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A man in Madhya Pradesh's Morena district, who had a foreign-travel history, has tested positive for coronavirus -- days after he organised a funeral feast for 1,500 people. Eleven of his family members have also tested positive for the deadly virus.

To this end, the local authorities have sealed the entire colony -- comprising Ward number 47 in Prem Nagar and surrounding areas -- where the function took place on March 20. This also implies that as many as 26,000 people have been put under quarantine.

The man, identified as Suresh, works as a waiter in Dubai. He came to Morena on March 17.

Suresh developed coronavirus symptoms on March 25, but he visited a hospital four days later. He and his wife tested positive on Thursday.

Ten of his close relatives have also tested positive.

It's said the man was tested in Dubai before his arrival but had no symptoms.

India reported 355 new cases of novel coronavirus on Friday, taking its tally to 2,902. Out of 2,902 cases, 2,650 are active and 184 have been cured or discharged or have migrated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-biggest-spike-in-24-hrs-coronavirus-cases-cross-2900-290536">Also read: India reports biggest spike in 24 hrs, coronavirus cases cross 2,900</a>

The total number of deaths reported due to COVID-19 disease rose to 68.

Madhya Pradesh has so fare reported over 150 cases.

(with inputs from agencies)

A man in Madhya Pradesh's Morena district, who had a foreign-travel history, has tested positive for coronavirus -- days after he organised a funeral feast for 1,500 people.

A man in Madhya Pradesh's Morena district, who had a foreign-travel history, has tested positive for coronavirus -- days after he organised a funeral feast for 1,500 people. Eleven of his family members have also tested positive for the deadly virus. To this end, the local authorities have sealed the entire colony -- comprising Ward number 47 in Prem Nagar and surrounding areas -- where the function took place on March 20. This also implies that as many as 26,000 people have been put under quarantine. The man, identified as Suresh, works as a waiter in Dubai. He came to Morena on March 17. Suresh developed coronavirus symptoms on March 25, but he visited a hospital four days later. He and his wife tested positive on Thursday. Ten of his close relatives have also tested positive. It's said the man was tested in Dubai before his arrival but had no symptoms. India reported 355 new cases of novel coronavirus on Friday, taking its tally to 2,902. Out of 2,902 cases, 2,650 are active and 184 have been cured or discharged or have migrated. Also read: India reports biggest spike in 24 hrs, coronavirus cases cross 2,900 The total number of deaths reported due to COVID-19 disease rose to 68. Madhya Pradesh has so fare reported over 150 cases. (with inputs from agencies)

Madhya Pradesh man who threw a feast tests positive for coronavirus; 26,000 people put under quarantine

As on April 3, the Covid-19 tally in India was 2,547 , of which 163 were cured and 62 had died. With 335 cases, Maharashtra has the highest number, followed by Tamil Nadu (309), Kerala (286), Delhi (219), Rajasthan (133), Andhra Pradesh (132), Karnataka (124), Uttar Pradesh (113) and Telangana (107).

Indian Council for Medical Research tests 10,000 samples

The Central government on Saturday issued an advisory asking people to wear "homemade face covers", particularly when they step out of their houses in order to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The number of COVID-19 cases in the country rose to 2,902 while the death toll increased to 68 on Saturday.

In the 'Advisory on the use of Homemade Protective Cover for Face and Mouth', the government said the use of such masks would help in protecting the community at large, and that certain countries have claimed benefits of homemade face masks for the general public.

The advisory underlined that usage of homemade masks certainly will help in maintaining overall hygiene, while cautioning that "this face cover is not recommended for either health workers or those working with or in contact with COVID 19 patients or are patients themselves as these categories of people are required to wear specified protective gear".

"It is suggested that people who are not suffering from medical conditions or having breathing difficulties may use the handmade reusable face cover, particularly when they step out of their house. This will help in protecting the community at large," it said.

The advisory also has a manual issued by the office of the government's Principal Scientific Advisor on homemade protective cover for face and mouth for curbing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.

The manual suggested that "wearing face covers is especially recommended for people living in densely populated areas across India".

"Homemade reusable face covers only reduce the chances of inhaling droplets still in the air from an infected person, they do not give full protection," the manual read, while stressing that such face covers must be washed and cleaned every day.

It also stressed that social distancing must be maintained.

The proposed guide is meant to provide a simple outline of best practices to make, use and reuse face covers to enable NGOs and individuals make face protection covers themselves.

According to the manual, any used cotton cloth can be used to make face covers. The colour of the fabric does not matter but one must ensure that the fabric is washed well in boiling water for 5 minutes and dried well before making the face cover.

It also listed the procedures of making such homemade masks while asking people to ensure that it fits the face well and there are no gaps on the sides.

In the manual, the government urges people to wash hands thoroughly before wearing the face cover, switch to another fresh one as the face cover becomes damp or humid, and never reuse it without cleaning.

"Never share the face cover with anyone. Every member in a family should have separate face cover," the manual stated.

It also mentioned how such masks should be cleaned and sanitised everyday.

In the US, President Donald Trump has asked all citizens to voluntary use non-medical masks as an additional public health measure to fight the deadly coronavirus while keeping medical-grade masks available for health workers.

The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended that Americans wear basic cloth or fabric masks that can be either purchased online or simply made at home.

The Central government on Saturday issued an advisory asking people to wear "homemade face covers", particularly when they step out of their houses in order to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The Central government on Saturday issued an advisory asking people to wear "homemade face covers", particularly when they step out of their houses in order to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. The number of COVID-19 cases in the country rose to 2,902 while the death toll increased to 68 on Saturday. In the 'Advisory on the use of Homemade Protective Cover for Face and Mouth', the government said the use of such masks would help in protecting the community at large, and that certain countries have claimed benefits of homemade face masks for the general public. The advisory underlined that usage of homemade masks certainly will help in maintaining overall hygiene, while cautioning that "this face cover is not recommended for either health workers or those working with or in contact with COVID 19 patients or are patients themselves as these categories of people are required to wear specified protective gear". "It is suggested that people who are not suffering from medical conditions or having breathing difficulties may use the handmade reusable face cover, particularly when they step out of their house. This will help in protecting the community at large," it said. The advisory also has a manual issued by the office of the government's Principal Scientific Advisor on homemade protective cover for face and mouth for curbing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. The manual suggested that "wearing face covers is especially recommended for people living in densely populated areas across India". "Homemade reusable face covers only reduce the chances of inhaling droplets still in the air from an infected person, they do not give full protection," the manual read, while stressing that such face covers must be washed and cleaned every day. It also stressed that social distancing must be maintained. The proposed guide is meant to provide a simple outline of best practices to make, use and reuse face covers to enable NGOs and individuals make face protection covers themselves. According to the manual, any used cotton cloth can be used to make face covers. The colour of the fabric does not matter but one must ensure that the fabric is washed well in boiling water for 5 minutes and dried well before making the face cover. It also listed the procedures of making such homemade masks while asking people to ensure that it fits the face well and there are no gaps on the sides. In the manual, the government urges people to wash hands thoroughly before wearing the face cover, switch to another fresh one as the face cover becomes damp or humid, and never reuse it without cleaning. "Never share the face cover with anyone. Every member in a family should have separate face cover," the manual stated. It also mentioned how such masks should be cleaned and sanitised everyday. In the US, President Donald Trump has asked all citizens to voluntary use non-medical masks as an additional public health measure to fight the deadly coronavirus while keeping medical-grade masks available for health workers. The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended that Americans wear basic cloth or fabric masks that can be either purchased online or simply made at home.

Coronavirus: Govt issues advisory asking people to wear 'homemade face covers'

Around 20% of Covid-19 cases in India have been traced to the Tablighi Jamaat’s March 13-15 gathering in Delhi. The organisers have since been booked for criminal negligence.

Tablighi Jamaat has ruptured India's Coronavirus shield

An Indian-American non-profit body has launched an initiative to protect the underprivileged communities in India against the coronavirus pandemic and help them emerge stronger through the resulting social and economic crisis.

