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Around 2000 people have been infected in India and the death toll has climbed to 50 after the Tablighi Jamaat nightmare. In the latest 19 deaths out of the total 50 in India are related to the Tablighi Jamaat. The Health Ministry held a press conference and said that search is on to track all the people who attended the Tablighi Jamaat. PM Modi on the other hand that people of all religions must come together in the fight against the coronavirus.

Health Ministry: Tablighi Jamaat meet could be real cause of worry for India

Around 2000 people have been infected in India and the death toll has climbed to 50 after the Tablighi Jamaat nightmare. In the latest 19 deaths out of the total 50 in India are related to the Tablighi Jamat. Watch report:

Tablighi meet turns into virus nightmare: COVID-19 cases around 14 states linked to meet

Resumption of international flights will be considered on a case-by-case basis after India's lockdown ends and will depend on which countries they are coming from, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Thursday.

"Any incoming flights to bring Indians back home will have to await the lifting of the lockdown," he told reporters at a press conference.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/operation-sanjeevani-india-sends-62-tonnes-of-medical-assistance-to-maldives-amidst-covid-crisis-290128" hreflang="en">Operation Sanjeevani: India sends 6.2 tonnes of medical assistance to Maldives amidst COVID crisis</a>

"The lockdown is till April 15. And, we can start considering the resumption of flights on a case-by-case basis depending on where they are coming from after that," Puri said.

India is under a 21-day lockdown till April 14 and therefore, all domestic and international commercial passenger flights have been suspended for this time period.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-three-indian-americans-infected-with-coronavirus-in-critical-condition-290119" hreflang="en">US: Three Indian-Americans infected with coronavirus in critical condition</a>

However, cargo flights, medical evacuation flights, offshore helicopter operations and flights specially permitted by the aviation regulator DGCA can operate during this time period.

Resumption of international flights will be considered on a case-by-case basis after India's lockdown ends and will depend on which countries they are coming from, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Thursday.

Resumption of international flights will be considered on a case-by-case basis after India's lockdown ends and will depend on which countries they are coming from, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Thursday. "Any incoming flights to bring Indians back home will have to await the lifting of the lockdown," he told reporters at a press conference. Also read: Operation Sanjeevani: India sends 6.2 tonnes of medical assistance to Maldives amidst COVID crisis "The lockdown is till April 15. And, we can start considering the resumption of flights on a case-by-case basis depending on where they are coming from after that," Puri said. India is under a 21-day lockdown till April 14 and therefore, all domestic and international commercial passenger flights have been suspended for this time period. Also read: US: Three Indian-Americans infected with coronavirus in critical condition However, cargo flights, medical evacuation flights, offshore helicopter operations and flights specially permitted by the aviation regulator DGCA can operate during this time period.

International flights resumption after April 15 subject to from where they are coming: Aviation minister

Cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir on Thursday said he has decided to contribute his two years’ salary as an MP to the Prime Minister-CARES fund to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping through the country.

The BJP’s Lok Sabha member from East Delhi announced on his Twitter page, urging people to come forward and donate generously.

“People ask what can their country do for them. The real question is what can you do for your country? I am donating my 2 year’s salary to #PMCaresFund. You should come forward too,” Gambhir said.

Gambhir had earlier pledged a month’s salary for the cause and also released Rs 1 crore from his MPLAD fund. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to 50 deaths in the country as per official estimates with close to 2,000 people infected by the deadly virus, which has claimed over 40,000 lives worldwide

Cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir on Thursday said he has decided to contribute his two years’ salary as an MP to the Prime Minister-CARES fund to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping through the country.

Cricketer-turned-politician Gautam Gambhir on Thursday said he has decided to contribute his two years’ salary as an MP to the Prime Minister-CARES fund to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping through the country. The BJP’s Lok Sabha member from East Delhi announced on his Twitter page, urging people to come forward and donate generously. “People ask what can their country do for them. The real question is what can you do for your country? I am donating my 2 year’s salary to #PMCaresFund. You should come forward too,” Gambhir said. Gambhir had earlier pledged a month’s salary for the cause and also released Rs 1 crore from his MPLAD fund. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to 50 deaths in the country as per official estimates with close to 2,000 people infected by the deadly virus, which has claimed over 40,000 lives worldwide

COVID-19: Gautam Gambhir vows to contribute 2 years’ salary to PM CARES Fund

As India witnesses a rising number of novel coronavirus cases from Tablighi Jamaat meet held at Markaz Nizamuddin in New Delhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Thursday that 108 people from Nizamuddin are infected with COVID-19.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arunachal-police-traces-12-more-people-who-attended-nizamuddin-event-290110">Arunachal Police traces 12 more people who attended Nizamuddin event</a>

The CM, in a media briefing, said Delhi has 219 COVID-19 cases, out of which 108 people are from Markaz Nizamuddin. He also said 2,943 people, including 1,810 from Markaz Nizamuddin are being quarantined by the government.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/376-new-covid-19-positive-cases-in-last-24-hours-happened-due-to-nizamuddin-congregation-government-289965">376 new COVID-19 positive cases in last 24 hours happened due to Nizamuddin congregation: Government</a>

In Delhi, four people have died from coronavirus, out of which two are from Markaz Nizamuddin, Kejriwal said.&nbsp;

Earlier, Union Health Ministry said in about 400 COVID-19 cases reported, epidemiological linkage can be traced to Tablighi Jamaat cluster.&nbsp;

As many as 334 people from Tablighi Jamaat group in Delhi are admitted to hospitals, the Ministry of Home Affairs said.&nbsp;

In Tamil Nadu, 173 coronavirus positive cases have been reported and their epidemiological linkage is to the Nizamuddin event.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Karnataka officials said nearly 1,000 people linked to Tablighi Jamaat are being screened and so far 11 tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Thursday said 725 people who attended the religious congregation of Tablighi Jamaat in Delhi`s Nizamuddin have been kept under quarantine.&nbsp;

(with inputs from ANI and PTI)

As India witnesses a rising number of novel coronavirus cases from Tablighi Jamaat meet held at Markaz Nizamuddin in New Delhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Thursday that 108 people from Nizamuddin are infected with COVID-19.

As India witnesses a rising number of novel coronavirus cases from Tablighi Jamaat meet held at Markaz Nizamuddin in New Delhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Thursday that 108 people from Nizamuddin are infected with COVID-19. Also read | Arunachal Police traces 12 more people who attended Nizamuddin event The CM, in a media briefing, said Delhi has 219 COVID-19 cases, out of which 108 people are from Markaz Nizamuddin. He also said 2,943 people, including 1,810 from Markaz Nizamuddin are being quarantined by the government. Also read | 376 new COVID-19 positive cases in last 24 hours happened due to Nizamuddin congregation: Government In Delhi, four people have died from coronavirus, out of which two are from Markaz Nizamuddin, Kejriwal said. Earlier, Union Health Ministry said in about 400 COVID-19 cases reported, epidemiological linkage can be traced to Tablighi Jamaat cluster. As many as 334 people from Tablighi Jamaat group in Delhi are admitted to hospitals, the Ministry of Home Affairs said. In Tamil Nadu, 173 coronavirus positive cases have been reported and their epidemiological linkage is to the Nizamuddin event. Meanwhile, Karnataka officials said nearly 1,000 people linked to Tablighi Jamaat are being screened and so far 11 tested positive for coronavirus. Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Thursday said 725 people who attended the religious congregation of Tablighi Jamaat in Delhi`s Nizamuddin have been kept under quarantine. (with inputs from ANI and PTI)

108 infected with coronavirus in Delhi linked to Nizamuddin event: CM Arvind Kejriwal

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers have lost all perks after the Centre repealed or amended 138 legislations of the erstwhile state. According to a gazette notification on Wednesday, the government amended the Jammu and Kashmir State Legislature Members’ Pension Act and increased the pension amount to Rs 75,000 per month from Rs 50,000.

