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How COVID-19 is driving innovation in India

India has cleared the first list of 13 countries who will get hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), with neighbourhood getting priority. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-community-transmission-of-coronavirus-in-the-country-yet-india-health-ministry-291803">Also Read:&nbsp;No community transmission of coronavirus in the country yet, says health ministry</a>

Overall India will be giving hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to 25 countries. India has given approval for export of 14 million tablets of Hydroxychloroquine.

The 13 countries which India will be giving HCQ, termed as game-changer drug by India are - US, two from Europe - Spain and Germany, two from South America - Dominican Republic and Brazil, one from West Asia, Bahrain and five from the neighbourhood - Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Maldives and Bangladesh

Speaking at the daily press briefing of the Indian government, Dammu Ravi, MEA's nodal person for COVID-19 said, "HCQ is in high demand globally. Lot of request for HCQ already there, several countries have made the request, taking in the view domestic requirements, domestic stock availability.. the decision was taken by a group of the minister to release surplus medicine for export purposes. The first list of countries have been approved and products have started to leave, working on second list and then the third list."

India is providing humanitarian aid like Pharma (HCQ &amp; paracetamol) to SAARC &amp; Indian Ocean countries like Mauritius &amp; SeychellesIn.

Additionally, India is also providing humanitarian aid to countries in Africa and Latin America. Outside these regions, New Delhi is currently processing requests for medicines (HCQ/Paracetamol) from countries based on availability and would be supplying them on a commercial basis.

Asked about the criteria India is following for countries, Dammu Revi said, "Request for countries existed for HCQ, we analysed the request. Sometimes demand can be very high, we need to rationalise. This drug is under high demand and all countries impacted by COVID-19 are asking for it. So it was discussed internally and in consultation with pharma dept, health and various others in the empowered committee."

"It is first come, first basis, but the neighbourhood is very important, countries very vulnerable. So we went through the process of making the assessment, who would need first..it is an ongoing process. Doing it in a balanced and rationalizing demand of various countries," Revi added.

While HCQ remains on the banned list of export products, India is giving the drug only on licence both for export and aid. India needs one crore HCQ tablets, and currently has 3.28 crore tablets and 1-2 crore tablets can be produced. Indian authorities have allowed the use of HCQ for frontline workers only and under the prescription of a medical physician.&nbsp;

Indian PM Modi has been personally approached by world leaders for HCQ. On Friday PM Modi spoke to Japan PM Abe and Nepali PM KP Sharma Oli. Three world leaders, US President Donald Trump, Brazilian President Jair M. Bolsonaro and Israeli's PM Benjamin Netanyahu have personally thanked Indian PM and people of India on twitter.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

India has cleared the first list of 13 countries who will get hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), with neighbourhood getting priority. Also Read: No community transmission of coronavirus in the country yet, says health ministry Overall India will be giving hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to 25 countries.

India has cleared the first list of 13 countries who will get hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), with neighbourhood getting priority. Also Read: No community transmission of coronavirus in the country yet, says health ministry Overall India will be giving hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to 25 countries. India has given approval for export of 14 million tablets of Hydroxychloroquine. The 13 countries which India will be giving HCQ, termed as game-changer drug by India are - US, two from Europe - Spain and Germany, two from South America - Dominican Republic and Brazil, one from West Asia, Bahrain and five from the neighbourhood - Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Maldives and Bangladesh Speaking at the daily press briefing of the Indian government, Dammu Ravi, MEA's nodal person for COVID-19 said, "HCQ is in high demand globally. Lot of request for HCQ already there, several countries have made the request, taking in the view domestic requirements, domestic stock availability.. the decision was taken by a group of the minister to release surplus medicine for export purposes. The first list of countries have been approved and products have started to leave, working on second list and then the third list." India is providing humanitarian aid like Pharma (HCQ & paracetamol) to SAARC & Indian Ocean countries like Mauritius & SeychellesIn. Additionally, India is also providing humanitarian aid to countries in Africa and Latin America. Outside these regions, New Delhi is currently processing requests for medicines (HCQ/Paracetamol) from countries based on availability and would be supplying them on a commercial basis. Asked about the criteria India is following for countries, Dammu Revi said, "Request for countries existed for HCQ, we analysed the request. Sometimes demand can be very high, we need to rationalise. This drug is under high demand and all countries impacted by COVID-19 are asking for it. So it was discussed internally and in consultation with pharma dept, health and various others in the empowered committee." "It is first come, first basis, but the neighbourhood is very important, countries very vulnerable. So we went through the process of making the assessment, who would need first..it is an ongoing process. Doing it in a balanced and rationalizing demand of various countries," Revi added. While HCQ remains on the banned list of export products, India is giving the drug only on licence both for export and aid. India needs one crore HCQ tablets, and currently has 3.28 crore tablets and 1-2 crore tablets can be produced. Indian authorities have allowed the use of HCQ for frontline workers only and under the prescription of a medical physician. Indian PM Modi has been personally approached by world leaders for HCQ. On Friday PM Modi spoke to Japan PM Abe and Nepali PM KP Sharma Oli. Three world leaders, US President Donald Trump, Brazilian President Jair M. Bolsonaro and Israeli's PM Benjamin Netanyahu have personally thanked Indian PM and people of India on twitter.

COVID-19: India clears first list of 13 countries for HCQ as neigbhourhood get priority

Coronavirus cases in India have risen dramatically to 6,412 and the death toll to 199, according to data released by the Ministry of health.&nbsp;

Figures released on Friday morning showed 678 new coronavirus cases in the country with 33 deaths in the last 24 hours.

Because of a continuing surge in infections, Odisha on Thursday became the first state to extend the ongoing 21-day lockdown by another two weeks to April 30. It is being said that other states might also follow suit.

Meanwhile, Railways have deployed more than 2,500 doctors &amp; 35,000 paramedics staff. Their chain of 586 health units,45 sub-divisional hospitals,56 divisional hospitals,8 production unit hospitals and 16 zonal hospitals are dedicating their significant facilities to fight COVID-19.

Globally, the death toll has reached 95,718 and the number of infections stands at 1,601,018, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

Coronavirus cases in India have risen dramatically to 6,412 and the death toll to 199, according to data released by the Ministry of health. Figures released on Friday morning showed 678 new coronavirus cases in the country with 33 deaths in the last 24 hours.

Coronavirus cases in India have risen dramatically to 6,412 and the death toll to 199, according to data released by the Ministry of health. Figures released on Friday morning showed 678 new coronavirus cases in the country with 33 deaths in the last 24 hours. Because of a continuing surge in infections, Odisha on Thursday became the first state to extend the ongoing 21-day lockdown by another two weeks to April 30. It is being said that other states might also follow suit. Meanwhile, Railways have deployed more than 2,500 doctors & 35,000 paramedics staff. Their chain of 586 health units,45 sub-divisional hospitals,56 divisional hospitals,8 production unit hospitals and 16 zonal hospitals are dedicating their significant facilities to fight COVID-19. Globally, the death toll has reached 95,718 and the number of infections stands at 1,601,018, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

Coronavirus in India: Total COVID-19 cases at 6,412, death toll at 199

Bilwara is a city in Rajasthan which reported just 1 positive case of pandemic Coronavirus (COVID-19) in last 9 days, all thanks to 'Bhilwara Model'! In this video, know what is 'Bhilwara Model'?

Rajasthan: Bilwara reports just 1 case of COVID-19  in last 9 days, all thanks to 'Bhilwara Model'!

There are innumerable instances amid busy workdays and lethargic weekends when we find solace in food and drinks from our favorite restaurants.&nbsp;

When we needed them, the restaurants came to our rescue and provided us with a sumptuous meal, but amid the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-community-transmission-of-coronavirus-in-the-country-yet-india-health-ministry-291803">lockdown</a>, these very restaurants are taking a beating with no business, mounting rents and salaries to pay. At this time of need, why not pitch in and help those that have always served us?&nbsp;

This was the idea behind Helprestaurant.in which is powered by a company Where’s The Food(WTF), and a group of volunteers.&nbsp;

“We work closely with restaurants to help them improve efficiency and processes. Our website was launched on April 2 after we decided that, amid the lockdown and job cuts in restaurants worldwide, we need to give back to our favorite restaurants to help them tide over the current crisis and ensure that they are back in business soonest”, Sadagoban the founder of WTF told WION.&nbsp;

“The main challenges that small and medium restaurants face is the lack of cash flow, which cripples them. Our website lists out our partner restaurants and allows patrons to digitally buy a ‘Foodie Card’, costing anywhere between 170 and 800 Rupees. Once the card is bought by a customer, he/she receives an SMS with a unique code. Our team then credits the amount to the restaurant, without charging any fee. The restaurants can use this income to meet their expenses and stay afloat, as business resumes, people can redeem the Foodie cards. The cards offer lifetime validity and customers can avail anywhere between 5-15 per cent discounts at these restaurants using their unique codes” Sadagoban added.