The American India Foundation (AIF), which was founded in 2001 in the aftermath of the devastating Gujarat earthquake, on Friday said it will use its existing "service delivery platforms" comprising frontline health workers, teachers, community mobilisers and local self-governments to contribute to the COVID-19 preparedness and response and strengthen India's healthcare system.

"We believe that India's poor, who have limited access to the right information, healthcare and are predominantly employed or self-employed in the unorganised sector, are expected to bear a disproportionate brunt of the economic fallout of this unprecedented health emergency," AIF Chief Executive Officer Nishant Pandey said, launching the intervention framework for COVID-19 response.

"In the medium to long term, the impact of job losses, disruption in children's education and social isolation might turn out to be greater than those from the health emergency," he said, adding that the organisation will try to ensure that the communities with the greatest needs are not affected the hardest during this crisis.

The AIF's intervention framework for COVID-19 response includes behaviour change communication, promoting community preparedness and building long-term resilience of communities.

The AIF has earlier worked in the relief needs and reconstruction efforts in several catastrophes in India, including the 2001 Bhuj earthquake, 2004 Tsunami, 2008 Bihar flood, 2013 Uttarakhand flood, 2014 Kashmir flood, 2015 Chennai flood and 2018 Kerala flood. 
The organisation claims that it has so far impacted lives of 5.6 million of India's poor in 24 states.

An Indian-American non-profit body has launched an initiative to protect the underprivileged communities in India against the coronavirus pandemic and help them emerge stronger through the resulting social and economic crisis.

An Indian-American non-profit body has launched an initiative to protect the underprivileged communities in India against the coronavirus pandemic and help them emerge stronger through the resulting social and economic crisis. The American India Foundation (AIF), which was founded in 2001 in the aftermath of the devastating Gujarat earthquake, on Friday said it will use its existing "service delivery platforms" comprising frontline health workers, teachers, community mobilisers and local self-governments to contribute to the COVID-19 preparedness and response and strengthen India's healthcare system. "We believe that India's poor, who have limited access to the right information, healthcare and are predominantly employed or self-employed in the unorganised sector, are expected to bear a disproportionate brunt of the economic fallout of this unprecedented health emergency," AIF Chief Executive Officer Nishant Pandey said, launching the intervention framework for COVID-19 response. "In the medium to long term, the impact of job losses, disruption in children's education and social isolation might turn out to be greater than those from the health emergency," he said, adding that the organisation will try to ensure that the communities with the greatest needs are not affected the hardest during this crisis. The AIF's intervention framework for COVID-19 response includes behaviour change communication, promoting community preparedness and building long-term resilience of communities. The AIF has earlier worked in the relief needs and reconstruction efforts in several catastrophes in India, including the 2001 Bhuj earthquake, 2004 Tsunami, 2008 Bihar flood, 2013 Uttarakhand flood, 2014 Kashmir flood, 2015 Chennai flood and 2018 Kerala flood. The organisation claims that it has so far impacted lives of 5.6 million of India's poor in 24 states.

COVID-19: Indo-American body launches initiative for underprivileged communities in India

Fifteen Indians have died globally due to COVID-19 crisis, with a maximum number in the US at 6 followed by 5 in Italy. Two Indians have died in UAE, while one each in Iran and Egypt.

Fifteen Indians have died globally due to COVID-19 crisis, with a maximum number in the US at 6 followed by 5 in Italy. Two Indians have died in UAE, while one each in Iran and Egypt. The authorities have begun the process of repatriation of bodies. Meanwhile, the maximum number of Indians infected with COVID-19 is in Iran's Qom city where a quarantine centre has been created by the Indian mission in Iran. One Indian national in Sweden had committed suicide after getting COVID-19 positive report. Globally, India has evacuated more than 2500 of its citizens from 4 countries including China, Japan, Iran and Italy over the deadly COVID-19 crisis. Last week PM Modi had a video conference with Indian envoys across the world over the COVID-19 crisis. In the meet that lasted for 75 minutes, PM Modi complimented Heads of Missions for their "efforts to evacuate Indians stranded abroad" and "also to address other problems Indians might face abroad, including arranging shelter, where necessary and feasible" said a PMO release. During the meet, the Heads of Beijing, Washington DC, Tehran, Rome, Berlin, Kathmandu, Abu Dhabi, Kabul, Male, and Seoul missions spoke to PM Modi shared their perspectives about the on-ground situation The US seems to have become the epicentre of the crisis, after Europe with nearly 1500 deaths in the country in the 24 hours period between Thursday and Friday. The number of people dead in the US due to COVID is over 7000. The pandemic which started in China has spread across the world has infected more than 1,000,000 around the world with 50,000 deaths globally.

15 Indians die globally due to coronavirus

The entire region of Delhi and Rajasthan is grappling with the coronavirus challenge posed by the return of Tablighi Jamaat members from their congregation with cases reported from new areas being linked to them.

In at least five districts of Rajasthan, the first cases can be traced either to Tablighi Jamaat members or their contacts. The state has so far reported a total of 198 coronavirus positive cases, according to officials.

As many as 41 people who returned to the state after attending the Tablighi Jamaat's Nizamuddin Markaz, or their contacts, have tested positive for the virus since Wednesday.

The cases related to Tablighi Jamaat were first reported in Tonk where four people, who had attended the event in mid-March, tested positive on Wednesday.

Coronavirus has spread to 18 of the state's 33 districts.

The first cases in five districts -- Tonk, Bharatpur, Dholpur, Dausa and Bikaner - were related to Jamaat people.

Rajasthan Police has been able to trace 703 people related to the Jamaat so far. They have been home-quarantined or isolated in hospitals and the work of contact-tracing is underway.

Out of 703, 381 are from other states and 10 are from Nepal.

In Rajasthan, the maximum of positive cases (55) are from Jaipur and 13 of them are Tablighi Jamaat people. Most of the rest cases are from Ramganj locality. Bhilwara (27) and Jhunjhunu (15) follow Jaipur.

In Jhunjhunu, seven out of 15 are related to Jamaat.

The presence and movement of Jamaat people is high in Shekhawati region (which comprises Churu, Jhunjhunu, Sikar and nearby areas), Alwar, Bharatpur and nearby areas which are dominated by the Meo community people, and in Tonk, which has a sizeable Muslim population.

People from Jamaat have also been traced in Hanumangarh, Ganganagar, Karauli, Jodhpur, Barmer, Jaipur and Dausa districts also.

DELHI

Out of the total 386 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported in the national capital, 259 are from Markaz Nizamuddin.

Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Saturday said Delhi was facing a shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits and requires 50,000 kits on an urgent basis.

In the last two days, 600 people linked to Markaz Nizamuddin have been quarantined in Delhi and efforts are underway to trace all their contacts.

According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare's latest bulletin, there are 2902 positive COVID-19 cases in India, including 2650 active cases, 184 cured and discharged and 83 deaths.

(with inputs from agencies)

The entire region of Delhi and Rajasthan is grappling with the coronavirus challenge posed by the return of Tablighi Jamaat members from their congregation with cases reported from new areas being linked to them.