Section 3-C of the Act, under which former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir were entitled to various privileges and perks, has now been omitted.

With this amendment, the former chief ministers would not be entitled to rent-free furnished accommodation, expenditure to the limit of Rs 35,000 per annum for furnishing of the residential accommodation, free telephone calls up to the value of Rs 48,000 per annum, free electricity to the extent of Rs 1,500 per month, car, petrol, medical facilities, driver and personal assistant.

The provisions were made through a gazette notification, titled the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization (Adaptation of State Laws) Order-2020.

Four former chief ministers of the erstwhile state — Farooq Abdullah, Ghulam Nabi Azad, Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti — are alive and all of them are central government protectees.

The amended Special Security Group, which means the security of the chief minister and former chief ministers, will not provide security to family members of serving chief ministers.

Amending the Jammu and Kashmir Migrant Immovable Property (Preservation, Protection and Restraint on Distress Sales) Act, the government inserted a paragraph whereby it asked: “competent authorities” shall prepare the details of the irremovable property of migrants in a prescribed format and “take appropriate action to evict unauthorised occupant of such migrant property including such action as provided in section 5” of the Act.

Section 5 says that if any unauthorised occupant of any migrant property refuses or fails to surrender possession, the competent authority may use force for taking possession.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers have lost all perks after the Centre repealed or amended 138 legislations of the erstwhile state. According to a gazette notification on Wednesday, the government amended the Jammu and Kashmir State Legislature Members’ Pension Act and increased the pension amount to Rs 75,000 per month from Rs 50,000.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers have lost all perks after the Centre repealed or amended 138 legislations of the erstwhile state. According to a gazette notification on Wednesday, the government amended the Jammu and Kashmir State Legislature Members’ Pension Act and increased the pension amount to Rs 75,000 per month from Rs 50,000. Section 3-C of the Act, under which former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir were entitled to various privileges and perks, has now been omitted. With this amendment, the former chief ministers would not be entitled to rent-free furnished accommodation, expenditure to the limit of Rs 35,000 per annum for furnishing of the residential accommodation, free telephone calls up to the value of Rs 48,000 per annum, free electricity to the extent of Rs 1,500 per month, car, petrol, medical facilities, driver and personal assistant. The provisions were made through a gazette notification, titled the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization (Adaptation of State Laws) Order-2020. Four former chief ministers of the erstwhile state — Farooq Abdullah, Ghulam Nabi Azad, Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti — are alive and all of them are central government protectees. The amended Special Security Group, which means the security of the chief minister and former chief ministers, will not provide security to family members of serving chief ministers. Amending the Jammu and Kashmir Migrant Immovable Property (Preservation, Protection and Restraint on Distress Sales) Act, the government inserted a paragraph whereby it asked: “competent authorities” shall prepare the details of the irremovable property of migrants in a prescribed format and “take appropriate action to evict unauthorised occupant of such migrant property including such action as provided in section 5” of the Act. Section 5 says that if any unauthorised occupant of any migrant property refuses or fails to surrender possession, the competent authority may use force for taking possession.

Centre withdraws all privileges of former J&K chief ministers, hikes pension to Rs 75,000

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a review meeting with Chief Ministers of different states via video conferencing on the coronavirus pandemic. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah were also present at the meeting, along with other bureaucrats. PM said that people of religions must come together in the fight against the deadly coronavirus.

PM Modi: People across religious lines must come together to fight COVID-19

A doctor and an IT professional were among the three Indian Americans who have tested positive for novel coronavirus in Houston in the United States this week and are in a critical condition.&nbsp;

The families of Rohan Bavadekar, an IT professional, and Lavanga Veluswamy, a doctor, made an urgent appeal for blood donation from anyone who has recently recovered from COVID-19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-close-to-2000-case-50-deaths-says-health-ministry-290112">Coronavirus in India: Close to 2000 case; 50 deaths, says Health Ministry</a>

Rohan. 42, contracted the disease due to his recent travel history and his wife Manasi and three children have also tested positive for the deadly virus and are quarantined at their home.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-video-conference-with-chief-ministers-over-coronavirus-290068">PM Modi holds video conference with chief ministers over coronavirus</a>

Manasi and Dr Veluswamy's wife, who herself is a physician, have urged for blood donation with group A or AB for their coronavirus-infected husbands.&nbsp;

The third Indian-American who is in the critical stage preferred to stay anonymous and is waiting for the plasma transfusion for the treatment at Memorial Hermann hospital here.

Doctors at the St Lukes and Memorial Hermann, said, that someone who has recovered from COVID-19 in the past two weeks and is now healthy would be the right match for the blood donation. They added that the hospitals are trying their best to find a plasma match.&nbsp;

Sewa International, a nonprofit humanitarian charity, is working with the affected families and sharing the potential donor information.&nbsp;

"Sewa International is collecting information of all potential donors and only the doctors can say if the donor matches or not after due testing and evaluation," Achlesh Amar, a volunteer of the group, said.&nbsp;

Houston Methodist Hospital is the first hospital in the US to experiment with convalescent serum therapy for COVID-19 treatment.

"Convalescent serum therapy could be a vital treatment route because unfortunately there is relatively little to offer many patients except supportive care, and the ongoing clinical trials are going to take a while," Dr. Eric Salazar, a physician-scientist with Methodist's Research Institute, said in a statement.&nbsp;

"We don't have that much time."

SEWA has appealed to the entire community through its 40-plus chapters in the US and through Facebook for the donation of plasma for the treatment.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs) 
&nbsp;

A doctor and an IT professional were among the three Indian Americans who have tested positive for novel coronavirus in Houston in the United States this week and are in a critical condition.

A doctor and an IT professional were among the three Indian Americans who have tested positive for novel coronavirus in Houston in the United States this week and are in a critical condition. The families of Rohan Bavadekar, an IT professional, and Lavanga Veluswamy, a doctor, made an urgent appeal for blood donation from anyone who has recently recovered from COVID-19. Also read | Coronavirus in India: Close to 2000 case; 50 deaths, says Health Ministry Rohan. 42, contracted the disease due to his recent travel history and his wife Manasi and three children have also tested positive for the deadly virus and are quarantined at their home. Also read | PM Modi holds video conference with chief ministers over coronavirus Manasi and Dr Veluswamy's wife, who herself is a physician, have urged for blood donation with group A or AB for their coronavirus-infected husbands. The third Indian-American who is in the critical stage preferred to stay anonymous and is waiting for the plasma transfusion for the treatment at Memorial Hermann hospital here. Doctors at the St Lukes and Memorial Hermann, said, that someone who has recovered from COVID-19 in the past two weeks and is now healthy would be the right match for the blood donation. They added that the hospitals are trying their best to find a plasma match. Sewa International, a nonprofit humanitarian charity, is working with the affected families and sharing the potential donor information. "Sewa International is collecting information of all potential donors and only the doctors can say if the donor matches or not after due testing and evaluation," Achlesh Amar, a volunteer of the group, said. Houston Methodist Hospital is the first hospital in the US to experiment with convalescent serum therapy for COVID-19 treatment. "Convalescent serum therapy could be a vital treatment route because unfortunately there is relatively little to offer many patients except supportive care, and the ongoing clinical trials are going to take a while," Dr. Eric Salazar, a physician-scientist with Methodist's Research Institute, said in a statement. "We don't have that much time." SEWA has appealed to the entire community through its 40-plus chapters in the US and through Facebook for the donation of plasma for the treatment. (With PTI inputs)

US: Three Indian-Americans infected with coronavirus in critical condition

The Arunachal Pradesh Police on Thursday traced 12 more persons, who had attended a congregation in Delhi's Nizamuddin West last month, an officer said.