Helprestaurant.in team says, over 50 restaurants spread across Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi and Gurgaon have joined them, among others. Currently, the website provides the option for restaurateurs to enlist and also allows volunteers to add their favorite restaurants and help in reaching out to more eateries.&nbsp;

“We are almost losing 5-6 lakhs of money this month, and our stock is going to expire. Besides the room rent and staff salary that we have to pay a lot of other payments also are pending. Even once the lockdown ends, we would need a huge sum of money to re-start the business. The Foodie cards seem to be a good idea, we’ll have to see how it works with our patrons”, Yasmin who owns the Orange Wok Restaurant outlet in Chennai told WION.

The team at Helprestaurant.in includes 11 staff and 22 volunteers, who are also supported by food bloggers to take this initiative far and wide. While the techies in the team worked on getting the website ready, the others reached out to restaurants in the small and medium category.

“As food bloggers we are a part of this community and can reach out to our subscribers on social media and tell them to consider this option. During the lockdown we can connect better to the audience, as they would be glued to social media” Nancy, a food blogger told Wion.

The Helprestaurant.in team hopes to reach out to the larger Foodie community to ensure that their ‘Foodie cards’ would aid small and medium restaurants to get back in action once normalcy resumes.&nbsp;

There are innumerable instances amid busy workdays and lethargic weekends when we find solace in food and drinks from our favorite restaurants. When we needed them, the restaurants came to our rescue and provided us with a sumptuous meal, but amid the lockdown, these very restaurants are taking a beating with no business, mounting rents and salaries to pay.

There are innumerable instances amid busy workdays and lethargic weekends when we find solace in food and drinks from our favorite restaurants. When we needed them, the restaurants came to our rescue and provided us with a sumptuous meal, but amid the lockdown, these very restaurants are taking a beating with no business, mounting rents and salaries to pay. At this time of need, why not pitch in and help those that have always served us? This was the idea behind Helprestaurant.in which is powered by a company Where’s The Food(WTF), and a group of volunteers. “We work closely with restaurants to help them improve efficiency and processes. Our website was launched on April 2 after we decided that, amid the lockdown and job cuts in restaurants worldwide, we need to give back to our favorite restaurants to help them tide over the current crisis and ensure that they are back in business soonest”, Sadagoban the founder of WTF told WION. “The main challenges that small and medium restaurants face is the lack of cash flow, which cripples them. Our website lists out our partner restaurants and allows patrons to digitally buy a ‘Foodie Card’, costing anywhere between 170 and 800 Rupees. Once the card is bought by a customer, he/she receives an SMS with a unique code. Our team then credits the amount to the restaurant, without charging any fee. The restaurants can use this income to meet their expenses and stay afloat, as business resumes, people can redeem the Foodie cards. The cards offer lifetime validity and customers can avail anywhere between 5-15 per cent discounts at these restaurants using their unique codes” Sadagoban added. Helprestaurant.in team says, over 50 restaurants spread across Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi and Gurgaon have joined them, among others. Currently, the website provides the option for restaurateurs to enlist and also allows volunteers to add their favorite restaurants and help in reaching out to more eateries. “We are almost losing 5-6 lakhs of money this month, and our stock is going to expire. Besides the room rent and staff salary that we have to pay a lot of other payments also are pending. Even once the lockdown ends, we would need a huge sum of money to re-start the business. The Foodie cards seem to be a good idea, we’ll have to see how it works with our patrons”, Yasmin who owns the Orange Wok Restaurant outlet in Chennai told WION. The team at Helprestaurant.in includes 11 staff and 22 volunteers, who are also supported by food bloggers to take this initiative far and wide. While the techies in the team worked on getting the website ready, the others reached out to restaurants in the small and medium category. “As food bloggers we are a part of this community and can reach out to our subscribers on social media and tell them to consider this option. During the lockdown we can connect better to the audience, as they would be glued to social media” Nancy, a food blogger told Wion. The Helprestaurant.in team hopes to reach out to the larger Foodie community to ensure that their ‘Foodie cards’ would aid small and medium restaurants to get back in action once normalcy resumes.

How foodies are helping their favourite restaurants amid lockdown

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday thanked his Indian counterpart for rushing a five-tonne cargo of medicines, including anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine, being seen worldwide as the best possible cure as of now for treating COVID-19 patients.

Netanyahu thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India two days after a plane carrying raw material to manufacture medicines for treating coronavirus patients arrived in Israel from India on Tuesday.

"Thank you, my dear friend @narendramodi, Prime Minister of India, for sending Chloroquine to Israel. All the citizens of Israel thank you!" Netanyahu said in a tweet Thursday evening.

The five tonne shipment included ingredients for drugs chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine.

The dreaded coronavirus has infected nearly 10,000 people in Israel and claimed 86 lives.&nbsp;

The Indian consignment reached Israel within days after Netanyahu spoke to PM Modi on April 3.

Netanyahu had been in touch with Modi ever since the coronavirus crisis erupted. He had made a special request on March 13 asking the Indian prime minister to approve and allow export of masks and pharmaceuticals to Israel.

The Israeli leader spoke to Modi a second time on April 3 to discuss various steps to deal with the coronavirus crisis.

Netanyahu's gratitude towards India followed soon after US President Donald Trump and Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro thanked PM Modi for lifting restrictions on the export.

On March 25, India banned export of hydroxychloroquine in the midst of views in some quarters that the drug could be used to fight COVID-19. India is the largest exporter of the drug. The ban was partially lifted on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brazil-president-thanks-pm-modi-for-allowing-export-of-raw-material-to-produce-hcq-291523">Also read | Brazil president thanks PM Modi for allowing export of raw material to produce HCQ</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/humanity-in-times-of-covid-19-trump-thanks-india-pm-modi-for-decision-on-hcq-291430">Also read | Humanity in times of COVID-19: Trump thanks India, PM Modi for decision on HCQ</a>

 
&nbsp;

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday thanked his Indian counterpart for rushing a five-tonne cargo of medicines, including anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine, being seen worldwide as the best possible cure as of now for treating COVID-19 patients.

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday thanked his Indian counterpart for rushing a five-tonne cargo of medicines, including anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine, being seen worldwide as the best possible cure as of now for treating COVID-19 patients. Netanyahu thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India two days after a plane carrying raw material to manufacture medicines for treating coronavirus patients arrived in Israel from India on Tuesday. "Thank you, my dear friend @narendramodi, Prime Minister of India, for sending Chloroquine to Israel. All the citizens of Israel thank you!" Netanyahu said in a tweet Thursday evening. The five tonne shipment included ingredients for drugs chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine. The dreaded coronavirus has infected nearly 10,000 people in Israel and claimed 86 lives. The Indian consignment reached Israel within days after Netanyahu spoke to PM Modi on April 3. Netanyahu had been in touch with Modi ever since the coronavirus crisis erupted. He had made a special request on March 13 asking the Indian prime minister to approve and allow export of masks and pharmaceuticals to Israel. The Israeli leader spoke to Modi a second time on April 3 to discuss various steps to deal with the coronavirus crisis. Netanyahu's gratitude towards India followed soon after US President Donald Trump and Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro thanked PM Modi for lifting restrictions on the export. On March 25, India banned export of hydroxychloroquine in the midst of views in some quarters that the drug could be used to fight COVID-19. India is the largest exporter of the drug. The ban was partially lifted on Tuesday. Also read | Brazil president thanks PM Modi for allowing export of raw material to produce HCQ Also read | Humanity in times of COVID-19: Trump thanks India, PM Modi for decision on HCQ

Netanyahu thanks India, PM Modi for delivering HCQ to Israel

India's financial capital Mumbai on Friday reported 218 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/37-deaths-896-new-cases-sharpest-increase-in-covid-19-cases-in-india-health-ministry-291820">coronavirus </a>cases and ten&nbsp;deaths taking the total number of cases to 993 in the city with 64 deaths.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-community-transmission-of-coronavirus-in-the-country-yet-india-health-ministry-291803">Also Read:&nbsp;No community transmission of coronavirus in the country yet, says India health ministry</a>

In Gurugram in Haryana, the local administration has made wearing of masks outside compulsory. Any person found in violation of the instruction will punishable under section 188 of the Indian Penal Code, the local administration officials said.