The entire region of Delhi and Rajasthan is grappling with the coronavirus challenge posed by the return of Tablighi Jamaat members from their congregation with cases reported from new areas being linked to them. In at least five districts of Rajasthan, the first cases can be traced either to Tablighi Jamaat members or their contacts. The state has so far reported a total of 198 coronavirus positive cases, according to officials. As many as 41 people who returned to the state after attending the Tablighi Jamaat's Nizamuddin Markaz, or their contacts, have tested positive for the virus since Wednesday. The cases related to Tablighi Jamaat were first reported in Tonk where four people, who had attended the event in mid-March, tested positive on Wednesday. Coronavirus has spread to 18 of the state's 33 districts. The first cases in five districts -- Tonk, Bharatpur, Dholpur, Dausa and Bikaner - were related to Jamaat people. Rajasthan Police has been able to trace 703 people related to the Jamaat so far. They have been home-quarantined or isolated in hospitals and the work of contact-tracing is underway. Out of 703, 381 are from other states and 10 are from Nepal. In Rajasthan, the maximum of positive cases (55) are from Jaipur and 13 of them are Tablighi Jamaat people. Most of the rest cases are from Ramganj locality. Bhilwara (27) and Jhunjhunu (15) follow Jaipur. In Jhunjhunu, seven out of 15 are related to Jamaat. The presence and movement of Jamaat people is high in Shekhawati region (which comprises Churu, Jhunjhunu, Sikar and nearby areas), Alwar, Bharatpur and nearby areas which are dominated by the Meo community people, and in Tonk, which has a sizeable Muslim population. People from Jamaat have also been traced in Hanumangarh, Ganganagar, Karauli, Jodhpur, Barmer, Jaipur and Dausa districts also. DELHI Out of the total 386 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported in the national capital, 259 are from Markaz Nizamuddin. Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Saturday said Delhi was facing a shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits and requires 50,000 kits on an urgent basis. In the last two days, 600 people linked to Markaz Nizamuddin have been quarantined in Delhi and efforts are underway to trace all their contacts. According to the Union Health Ministry and Family Welfare's latest bulletin, there are 2902 positive COVID-19 cases in India, including 2650 active cases, 184 cured and discharged and 83 deaths. (with inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: Rajasthan, Delhi grapple with Tablighi Jamaat challenge

With 67 new cases on Friday, the infected coronavirus tally in Maharashtra has gone up to 490, health officials said.&nbsp;

Six COVID-19 patients died today in the state that continues to remain the worst-hit state with a big margin.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/42-drop-in-crime-rate-since-march-15-nearly-2000-cases-registered-police-290478">42% drop in crime rate since March 15, nearly 2,000 cases registered: Police</a>

The state's capital city Mumbai recorded 43 cases today with which the infected toll now stands at 278 with 19 deaths.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/53000-dead-over-1-million-infected-with-deadly-coronavirus-globally-290382">53,000 dead, over 1 million infected with deadly coronavirus globally</a>

At least 50 people have also been treated and discharged in Maharastra, the state's health department said.&nbsp;

Out of the six new deaths, two were reported from Mumbai, and one each from Vasai-Virar, Badlapur in Thane, Jalgaon, and Pune.&nbsp;

Earlier today, Maharashtra government announced a compensation of Rs 50 lakh to the next of any police officer who may die while discharging his duty during the lockdown and coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

In India, coronavirus cases continue to rise at an increasing level with the number of positive cases standing at 2,547 and death toll at 62.

(With inputs from ANI, PTI)

With 67 new cases on Friday, the infected coronavirus tally in Maharashtra has gone up to 490, health officials said. Six COVID-19 patients died today in the state that continues to remain the worst-hit state with a big margin.

With 67 new cases on Friday, the infected coronavirus tally in Maharashtra has gone up to 490, health officials said. Six COVID-19 patients died today in the state that continues to remain the worst-hit state with a big margin. Also read | 42% drop in crime rate since March 15, nearly 2,000 cases registered: Police The state's capital city Mumbai recorded 43 cases today with which the infected toll now stands at 278 with 19 deaths. Also read | 53,000 dead, over 1 million infected with deadly coronavirus globally At least 50 people have also been treated and discharged in Maharastra, the state's health department said. Out of the six new deaths, two were reported from Mumbai, and one each from Vasai-Virar, Badlapur in Thane, Jalgaon, and Pune. Earlier today, Maharashtra government announced a compensation of Rs 50 lakh to the next of any police officer who may die while discharging his duty during the lockdown and coronavirus outbreak. In India, coronavirus cases continue to rise at an increasing level with the number of positive cases standing at 2,547 and death toll at 62. (With inputs from ANI, PTI)

Coronavirus: Infected toll in Maharashtra nears 500, over 250 in Mumbai

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation through a video message on Friday (April 3). PM Modi urged citizens to light diyas/torchlights on April 5 (Sunday) at 9 pm for nine minutes as a mark of India's resilience towards fighting against the coronavirus pandemic.

PM Modi urges citizens to light diyas, torchlights on April 5

Twelve more persons tested positive for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/drdo-steps-up-work-on-protective-gear-as-50-doctors-paramedics-contract-coronavirus-290257">coronavirus </a>in Andhra Pradesh taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 161, authorities said on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-urges-citizens-to-light-diyas-candles-on-sunday-at-9-pm-for-9-mins-to-dispel-darkness-brought-by-coronavirus-290268">Also Read: PM Modi urges citizens to light diyas, candles on Sunday at 9 pm for 9 mins</a>

One COVID-19 patient who had a foreign travel history was discharged from a government hospital in Kakinada today, the Andhra authorities said.

Meanwhile, in Delhi, Union health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan visited Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital on Friday to review the situation in the national capital.

Authorities in Odisha said the person who contacted coronavirus from Bhubaneswar has recovered and has been discharged from hospital.

There are three active cases of Coronavirus in the state now, the Odisha health department said.

President Ram Nath Kovind along with Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu interacted with the governors, Lt Governors and administrators of all states and Union territories today via video conferencing to discuss measures to combat coronavirus.

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath also interacted with pensioners from different parts of the state to devise ways to disburse advance monthly pensions to senior citizens, widows and differently-abled amid the lockdown. 
&nbsp;

Twelve more persons tested positive for coronavirus in Andhra Pradesh taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 161, authorities said on Friday. Also Read: PM Modi urges citizens to light diyas, candles on Sunday at 9 pm for 9 mins One COVID-19 patient who had a foreign travel history was discharged from a government hospital in Kakinada today, the Andhra authorities said.

Twelve more persons tested positive for coronavirus in Andhra Pradesh taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 161, authorities said on Friday. Also Read: PM Modi urges citizens to light diyas, candles on Sunday at 9 pm for 9 mins One COVID-19 patient who had a foreign travel history was discharged from a government hospital in Kakinada today, the Andhra authorities said. Meanwhile, in Delhi, Union health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan visited Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital on Friday to review the situation in the national capital. Authorities in Odisha said the person who contacted coronavirus from Bhubaneswar has recovered and has been discharged from hospital. There are three active cases of Coronavirus in the state now, the Odisha health department said. President Ram Nath Kovind along with Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu interacted with the governors, Lt Governors and administrators of all states and Union territories today via video conferencing to discuss measures to combat coronavirus. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath also interacted with pensioners from different parts of the state to devise ways to disburse advance monthly pensions to senior citizens, widows and differently-abled amid the lockdown.

12 test positive for coronavirus in Andhra Pradesh, total cases rise to 161

In what could be seen as an announcement of India's next set of measures to control the coronavirus outbreak, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday morning will address the nation.&nbsp;

"At 9 AM tomorrow morning, I’ll share a small video message with my fellow Indians," PM Modi said in a tweet.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
At 9 AM tomorrow morning, I’ll share a small video message with my fellow Indians. 
 
कल सुबह 9 बजे देशवासियों के साथ मैं एक वीडियो संदेश साझा करूंगा।
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1245678985620549632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, coronavirus cases in India stand at 2,069 with death toll jumping to 53. In the last 24 hours, India recorded 200 more positive cases and 12 new deaths.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-total-number-of-cases-climb-to-2069-53-deaths-says-health-ministry-290112">Coronavirus in India: Total number of cases climb to 2,069; 53 deaths, says Health Ministry</a>

Earlier, PM Modi hinted of a common strategy implemented by various governments to deal with the movement of people after the end of a 21-day nationwide lockdown on April 14.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-global-cases-cross-900000-death-toll-rises-to-47522-290148">Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 900000; death toll rises to 47,522</a>

"Important to formulate common exit strategy to ensure staggered re-emergence of population once lockdown ends," PM Modi said in a statement.&nbsp;

In the national capital Delhi, confirmed COVID-19 cases jumped to 293, out of which 182 were from Nizamuddin Merkaz, officials said.&nbsp;

On Thursday too, a steady rise in the number of cases was largely due to the Tablighi Jamaat's religious congregation that was held more than two weeks ago at Nizamuddin Merkaz in New Delhi.

