Pteropus species from the four states were found positive. These bat coronaviruses are not related to the SARS-CoV2 which is causing the Covid 19 pandemic. The Pteropus bat species were earlier found positive for Nipah virus in 2018 and 2019 in Kerala.

The study by the ICMR found the presence of a bat coronavirus in bat species from Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Puducherry and Tamil Nadu.

"Bats are considered to be the natural reservoir for many viruses, of which some are potential human pathogens. In India, an association of Pteropus medius bats with the Nipah virus was reported in the past. It is suspected that the recently emerged severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) also has its association with bats," the objective of the study titled 'Detection of coronaviruses in Pteropus and Rousettus species of bats from different states of India' said.

In conclusion, the study showed detection of pathogenic CoVs in two species of Indian bats. Continuous active surveillance is required to identify the emerging novel viruses with epidemic potential.

"There is a need of proactive surveillance of zoonotic infections in bats. Detection and identifications of such aetiological agents will provide leads for the development of diagnostic along with preparedness and readiness to deal with such emergent viruses thereby quickly containing them," the study said.

Although CoVs in the subfamily Coronavirinae do not usually produce clinical symptoms in their natural hosts (bats), accidental transmission of these viruses to humans and other animals may result in respiratory, enteric, hepatic or neurologic diseases of variable severity. It is still not understood as to why only certain CoVs can infect people, the study said.

A potentially pathogenic coronavirus has been detected in Indian bats, stressing the need for enhancing screening for the deadly viruses in them. This was discovered under a study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), which was a step towards understanding the coronavirus circulation in Indian bats.

A potentially pathogenic coronavirus has been detected in Indian bats, stressing the need for enhancing screening for the deadly viruses in them. This was discovered under a study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), which was a step towards understanding the coronavirus circulation in Indian bats. There have been studies and theories that the coronavirus pandemic which spread from Wuhan in China had originated from bats. The ICMR study for the first time has found the presence of a different kind of coronavirus, bat coronavirus (BtCoV) in two bat species from these four states. According to the study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research, there is no evidence to suggest that the bat coronaviruses can cause disease in humans. Bats from the Rousettus and Pteropus species from the four states were found positive. These bat coronaviruses are not related to the SARS-CoV2 which is causing the Covid 19 pandemic. The Pteropus bat species were earlier found positive for Nipah virus in 2018 and 2019 in Kerala. The study by the ICMR found the presence of a bat coronavirus in bat species from Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Puducherry and Tamil Nadu. "Bats are considered to be the natural reservoir for many viruses, of which some are potential human pathogens. In India, an association of Pteropus medius bats with the Nipah virus was reported in the past. It is suspected that the recently emerged severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) also has its association with bats," the objective of the study titled 'Detection of coronaviruses in Pteropus and Rousettus species of bats from different states of India' said. In conclusion, the study showed detection of pathogenic CoVs in two species of Indian bats. Continuous active surveillance is required to identify the emerging novel viruses with epidemic potential. "There is a need of proactive surveillance of zoonotic infections in bats. Detection and identifications of such aetiological agents will provide leads for the development of diagnostic along with preparedness and readiness to deal with such emergent viruses thereby quickly containing them," the study said. Although CoVs in the subfamily Coronavirinae do not usually produce clinical symptoms in their natural hosts (bats), accidental transmission of these viruses to humans and other animals may result in respiratory, enteric, hepatic or neurologic diseases of variable severity. It is still not understood as to why only certain CoVs can infect people, the study said.

Coronavirus, found in Indian bats, not evidently connected to COVID-19

The total number of coronavirus cases in India today jumped to 11,439 after nearly 1076 new infections were reported in the past 24 hours, according to the latest data from the Health Ministry.&nbsp;

A total number of 11,439 cases of coronavirus have been reported in India. So far, 377 people have succumbed to the infection in the country, while 1306 patients have been cured. There are 9756 active cases in the country, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.&nbsp;

The ministry also said that 1076 new cases and 38 deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours. 
 
India's Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday extended the countrywide lockdown till May 3 as coronavirus continued to rise in the country. 
 
A detailed set of guidelines on Coronavirus Lockdown to be issued today by the government.

The total number of coronavirus cases in India today jumped to 11,439 after nearly 1076 new infections were reported in the past 24 hours, according to the latest data from the Health Ministry.