Elsewhere in Odisha, the number of coronavirus cases rose to 48 with 38 cases from Bhubaneswar in Khordha district. There are 45 active cases in the state, officials said.&nbsp;

The Tamil Nadu health officials said that out of the 77 new coronavirus cases on Friday, 70 belonged to those who had attended the "single source"&nbsp;event at Delhi's Nizamuddin area.

Meanwhile, Chandigarh reported more coronavirus cases with a 40-year-old testing positive for the virus taking the total number of confirmed cases to 19.

In Tamil Nadu, the death toll rose after one patient died in Thoothukudi. The total number of those who have died due to virus in the state now stands at nine.

India's financial capital Mumbai on Friday reported 218 coronavirus cases and ten deaths taking the total number of cases to 993 in the city with 64 deaths. Also Read: No community transmission of coronavirus in the country yet, says India health ministry In Gurugram in Haryana, the local administration has made wearing of masks outside compulsory.

India's financial capital Mumbai on Friday reported 218 coronavirus cases and ten deaths taking the total number of cases to 993 in the city with 64 deaths. Also Read: No community transmission of coronavirus in the country yet, says India health ministry In Gurugram in Haryana, the local administration has made wearing of masks outside compulsory. Any person found in violation of the instruction will punishable under section 188 of the Indian Penal Code, the local administration officials said. Elsewhere in Odisha, the number of coronavirus cases rose to 48 with 38 cases from Bhubaneswar in Khordha district. There are 45 active cases in the state, officials said. The Tamil Nadu health officials said that out of the 77 new coronavirus cases on Friday, 70 belonged to those who had attended the "single source" event at Delhi's Nizamuddin area. Meanwhile, Chandigarh reported more coronavirus cases with a 40-year-old testing positive for the virus taking the total number of confirmed cases to 19. In Tamil Nadu, the death toll rose after one patient died in Thoothukudi. The total number of those who have died due to virus in the state now stands at nine.

Mumbai records 218 coronavirus cases, 10 deaths in one day; 64 dead in city

Even as Punjab on Friday extended lockdown in the state till May 1, the state government said today that twenty-one new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/37-deaths-896-new-cases-sharpest-increase-in-covid-19-cases-in-india-health-ministry-291820">coronavirus</a> cases were reported in the last 24 hours taking the total number of confirmed cases to 151.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-community-transmission-of-coronavirus-in-the-country-yet-india-health-ministry-291803">Also Read:&nbsp;No community transmission of coronavirus in the country yet, says India health ministry</a>

Amid the rising number of cases, Punjab CM Amarinder Singh proposed Rs 550 crore project to the government for setting up an advanced centre for virology in the state, with land to be offered by the state government free of cost.

CM Amarinder Singh wrote to PM Modi requesting him to direct the Union Ministry of health &amp; family welfare to set up the proposed centre which would focus on addressing regional, national and global needs in virology, diagnostic, research and therapeutic evaluations to cope with the coronavirus crisis.

Meanwhile, elsewhere the Karnataka government said that ten new coronavirus cases were reported in the state in last 24 hours taking the number of cases to 207.

Six people have died to the virus in Karnataka.

Punjab's Mohali district granted permission to Max Super Speciality Hospital to collect samples for testing of coronavirus cases.

Elsewhere in the country, the Tamil Nadu government said that 77 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state today with the total number of confirmed cases climbing to 911 in the state even as the Haryana government said 162 persons have been tested positive for coronavirus in the state, with 22 people having been discharged.

(With ANI inputs)

Even as Punjab on Friday extended lockdown in the state till May 1, the state government said today that twenty-one new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours taking the total number of confirmed cases to 151.

Even as Punjab on Friday extended lockdown in the state till May 1, the state government said today that twenty-one new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours taking the total number of confirmed cases to 151. Also Read: No community transmission of coronavirus in the country yet, says India health ministry Amid the rising number of cases, Punjab CM Amarinder Singh proposed Rs 550 crore project to the government for setting up an advanced centre for virology in the state, with land to be offered by the state government free of cost. CM Amarinder Singh wrote to PM Modi requesting him to direct the Union Ministry of health & family welfare to set up the proposed centre which would focus on addressing regional, national and global needs in virology, diagnostic, research and therapeutic evaluations to cope with the coronavirus crisis. Meanwhile, elsewhere the Karnataka government said that ten new coronavirus cases were reported in the state in last 24 hours taking the number of cases to 207. Six people have died to the virus in Karnataka. Punjab's Mohali district granted permission to Max Super Speciality Hospital to collect samples for testing of coronavirus cases. Elsewhere in the country, the Tamil Nadu government said that 77 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state today with the total number of confirmed cases climbing to 911 in the state even as the Haryana government said 162 persons have been tested positive for coronavirus in the state, with 22 people having been discharged. (With ANI inputs)

Punjab extends lockdown till May 1; Tamil Nadu reports 77 in last 24 hours

As the number of COVID-19 cases increases in the South Indian state of Karnataka. Local authorities are taking stronger steps to contain the coronavirus. Watch WION ground report from Bengaluru.

Two wards in Bengaluru sealed to contain coronavirus spread

India has requested the US government to extend the validity of H1-B and other visas for Indians stranded in the country due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-spain-witnesses-lowest-death-toll-in-17-days-with-605-new-fatalities-291795">COVID-19 </a>pandemic.&nbsp;

With fears of the US economy heading for a big slump, H1-B holders could not only lose their job but won't be entitled to any unemployment benefits also.

The matter was taken by foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan sharing with US deputy secretary of state Stephen E. Biegun on Wednesday. &nbsp;Sources have told WION that India is "closely monitoring related developments."

During the talks between FS and US deputy secretary of state, both discussed ways to enhance cooperation to counter and control the pandemic including "through the development of novel therapies and prophylactics against COVID-19 and ensuring the availability of essential medicines, diagnostic and medical equipment, and sharing of best practices/information", say sources.

If the employer terminates the contract of an H1-B holder employee, the employee needs to find new employment within 60 days to retain their H1-B status. However, there has been no order as such from the US government asking employers to terminate the services of H1-B visa holders.

With fears of unemployment in the US, news has been going around that Indians with H1-B visa might be impacted.&nbsp;

Almost 10 million Americans have filed for unemployment allowance which has been the larger trend and not specific to Indians. Also due to lockdown renewal is delayed and with US economy contracting people may be retrenched. Indians constitute the maximum percentage of H1-B visa holders in the US.&nbsp;

US and India have been engaging in high-level engagement since the COVID-19 pandemic broke. PM Modi and US President Donald Trump spoke on April 4 and EAM Jaishankar had spoken with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo April 6.

India has requested the US government to extend the validity of H1-B and other visas for Indians stranded in the country due to COVID-19 pandemic. With fears of the US economy heading for a big slump, H1-B holders could not only lose their job but won't be entitled to any unemployment benefits also.

India has requested the US government to extend the validity of H1-B and other visas for Indians stranded in the country due to COVID-19 pandemic. With fears of the US economy heading for a big slump, H1-B holders could not only lose their job but won't be entitled to any unemployment benefits also. The matter was taken by foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan sharing with US deputy secretary of state Stephen E. Biegun on Wednesday. Sources have told WION that India is "closely monitoring related developments." During the talks between FS and US deputy secretary of state, both discussed ways to enhance cooperation to counter and control the pandemic including "through the development of novel therapies and prophylactics against COVID-19 and ensuring the availability of essential medicines, diagnostic and medical equipment, and sharing of best practices/information", say sources. If the employer terminates the contract of an H1-B holder employee, the employee needs to find new employment within 60 days to retain their H1-B status. However, there has been no order as such from the US government asking employers to terminate the services of H1-B visa holders. With fears of unemployment in the US, news has been going around that Indians with H1-B visa might be impacted. Almost 10 million Americans have filed for unemployment allowance which has been the larger trend and not specific to Indians. Also due to lockdown renewal is delayed and with US economy contracting people may be retrenched. Indians constitute the maximum percentage of H1-B visa holders in the US. US and India have been engaging in high-level engagement since the COVID-19 pandemic broke. PM Modi and US President Donald Trump spoke on April 4 and EAM Jaishankar had spoken with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo April 6.