Various states reported coronavirus positive cases that were linked to Nizamuddin Merkaz.&nbsp;

Nearly 9,000 people of Tablighi Jamaat and their primary contacts have been identified and put under quarantine, various officials said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

In Maharashtra, COVID-19 infected tally rose to 416 with 81 more cases and two deaths.&nbsp;

In Madhya Pradesh, the infected cases rose to 107, including eight deaths.&nbsp;

Karnataka recorded 14 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the infected tally to 124, including three deaths. Out of the total infected cases in Karnataka, 11 are linked to the Nizamuddin event.&nbsp;

At least 24 more cases were confirmed in Telangana as the infected number stood at 154, including nine deaths.&nbsp;

Also, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal said the state government would give Rs 5,000 each to autorickshaw pullers, gramin-sewa workers, and e-rickshaw drivers.&nbsp;

The Union ministry also informed states that anyone who would violate lockdown could face a jail term of upto 2 years.&nbsp;

PM Modi also interacted today with&nbsp;chief ministers through a video conference and instructed them to focus on containment measures: testing, tracing, isolation, and quarantine.

It was imperative to work on a war footing, identify COVID-19 hotspots, encircle them and ensure that the infections don't spread, PM Modi told CMs.&nbsp;

(With PTI, ANI inputs)

In what could be seen as an announcement of India's next set of measures to control the coronavirus outbreak, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday morning will address the nation.

In what could be seen as an announcement of India's next set of measures to control the coronavirus outbreak, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday morning will address the nation. "At 9 AM tomorrow morning, I’ll share a small video message with my fellow Indians," PM Modi said in a tweet. At 9 AM tomorrow morning, I’ll share a small video message with my fellow Indians. कल सुबह 9 बजे देशवासियों के साथ मैं एक वीडियो संदेश साझा करूंगा। — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 2, 2020 × Meanwhile, coronavirus cases in India stand at 2,069 with death toll jumping to 53. In the last 24 hours, India recorded 200 more positive cases and 12 new deaths. Also read | Coronavirus in India: Total number of cases climb to 2,069; 53 deaths, says Health Ministry Earlier, PM Modi hinted of a common strategy implemented by various governments to deal with the movement of people after the end of a 21-day nationwide lockdown on April 14. Also read | Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 900000; death toll rises to 47,522 "Important to formulate common exit strategy to ensure staggered re-emergence of population once lockdown ends," PM Modi said in a statement. In the national capital Delhi, confirmed COVID-19 cases jumped to 293, out of which 182 were from Nizamuddin Merkaz, officials said. On Thursday too, a steady rise in the number of cases was largely due to the Tablighi Jamaat's religious congregation that was held more than two weeks ago at Nizamuddin Merkaz in New Delhi. Various states reported coronavirus positive cases that were linked to Nizamuddin Merkaz. Nearly 9,000 people of Tablighi Jamaat and their primary contacts have been identified and put under quarantine, various officials said on Tuesday. In Maharashtra, COVID-19 infected tally rose to 416 with 81 more cases and two deaths. In Madhya Pradesh, the infected cases rose to 107, including eight deaths. Karnataka recorded 14 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the infected tally to 124, including three deaths. Out of the total infected cases in Karnataka, 11 are linked to the Nizamuddin event. At least 24 more cases were confirmed in Telangana as the infected number stood at 154, including nine deaths. Also, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal said the state government would give Rs 5,000 each to autorickshaw pullers, gramin-sewa workers, and e-rickshaw drivers. The Union ministry also informed states that anyone who would violate lockdown could face a jail term of upto 2 years. PM Modi also interacted today with chief ministers through a video conference and instructed them to focus on containment measures: testing, tracing, isolation, and quarantine. It was imperative to work on a war footing, identify COVID-19 hotspots, encircle them and ensure that the infections don't spread, PM Modi told CMs. (With PTI, ANI inputs)

PM Narendra Modi to address nation today with video message

On the 22nd of March, India applauded the frontline workers. Less than two weeks later, healthcare workers were attacked in Madhya Pradesh. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus: Indian health workers attacked

The crime rate in Delhi dropped by 42 per cent since March 15 when restrictions were in place to prevent COVID-19 spread as compared to the same period last year, police said on Friday.

According to data shared by police, a total of 1,990 cases have been registered from March 15 to 31 as against 3,416 cases during the same period last year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-reports-91-new-covid-19-positive-cases-in-last-24-hours-total-rises-to-384-290403" hreflang="en">Delhi: 91 new COVID-19 positive cases in last 24 hours; total rises to 384</a>

Even before the nationwide lockdown was imposed, the Delhi government had banned religious, social, cultural and political gatherings as well as protests comprising more than 50 people in the national capital.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kids-in-gujarat-join-coronavirus-relief-fight-with-donations-from-piggy-bank-290384" hreflang="en">Kids in Gujarat join coronavirus-relief fight with donations from piggy bank</a>

There has been a 50 per cent decline in cases related to outraging modesty of women while 42 per cent decline in kidnapping cases as compared to last year during the same period, 64 per cent decline in abduction cases, 77 per cent decline in extortion, 51 per cent decline in robbery, 60 per cent decline in fatal accidents, according to data.

Out of the total 1,990 cases, 53 cases of robbery, 181 cases of snatching, 27 cases under sections of grievous hurt, 55 cases of burglary, 1,243 cases of motor vehicle theft, 66 case of house theft, 72 cases under sections of outraging modesty of women, 150 cases of kidnapping, while 112 cases of accidents with no casualties were reported.

On March 24, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced a complete lockdown across the country for 21 days to control the spread of COVID-19.

The crime rate in Delhi dropped by 42 per cent since March 15 when restrictions were in place to prevent COVID-19 spread as compared to the same period last year, police said on Friday.

The crime rate in Delhi dropped by 42 per cent since March 15 when restrictions were in place to prevent COVID-19 spread as compared to the same period last year, police said on Friday. According to data shared by police, a total of 1,990 cases have been registered from March 15 to 31 as against 3,416 cases during the same period last year. Also read: Delhi: 91 new COVID-19 positive cases in last 24 hours; total rises to 384 Even before the nationwide lockdown was imposed, the Delhi government had banned religious, social, cultural and political gatherings as well as protests comprising more than 50 people in the national capital. Also read: Kids in Gujarat join coronavirus-relief fight with donations from piggy bank There has been a 50 per cent decline in cases related to outraging modesty of women while 42 per cent decline in kidnapping cases as compared to last year during the same period, 64 per cent decline in abduction cases, 77 per cent decline in extortion, 51 per cent decline in robbery, 60 per cent decline in fatal accidents, according to data. Out of the total 1,990 cases, 53 cases of robbery, 181 cases of snatching, 27 cases under sections of grievous hurt, 55 cases of burglary, 1,243 cases of motor vehicle theft, 66 case of house theft, 72 cases under sections of outraging modesty of women, 150 cases of kidnapping, while 112 cases of accidents with no casualties were reported. On March 24, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced a complete lockdown across the country for 21 days to control the spread of COVID-19.

42% drop in crime rate since March 15, nearly 2,000 cases registered: Police

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday urged citizens&nbsp;to light diyas and candles&nbsp;on April 5 (Sunday) at 9 pm for nine minutes as a mark of India's resilience towards fighting against the coronavirus pandemic.

PM Modi, in a ten-minute televised address, also asked the nation to keep&nbsp;the electric lights&nbsp;switched off for these nine minutes.

He said, "I request all of of you to switch off all the lights of your house on 5th April at 9 PM for 9 minutes, and just light a candle, 'diya', or mobile's flashlight, to mark our fight against coronavirus.

"I also appeal to people to avoid gathering anywhere during this period. You don't have to go out on the streets and in the colonies. Just do it from your doorstep&nbsp;and balconies."

"Today when crores of people&nbsp;are inside their homes, tsome of us may think how they will fight this battle against COVID-19 alone.&nbsp;But please remember, no one is alone. The strength of 130 crore&nbsp;of Indians is with each one of us," PM Modi added.

The prime minister also hailed the citizens for the successful implementation of Janata Curfew on March 22, and the pan-India lockdown until now.

"The way you paid gratitude to people fighting against COVID-19, on March 22 has become a model that is being emulated by other countries. Janata Curfew and ringing of bells/clanging utensils&nbsp;made the country aware of its unity amid this challenging time," he said.