The police traced the 12 persons after the news of the first COVID-19 case was reported from Lohit district of the state on Thursday morning, the officer said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nizamuddin-markaz-case-tabligh-centre-cleared-in-36-hour-operation-2361-people-evacuated-289936">Nizamuddin Markaz case: Tabligh centre cleared in 36-hour operation, 2,361 people evacuated</a>

The 12 persons who went to the Nizamuddin Markaz in Delhi, stayed in the National Capital from March 2 to 4, left Delhi on March 5 by train and reached Naharlagun railway station, near here, on March 7, Capital SP Tumme Amo said.

Of the 12 persons, four were traced in Itanagar, two in Naharlagun, one in Nirjuli and another five from Laluk in Assams North Lakhimpur district, the SP said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/441-who-attended-nizamuddin-event-hospitalised-with-coronavirus-symptoms-delhi-chief-minister-arvind-kejriwal-289715">441 who attended Nizamuddin event hospitalised with coronavirus symptoms: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal</a>

"The individuals have been traced and have been taken to Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS) for necessary tests to be conducted," Amo said.

TRIHMS sources said that the 12 persons are kept in the isolation ward and their swab samples have been collected and would be sent for test.

The state government had already designated TRIHMS as the specialized hospital to deal with COVID-19 cases. 
Earlier the state government had traced seven persons, including the 31-year-old man who tested positive for COVID-19 at Tezu and another six from Namsai district who attended the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Delhis Nizamuddin West last month.

The Arunachal Pradesh Police on Thursday traced 12 more persons, who had attended a congregation in Delhi's Nizamuddin West last month, an officer said. The police traced the 12 persons after the news of the first COVID-19 case was reported from Lohit district of the state on Thursday morning, the officer said.

The Arunachal Pradesh Police on Thursday traced 12 more persons, who had attended a congregation in Delhi's Nizamuddin West last month, an officer said. The police traced the 12 persons after the news of the first COVID-19 case was reported from Lohit district of the state on Thursday morning, the officer said. Also read: Nizamuddin Markaz case: Tabligh centre cleared in 36-hour operation, 2,361 people evacuated The 12 persons who went to the Nizamuddin Markaz in Delhi, stayed in the National Capital from March 2 to 4, left Delhi on March 5 by train and reached Naharlagun railway station, near here, on March 7, Capital SP Tumme Amo said. Of the 12 persons, four were traced in Itanagar, two in Naharlagun, one in Nirjuli and another five from Laluk in Assams North Lakhimpur district, the SP said. Also read: 441 who attended Nizamuddin event hospitalised with coronavirus symptoms: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal "The individuals have been traced and have been taken to Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS) for necessary tests to be conducted," Amo said. TRIHMS sources said that the 12 persons are kept in the isolation ward and their swab samples have been collected and would be sent for test. The state government had already designated TRIHMS as the specialized hospital to deal with COVID-19 cases. Earlier the state government had traced seven persons, including the 31-year-old man who tested positive for COVID-19 at Tezu and another six from Namsai district who attended the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Delhis Nizamuddin West last month.

Arunachal Police traces 12 more people who attended Nizamuddin event

Police and medical personnel have been attacked by locals in Munger town of central Bihar when they visited a locality to collect samples from people suspected to have contracted the novel coronavirus, an official said on Thursday.

Stones were thrown at the quick response team (QRT), comprising policemen and an ambulance carrying medical personnel, when they visited the Hazratganj locality late on Wednesday, SHO of Qasim Bazar police station Shailesh Kumar said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-close-to-2000-case-50-deaths-says-health-ministry-290112" hreflang="en">Coronavirus in India: Close to 2000 case; 50 deaths, says Health Ministry</a>

The stone-pelting left a police jeep badly damaged and the situation was brought under control by use of force, he said.

Kumar said the quick response team was in the locality to collect samples from people who were reported to have returned home from elsewhere recently.

Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-who-praises-indias-usd-226-billion-economic-stimulus-plan-290089" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: WHO praises India's USD 22.6 billion economic stimulus plan</a>

Notably, Munger has reported the highest eight COVID-19 cases in the state where altogether 24 people have tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

The pathogen is said to have spread here from a 38-year-old man who returned from Qatar a month ago.

He died at AIIMS, Patna, while undergoing treatment for renal failure, a day before his test results confirmed that he had contracted the virus.

One of his relatives in Lakhisarai and three persons associated with a private hospital in the state capital where he was briefly admitted before being referred to AIIMS, Patna, have also tested positive.

The state government has intensified the process of collection and testing of samples. All those who returned to Bihar from abroad by mid-March or who have come from other parts of the country are being tested, irrespective of whether or not they are having any symptoms.

Police and medical personnel have been attacked by locals in Munger town of central Bihar when they visited a locality to collect samples from people suspected to have contracted the novel coronavirus, an official said on Thursday.

Police and medical personnel have been attacked by locals in Munger town of central Bihar when they visited a locality to collect samples from people suspected to have contracted the novel coronavirus, an official said on Thursday. Stones were thrown at the quick response team (QRT), comprising policemen and an ambulance carrying medical personnel, when they visited the Hazratganj locality late on Wednesday, SHO of Qasim Bazar police station Shailesh Kumar said. Also read: Coronavirus in India: Close to 2000 case; 50 deaths, says Health Ministry The stone-pelting left a police jeep badly damaged and the situation was brought under control by use of force, he said. Kumar said the quick response team was in the locality to collect samples from people who were reported to have returned home from elsewhere recently. Also read: Coronavirus: WHO praises India's USD 22.6 billion economic stimulus plan Notably, Munger has reported the highest eight COVID-19 cases in the state where altogether 24 people have tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The pathogen is said to have spread here from a 38-year-old man who returned from Qatar a month ago. He died at AIIMS, Patna, while undergoing treatment for renal failure, a day before his test results confirmed that he had contracted the virus. One of his relatives in Lakhisarai and three persons associated with a private hospital in the state capital where he was briefly admitted before being referred to AIIMS, Patna, have also tested positive. The state government has intensified the process of collection and testing of samples. All those who returned to Bihar from abroad by mid-March or who have come from other parts of the country are being tested, irrespective of whether or not they are having any symptoms.

Bihar: Police, medical personnel attacked while trying to collect samples for COVID-19 tests

After a 56-year-old man died due to coronavirus, a second <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/confirmed-cases-of-coronavirus-rises-to-1834-in-india-41-dead-289990">coronavirus</a> case was confirmed in Mumbai's Dharavi slum area on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/85-year-old-dies-of-coronavirus-in-alwar-32-test-positive-in-delhi-290043">Also Read: Man dies of coronavirus in Maharashtra's Dharavi slum</a>

The 52-year-old BMC sanitization worker has been found positive with COVID-19, BMC official in Maharashtra said, while adding that he has been advised to get treatment.&nbsp;His condition is now stable, officials said.

The man resides in Mumbai's Worli area but was posted at Dharavi for cleaning after which he fell ill.