India requests US to extend H1-B visas for stranded Indians amid COVID-19 crisis

Mumbai has emerged as the COVID-19 hotspot in India. Around 850 people have been found coronavirus positive and 97 people are dead. Watch WION ground report from Mumbai.

Maharashtra India's one of the most infected area: Over 850 infected, 97 dead in Mumbai

There have been 37 deaths and&nbsp;896 new cases in the last 24 hours, the sharpest ever increase in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-with-covid-19-booked-for-hiding-travel-history-291797">coronavirus</a> cases, India's ministry of health and family welfare said on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-community-transmission-of-coronavirus-in-the-country-yet-india-health-ministry-291803">Also Read:&nbsp;No community transmission of coronavirus in the country yet, says health ministry</a>

The total number of positive cases has now surged to 6,761 in the country which includes 6,039 active cases and 516 cases in which patients have been cured or discharged.

There have been 206 deaths due to the virus so far in the country.

In the last 48 hours, about 1,487 coronavirus cases have been reported across the country, ministry of health and family welfare said.

Meanwhile, in West Bengal, the state government said 12 more persons tested positive for coronavirus taking the number of confirmed cases to 89 on Friday even as Punjab extended its lockdown till May 1.

The Jammu and Kashmir government reported 39 patients from Jammu and 168 patients from Kashmir reported cases of COVID-19 taking the number of cases to 207 in the state.

A 27-year-old coronavirus patient, a resident of Ahmednagar, died at Sassoon hospital in Pune in Maharashtra on Friday as the state continued to grapple with the virus.

Earlier, the Indian health ministry had said there is still no evidence of community spread of the virus.

There have been 37 deaths and 896 new cases in the last 24 hours, the sharpest ever increase in coronavirus cases, India's ministry of health and family welfare said on Friday.

There have been 37 deaths and 896 new cases in the last 24 hours, the sharpest ever increase in coronavirus cases, India's ministry of health and family welfare said on Friday. Also Read: No community transmission of coronavirus in the country yet, says health ministry The total number of positive cases has now surged to 6,761 in the country which includes 6,039 active cases and 516 cases in which patients have been cured or discharged. There have been 206 deaths due to the virus so far in the country. In the last 48 hours, about 1,487 coronavirus cases have been reported across the country, ministry of health and family welfare said. Meanwhile, in West Bengal, the state government said 12 more persons tested positive for coronavirus taking the number of confirmed cases to 89 on Friday even as Punjab extended its lockdown till May 1. The Jammu and Kashmir government reported 39 patients from Jammu and 168 patients from Kashmir reported cases of COVID-19 taking the number of cases to 207 in the state. A 27-year-old coronavirus patient, a resident of Ahmednagar, died at Sassoon hospital in Pune in Maharashtra on Friday as the state continued to grapple with the virus. Earlier, the Indian health ministry had said there is still no evidence of community spread of the virus.

37 deaths, 896 new cases, sharpest increase in COVID-19 cases in India: 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 Coronavirus status across the nation

Health Minister of India Harsh Vardhan spoke to the media on COVID-19 situation in the country. He urged that everyone needs to fight together in this crisis and must visit the website of the health ministry for accurate information.

Indian Health Minister Harsh Vardhan briefs media on Coronavirus

The Indian health ministry said on Friday that there has been&nbsp;no community transmission of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tablighi-jamaat-returnees-distributed-sweets-to-passengers-in-up-says-report-291726">coronavirus </a>in the country yet, assuring the people not to panic, however it added that everyone should remain alert.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-with-covid-19-booked-for-hiding-travel-history-291797">Also Read: Man with COVID-19 booked for hiding travel history</a>

"We conducted 1,6002 tests on Thursday. Only 0.2 per cent cases tested positive. On the basis of the samples collected, the infection rate is not high," the health ministry official said, adding that rapid diagnostics kits have also been sanctioned."

During the press conference, the home ministry official directed all states and Union territories to ensure strict compliance of lockdown measures to fight the virus especially in view of festivals in April.

MEA spokesman Dammu Ravi said: "A lot of requests on Hydroxychloroquine were already there. Several countries have made requests for this particular item and taking into view the domestic necessities and keeping a sufficient buffer for our own requirement."

"A decision was taken by a group of ministers to release some of the surplus medicine for export purposes. This is an ongoing process," the MEA official added.

The Indian health ministry said on Friday that there has been no community transmission of coronavirus in the country yet, assuring the people not to panic, however it added that everyone should remain alert.

The Indian health ministry said on Friday that there has been no community transmission of coronavirus in the country yet, assuring the people not to panic, however it added that everyone should remain alert. Also Read: Man with COVID-19 booked for hiding travel history "We conducted 1,6002 tests on Thursday. Only 0.2 per cent cases tested positive. On the basis of the samples collected, the infection rate is not high," the health ministry official said, adding that rapid diagnostics kits have also been sanctioned." During the press conference, the home ministry official directed all states and Union territories to ensure strict compliance of lockdown measures to fight the virus especially in view of festivals in April. MEA spokesman Dammu Ravi said: "A lot of requests on Hydroxychloroquine were already there. Several countries have made requests for this particular item and taking into view the domestic necessities and keeping a sufficient buffer for our own requirement." "A decision was taken by a group of ministers to release some of the surplus medicine for export purposes. This is an ongoing process," the MEA official added.

No community transmission of coronavirus in the country yet: India health ministry

India has been under a nationwide lockdown since March 25 in the face of the coronavirus pandemic ravaging the entire world. As part of the restrictions, people have been asked to stay indoors;&nbsp;commercial rail and air&nbsp;travel, metros and interstate movement have been stopped.

With life almost coming to a standstill,&nbsp;a little humour is what it takes to instil hope of a better future. And talking of humour, the one served with a little spice in the corridors of the social media is a major respite.

So how are&nbsp;the likes of IndiGo and Vistara, which otherwise keep busy all the year round, passing their time?

We have some answers.

On Friday morning, IndiGo kicked off a conversation with Vistara, which in turn invited GoAir to join in their banter session.

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Hey <a href="https://twitter.com/airvistara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airvistara</a> , not <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/flyinghigher?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#flyinghigher</a> these days we heard? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayingParkedStayingSafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayingParkedStayingSafe</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetsIndiGo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetsIndiGo</a>
— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E/status/1248483452577443844?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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No 😌 <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiGo6E</a>, these days being on-ground is a wonderful thing. Flying would not be the ‘smart’ choice, what say <a href="https://twitter.com/goairlinesindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@goairlinesindia</a>? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayingParkedStayingSafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayingParkedStayingSafe</a>
— Vistara (@airvistara) <a href="https://twitter.com/airvistara/status/1248486087116206093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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What followed was the best thing on the internet today -- some much-needed quarantine humour.&nbsp;

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Totally, <a href="https://twitter.com/airvistara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airvistara</a>! Staying home is the safe feeling! We can hardly wait till everyone takes to the skies, coz at the moment it's not like <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NowEveryoneCanFly?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NowEveryoneCanFly</a> right, <a href="https://twitter.com/AirAsiaIndian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AirAsiaIndian</a>? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayingParkedStayingSafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayingParkedStayingSafe</a>
— GoAir (@goairlinesindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/goairlinesindia/status/1248489809305169921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Air Asia chimed in.