PM Modi announced a countrywide lockdown last week -- in view of the spurt in the number of cases of coronavirus. He said social or physical distancing was the only means to stem the growth of&nbsp;the deadly virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-on-april-5-at-9-pm-switch-off-lights-light-diyas-for-nine-minutes-says-pm-modi-290260">FOLLOW LIVE BLOG</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/confirmed-coronavirus-cases-in-india-rise-to-2069-death-toll-at-53-290248">Also read:&nbsp;Confirmed coronavirus cases in India rise to 2,069, death toll at 53</a>

The lockdown will run till April 14, and according to the&nbsp;rules, only essential services will be operated till then. India has&nbsp;also scrapped all international and domestic passenger flights till April 14.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) termed COVID-19&nbsp;as a pandemic on March 11.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday urged citizens to light diyas and candles on April 5 (Sunday) at 9 pm for nine minutes as a mark of India's resilience towards fighting against the coronavirus pandemic.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday urged citizens to light diyas and candles on April 5 (Sunday) at 9 pm for nine minutes as a mark of India's resilience towards fighting against the coronavirus pandemic. PM Modi, in a ten-minute televised address, also asked the nation to keep the electric lights switched off for these nine minutes. He said, "I request all of of you to switch off all the lights of your house on 5th April at 9 PM for 9 minutes, and just light a candle, 'diya', or mobile's flashlight, to mark our fight against coronavirus. "I also appeal to people to avoid gathering anywhere during this period. You don't have to go out on the streets and in the colonies. Just do it from your doorstep and balconies." "Today when crores of people are inside their homes, tsome of us may think how they will fight this battle against COVID-19 alone. But please remember, no one is alone. The strength of 130 crore of Indians is with each one of us," PM Modi added. The prime minister also hailed the citizens for the successful implementation of Janata Curfew on March 22, and the pan-India lockdown until now. "The way you paid gratitude to people fighting against COVID-19, on March 22 has become a model that is being emulated by other countries. Janata Curfew and ringing of bells/clanging utensils made the country aware of its unity amid this challenging time," he said. PM Modi announced a countrywide lockdown last week -- in view of the spurt in the number of cases of coronavirus. He said social or physical distancing was the only means to stem the growth of the deadly virus. FOLLOW LIVE BLOG Also read: Confirmed coronavirus cases in India rise to 2,069, death toll at 53 The lockdown will run till April 14, and according to the rules, only essential services will be operated till then. India has also scrapped all international and domestic passenger flights till April 14. The World Health Organisation (WHO) termed COVID-19 as a pandemic on March 11.

PM Modi urges citizens to light diyas, candles on Sunday at 9 pm for 9 mins to 'dispel darkness brought by coronavirus'

The Central government said on Friday 647 new coronavirus cases in the last 48 hours has links with Tablighi Jamaat's members.&nbsp;

In Delhi, 386 tested positive for coronavirus so far, out of which 259 were from Nizamuddin Markaz, where the Tablighi Jamaat's event took place on March 13.&nbsp;

A lot of other states have reported a large number of COVID-19 cases and the rise is mostly due to Tablighi Jamaat's religious congregation where more than 3,000 people participated, including foreign nationals.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/647-confirmed-cases-linked-to-tablighi-jamaat-in-14-states-says-health-ministry-290401">647 confirmed cases linked to Tablighi Jamaat in 14 states, says Health Ministry</a>

This religious group is receiving a lot of flak for its irresponsible behaviour and at such a time doctors in the national capital are complaining that the patients of this group are not cooperating.&nbsp;

Some patients evacuated from Nizamuddin Markaz are not following instructions and are reluctant to take medicines, a doctor said.&nbsp;

A senior doctor from Rajiv Gandhi Super Specialty Hospital in New Delhi also complained of the non-cooperation of patients admitted from Nizamuddin Markaz.&nbsp;

Earlier, in Delhi's neighbouring state Uttar Pradesh, doctors accused Tablighi Jamaat patients of misbehaving with the nurses, passing lewd remarks in Ghaziabad district, following which the state government imposed the stringent National Security Act (NSA) against them.&nbsp;

Now the whole Muslim community should not receive the blamed, but, when the nation is facing such a grave crisis, strict actions must be taken against those who are repeated offenders 
&nbsp;

The Central government said on Friday 647 new coronavirus cases in the last 48 hours has links with Tablighi Jamaat's members. In Delhi, 386 tested positive for coronavirus so far, out of which 259 were from Nizamuddin Markaz, where the Tablighi Jamaat's event took place on March 13.

The Central government said on Friday 647 new coronavirus cases in the last 48 hours has links with Tablighi Jamaat's members. In Delhi, 386 tested positive for coronavirus so far, out of which 259 were from Nizamuddin Markaz, where the Tablighi Jamaat's event took place on March 13. A lot of other states have reported a large number of COVID-19 cases and the rise is mostly due to Tablighi Jamaat's religious congregation where more than 3,000 people participated, including foreign nationals. Also read | 647 confirmed cases linked to Tablighi Jamaat in 14 states, says Health Ministry This religious group is receiving a lot of flak for its irresponsible behaviour and at such a time doctors in the national capital are complaining that the patients of this group are not cooperating. Some patients evacuated from Nizamuddin Markaz are not following instructions and are reluctant to take medicines, a doctor said. A senior doctor from Rajiv Gandhi Super Specialty Hospital in New Delhi also complained of the non-cooperation of patients admitted from Nizamuddin Markaz. Earlier, in Delhi's neighbouring state Uttar Pradesh, doctors accused Tablighi Jamaat patients of misbehaving with the nurses, passing lewd remarks in Ghaziabad district, following which the state government imposed the stringent National Security Act (NSA) against them. Now the whole Muslim community should not receive the blamed, but, when the nation is facing such a grave crisis, strict actions must be taken against those who are repeated offenders

After putting many lives at risk, Tablighi Jamaat members cause new controversy

India may be witness to a spurt in the cases of coronavirus and the disease it causes -- COVID-19, but that hasn't stopped it from being home to 'Corona' and 'Covid' -- in human form. No kidding here.

A couple in Chhattisgarh has named their newborn twins as 'Corona' and 'Covid'.

The Raipur-based couple said the two words -- symbolic of devastation in the modern times -- denoted their triumph over hardships as the twins - a boy and a girl - were born during the ongoing coronavirus-enforced nationwide lockdown which has disrupted normal life.

The names, they said, would remind them about all the hardships they conquered amid the lockdown, ahead of a successful delivery on the intervening night of March 26-27 at a government hospital.

The names are not permanent though. The couple said they may change their decision later and rename their kids.

The twins were born in Dr BR Ambedkar Memorial Hospital.

"I was blessed with the twins -- a boy and a girl -- in the early hours on March 27. We have named them -- Covid (boy) and Corona (girl) for now," Preeti Verma, the 27-year-old mother of the newborns, told PTI.

"The delivery happened after facing several difficulties and therefore, I and my husband wanted to make the day memorable. Indeed the virus is dangerous and life-threatening but its outbreak made people focus on sanitation, hygiene and inculcate other good habits. Thus, we thought about these names," she said.

Verma continued about their struggle: "On late night of March 26, I suddenly experienced severe labour pain and somehow my husband arranged an ambulance operated under 102 Mahtari Express service. As no vehicular movement was allowed on roads due to the lockdown, we were stopped by police at various places but they let us go after noticing my condition.

"I wondered what would happen in the hospital as it was midnight, but fortunately doctors and other staff were very cooperative. Our relatives, who wanted to reach the hospital, could not make it as bus and train services were stopped due to the lockdown."

The couple already has a two-year-old daughter.

Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the hospital, Shubhra Singh said, the mother and the newborns were discharged recently and they were in good health.

The coronavirus countrywide lockdown, imposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in view of the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in India will continue till April 14.

India may be witness to a spurt in the cases of coronavirus and the disease it causes -- COVID-19, but that hasn't stopped it from being home to 'Corona' and 'Covid' -- in human form.