BMC officials have advised his family members and 23 colleagues to be quarantined.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, a man belonging to Dharavi died in Sion hospital after receiving treatment for COVID-19. The area is one of the most densely populated in the world.

The man had developed symptoms like fever, cough, respiratory issues and also had a co-morbid condition of renal failure.

Maharashtra has been hit the hardest due to the virus with 335 recorded cases of COVID-19 and sixteen deaths.&nbsp;

After a 56-year-old man died due to coronavirus, a second coronavirus case was confirmed in Mumbai's Dharavi slum area on Thursday. Also Read: Man dies of coronavirus in Maharashtra's Dharavi slum The 52-year-old BMC sanitization worker has been found positive with COVID-19, BMC official in Maharashtra said, while adding that he has been advised to get treatment.

After a 56-year-old man died due to coronavirus, a second coronavirus case was confirmed in Mumbai's Dharavi slum area on Thursday. Also Read: Man dies of coronavirus in Maharashtra's Dharavi slum The 52-year-old BMC sanitization worker has been found positive with COVID-19, BMC official in Maharashtra said, while adding that he has been advised to get treatment. His condition is now stable, officials said. The man resides in Mumbai's Worli area but was posted at Dharavi for cleaning after which he fell ill. BMC officials have advised his family members and 23 colleagues to be quarantined. On Wednesday, a man belonging to Dharavi died in Sion hospital after receiving treatment for COVID-19. The area is one of the most densely populated in the world. The man had developed symptoms like fever, cough, respiratory issues and also had a co-morbid condition of renal failure. Maharashtra has been hit the hardest due to the virus with 335 recorded cases of COVID-19 and sixteen deaths.

Another man confirmed with coronavirus in Mumbai's Dharavi slum area

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a video conference with all chief ministers to discuss ways to check the spread of coronavirus. This was the first video interaction after he enforced a pan-India lockdown on March 24.

The issues discussed in the meeting were contact tracing of those feared to be exposed to the deadly virus and isolation of those who test positive of the virus.

Issues such as spread of coronavirus, movement of migrants, availability of essentials and contact tracing of Tablighi Jamat participants also came up for discussion.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah and top bureaucrats were present along with the prime minister.

This is for the second time the prime minister held a video conference with the chief ministers after the spread of coronavirus, and the first after the 21-day lockdown came into force.

On March 20 also, PM Modi interacted with the CMs.

According to the health ministry, death toll due to coronavirus touched 50 on Thursday. Total number of positive cases has risen to 1,965 in the country.

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a video conference with all chief ministers to discuss ways to check the spread of coronavirus. This was the first video interaction after he enforced a pan-India lockdown on March 24.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a video conference with all chief ministers to discuss ways to check the spread of coronavirus. This was the first video interaction after he enforced a pan-India lockdown on March 24. The issues discussed in the meeting were contact tracing of those feared to be exposed to the deadly virus and isolation of those who test positive of the virus. Issues such as spread of coronavirus, movement of migrants, availability of essentials and contact tracing of Tablighi Jamat participants also came up for discussion. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah and top bureaucrats were present along with the prime minister. This is for the second time the prime minister held a video conference with the chief ministers after the spread of coronavirus, and the first after the 21-day lockdown came into force. On March 20 also, PM Modi interacted with the CMs. According to the health ministry, death toll due to coronavirus touched 50 on Thursday. Total number of positive cases has risen to 1,965 in the country.

PM Modi holds video conference with chief ministers over coronavirus

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday praised India's efforts in combating COVID-19, saying the USD 22.6-billion economic stilmulus plan would benefit millions of poor who have been affected by 21-day countrywide lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus.

"What India is doing now, as I said in my statement, is very, very important. During an economic shutdown, there will economic consequences on the country at large," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, at the organisation's headquarters in Geneva.

Ghebreyesus acknowledged the fact that the lockdown has triggered supply constraints for essential items and panic buying, leaving the poor and daily labourers most vulnerable. He, however, said the stimulus plan would provide free food rations to at least 800 million disadvantaged people, cash transfers to 204 million poor women and free cooking gas for 80 million households for the next three months.

Under the scheme, the government aims to distribute 5 kg of wheat or rice for each person free of cost every month, with 1 kg of pulses for every low-income family, helping to feed about 800 million poor people over the next three months. India also intends to hand out free cooking gas cylinders to 83 million poor families, a one-time cash transfer of USD 13.31 to 30 million senior citizens and USD 6.65 a month to about 200 million poor women for next three months.

"But more importantly, individuals who live on daily subsistence who give their labour for their daily bread have been affected the most due to the lockdown. And that's why India is taking measures like package which will cover few million individuals during the difficult times.

"And that's the kind of support, we say, should be given. Many developing countries will struggle to implement social welfare programmes of this nature."

The total number of coronavirus cases in India climbed to 1965 on Thursday after 131 people confirmed positive in the past 12 hours, said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Globally, more than 44,000 people have died, about 900,000 have been diagnosed with the virus, and some 190,000 have recovered. 
&nbsp;

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday praised India's efforts in combating COVID-19, saying the USD 22.6-billion economic stilmulus plan would benefit millions of poor who have been affected by 21-day countrywide lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday praised India's efforts in combating COVID-19, saying the USD 22.6-billion economic stilmulus plan would benefit millions of poor who have been affected by 21-day countrywide lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus. "What India is doing now, as I said in my statement, is very, very important. During an economic shutdown, there will economic consequences on the country at large," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, at the organisation's headquarters in Geneva. Ghebreyesus acknowledged the fact that the lockdown has triggered supply constraints for essential items and panic buying, leaving the poor and daily labourers most vulnerable. He, however, said the stimulus plan would provide free food rations to at least 800 million disadvantaged people, cash transfers to 204 million poor women and free cooking gas for 80 million households for the next three months. Under the scheme, the government aims to distribute 5 kg of wheat or rice for each person free of cost every month, with 1 kg of pulses for every low-income family, helping to feed about 800 million poor people over the next three months. India also intends to hand out free cooking gas cylinders to 83 million poor families, a one-time cash transfer of USD 13.31 to 30 million senior citizens and USD 6.65 a month to about 200 million poor women for next three months. "But more importantly, individuals who live on daily subsistence who give their labour for their daily bread have been affected the most due to the lockdown. And that's why India is taking measures like package which will cover few million individuals during the difficult times. "And that's the kind of support, we say, should be given. Many developing countries will struggle to implement social welfare programmes of this nature." The total number of coronavirus cases in India climbed to 1965 on Thursday after 131 people confirmed positive in the past 12 hours, said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Globally, more than 44,000 people have died, about 900,000 have been diagnosed with the virus, and some 190,000 have recovered.

Coronavirus: WHO praises India's USD 22.6 billion economic stimulus plan

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a review meeting with Chief Ministers of different states via video conferencing on the coronavirus pandemic. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah were also present at the meeting, along with other bureaucrats.

India: PM Modi holds video conference with all Chief Ministers

An 85-year-old person from Alwar who had tested positive for coronavirus died on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/confirmed-cases-of-coronavirus-rises-to-1834-in-india-41-dead-289990">Also Read: Confirmed cases of coronavirus rise to 1,834 in India; 41 dead</a>

In Delhi, health minister Satyendar Jain said thirty-two people tested positive on Wednesday out of which twenty-nine had attended <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-quarantines-275-foreign-nationals-who-attended-tablighi-jamaat-congregation-289983">Tablighi </a>Jamaat event in Nizamuddin.&nbsp;

"We are monitoring 362 people who had attended the Nizamuddin event at the Markaz building in Delhi," Karnataka health minister&nbsp;B Sriramulu said.