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Absolutely <a href="https://twitter.com/goairlinesindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@goairlinesindia</a>, for now though, staying at home is the Red. Hot. Spicy thing to do! Isn't that right <a href="https://twitter.com/flyspicejet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@flyspicejet</a>?! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayingParkedStayingSafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayingParkedStayingSafe</a>
— AirAsia India (@AirAsiaIndian) <a href="https://twitter.com/AirAsiaIndian/status/1248495355383050245?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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And so did SpiceJet.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/AirAsiaIndian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AirAsiaIndian</a>, good to know our thoughts match, like our colours! Been a while since this bird flew out of her cage. But we’re happy creating a safer tomorrow, today! Right <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiAirport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiAirport</a>?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayingParkedStayingSafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayingParkedStayingSafe</a>
— SpiceJet (@flyspicejet) <a href="https://twitter.com/flyspicejet/status/1248498671525609472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Delhi airport was also there -- like a true guardian, advising the airlines to keep patience. And pray. And "stay grounded'.

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Agree with you <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiGo6E</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/airvistara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airvistara</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/goairlinesindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@goairlinesindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AirAsiaIndian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AirAsiaIndian</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/flyspicejet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@flyspicejet</a>, the Indian skies will be coloured with you soon but for now thanks for giving us a reason to smile! Together in the skies, and together on ground too! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorkFromHub?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorkFromHub</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayingParkedStayingSafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayingParkedStayingSafe</a>
— Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiAirport/status/1248501428374495233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Penguin India came with a wonderful advice -- read books.

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Worry not, you guys, for 'reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are - Mason Cooley'<a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiAirport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiAirport</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/airvistara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airvistara</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/flyspicejet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@flyspicejet</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiGo6E</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/goairlinesindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@goairlinesindia</a>
— Penguin India (@PenguinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PenguinIndia/status/1248537110371422210?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Oh, where would we go with books and music weren’t there to give flight to our imaginations?"

We don't say it... Delhi airport does...

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Oh, where would we go with books and music weren’t there to give flight to our imaginations?
— Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiAirport/status/1248565362964062208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The entire thread won much love from&nbsp;the Twitterverse.

“That’s a beautiful conversation indeed,” said a Twitter user.

Another said, "The sky is missing you birds. Hope to see you all flying soon."

Initially scheduled to end on April 14, the shutdown is now expected to stay put for a few more weeks.

&nbsp;

India has been under a nationwide lockdown since March 25 in the face of the coronavirus pandemic ravaging the entire world. As part of the restrictions, people have been asked to stay indoors; commercial rail and air travel, metros and interstate movement have been stopped.

India has been under a nationwide lockdown since March 25 in the face of the coronavirus pandemic ravaging the entire world. As part of the restrictions, people have been asked to stay indoors; commercial rail and air travel, metros and interstate movement have been stopped. With life almost coming to a standstill, a little humour is what it takes to instil hope of a better future. And talking of humour, the one served with a little spice in the corridors of the social media is a major respite. So how are the likes of IndiGo and Vistara, which otherwise keep busy all the year round, passing their time? We have some answers. On Friday morning, IndiGo kicked off a conversation with Vistara, which in turn invited GoAir to join in their banter session. Hey @airvistara , not #flyinghigher these days we heard? #StayingParkedStayingSafe #LetsIndiGo — IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) April 10, 2020 × No 😌 @IndiGo6E, these days being on-ground is a wonderful thing. Flying would not be the ‘smart’ choice, what say @goairlinesindia? #StayingParkedStayingSafe — Vistara (@airvistara) April 10, 2020 × What followed was the best thing on the internet today -- some much-needed quarantine humour. Totally, @airvistara! Staying home is the safe feeling! We can hardly wait till everyone takes to the skies, coz at the moment it's not like #NowEveryoneCanFly right, @AirAsiaIndian? #StayingParkedStayingSafe — GoAir (@goairlinesindia) April 10, 2020 × Air Asia chimed in. Absolutely @goairlinesindia, for now though, staying at home is the Red. Hot. Spicy thing to do! Isn't that right @flyspicejet?! #StayingParkedStayingSafe — AirAsia India (@AirAsiaIndian) April 10, 2020 × And so did SpiceJet. @AirAsiaIndian, good to know our thoughts match, like our colours! Been a while since this bird flew out of her cage. But we’re happy creating a safer tomorrow, today! Right @DelhiAirport?#StayingParkedStayingSafe — SpiceJet (@flyspicejet) April 10, 2020 × Delhi airport was also there -- like a true guardian, advising the airlines to keep patience. And pray. And "stay grounded'. Agree with you @IndiGo6E @airvistara @goairlinesindia @AirAsiaIndian @flyspicejet, the Indian skies will be coloured with you soon but for now thanks for giving us a reason to smile! Together in the skies, and together on ground too! #WorkFromHub #StayingParkedStayingSafe — Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) April 10, 2020 × Penguin India came with a wonderful advice -- read books. Worry not, you guys, for 'reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are - Mason Cooley'@DelhiAirport @airvistara @flyspicejet @IndiGo6E @goairlinesindia — Penguin India (@PenguinIndia) April 10, 2020 × "Oh, where would we go with books and music weren’t there to give flight to our imaginations?" We don't say it... Delhi airport does... Oh, where would we go with books and music weren’t there to give flight to our imaginations? — Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) April 10, 2020 × The entire thread won much love from the Twitterverse. “That’s a beautiful conversation indeed,” said a Twitter user. Another said, "The sky is missing you birds. Hope to see you all flying soon." Initially scheduled to end on April 14, the shutdown is now expected to stay put for a few more weeks.

IndiGo, Vistara's Twitter banter is a dose of much-needed quarantine humour

A man, who tested positive for COVID-19, was booked for hiding his travel history after allegedly attending the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Delhi last month. In consequence, his village, Deenpur, in Najafgarh has been declared a containment zone.

Since the issue of religious congregation at Nizamuddin came to light, district police has been tracing people who attended the event. It was then found that five people from the area had attended the gathering following which several people, including the man, were asked to home quarantine.

The police had also asked the man if he was part of the event, but he denied it.

During physical verification of the people quarantined at their homes in the area, the man was not found by health authorities at his residence. On subsequent questioning, he again hid facts about his past travel and movements.

Even during repeated medical and police enquiry, he withheld this fact and did not disclose it to the authorities. He later fell ill and when he was tested he was found positive for coronavirus. His wife and child also tested positive for the infection.

After analysing his call records and upon physical enquiry, it was found that he had visited Jamaat at Nizamuddin.

As a result, a containment zone was declared in Deenpur village and legal action was initiated against him, and a case under section 188 (for disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 269 (negligent act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) Of the Indian Penal Code and relevant sections of Epidemic Diseases Act, has been registered against him at Chhawla police station.

(with inputs from agencies)

A man, who tested positive for COVID-19, was booked for hiding his travel history after allegedly attending the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Delhi last month.

A man, who tested positive for COVID-19, was booked for hiding his travel history after allegedly attending the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Delhi last month. In consequence, his village, Deenpur, in Najafgarh has been declared a containment zone. Since the issue of religious congregation at Nizamuddin came to light, district police has been tracing people who attended the event. It was then found that five people from the area had attended the gathering following which several people, including the man, were asked to home quarantine. The police had also asked the man if he was part of the event, but he denied it. During physical verification of the people quarantined at their homes in the area, the man was not found by health authorities at his residence. On subsequent questioning, he again hid facts about his past travel and movements. Even during repeated medical and police enquiry, he withheld this fact and did not disclose it to the authorities. He later fell ill and when he was tested he was found positive for coronavirus. His wife and child also tested positive for the infection. After analysing his call records and upon physical enquiry, it was found that he had visited Jamaat at Nizamuddin. As a result, a containment zone was declared in Deenpur village and legal action was initiated against him, and a case under section 188 (for disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 269 (negligent act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) Of the Indian Penal Code and relevant sections of Epidemic Diseases Act, has been registered against him at Chhawla police station. (with inputs from agencies)

Man with COVID-19 booked for hiding travel history

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Girish Chandra Murmu on Friday informed that 1900 people in the Union Territory who are associated with Delhi's Nizamuddin's Markaz, have been identified and they are being tested for COVID-19.

All the people who are linked to Tablighi Jamaat have been kept in isolation. The Tablighi Jamaat event has emerged as a hotspot for COVID-19 after hundreds of positive cases across the country were linked to the congregation, including deaths in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tablighi-jamaat-returnees-distributed-sweets-to-passengers-in-up-says-report-291726" hreflang="en">Tablighi Jamaat returnees distributed sweets to passengers in UP, says report</a>

"1900 people have been identified here who were present in Nizamuddin`s Markaz. We traced them through their phone numbers and they cooperated with us. They are being tested and have been kept in isolation. The work is underway in a pro-active manner," Murmu told ANI.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-total-covid-19-cases-at-6412-death-toll-at-199-291681" hreflang="en">Coronavirus in India: Total COVID-19 cases at 6,412, death toll at 199</a>

He informed that the Union Territory has 17,000 N95 masks, 13,000 Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) kits, and 200 ventilators to tackle with COVID-19.