India may be witness to a spurt in the cases of coronavirus and the disease it causes -- COVID-19, but that hasn't stopped it from being home to 'Corona' and 'Covid' -- in human form. No kidding here. A couple in Chhattisgarh has named their newborn twins as 'Corona' and 'Covid'. The Raipur-based couple said the two words -- symbolic of devastation in the modern times -- denoted their triumph over hardships as the twins - a boy and a girl - were born during the ongoing coronavirus-enforced nationwide lockdown which has disrupted normal life. The names, they said, would remind them about all the hardships they conquered amid the lockdown, ahead of a successful delivery on the intervening night of March 26-27 at a government hospital. The names are not permanent though. The couple said they may change their decision later and rename their kids. The twins were born in Dr BR Ambedkar Memorial Hospital. "I was blessed with the twins -- a boy and a girl -- in the early hours on March 27. We have named them -- Covid (boy) and Corona (girl) for now," Preeti Verma, the 27-year-old mother of the newborns, told PTI. "The delivery happened after facing several difficulties and therefore, I and my husband wanted to make the day memorable. Indeed the virus is dangerous and life-threatening but its outbreak made people focus on sanitation, hygiene and inculcate other good habits. Thus, we thought about these names," she said. Verma continued about their struggle: "On late night of March 26, I suddenly experienced severe labour pain and somehow my husband arranged an ambulance operated under 102 Mahtari Express service. As no vehicular movement was allowed on roads due to the lockdown, we were stopped by police at various places but they let us go after noticing my condition. "I wondered what would happen in the hospital as it was midnight, but fortunately doctors and other staff were very cooperative. Our relatives, who wanted to reach the hospital, could not make it as bus and train services were stopped due to the lockdown." The couple already has a two-year-old daughter. Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the hospital, Shubhra Singh said, the mother and the newborns were discharged recently and they were in good health. The coronavirus countrywide lockdown, imposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in view of the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in India will continue till April 14.

Twins, born during coronavirus lockdown in Raipur, named 'Corona' and 'Covid'

Repeat, repeat, repeat until you succeed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi intensified his public outreach amidst growing coronavirus concerns and the lack of awareness about the pandemic.

Repeat, repeat, repeat until you succeed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi intensified his public outreach amidst growing coronavirus concerns and the lack of awareness about the pandemic. It wasn’t an easy task to spread awareness among a population of 130 billion, at the same time avoid creating any panic. The key to the outreach programme was harnessing every mass media platform, activating influencers and repeat messaging of “social distancing”. Not only did PM Narendra Modi make calls to all CMs, healthcare workers, stakeholders from Electronic & print media, sportspeople, etc., he has also been actively promoting initiatives on coronavirus through tweets. A video messsage to my fellow Indians. https://t.co/rcS97tTFrH — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 3, 2020 × Prime Minister Modi has been successfully promoting the idea of the fight against Coronavirus as a social and national movement among the people. His call to appreciate Healthcare Workers by applauding them during Janata Curfew was widely accepted across the nation. The suit was followed by other nations like the UK, France, the US, etc. where people came out in their balconies and applauded healthcare and security personnel for working on front-line against the pandemic. It all started with a tweet on March 4th when Prime Minister tweeted and announced that he will not be taking part in Holi events this year. In a tweet, he said, "Experts across the world have advised reducing mass gatherings to avoid the spread of COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus. Hence, this year I have decided not to participate in any Holi Milan programme." Experts across the world have advised to reduce mass gatherings to avoid the spread of COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus. Hence, this year I have decided not to participate in any Holi Milan programme. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 4, 2020 × Since then, Prime Minister Modi has done five addresses to the nation on coronavirus, every time repeating the importance of “social distancing” and consequences for not following it. Four out of five times, Prime Minister Modi addressed the nation with a television address and once on “Mann Ki Baat” on the radio. He has also been actively engaging with people on Twitter where has a massive following of 54.8 million followers. Prime Minister Modi has been very careful in choosing the platforms and also, making the best use of every platform to increase his outreach among people and spread awareness about Coronavirus. Coronavirus, the pandemic has now infected more than 1 million people in more than 180 countries and killed more than 54 thousand people, according to John Hopkins University which has been tracking COVID-19 cases. According to the survey conducted by BARC and data measurement firm Nielson, amid the lockdown, television consumption has seen a 37% spike across India, with 622 million watching TV daily for 4 hours 40 minutes. Also, users are now spending 3.8 hours per day on their smartphones, resulting in a spike of 12% of the time spent on smartphones. The report is titled Crisis Consumption: An Insights Series Into TV, Smartphones, and Audiences. The report also suggests how people want to stay informed thus making News as the biggest beneficiary with a 298% surge in viewership. The data indicates why the Prime Minister chose Television as one of the Primary mediums to connect with people. Apart from social media and Television, Prime Minister has also been consistently connecting with people through his monthly radio address with, Mann ki Baat. Through, 'Mann Ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with people across the country on a range of important subjects. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday sought the nation's forgiveness for imposing a monumental lockdown on the country but said "we have to win ... and we will win the battle" against the unprecedented menace of coronavirus that has claimed more than 56 lives in India till now. There is a reason why PM chose “Mann Ki Baat” to apologize for the strict measures he took. The reason is its the reach and impact of Prime Minister’s Narendra Modi’s monthly radio broadcast ‘Mann Ki Baat. According to a multi-platform survey conducted by ‘Aakashwani’ in 2018, about 70.8% of the total respondents, or about 7 in every 10 people said, they have listened to Mann Ki Baat.” PM's mass messaging was just not about the mediums but also the vast cross-section of society that the Prime Minister has been addressing. Till now, Prime Minister has engaged with more than a dozen different sections of society from CMs of all states on the 20th of March to today’s video conferencing with sportspersons. In a series of meetings via video conference PM has already met CMs of all states, leaders of Pharma Industry, stakeholders in electronic and print media, stakeholders of leading industries, medical fraternity, radio jockeys, AYUSH practitioners, spiritual leaders, sportspersons, etc. Meeting with influencers of each sector has a captive audience that Prime Minister tried to reach through them. Amid all this, Prime Minister Modi also made a massive global outreach, having spoken to world leaders including Prime Minister of UK, Israel, and Kuwait. He also spoke with Presidents of France, Russia, Afghanistan, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. His outreach also included phone calls to the Crown Princes of Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi. He also initiated a virtual SAARC Summit on the 13th of March and proposed the creation of a COVID-19 Emergency Fund based on voluntary contributions from all the countries, with India making an initial offer of US $10 million for the fund. Then on March 17th, Prime Minister Modi while speaking with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the current G-20 chair, proposed a virtual G-20 leadership meet. PM Modi earlier proposed the same idea to Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia, another G-20 member. The online G-20 session took place on March 26. Prime Minister Modi’s globally-focused approach makes a certain sense. New Delhi is not hesitant to take the lead while fighting a global pandemic. Every time the Indian Prime Minister initiated a meeting or video conference or address to the nation or a global outreach, he kept on repeating the message of how the fight with coronavirus can’t be fought individually. It has to be fought while staying together, staying informed and spreading the word of “social distancing”, not the deadly virus.

PM Modi fighting the coronavirus battle with 'sustained communication'

India hardly has 40,000 ventilator beds, scientist in India have come up with a toaster-size ventilator offering hope in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

India comes up with toaster-size ventilators to combat COVID-19

A day after a marginal dip, the COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu touched the three-figure mark again on Friday with 102 people, almost all returnees from Tablighi Jamat meet in Delhi, testing positive, taking the tally in the state to 411.

The fresh cases included 100 people who attended the religious congregation in Nizamuddin area of Delhi, which has become the country's biggest hotspot for the deadly virus, the state government said while maintaining that there was no community transmission as of now.

Of the 3,684 samples sent for testing so far, 411 have tested positive for the virus while 2,789 were negative and 484 samples under process, Health Minister C Vijayabaskar said in a tweet.

Tamil Nadu has the second-highest number of COVID-19 cases after Maharashtra which had 423 patients as of Thursday.

Of the total cases, as many as 364 among those who had attended the Delhi meeting last month have tested positive for coronavirus, the government said as it continued the massive contact tracing and containment efforts to check the spread.

In all, samples of 1,103 people from the state who attended, had been sent for testing and all of them have been isolated.