"Out of 27 people from Bidar who had attended the Delhi event, eleven have tested positive for coronavirus," the minister added.

The total number of coronavirus cases has surged to 121 in Karnataka. &nbsp;

In Tamil Nadu, the state government said that seventeen people who returned to Rameswaram after attending the Tablighi Jamaat event in Delhi, out of them two tested positive for COVID-19 and have been admitted to hospital while 15 others have been kept in isolation.

An 85-year-old person from Alwar who had tested positive for coronavirus died on Thursday. Also Read: Confirmed cases of coronavirus rise to 1,834 in India; 41 dead In Delhi, health minister Satyendar Jain said thirty-two people tested positive on Wednesday out of which twenty-nine had attended Tablighi Jamaat event in Nizamuddin.

An 85-year-old person from Alwar who had tested positive for coronavirus died on Thursday. Also Read: Confirmed cases of coronavirus rise to 1,834 in India; 41 dead In Delhi, health minister Satyendar Jain said thirty-two people tested positive on Wednesday out of which twenty-nine had attended Tablighi Jamaat event in Nizamuddin. "We are monitoring 362 people who had attended the Nizamuddin event at the Markaz building in Delhi," Karnataka health minister B Sriramulu said. "Out of 27 people from Bidar who had attended the Delhi event, eleven have tested positive for coronavirus," the minister added. The total number of coronavirus cases has surged to 121 in Karnataka. In Tamil Nadu, the state government said that seventeen people who returned to Rameswaram after attending the Tablighi Jamaat event in Delhi, out of them two tested positive for COVID-19 and have been admitted to hospital while 15 others have been kept in isolation.

85-year-old dies of coronavirus in Alwar; 32 test positive in Delhi

A 56-year-old man living in Dharavi died due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-quarantines-275-foreign-nationals-who-attended-tablighi-jamaat-congregation-289983">coronavirus</a>. Dharavi located in Maharashtra's&nbsp;Mumbai is considered to be Asia's largest slum cluster.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/confirmed-cases-of-coronavirus-rises-to-1834-in-india-41-dead-289990">Also Read: Confirmed cases of coronavirus rises to 1,834 in India; 41 dead</a>

The man died in Sion hospital after receiving treatment for COVID-19.

The area is one of the most densely populated in the world. The coronavirus pandemic has hit Maharashtra the hardest with 335 cases reported and sixteen people dying due to COVID-19.

On Thursday, Maharasthra recorded three more coronavirus cases with two in Pune and one from Buldhana. In Mumbai, twelve coronavirus patients have been admitted to the hospital.

Maharashtra has the highest number of coronavirus patients at 181. In Pune, fifty cases of COVID-19 has been reported.

A 56-year-old man living in Dharavi died due to coronavirus. Dharavi located in Maharashtra's Mumbai is considered to be Asia's largest slum cluster. Also Read: Confirmed cases of coronavirus rises to 1,834 in India; 41 dead The man died in Sion hospital after receiving treatment for COVID-19.

A 56-year-old man living in Dharavi died due to coronavirus. Dharavi located in Maharashtra's Mumbai is considered to be Asia's largest slum cluster. Also Read: Confirmed cases of coronavirus rises to 1,834 in India; 41 dead The man died in Sion hospital after receiving treatment for COVID-19. The area is one of the most densely populated in the world. The coronavirus pandemic has hit Maharashtra the hardest with 335 cases reported and sixteen people dying due to COVID-19. On Thursday, Maharasthra recorded three more coronavirus cases with two in Pune and one from Buldhana. In Mumbai, twelve coronavirus patients have been admitted to the hospital. Maharashtra has the highest number of coronavirus patients at 181. In Pune, fifty cases of COVID-19 has been reported.

Man dies of coronavirus in Maharashtra's Dharavi slum

The coronavirus pandemic has taken a toll on our mental health. People have been forced to stay indoors by mandatory lockdowns while others felt the need to self-quarantine.

Social distancing, isolation, lack of connectivity with your family and friends, and&nbsp;uncertainty can lead to stress and anxiety. The uncertainty and instability around coronavirus is making it difficult for people to manage their thoughts and emotional well-being.

Here are some ways which can help you take care of your mental health:

Connect with others:

If you are feeling sad, anxious, speak to your family, friends and colleagues over the phone, through video calls. Talk about your worries and concerns. You may also call the relevant helpline and counsellors and speak&nbsp;to them for advice. It's a difficult time for everyone, help and support others around you as well, this will make you feel better too.

Physical well-being:

Have a balanced diet, do indoor exercises and follow the regular sleep pattern. Physical health impacts emotional and mental well-being too. Meditation also helps in managing difficult feelings and repetitive thoughts.

Limit &amp; verify information:

Follow verified platforms for information on Covid-19, like WHO, government websites and briefings. Fact-check the information you receive through social media and other people. Rumours lead to anxiety and stress, therefore, trust only credible sources for accurate information.

Keep yourself busy:&nbsp; 
, 
Do whatever makes you happy when you feel low and anxious. Try to create a positive routine and keep the mind active - read, write or enrol in any online course and learn something. Focus on your indoor hobbies like gardening, cooking, exercising, painting.&nbsp;

The coronavirus pandemic has taken a toll on our mental health. People have been forced to stay indoors by mandatory lockdowns while others felt the need to self-quarantine.

The coronavirus pandemic has taken a toll on our mental health. People have been forced to stay indoors by mandatory lockdowns while others felt the need to self-quarantine. Social distancing, isolation, lack of connectivity with your family and friends, and uncertainty can lead to stress and anxiety. The uncertainty and instability around coronavirus is making it difficult for people to manage their thoughts and emotional well-being. Here are some ways which can help you take care of your mental health: Connect with others: If you are feeling sad, anxious, speak to your family, friends and colleagues over the phone, through video calls. Talk about your worries and concerns. You may also call the relevant helpline and counsellors and speak to them for advice. It's a difficult time for everyone, help and support others around you as well, this will make you feel better too. Physical well-being: Have a balanced diet, do indoor exercises and follow the regular sleep pattern. Physical health impacts emotional and mental well-being too. Meditation also helps in managing difficult feelings and repetitive thoughts. Limit & verify information: Follow verified platforms for information on Covid-19, like WHO, government websites and briefings. Fact-check the information you receive through social media and other people. Rumours lead to anxiety and stress, therefore, trust only credible sources for accurate information. Keep yourself busy: , Do whatever makes you happy when you feel low and anxious. Try to create a positive routine and keep the mind active - read, write or enrol in any online course and learn something. Focus on your indoor hobbies like gardening, cooking, exercising, painting.

Coronavirus outbreak: How to take care of your mental health

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced three months moratorium on EMIs after the lockdown in India. Banks have now issued clarification on EMI relief.

India: Banks issue clarification on EMI relief

The world's leading Islamic Nations have banned religious gatherings, but missionary movements are derailing the Coronavirus battle.

Gravitas: Decoding the 'Tableeghi Jamaat' controversy

A doctor working in Delhi's state cancer institution tested positive for coronavirus on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-130-attended-event-in-nizamuddin-many-untraceable-pune-authorities-289821">Also Read: Over 130 attended event in Nizamuddin, many untraceable, say Pune authorities</a>

The doctor had recently visited her brother's house who had returned from the United Kingdom a few days back.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-fatality-rate-ranges-between-0006-78-289834/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The authorities have shut down the institute and have&nbsp;begun&nbsp;disinfecting the premises..