The state will soon get 80,000 rapid testing kits which will be used for detection of COVID-19 among people in 'red zones'.

"We have 17,000 N95 masks,13,000 PPE kits, and 200 ventilators. We will soon have 80,000 rapid testing kits which will be used in red zones identified here, for early detection of COVID-19," he said.

The Lieutenant Governor further said that restriction will continue in the "34 red zones" in Jammu and Kashmir even after April 14 and there will be "selective restrictions, movement and social distancing" in these zones.

He said that planning for the same is underway.According to the Union Health Ministry`s latest bulletin, 158 people have tested positive for coronavirus, including 4 cured and discharged and 4 deaths. 
&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Girish Chandra Murmu on Friday informed that 1900 people in the Union Territory who are associated with Delhi's Nizamuddin's Markaz, have been identified and they are being tested for COVID-19.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Girish Chandra Murmu on Friday informed that 1900 people in the Union Territory who are associated with Delhi's Nizamuddin's Markaz, have been identified and they are being tested for COVID-19. All the people who are linked to Tablighi Jamaat have been kept in isolation. The Tablighi Jamaat event has emerged as a hotspot for COVID-19 after hundreds of positive cases across the country were linked to the congregation, including deaths in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana. Also read: Tablighi Jamaat returnees distributed sweets to passengers in UP, says report "1900 people have been identified here who were present in Nizamuddin`s Markaz. We traced them through their phone numbers and they cooperated with us. They are being tested and have been kept in isolation. The work is underway in a pro-active manner," Murmu told ANI. Also read: Coronavirus in India: Total COVID-19 cases at 6,412, death toll at 199 He informed that the Union Territory has 17,000 N95 masks, 13,000 Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) kits, and 200 ventilators to tackle with COVID-19. The state will soon get 80,000 rapid testing kits which will be used for detection of COVID-19 among people in 'red zones'. "We have 17,000 N95 masks,13,000 PPE kits, and 200 ventilators. We will soon have 80,000 rapid testing kits which will be used in red zones identified here, for early detection of COVID-19," he said. The Lieutenant Governor further said that restriction will continue in the "34 red zones" in Jammu and Kashmir even after April 14 and there will be "selective restrictions, movement and social distancing" in these zones. He said that planning for the same is underway.According to the Union Health Ministry`s latest bulletin, 158 people have tested positive for coronavirus, including 4 cured and discharged and 4 deaths.

Jammu and Kashmir identifies 1900 people linked to Tablighi Jamaat, being tested for COVID-19

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has validated TrueNat, a tuberculosis testing machine for COVID-19 screening tests.

On Thursday, the ICMR had updated its testing strategy for COVID-19.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-total-covid-19-cases-at-6412-death-toll-at-199-291681" hreflang="en">Coronavirus in India: Total COVID-19 cases at 6,412, death toll at 199</a>

The revised strategy states that asymptomatic direct and high-risk contacts of a confirmed case should be tested once between "day 5 and day 14" of coming in his/her contact.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tablighi-jamaat-returnees-distributed-sweets-to-passengers-in-up-says-report-291726" hreflang="en">Tablighi Jamaat returnees distributed sweets to passengers in UP, says report</a>

Testing of all symptomatic individuals, who have undertaken international travel in the last 14 day, all symptomatic contacts of laboratory-confirmed cases, all symptomatic health care workers and all patients with severe acute respiratory illness (fever and cough and/or shortness of breath) will be done.

It will also be done in hotspots/cluster (as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare) and in large migration gatherings/ evacuees centres.&nbsp;

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has validated TrueNat, a tuberculosis testing machine for COVID-19 screening tests. On Thursday, the ICMR had updated its testing strategy for COVID-19.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has validated TrueNat, a tuberculosis testing machine for COVID-19 screening tests. On Thursday, the ICMR had updated its testing strategy for COVID-19. Also read: Coronavirus in India: Total COVID-19 cases at 6,412, death toll at 199 The revised strategy states that asymptomatic direct and high-risk contacts of a confirmed case should be tested once between "day 5 and day 14" of coming in his/her contact. Also read: Tablighi Jamaat returnees distributed sweets to passengers in UP, says report Testing of all symptomatic individuals, who have undertaken international travel in the last 14 day, all symptomatic contacts of laboratory-confirmed cases, all symptomatic health care workers and all patients with severe acute respiratory illness (fever and cough and/or shortness of breath) will be done. It will also be done in hotspots/cluster (as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare) and in large migration gatherings/ evacuees centres.

ICMR validates TrueNat for COVID-19 screening tests

Air pollution in the national capital region remained in the moderate category for last week, with a 63 per cent reduction in nitrogen oxide poisonous gas.

The nationwide lockdown has pushed pollution levels in Delhi to a 5-year low. In March 2016 there was a total of 6 cities with good air quality index but now it has reached to 30 after the last month, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board.

India is currently under the biggest lockdown with around 130 crore people asked to stay home in view of the coronavirus outbreak, which has claimed 199 lives and infected over 6,000 people in the country.

Since the lockdown was imposed, the air quality all around the country has shown drastic improvement due to eradication of local pollutants generated due to construction activities and vehicular traffic among others. &nbsp;

Indo Gangetic cities showed significant improvement in AQI values with levels moving from higher to the lower end of the category and 17 cities moving in 'satisfactory' category and seven cities in the 'good' category.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Air pollution in the national capital region remained in the moderate category for last week, with a 63 per cent reduction in nitrogen oxide poisonous gas. The nationwide lockdown has pushed pollution levels in Delhi to a 5-year low.

Air pollution in the national capital region remained in the moderate category for last week, with a 63 per cent reduction in nitrogen oxide poisonous gas. The nationwide lockdown has pushed pollution levels in Delhi to a 5-year low. In March 2016 there was a total of 6 cities with good air quality index but now it has reached to 30 after the last month, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board. India is currently under the biggest lockdown with around 130 crore people asked to stay home in view of the coronavirus outbreak, which has claimed 199 lives and infected over 6,000 people in the country. Since the lockdown was imposed, the air quality all around the country has shown drastic improvement due to eradication of local pollutants generated due to construction activities and vehicular traffic among others. Indo Gangetic cities showed significant improvement in AQI values with levels moving from higher to the lower end of the category and 17 cities moving in 'satisfactory' category and seven cities in the 'good' category. (With inputs from agencies)

Pollution in Delhi the lowest in the last 5 years

Mass gatherings at churches across the country were suspended on the occasion of Good Friday, amid the nationwide lockdown imposed to stem the spread of coronavirus.

The doors of the St. Michael`s Church situated in Mahim area of Mumbai were shut in the morning.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-total-covid-19-cases-at-6412-death-toll-at-199-291681" hreflang="en">Coronavirus in India: Total COVID-19 cases at 6,412, death toll at 199</a>

In Delhi, the Sacred Heart Cathedral situated in Gol Dak Khana was closed to avoid gathering during the lockdown.

In Kerala too, St Joseph Metropolitan Cathedral situated in Palayam area of Thiruvananthapuram was closed in the view of COVID-19 outbreak on Good Friday.

Good Friday, also known as Holy Friday or Black Friday, marks the day when Jesus Christ was crucified on the cross.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tablighi-jamaat-returnees-distributed-sweets-to-passengers-in-up-says-report-291726" hreflang="en">Tablighi Jamaat returnees distributed sweets to passengers in UP, says report</a>

Each year, scores of people gather in churches across the country to offer prayers to the lord.The country is under a 21-day lockdown which came into effect on March 24 midnight.

With 547 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in the last 12 hours, India's tally of positive coronavirus cases crossed the 6,000 mark as the number of cases rose to 6,412.

Out of the 6,412 cases, 5,709 are active patients and 504 people have been cured/discharged and migrated. With 30 new deaths reported in the last 12 hours, the death toll stands at 199.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Mass gatherings at churches across the country were suspended on the occasion of Good Friday, amid the nationwide lockdown imposed to stem the spread of coronavirus.