The total number of coronavirus cases in India today jumped to 11,439 after nearly 1076 new infections were reported in the past 24 hours, according to the latest data from the Health Ministry. A total number of 11,439 cases of coronavirus have been reported in India. So far, 377 people have succumbed to the infection in the country, while 1306 patients have been cured. There are 9756 active cases in the country, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The ministry also said that 1076 new cases and 38 deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours. India's Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday extended the countrywide lockdown till May 3 as coronavirus continued to rise in the country. A detailed set of guidelines on Coronavirus Lockdown to be issued today by the government.

Coronavirus case in India cross 11,000; death toll reaches 377

Tamil Nadu on Wednesday reported 38 more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-reports-117-new-coronavirus-cases-66-from-mumbai-292652">coronavirus</a> cases taking the total number of cases to 1, 242 which included 1,113 people who attended the event in Delhi's Nizamuddin area last month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/11933-covid-19-cases-in-india-392-deaths-health-ministry-292704">Also Read:&nbsp;11,933 COVID-19 cases in India, 392 deaths</a>

J&amp;K also reported more COVID-19 cases with four from Jammu and 18 from Kashmir taking the total number of cases to 300.

In a major relief for the Uttarakhand government, no new coronavirus cases were reported today with the total number of cases now at 37.

Chandigarh reported 21 cases of the virus as 115 people tested positive for coronavirus in Himachal Pradesh today. The state health department said.

West Bengal reported 12 new cases of COVID-19 in the last 24 hours taking the number of active cases to 132. Seven people have died due to the virus in the state.

 
&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu on Wednesday reported 38 more coronavirus cases taking the total number of cases to 1, 242 which included 1,113 people who attended the event in Delhi's Nizamuddin area last month.

Tamil Nadu on Wednesday reported 38 more coronavirus cases taking the total number of cases to 1, 242 which included 1,113 people who attended the event in Delhi's Nizamuddin area last month. Also Read: 11,933 COVID-19 cases in India, 392 deaths J&K also reported more COVID-19 cases with four from Jammu and 18 from Kashmir taking the total number of cases to 300. In a major relief for the Uttarakhand government, no new coronavirus cases were reported today with the total number of cases now at 37. Chandigarh reported 21 cases of the virus as 115 people tested positive for coronavirus in Himachal Pradesh today. The state health department said. West Bengal reported 12 new cases of COVID-19 in the last 24 hours taking the number of active cases to 132. Seven people have died due to the virus in the state.

Tamil Nadu reports 38 more coronavirus cases; 1,242 confirmed cases

Police on Wednesday arrested a television journalist in Mumbai over his report on resumption of special trains, which reportedly prompted the gathering of large number migrant workers in suburban Bandra on Tuesday amidst the coronavirus lockdown, a police official said.

The accused, Rahul Kulkarni, was detained in Osmanabad in Marathwada region, where he is based, and brought to Mumbai where he was formally arrested, according to PTI.

State Home Minister Anil Deshmukh announced the arrest on his Twitter handle.

"Police arrested journalist Rahul Kulkarni for giving news report, due to which rumour was spread," Deshmukh tweeted.

In a recent news report, Kulkarni said Jan Sadharan special trains would resume for people stranded due to the lockdown, the police official said.

He has been booked under IPC Sections 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant and 269, 270 (negligent, malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life), 117 (abetting commission of offence by public), the official said.

More than 1,000 migrant workers, most of them from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, gathered near Bandra railway station here on Tuesday afternoon.

They were demanding that the state government make transport arrangements so that they can go back to their native towns and villages.&nbsp;

Police on Wednesday arrested a television journalist in Mumbai over his report on resumption of special trains, which reportedly prompted the gathering of large number migrant workers in suburban Bandra on Tuesday amidst the coronavirus lockdown, a police official said.

Police on Wednesday arrested a television journalist in Mumbai over his report on resumption of special trains, which reportedly prompted the gathering of large number migrant workers in suburban Bandra on Tuesday amidst the coronavirus lockdown, a police official said. The accused, Rahul Kulkarni, was detained in Osmanabad in Marathwada region, where he is based, and brought to Mumbai where he was formally arrested, according to PTI. State Home Minister Anil Deshmukh announced the arrest on his Twitter handle. "Police arrested journalist Rahul Kulkarni for giving news report, due to which rumour was spread," Deshmukh tweeted. In a recent news report, Kulkarni said Jan Sadharan special trains would resume for people stranded due to the lockdown, the police official said. He has been booked under IPC Sections 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant and 269, 270 (negligent, malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life), 117 (abetting commission of offence by public), the official said. More than 1,000 migrant workers, most of them from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, gathered near Bandra railway station here on Tuesday afternoon. They were demanding that the state government make transport arrangements so that they can go back to their native towns and villages.

Migrant workers crisis  in Mumbai: TV journalist arrested for news report

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