The number of coronavirus cases has risen by 120 in the national capital. In all, 750 people have been admitted in various hospitals across Delhi

Delhi health minister Satyender Jain said that the government has 1,000 beds dedicated to COVID-19 patients.

"It has been decided that Lok Nayak Hospital and Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital will now be used for coronavirus patients only," the minister said.

A doctor working in Delhi's state cancer institution tested positive for coronavirus on Wednesday. Also Read: Over 130 attended event in Nizamuddin, many untraceable, say Pune authorities The doctor had recently visited her brother's house who had returned from the United Kingdom a few days back.

A doctor working in Delhi's state cancer institution tested positive for coronavirus on Wednesday. Also Read: Over 130 attended event in Nizamuddin, many untraceable, say Pune authorities The doctor had recently visited her brother's house who had returned from the United Kingdom a few days back. Watch Video: The authorities have shut down the institute and have begun disinfecting the premises.. The number of coronavirus cases has risen by 120 in the national capital. In all, 750 people have been admitted in various hospitals across Delhi Delhi health minister Satyender Jain said that the government has 1,000 beds dedicated to COVID-19 patients. "It has been decided that Lok Nayak Hospital and Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital will now be used for coronavirus patients only," the minister said.

Doctor at Delhi's cancer institution tests COVID-19 positive; premises shut

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday took to Twitter to share Health Ministry protocol on ways to stay fit and enhance immunity during coronavirus spread and urged people to make it a part of their lives.

"Let's keep the focus on being healthy. After all, good health is the harbinger of happiness," he wrote on Twitter.

Recently the Health Ministry came out with protocols that list out easily doable things that improve health as well as immunity, he pointed out.

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I urge you to have a look at the Ayush Ministry protocol, make it a part of your lives and share it with others. 
 
Let’s keep the focus on being healthy. After all, good health is the harbinger of happiness. <a href="https://t.co/fZCPFJtwi0">pic.twitter.com/fZCPFJtwi0</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1245367203693723650?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"There are many things in the protocol that I myself have been diligently doing for years, such as drinking only hot water through the year," he said.

He urged people to have a look at the protocol, "make it a part of your lives and share it with others."

The ministry document stated that enhancing the body's natural defence system (immunity) plays an important role in maintaining optimum health.

"We all know that prevention is better than cure. While there is no medicine for COVID-19 as of now, it will be good to take preventive measures which boost our immunity in these times," it said.

It suggested drink warm water throughout the day, practising pranayam and meditation for at least 30 minutes, using haldi (turmeric), jeera (cumin), dhaniya (coriander) and lahsun (garlic) in cooking.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday took to Twitter to share Health Ministry protocol on ways to stay fit and enhance immunity during coronavirus spread and urged people to make it a part of their lives.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday took to Twitter to share Health Ministry protocol on ways to stay fit and enhance immunity during coronavirus spread and urged people to make it a part of their lives. "Let's keep the focus on being healthy. After all, good health is the harbinger of happiness," he wrote on Twitter. Recently the Health Ministry came out with protocols that list out easily doable things that improve health as well as immunity, he pointed out. I urge you to have a look at the Ayush Ministry protocol, make it a part of your lives and share it with others. Let’s keep the focus on being healthy. After all, good health is the harbinger of happiness. pic.twitter.com/fZCPFJtwi0 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 1, 2020 × "There are many things in the protocol that I myself have been diligently doing for years, such as drinking only hot water through the year," he said. He urged people to have a look at the protocol, "make it a part of your lives and share it with others." The ministry document stated that enhancing the body's natural defence system (immunity) plays an important role in maintaining optimum health. "We all know that prevention is better than cure. While there is no medicine for COVID-19 as of now, it will be good to take preventive measures which boost our immunity in these times," it said. It suggested drink warm water throughout the day, practising pranayam and meditation for at least 30 minutes, using haldi (turmeric), jeera (cumin), dhaniya (coriander) and lahsun (garlic) in cooking. (With inputs from PTI)

COVID-19: PM shares Health Ministry protocol to stay fit, says he drinks only hot water

Electricity&nbsp;use fell 9.2 per cent&nbsp;in March, provisional government data showed on Wednesday, as consumption dropped for the first time in three months due to a nationwide lockdown to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Consumers used 100.2 billion kilowatt hours (kWh) in March, compared with 110.33 billion units a year earlier, an analysis of load despatch data by state-run Power System Operation Corp Ltd (POSOCO) showed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/banking-systems-may-need-help-if-handicapped-by-disruption-from-coronavirus-lockdowns-imf-289804" hreflang="en">Banking systems may need help if handicapped by disruption from coronavirus lockdowns: IMF</a>

That was the country's&nbsp;fastest pace of decline in consumption since October, when power use fell at its steepest in over 12 years due to a broad economic slowdown.

As the scare of the spread of the coronavirus mounted, Prime Minister Narendra Modi first imposed a partial lockdown on March 22, following which states progressively increased restrictions culminating in a national three week shutdown starting March 25.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-badly-is-the-indian-e-commerce-sector-going-to-be-hit-by-the-coronavirus-pandemic-289640" hreflang="en">How badly is the Indian e-commerce sector going to be hit by the coronavirus pandemic?</a>

Power supplied was over 2 per cent&nbsp;lower in the first three weeks of the month ending March 21. In the ten days that followed,&nbsp;electricity&nbsp;use fell by about a fifth, an analysis of POSOCO data showed.

Consumption of&nbsp;electricity&nbsp;in the last ten days of March in major industrial states such as Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu fell over a fifth, while power use in the western state of Gujarat fell over 30% compared with the average use in the first three weeks, the data showed.

Electricity&nbsp;demand from industries account for over two-fifths of India's annual&nbsp;electricity&nbsp;consumption, according to government data, with residences accounting for nearly a quarter and commercial establishments for less than a tenth.

The northern states of Punjab and Haryana, both of which are major agricultural states, saw the highest rates of declines during March, falling over 20% each.

Electricity use fell 9.2 per cent in March, provisional government data showed on Wednesday, as consumption dropped for the first time in three months due to a nationwide lockdown to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Electricity use fell 9.2 per cent in March, provisional government data showed on Wednesday, as consumption dropped for the first time in three months due to a nationwide lockdown to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Consumers used 100.2 billion kilowatt hours (kWh) in March, compared with 110.33 billion units a year earlier, an analysis of load despatch data by state-run Power System Operation Corp Ltd (POSOCO) showed. Also read: Banking systems may need help if handicapped by disruption from coronavirus lockdowns: IMF That was the country's fastest pace of decline in consumption since October, when power use fell at its steepest in over 12 years due to a broad economic slowdown. As the scare of the spread of the coronavirus mounted, Prime Minister Narendra Modi first imposed a partial lockdown on March 22, following which states progressively increased restrictions culminating in a national three week shutdown starting March 25. Also read: How badly is the Indian e-commerce sector going to be hit by the coronavirus pandemic? Power supplied was over 2 per cent lower in the first three weeks of the month ending March 21. In the ten days that followed, electricity use fell by about a fifth, an analysis of POSOCO data showed. Consumption of electricity in the last ten days of March in major industrial states such as Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu fell over a fifth, while power use in the western state of Gujarat fell over 30% compared with the average use in the first three weeks, the data showed. Electricity demand from industries account for over two-fifths of India's annual electricity consumption, according to government data, with residences accounting for nearly a quarter and commercial establishments for less than a tenth. The northern states of Punjab and Haryana, both of which are major agricultural states, saw the highest rates of declines during March, falling over 20% each.