Mass gatherings at churches across the country were suspended on the occasion of Good Friday, amid the nationwide lockdown imposed to stem the spread of coronavirus. The doors of the St. Michael`s Church situated in Mahim area of Mumbai were shut in the morning. Also read: Coronavirus in India: Total COVID-19 cases at 6,412, death toll at 199 In Delhi, the Sacred Heart Cathedral situated in Gol Dak Khana was closed to avoid gathering during the lockdown. In Kerala too, St Joseph Metropolitan Cathedral situated in Palayam area of Thiruvananthapuram was closed in the view of COVID-19 outbreak on Good Friday. Good Friday, also known as Holy Friday or Black Friday, marks the day when Jesus Christ was crucified on the cross. Also read: Tablighi Jamaat returnees distributed sweets to passengers in UP, says report Each year, scores of people gather in churches across the country to offer prayers to the lord.The country is under a 21-day lockdown which came into effect on March 24 midnight. With 547 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in the last 12 hours, India's tally of positive coronavirus cases crossed the 6,000 mark as the number of cases rose to 6,412. Out of the 6,412 cases, 5,709 are active patients and 504 people have been cured/discharged and migrated. With 30 new deaths reported in the last 12 hours, the death toll stands at 199.

Amid nationwide lockdown, mass gatherings at churches suspended on Good Friday

The US White House's Twitter account '<a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse">@whitehouse</a>' follows six handles that either belongs to the Indian Government or Indian bureaucracy.

These Indian twitter handles include PM Narendra Modi and PMO's accounts. Here are these six handles:&nbsp;

PM Modi's account (@NarendraModi) 
PMO's office (@PMOIndia) 
President of India Ramnath Kovind's account (@rashtrapatibhvn) 
US Embassy in India (@USAndIndia)&nbsp; 
The Indian Embassy in the US (@IndianEmbassyUS)&nbsp; 
US envoy to India (@USAmbIndia) 
 
<img alt="White House" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4d27e767-5663-42ff-bcd9-8ad7e444619e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WH.JPG" />

The White House is the official residence and workplace of the president of the United States. The term 'White House' is often used as a metonym for the president and his advisers.

The White House follows a total 19 accounts and it doesn't follow any other world pioneers or organizations of some other nation through this record. The entirety of its different follows is the pioneers and authorities of the US government.

The US White House's Twitter account '@whitehouse' follows six handles that either belongs to the Indian Government or Indian bureaucracy. These Indian twitter handles include PM Narendra Modi and PMO's accounts.

The US White House's Twitter account '@whitehouse' follows six handles that either belongs to the Indian Government or Indian bureaucracy. These Indian twitter handles include PM Narendra Modi and PMO's accounts. Here are these six handles: PM Modi's account (@NarendraModi) PMO's office (@PMOIndia) President of India Ramnath Kovind's account (@rashtrapatibhvn) US Embassy in India (@USAndIndia) The Indian Embassy in the US (@IndianEmbassyUS) US envoy to India (@USAmbIndia) The White House is the official residence and workplace of the president of the United States. The term 'White House' is often used as a metonym for the president and his advisers. The White House follows a total 19 accounts and it doesn't follow any other world pioneers or organizations of some other nation through this record. The entirety of its different follows is the pioneers and authorities of the US government.

Out of 19 Twitter accounts followed by US White House, six belong to Indian govt

India had reported it's first confirmed case of novel coronavirus in Thrissur district of Kerala 100 days ago, State chief minister tweeted today.

Since then the state has recorded 357 cases with only 2 deaths, said CM Pinarayi Vijayan. 
 
&nbsp;

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100 Days of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> | Kerala Story 
 
It's been 100 days since the first case was reported. 
 
258 active cases 
97 recovered 
Total confirmed: 357 
Deaths: 2 
12710 samples tested 
 
Special COVID Hospital 
1251 Community Kitchens 
2808650 Individuals Served 
3676 Destitutes Rehabilitated
— Pinarayi Vijayan (@vijayanpinarayi) <a href="https://twitter.com/vijayanpinarayi/status/1248449051890077702?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The first patient was a student studying at Wuhan University, China and had recently returned to India.

Kerala had also reported the first case in the country where a child had been infected.

The 2019-novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) pandemic that has concerned health experts world over started in China's Wuhan city early December last year and has claimed 95,766 lives.

India had reported it's first confirmed case of novel coronavirus in Thrissur district of Kerala 100 days ago, State chief minister tweeted today. Since then the state has recorded 357 cases with only 2 deaths, said CM Pinarayi Vijayan.

India had reported it's first confirmed case of novel coronavirus in Thrissur district of Kerala 100 days ago, State chief minister tweeted today. Since then the state has recorded 357 cases with only 2 deaths, said CM Pinarayi Vijayan. 100 Days of #COVID19 | Kerala Story It's been 100 days since the first case was reported. 258 active cases 97 recovered Total confirmed: 357 Deaths: 2 12710 samples tested Special COVID Hospital 1251 Community Kitchens 2808650 Individuals Served 3676 Destitutes Rehabilitated — Pinarayi Vijayan (@vijayanpinarayi) April 10, 2020 × The first patient was a student studying at Wuhan University, China and had recently returned to India. Kerala had also reported the first case in the country where a child had been infected. The 2019-novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) pandemic that has concerned health experts world over started in China's Wuhan city early December last year and has claimed 95,766 lives.

It's been 100 days since the first coronavirus case was reported:  Pinarayi Vijayan

The Karnataka government is currently engaged in discussions with experts, specialists and other stakeholders to decide on its lockdown exit strategy and would take a final view by April 13, a key Minister said on Thursday.

“Day after tomorrow we have a VC (videoconference) with the Prime Minister,” Medical Education Minister Sudhakar K, who is in-charge of all matters related to COVID-19, noted when asked about the States strategy.

He said a task force of specialist doctors on Wednesday submitted its report to the government, giving its recommendations. “We are meeting lot of stakeholders of the society taking their views,” the Minister said, adding, the Cabinet would also hold discussions.

“Finally, day after tomorrow, after discussing with the Prime Minister during the VC, the government will take a view on this by April 13 or so. As of now, we have not taken any view on it. We are studying all the reports,” Sudhakar told PTI.

The Minister observed that the COVID-19 cases were slowly spiking in India but not multiplying the way they have in some other countries like Italy, Spain and the United States as the government had declared 21-day national lockdown early and taken other strict measures. “Let’s see for one week and see.”

“We need to fight this out collectively and by strictly following the quarantine methods and social distancing,” Sudhakar stressed. The Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa had on Wednesday said 
his government was in favour of lifting lock-down in districts which remained free from COVID-19 after April 14 subject to approval from the Centre.

“If the Prime Minister suggests to States to take decision (on lock-down) based on the situation in their respective States, my position is to take a call (on roll-back) in districts free from COVID-19,” he had said. “This is to allow people to go about their business and move about within the district and not from one district to another, after April 14, after taking the approval of the Prime Minister.”

According to State officials, as many as 12 districts continue to remain free from COVID-19. The task force has recommended continuation of lockdown at “hot spots” beyond April 14. It has suggested that schools and colleges be shut till May 31, while non-air-conditioned shops can be opened.

Also, IT/BT companies, government offices providing essential services and factories can function with 50 per cent staff, the task force said in its recommendations for 15-day period after April 14.

The Karnataka government is currently engaged in discussions with experts, specialists and other stakeholders to decide on its lockdown exit strategy and would take a final view by April 13, a key Minister said on Thursday.