This is the third straight day Tamil Nadu has witnessed a surge in the number of positive cases since the Jamat returnees in the state were brought under the scanner after several deaths were reported in Telangana and other places.

On Wednesday, the state reported 110 positive cases and on Thursday there was a moderate drop to 75 with all but one being returnees from the Tablighi congregation.

Health Secretary Beela Rajesh on Friday told reporters here that of the 102 who tested positive, 100 were Jamat meet returnees, another man had come back from the US and the source for one more person was being ascertained.

To a question on a claim that some had walked away from COVID-19 treatment facilities, she said the government was not aware of any such incident and added adequate police security has been put in place.

All positive patients were stable, none requiring even intensive care and so far there has been one death, she said.

Given the rising number of cases, the government is vigorously implementing containment plan without waiting for a cluster of cases to emerge.

As part of the exercise, 376 samples of people with severe acute respiratory infection was analysed and out of it three tested positive who had contact and it only shows that there was no community transmission of the virus, she said.

More field personnel were being engaged in the containment exercise with the rise in cases and the work includes door to door surveillance as well and lakhs of people have been covered so far, she said.

Considering the number of cases, the top official said self-isolation and social distancing must be followed effectively by people and especially vulnerable sections like those with chronic ailments and immune-compromised conditions must be even more careful.

The government has considered the plea of some positive patients to take treatment in private hospitals and they may do so if they wish, she said adding only up to four were being treated in private facilities as of now in the state.

The active surveillance is on in both the containment (five kilometres around the residences of those infected) and buffer zones (an additional two to three-kilometre radius transcending the containment area) to ascertain those with symptoms like fever.

While 86,342 people are under home quarantine, as many as 105 are in government quarantine facilities.

A day after a marginal dip, the COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu touched the three-figure mark again on Friday with 102 people, almost all returnees from Tablighi Jamat meet in Delhi, testing positive, taking the tally in the state to 411.

A day after a marginal dip, the COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu touched the three-figure mark again on Friday with 102 people, almost all returnees from Tablighi Jamat meet in Delhi, testing positive, taking the tally in the state to 411. The fresh cases included 100 people who attended the religious congregation in Nizamuddin area of Delhi, which has become the country's biggest hotspot for the deadly virus, the state government said while maintaining that there was no community transmission as of now. Of the 3,684 samples sent for testing so far, 411 have tested positive for the virus while 2,789 were negative and 484 samples under process, Health Minister C Vijayabaskar said in a tweet. Tamil Nadu has the second-highest number of COVID-19 cases after Maharashtra which had 423 patients as of Thursday. Of the total cases, as many as 364 among those who had attended the Delhi meeting last month have tested positive for coronavirus, the government said as it continued the massive contact tracing and containment efforts to check the spread. In all, samples of 1,103 people from the state who attended, had been sent for testing and all of them have been isolated. This is the third straight day Tamil Nadu has witnessed a surge in the number of positive cases since the Jamat returnees in the state were brought under the scanner after several deaths were reported in Telangana and other places. On Wednesday, the state reported 110 positive cases and on Thursday there was a moderate drop to 75 with all but one being returnees from the Tablighi congregation. Health Secretary Beela Rajesh on Friday told reporters here that of the 102 who tested positive, 100 were Jamat meet returnees, another man had come back from the US and the source for one more person was being ascertained. To a question on a claim that some had walked away from COVID-19 treatment facilities, she said the government was not aware of any such incident and added adequate police security has been put in place. All positive patients were stable, none requiring even intensive care and so far there has been one death, she said. Given the rising number of cases, the government is vigorously implementing containment plan without waiting for a cluster of cases to emerge. As part of the exercise, 376 samples of people with severe acute respiratory infection was analysed and out of it three tested positive who had contact and it only shows that there was no community transmission of the virus, she said. More field personnel were being engaged in the containment exercise with the rise in cases and the work includes door to door surveillance as well and lakhs of people have been covered so far, she said. Considering the number of cases, the top official said self-isolation and social distancing must be followed effectively by people and especially vulnerable sections like those with chronic ailments and immune-compromised conditions must be even more careful. The government has considered the plea of some positive patients to take treatment in private hospitals and they may do so if they wish, she said adding only up to four were being treated in private facilities as of now in the state. The active surveillance is on in both the containment (five kilometres around the residences of those infected) and buffer zones (an additional two to three-kilometre radius transcending the containment area) to ascertain those with symptoms like fever. While 86,342 people are under home quarantine, as many as 105 are in government quarantine facilities.

Tamil Nadu reports 102 more COVID-19 cases, total 411

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Friday said that India has reported 336 new cases of COVID-19 taking the national tally to 2547 with 62&nbsp;deaths.

Addressing the daily press meet on deadly COVID-19, Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry said that from yesterday till today 336 additional cases of COVID-19 have come before us.&nbsp; 
 
The union health ministry has placed the total number of cases at 2547 and the death toll at 62. The ministry said that 163 people have so far recovered from the infection.&nbsp;

"If we look at cases related to Tableeghi Jamaat, in last 2 days around 647 confirmed cases related to it found in 14 states-Andaman &amp; Nicobar, Assam, Delhi, Himachal, Haryana, J&amp;K, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttarakhand &amp; UP," he added.

"Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has appealed to patients &amp; their families not to create any obstacle in the path of doctors while they discharge their duties. He also expressed concerns over misbehaviour with doctors &amp; medical staff," he said.

Replying to a question on violence against health workers Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry said that Ministry of Home Affairs has written to state governments to take strict action in cases of attack on healthcare &amp; frontline workers &amp; ensure the security to the medical fraternity.

There were seven helpline numbers in the control room of the Union Home Ministry. Now, we have introduced two more helpline numbers - 1930 (all India tollfree number) &amp; 1944 (dedicated to Northeast)" Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry

Meanwhile, the number of COVID19 cases reaches 411 including seven discharged people in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

"1,580 COVID-19 infected &amp; possibly infected people are admitted to different hospitals in the state," said Tamil Nadu Health Minister C VIjayabaskar.

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Friday said that India has reported 336 new cases of COVID-19 taking the national tally to 2547 with 62 deaths. Addressing the daily press meet on deadly COVID-19, Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry said that from yesterday till today 336 additional cases of COVID-19 have come before us.

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Friday said that India has reported 336 new cases of COVID-19 taking the national tally to 2547 with 62 deaths. Addressing the daily press meet on deadly COVID-19, Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry said that from yesterday till today 336 additional cases of COVID-19 have come before us. The union health ministry has placed the total number of cases at 2547 and the death toll at 62. The ministry said that 163 people have so far recovered from the infection. "If we look at cases related to Tableeghi Jamaat, in last 2 days around 647 confirmed cases related to it found in 14 states-Andaman & Nicobar, Assam, Delhi, Himachal, Haryana, J&K, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttarakhand & UP," he added. "Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has appealed to patients & their families not to create any obstacle in the path of doctors while they discharge their duties. He also expressed concerns over misbehaviour with doctors & medical staff," he said. Replying to a question on violence against health workers Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry said that Ministry of Home Affairs has written to state governments to take strict action in cases of attack on healthcare & frontline workers & ensure the security to the medical fraternity. There were seven helpline numbers in the control room of the Union Home Ministry. Now, we have introduced two more helpline numbers - 1930 (all India tollfree number) & 1944 (dedicated to Northeast)" Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry Meanwhile, the number of COVID19 cases reaches 411 including seven discharged people in Tamil Nadu. "1,580 COVID-19 infected & possibly infected people are admitted to different hospitals in the state," said Tamil Nadu Health Minister C VIjayabaskar.

647 confirmed cases linked to Tablighi Jamaat in 14 states, says Health Ministry

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Indian railways is preparing to set up 3.2 lakh isolation & quarantine beds by modifying 20000 coaches, said Lav Agrawal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health, during a media briefing in New Delhi on Wednesday.

Indian railways prepare to help during coronavirus outbreak

After one person died and another was detected with coronavirus in Mumbai's<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-dies-of-coronavirus-in-maharashtras-dharavi-slum-290024"> Dharavi </a>slum area, another person on Friday was detected with COVID-19.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/another-man-confirmed-with-coronavirus-in-mumbais-dharavi-slum-area-290069">Also Read: Another man confirmed with coronavirus in Mumbai's Dharavi slum area</a>

A 35-year-old doctor was tested positive with the virus, Mumbai's BMC officials said, while asserting that his family has been put in quarantine and they will be tested today.