Coronavirus pandemic: March electricity usage falls 9.2% as lockdown bites

India has reportedly exported 90 tonnes of medical equipment and safety gear to Serbia. The health ministry has, however, denied any knowledge of the matter.

The Serbian wing of UNDP (United Nations Development Programme), which is the providing support to coronavirus-effected nations, tweeted: "The 2nd cargo Boeing 747 with 90t of medical protective equipment landed from India to Belgrade today. The transportation of valuable supplies purchased by @SerbianGov &nbsp;has been fully funded by the #EU while @UNDPSerbia organized the flight &amp; ensured the fastest possible delivery.”

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The 2nd cargo Boeing 747 with 90t of medical protective equipment landed from India to Belgrade today. The transportation of valuable supplies purchased by <a href="https://twitter.com/SerbianGov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SerbianGov</a> has been fully funded by the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EU</a> while <a href="https://twitter.com/UNDPSerbia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNDPSerbia</a> organized the flight &amp; ensured the fastest possible delivery. <a href="https://t.co/pMZqV7dwTg">pic.twitter.com/pMZqV7dwTg</a>
— UNDP in Serbia (@UNDPSerbia) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNDPSerbia/status/1244272126548377602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The consignment included surgical gloves, masks and coveralls.

The spokesperson of Kochi airport said a consignment was sent on March 29 too — to Belgrade on a Transaviaexport Airlines cargo freighter. The Cochin Customs had facilitated the clearance and tweeted about it.

The tweet read: "Cochin customs in action to clear a consignment of 35 lakhs pairs of sterile latex surgical gloves to Serbia to support the global war against #COVID2019 "&nbsp;

This — despite a huge crunch of the protective gear in India. Several doctors have contracted coronavirus after coming in contact with patients while working without any protective gear. There have been reports that doctors in some corners of the country have been using raincoats and motorbike helmets.

Cases have been reported in Lucknow, where authorities turned down the OPD doctors' request for specialised protective equipment a week after a resident doctor contracted the disease.

On Monday, however, the Centre said it was trying to procure bulk quantities of such gear, called personal protective equipment (PPE), domestically and from South Korea and China to meet the shortages.

India has reportedly exported 90 tonnes of medical equipment and safety gear to Serbia. The health ministry has, however, denied any knowledge of the matter. The Serbian wing of UNDP (United Nations Development Programme), which is the providing support to coronavirus-effected nations, tweeted: "The 2nd cargo Boeing 747 with 90t of medical protective equipment landed from India to Belgrade today.

India has reportedly exported 90 tonnes of medical equipment and safety gear to Serbia. The health ministry has, however, denied any knowledge of the matter. The Serbian wing of UNDP (United Nations Development Programme), which is the providing support to coronavirus-effected nations, tweeted: "The 2nd cargo Boeing 747 with 90t of medical protective equipment landed from India to Belgrade today. The transportation of valuable supplies purchased by @SerbianGov has been fully funded by the #EU while @UNDPSerbia organized the flight & ensured the fastest possible delivery.” The 2nd cargo Boeing 747 with 90t of medical protective equipment landed from India to Belgrade today. The transportation of valuable supplies purchased by @SerbianGov has been fully funded by the #EU while @UNDPSerbia organized the flight & ensured the fastest possible delivery. pic.twitter.com/pMZqV7dwTg — UNDP in Serbia (@UNDPSerbia) March 29, 2020 × The consignment included surgical gloves, masks and coveralls. The spokesperson of Kochi airport said a consignment was sent on March 29 too — to Belgrade on a Transaviaexport Airlines cargo freighter. The Cochin Customs had facilitated the clearance and tweeted about it. The tweet read: "Cochin customs in action to clear a consignment of 35 lakhs pairs of sterile latex surgical gloves to Serbia to support the global war against #COVID2019 " This — despite a huge crunch of the protective gear in India. Several doctors have contracted coronavirus after coming in contact with patients while working without any protective gear. There have been reports that doctors in some corners of the country have been using raincoats and motorbike helmets. Cases have been reported in Lucknow, where authorities turned down the OPD doctors' request for specialised protective equipment a week after a resident doctor contracted the disease. On Monday, however, the Centre said it was trying to procure bulk quantities of such gear, called personal protective equipment (PPE), domestically and from South Korea and China to meet the shortages.

India exports COVID-19 protective gear to Serbia, health ministry denies knowledge of the matter

With 376 new cases of COVID-19 reported in the country in the last 24 hours, the Health Ministry on Wednesday said the spike does not represent a "national trend" and was primarily due to travel by those who had attended the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in the national capital.

The Health Ministry in a statement said 1,637 confirmed cases and 38 deaths have been reported in the country as of now.

"During the last 24 hours, 376 new confirmed cases and three new deaths have been reported. 132 persons have been cured /discharged from the hospitals after recovery," the statement said.

However, addressing the daily press briefing to provide updates on the COVID-19 situation in the country, Joint Secretary in the Health Ministry Lav Agarwal said 386 new positive cases were reported in the last 24 hours and till now there are a total of 1,637 COVID-19 cases in the country.

"I want to highlight that the rise in the number of positive cases does not represent a national trend, but if there will be a failure anywhere, obviously cases will rise," he said as he urged people to follow the guidelines of social distancing and lockdown and avoid congregations and religious gatherings.

He said 154 new positive cases of the disease have been reported due to the transit-related history of those who attended the Tablighi Jamaat congregation.

These include 23 new cases from Jammu and Kashmir, 20 from Telangana, 18 from Delhi, 65 from Tamil Nadu, 17 from Andhra Pradesh, nine from Andaman and Nicobar Islands and two from Puducherry.

All the states concerned have been notified and asked to carry out intensive drives of rigorous contact tracing and testing besides sending those with symptoms to quarantine or isolation facilities or hospitals, Agarwal said.

He said around 1,800 people in Delhi connected with the Tablighi Jamaat congregation have been shifted to nine quarantine centres and hospitals.

Giving details about the necessary arrangements being made by the government to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, Agarwal informed reporters that the Indian railways is preparing to set up 3.2 lakh isolation and quarantine beds by modifying 20,000 train coaches.

Modification of 5,000 coaches for the purpose has already begun, he said.

'Lifeline' flights have also been launched by the Civil Aviation ministry to transport testing kits, medicines, masks and other essentials commodities, Agarwal said, adding that 15.4 tonnes of medical supplies have been transported by these flights in the last five days.

Speaking at the same press conference, Raman R Gangakhedkar, the Head of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said 47,951 tests for COVID-19 have been conducted in the country till date.

There are 126 labs in the ICMR network. "The testing capacity utilisation is about 38 cent as of now," he said.

Besides, 51 private labs have been given the approval to conduct tests for coronavirus infection and 861 people were tested at these facilities on Monday.

Agarwal said that under the orders of the Supreme Court, states have been directed that trained counsellors and/or community group leaders of all religions will visit and provide psychological social support to the migrant workers in relief camps.

As directed by the apex court, for technical queries the Ministry of Health has created an email (technical query. covid19@gov.in) which will provide authentic technical information to queries from institutions like AIIMS, New Delhi and a joint secretary rank officer from the ministry, he said.

In addition, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has notified that all 24 classes of medical devices shall be regulated as drugs for quality control and price monitoring under the provisions of Drug (Price Control) Order, 2013 with effect from April 1 to ensure that no manufacturer shall increase the MRP of these items more than beyond 10 per cent of MRP in the last 12 months, he said.