The Karnataka government is currently engaged in discussions with experts, specialists and other stakeholders to decide on its lockdown exit strategy and would take a final view by April 13, a key Minister said on Thursday. “Day after tomorrow we have a VC (videoconference) with the Prime Minister,” Medical Education Minister Sudhakar K, who is in-charge of all matters related to COVID-19, noted when asked about the States strategy. He said a task force of specialist doctors on Wednesday submitted its report to the government, giving its recommendations. “We are meeting lot of stakeholders of the society taking their views,” the Minister said, adding, the Cabinet would also hold discussions. “Finally, day after tomorrow, after discussing with the Prime Minister during the VC, the government will take a view on this by April 13 or so. As of now, we have not taken any view on it. We are studying all the reports,” Sudhakar told PTI. The Minister observed that the COVID-19 cases were slowly spiking in India but not multiplying the way they have in some other countries like Italy, Spain and the United States as the government had declared 21-day national lockdown early and taken other strict measures. “Let’s see for one week and see.” “We need to fight this out collectively and by strictly following the quarantine methods and social distancing,” Sudhakar stressed. The Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa had on Wednesday said his government was in favour of lifting lock-down in districts which remained free from COVID-19 after April 14 subject to approval from the Centre. “If the Prime Minister suggests to States to take decision (on lock-down) based on the situation in their respective States, my position is to take a call (on roll-back) in districts free from COVID-19,” he had said. “This is to allow people to go about their business and move about within the district and not from one district to another, after April 14, after taking the approval of the Prime Minister.” According to State officials, as many as 12 districts continue to remain free from COVID-19. The task force has recommended continuation of lockdown at “hot spots” beyond April 14. It has suggested that schools and colleges be shut till May 31, while non-air-conditioned shops can be opened. Also, IT/BT companies, government offices providing essential services and factories can function with 50 per cent staff, the task force said in its recommendations for 15-day period after April 14.

Karnataka to finalise lockdown exit strategy by April 13

United States President Donald Trump has thanked India for its decision to increase exports of the anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine -- which has been identified by the US Food and Drug Administration as a possible treatment for the COVID-19.&nbsp;

Hydroxychloroquine is being tested on more than 1,500 coronavirus patients in New York.

India said on Tuesday it would allow limited exports of hydroxychloroquine after Trump urged New Delhi to release supplies of the drug seen as a possible treatment for COVID-19.&nbsp;

A sizeable chunk of the 29 million doses of hydroxychloroquine bought by the US to combat the coronavirus pandemic was from India. Trump had earlier acknowledged that PM Modi was "great" when he sought his help to allow the sale of the anti-malaria drug to treat the growing number of COVID-19 patients in America.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/us-bought-over-29-million-hydroxychloroquine-doses-from-india-trump-291292">Also read |&nbsp;US bought over 29 million hydroxychloroquine doses from India: Trump</a>

To this end, Trump wrote on Twitter on Wednesday, "Extraordinary times require even closer cooperation between friends. Thank you India and the Indian people for the decision on HCQ. Will not be forgotten! Thank you Prime Minister @NarendraModi for your strong leadership in helping not just India, but humanity, in this fight!"

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Extraordinary times require even closer cooperation between friends. Thank you India and the Indian people for the decision on HCQ. Will not be forgotten! Thank you Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> for your strong leadership in helping not just India, but humanity, in this fight!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1247950299408498693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Trump and Prime Minister Modi spoke over the phone last week. During the call, Trump requested Modi to lift the hold on the American order of hydroxychloroquine, of which India is the major producer.

Later, Trump had even said there would be a possible retaliation if India does not give in to the demand.

India has got a request from about 30 countries for hydroxychloroquine--from the US to Brazil to countries in Europe, Gulf and ASEAN. Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Wednesday had a telephone conversation with US Deputy Secretary of State, Stephen E. Biegun regarding COVID-19 cooperation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-gives-green-signal-to-hydroxychloroquine-order-placed-by-spain-291412">Also read |&nbsp;India gives green signal to hydroxychloroquine order placed by Spain</a>

United States President Donald Trump has thanked India for its decision to increase exports of the anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine -- which has been identified by the US Food and Drug Administration as a possible treatment for the COVID-19.

United States President Donald Trump has thanked India for its decision to increase exports of the anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine -- which has been identified by the US Food and Drug Administration as a possible treatment for the COVID-19. Hydroxychloroquine is being tested on more than 1,500 coronavirus patients in New York. India said on Tuesday it would allow limited exports of hydroxychloroquine after Trump urged New Delhi to release supplies of the drug seen as a possible treatment for COVID-19. A sizeable chunk of the 29 million doses of hydroxychloroquine bought by the US to combat the coronavirus pandemic was from India. Trump had earlier acknowledged that PM Modi was "great" when he sought his help to allow the sale of the anti-malaria drug to treat the growing number of COVID-19 patients in America. Also read | US bought over 29 million hydroxychloroquine doses from India: Trump To this end, Trump wrote on Twitter on Wednesday, "Extraordinary times require even closer cooperation between friends. Thank you India and the Indian people for the decision on HCQ. Will not be forgotten! Thank you Prime Minister @NarendraModi for your strong leadership in helping not just India, but humanity, in this fight!" Extraordinary times require even closer cooperation between friends. Thank you India and the Indian people for the decision on HCQ. Will not be forgotten! Thank you Prime Minister @NarendraModi for your strong leadership in helping not just India, but humanity, in this fight! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 8, 2020 × Trump and Prime Minister Modi spoke over the phone last week. During the call, Trump requested Modi to lift the hold on the American order of hydroxychloroquine, of which India is the major producer. Later, Trump had even said there would be a possible retaliation if India does not give in to the demand. India has got a request from about 30 countries for hydroxychloroquine--from the US to Brazil to countries in Europe, Gulf and ASEAN. Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Wednesday had a telephone conversation with US Deputy Secretary of State, Stephen E. Biegun regarding COVID-19 cooperation. Also read | India gives green signal to hydroxychloroquine order placed by Spain

Humanity in times of COVID-19: Trump thanks India, PM Modi for decision on HCQ

The Indian government has given&nbsp;a green signal to hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) order placed by Spain. The order was placed two months ago.

The drug has been hailed as a gamechanger in fighting COVID-19.

Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had a telephonic conversation with his Spanish counterpart Arancha González. A tweet on the talks by EAM said, "We agreed that effective COVID response requires global cooperation" and 'India has responded positively to the urgent pharmaceutical requirement of Spain."

While official notification in this direction is yet to be issued by the Indian government, India had recently announced that it will give licenced HCQ to countries which are worst impacted by COVID-19. The focus will also be on the neighbourhood and fulfilling prior contractual obligations for there is enough supply.

Spain has around 1,50,000 cases of COVID-19 with around 14,000 deaths and is one of the worst impacted countries not only Europe but around the world.

India has got a request from about 30 countries for hydroxychloroquine--from the US to Brazil to countries in Europe, Gulf and ASEAN. Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Wednesday had a telephone conversation with US Deputy Secretary of State, Stephen E. Biegun regarding COVID-19 cooperation.

Sources said, "Both sides discussed ways to further enhance their cooperation to counter and control the pandemic including through the development of novel therapies and prophylactics against COVID-19 and ensuring the availability of essential medicines, diagnostic and medical equipment, and sharing of best practices/information."

US has also ordered HCQ from India. The matter was discussed between PM Modi and US President during their talks on April 4. 
&nbsp;

The Indian government has given a green signal to hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) order placed by Spain. The order was placed two months ago. The drug has been hailed as a gamechanger in fighting COVID-19.

The Indian government has given a green signal to hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) order placed by Spain. The order was placed two months ago. The drug has been hailed as a gamechanger in fighting COVID-19. Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had a telephonic conversation with his Spanish counterpart Arancha González. A tweet on the talks by EAM said, "We agreed that effective COVID response requires global cooperation" and 'India has responded positively to the urgent pharmaceutical requirement of Spain." While official notification in this direction is yet to be issued by the Indian government, India had recently announced that it will give licenced HCQ to countries which are worst impacted by COVID-19. The focus will also be on the neighbourhood and fulfilling prior contractual obligations for there is enough supply. Spain has around 1,50,000 cases of COVID-19 with around 14,000 deaths and is one of the worst impacted countries not only Europe but around the world. India has got a request from about 30 countries for hydroxychloroquine--from the US to Brazil to countries in Europe, Gulf and ASEAN. Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Wednesday had a telephone conversation with US Deputy Secretary of State, Stephen E. Biegun regarding COVID-19 cooperation. Sources said, "Both sides discussed ways to further enhance their cooperation to counter and control the pandemic including through the development of novel therapies and prophylactics against COVID-19 and ensuring the availability of essential medicines, diagnostic and medical equipment, and sharing of best practices/information." US has also ordered HCQ from India. The matter was discussed between PM Modi and US President during their talks on April 4.

India gives green signal to hydroxychloroquine order placed by Spain

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