The building where the doctor lived in Dharavi has been sealed by BMC officials.

On Wednesday, A 56-year-old man living in Dharavi had died due to coronavirus after being treated at Mumbai's Sion hospital. The man had developed fever, cough, respiratory issues and also had a co-morbid condition of renal failure.

The next day a 52-year-old BMC sanitation worker contracted the virus. Both men did not have any case history of having traveled abroad. The officials described his condiction as "stable" while advising his family members and 23 colleagues to be quarantined.&nbsp;

Dharavi is Asia's biggest slum cluster and also densely populated.&nbsp;

After one person died and another was detected with coronavirus in Mumbai's Dharavi slum area, another person on Friday was detected with COVID-19. Also Read: Another man confirmed with coronavirus in Mumbai's Dharavi slum area A 35-year-old doctor was tested positive with the virus, Mumbai's BMC officials said, while asserting that his family has been put in quarantine and they will be tested today.

After one person died and another was detected with coronavirus in Mumbai's Dharavi slum area, another person on Friday was detected with COVID-19. Also Read: Another man confirmed with coronavirus in Mumbai's Dharavi slum area A 35-year-old doctor was tested positive with the virus, Mumbai's BMC officials said, while asserting that his family has been put in quarantine and they will be tested today. The building where the doctor lived in Dharavi has been sealed by BMC officials. On Wednesday, A 56-year-old man living in Dharavi had died due to coronavirus after being treated at Mumbai's Sion hospital. The man had developed fever, cough, respiratory issues and also had a co-morbid condition of renal failure. The next day a 52-year-old BMC sanitation worker contracted the virus. Both men did not have any case history of having traveled abroad. The officials described his condiction as "stable" while advising his family members and 23 colleagues to be quarantined. Dharavi is Asia's biggest slum cluster and also densely populated.

Doctor confirmed with coronavirus in Mumbai's Dharavi slum area

As many as 50 healthcare providers -- doctors and paramedics -- across the country have contracted the novel coronavirus. This information was provided by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Thursday -- at a time when the medical professionals have been complaining of lack of adequate protective gear.

To this end, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed a "bio suit" to protect doctors and paramedics engaged in treating coronavirus-affected people from getting infected.

The "bio suit" will act as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the healthcare personnel.

Considering the high demand induced due to shortage, steps are being taken to produce at least 15,000 suits per day. The government is also scouting global markets to procure PPE, ventilators and N-95 masks.

"Scientists at various DRDO laboratories have applied their technical know-how and expertise in textile, coating and nanotechnology to develop the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) having specific type of fabric with coating," the defence ministry said in a statement.

"The suit has been prepared with the help of the industry and subjected to rigorous testing for textile parameters as well as protection against synthetic blood," the ministry said.

The DRDO is providing 1.5 lakh litres of sanitisers to various security entities and other organisations across the country.

Also, a five-layered face mask, N-99, is being made on war footing using nano technology. A total of 10,000 masks have already been made and soon per day production will be extended to 20,000.

India has recorded 2,069 positive cases of coronavirus and at least 53 deaths so far. Globally, the virus has infected more than 8,50,000 people and claimed around 42,000 lives.

(with inputs from PTI)

As many as 50 healthcare providers -- doctors and paramedics -- across the country have contracted the novel coronavirus. This information was provided by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Thursday -- at a time when the medical professionals have been complaining of lack of adequate protective gear.

As many as 50 healthcare providers -- doctors and paramedics -- across the country have contracted the novel coronavirus. This information was provided by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Thursday -- at a time when the medical professionals have been complaining of lack of adequate protective gear. To this end, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed a "bio suit" to protect doctors and paramedics engaged in treating coronavirus-affected people from getting infected. The "bio suit" will act as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the healthcare personnel. Considering the high demand induced due to shortage, steps are being taken to produce at least 15,000 suits per day. The government is also scouting global markets to procure PPE, ventilators and N-95 masks. "Scientists at various DRDO laboratories have applied their technical know-how and expertise in textile, coating and nanotechnology to develop the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) having specific type of fabric with coating," the defence ministry said in a statement. "The suit has been prepared with the help of the industry and subjected to rigorous testing for textile parameters as well as protection against synthetic blood," the ministry said. The DRDO is providing 1.5 lakh litres of sanitisers to various security entities and other organisations across the country. Also, a five-layered face mask, N-99, is being made on war footing using nano technology. A total of 10,000 masks have already been made and soon per day production will be extended to 20,000. India has recorded 2,069 positive cases of coronavirus and at least 53 deaths so far. Globally, the virus has infected more than 8,50,000 people and claimed around 42,000 lives. (with inputs from PTI)

DRDO steps up work on protective gear as 50 doctors, paramedics contract coronavirus

As the country battles the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-german-chancellor-discuss-covid-19-situation-inadequate-availability-of-medicines-290217">coronavirus </a>pandemic, the World Bank on Thursday approved $1 billion emergency financing to India in order to support better screening of COVID-10 patients, contact tracing and laboratory diagnostics.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/confirmed-coronavirus-cases-in-india-rise-to-2069-death-toll-at-53-290248">Also Read: Confirmed coronavirus cases in India rise to 2,069, death toll at 53</a>

"In India, $1 billion emergency financing will support better screening, contact tracing, and laboratory diagnostics, procure personal protective equipment and set up new isolation wards," the World Bank said in a statement.

The fund will be deployed over the next 15 months with $160 billion to support coronavirus measures which will help respond to health concerns arising out of the COVID-19 outbreak and bolster economic recovery.

"This fast response package will save lives and help detect, prevent and respond to COVID-19 crisis&nbsp;in the countries we serve," Axel van Trotsenburg, World Bank, managing director of operations, said.

"Our country operations will be coordinated at a global level to ensure best practice is quickly shared, including approaches to strengthen national health systems and prepare for potential follow-on waves of this devastating virus," Trotsenburg added.

The World Bank has also approved $100 million to help Afghanistan to slow the virus and $200 million for Pakistan to fight the disease.

"The World Bank is taking broad, fast action to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and we already have health response operations moving forward in over 65 countries," President, David Malpass said, adding,"our country operations will be coordinated at a global level to ensure best practice is quickly shared, including approaches to strengthen national health systems and prepare for potential follow-on waves of this devastating virus."

(With ANI inputs)

As the country battles the coronavirus pandemic, the World Bank on Thursday approved $1 billion emergency financing to India in order to support better screening of COVID-10 patients, contact tracing and laboratory diagnostics.

As the country battles the coronavirus pandemic, the World Bank on Thursday approved $1 billion emergency financing to India in order to support better screening of COVID-10 patients, contact tracing and laboratory diagnostics. Also Read: Confirmed coronavirus cases in India rise to 2,069, death toll at 53 "In India, $1 billion emergency financing will support better screening, contact tracing, and laboratory diagnostics, procure personal protective equipment and set up new isolation wards," the World Bank said in a statement. The fund will be deployed over the next 15 months with $160 billion to support coronavirus measures which will help respond to health concerns arising out of the COVID-19 outbreak and bolster economic recovery. "This fast response package will save lives and help detect, prevent and respond to COVID-19 crisis in the countries we serve," Axel van Trotsenburg, World Bank, managing director of operations, said. "Our country operations will be coordinated at a global level to ensure best practice is quickly shared, including approaches to strengthen national health systems and prepare for potential follow-on waves of this devastating virus," Trotsenburg added. The World Bank has also approved $100 million to help Afghanistan to slow the virus and $200 million for Pakistan to fight the disease. "The World Bank is taking broad, fast action to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and we already have health response operations moving forward in over 65 countries," President, David Malpass said, adding,"our country operations will be coordinated at a global level to ensure best practice is quickly shared, including approaches to strengthen national health systems and prepare for potential follow-on waves of this devastating virus." (With ANI inputs)

World Bank approves $1 billion emergency fund for India to fight coronavirus

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