With 376 new cases of COVID-19 reported in the country in the last 24 hours, the Health Ministry on Wednesday said the spike does not represent a "national trend" and was primarily due to travel by those who had attended the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in the national capital.

With 376 new cases of COVID-19 reported in the country in the last 24 hours, the Health Ministry on Wednesday said the spike does not represent a "national trend" and was primarily due to travel by those who had attended the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in the national capital. The Health Ministry in a statement said 1,637 confirmed cases and 38 deaths have been reported in the country as of now. "During the last 24 hours, 376 new confirmed cases and three new deaths have been reported. 132 persons have been cured /discharged from the hospitals after recovery," the statement said. However, addressing the daily press briefing to provide updates on the COVID-19 situation in the country, Joint Secretary in the Health Ministry Lav Agarwal said 386 new positive cases were reported in the last 24 hours and till now there are a total of 1,637 COVID-19 cases in the country. "I want to highlight that the rise in the number of positive cases does not represent a national trend, but if there will be a failure anywhere, obviously cases will rise," he said as he urged people to follow the guidelines of social distancing and lockdown and avoid congregations and religious gatherings. He said 154 new positive cases of the disease have been reported due to the transit-related history of those who attended the Tablighi Jamaat congregation. These include 23 new cases from Jammu and Kashmir, 20 from Telangana, 18 from Delhi, 65 from Tamil Nadu, 17 from Andhra Pradesh, nine from Andaman and Nicobar Islands and two from Puducherry. All the states concerned have been notified and asked to carry out intensive drives of rigorous contact tracing and testing besides sending those with symptoms to quarantine or isolation facilities or hospitals, Agarwal said. He said around 1,800 people in Delhi connected with the Tablighi Jamaat congregation have been shifted to nine quarantine centres and hospitals. Giving details about the necessary arrangements being made by the government to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, Agarwal informed reporters that the Indian railways is preparing to set up 3.2 lakh isolation and quarantine beds by modifying 20,000 train coaches. Modification of 5,000 coaches for the purpose has already begun, he said. 'Lifeline' flights have also been launched by the Civil Aviation ministry to transport testing kits, medicines, masks and other essentials commodities, Agarwal said, adding that 15.4 tonnes of medical supplies have been transported by these flights in the last five days. Speaking at the same press conference, Raman R Gangakhedkar, the Head of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said 47,951 tests for COVID-19 have been conducted in the country till date. There are 126 labs in the ICMR network. "The testing capacity utilisation is about 38 cent as of now," he said. Besides, 51 private labs have been given the approval to conduct tests for coronavirus infection and 861 people were tested at these facilities on Monday. Agarwal said that under the orders of the Supreme Court, states have been directed that trained counsellors and/or community group leaders of all religions will visit and provide psychological social support to the migrant workers in relief camps. As directed by the apex court, for technical queries the Ministry of Health has created an email (technical query. covid19@gov.in) which will provide authentic technical information to queries from institutions like AIIMS, New Delhi and a joint secretary rank officer from the ministry, he said. In addition, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has notified that all 24 classes of medical devices shall be regulated as drugs for quality control and price monitoring under the provisions of Drug (Price Control) Order, 2013 with effect from April 1 to ensure that no manufacturer shall increase the MRP of these items more than beyond 10 per cent of MRP in the last 12 months, he said.

376 new COVID-19 positive cases in last 24 hours happened due to Nizamuddin congregation: Government

As authorities continue&nbsp;to look for people who attended the event at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/case-registered-against-maulana-saad-of-tableeghi-jamaat-under-epidemic-disease-act-1897-289737">Nizamuddin</a> in Delhi in the fight against COVID-19, Pune's district collector said the total number of people from the city who attended the event at the national capital is more than 130, many of them either are not in Pune or are untraceable.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/441-who-attended-nizamuddin-event-hospitalised-with-coronavirus-symptoms-delhi-chief-minister-arvind-kejriwal-289715">Also Read: 441 who attended Nizamuddin event hospitalised with coronavirus symptoms</a>

"Till now 60 people from Pune have been put under quarantine in connection with Nizamuddin Markaz matter," Pune District Collector, Naval Kishore Ram said.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tablighi-jamaat-viral-vector-of-coronavirus-289818/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Tuesday, &nbsp;the Indian government decided not to issue tourist visa to any foreigner who wished to visit India and take part in Tablighi Jamaat activities after people who gathered at Markaz building in the Nizamuddin area tested positive for coronavirus.

Delhi police released a video showing cops persuading a group in Nizamuddin to return to their native places due to government orders to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Police officials said the video was shot on March 23 at Hazrat Nizamuddin SHO's office.

Meanwhile, reports said the Madhya Pradesh government has identified 82 people who attended the Tabligh-e-Jamaat's religious meet in Delhi even as officials in Chhattisgarh said 32 people who attended the event in Delhi have been placed under quarantine, while 69 are in isolation in different places.

As authorities continue to look for people who attended the event at Nizamuddin in Delhi in the fight against COVID-19, Pune's district collector said the total number of people from the city who attended the event at the national capital is more than 130, many of them either are not in Pune or are untraceable.

As authorities continue to look for people who attended the event at Nizamuddin in Delhi in the fight against COVID-19, Pune's district collector said the total number of people from the city who attended the event at the national capital is more than 130, many of them either are not in Pune or are untraceable. Also Read: 441 who attended Nizamuddin event hospitalised with coronavirus symptoms "Till now 60 people from Pune have been put under quarantine in connection with Nizamuddin Markaz matter," Pune District Collector, Naval Kishore Ram said. Watch Video: On Tuesday, the Indian government decided not to issue tourist visa to any foreigner who wished to visit India and take part in Tablighi Jamaat activities after people who gathered at Markaz building in the Nizamuddin area tested positive for coronavirus. Delhi police released a video showing cops persuading a group in Nizamuddin to return to their native places due to government orders to curb the spread of COVID-19. Police officials said the video was shot on March 23 at Hazrat Nizamuddin SHO's office. Meanwhile, reports said the Madhya Pradesh government has identified 82 people who attended the Tabligh-e-Jamaat's religious meet in Delhi even as officials in Chhattisgarh said 32 people who attended the event in Delhi have been placed under quarantine, while 69 are in isolation in different places.

Over 130 attended event in Nizamuddin, many untraceable: Pune authorities

Prominent Muslim body Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind on Wednesday slammed the "communalisation" of the sharp rise in coronavirus cases and linking them to a Tablighi Jamaat gathering in Delhi's Nizamuddin area and asserted that this would harm the united fight against the pandemic.

Jamiat president Maulana Arshad Madani hit out at the "negative propaganda" in the media on the Jamaat Markaz (headquarters), saying it is deeply condemnable to give this fight a religious colour.

Madani said in a statement that with the sudden announcement of the lockdown on March 24, millions of people were "trapped" across the country and were trying to return to their homes.

"So in those situations, if some people get locked up in the markaz, we think that there is no such thing as breaking the law," the Jamiat chief said.

Announcing the lockdown, the prime minister had said one must stay wherever he is, and not come out, Madani said.

"There are reports that the markaz had informed, in writing, the concerned authorities and agencies, and even permission was sought for people to send them to their homes, so the markaz cannot be blamed in this regard," Madani said.

"In this situation, the media of the country is making a dangerous conspiracy to mislead the people by presenting only one side of the picture," he said.

The sectarian mindset and communalisation of the cases is a bigger threat than the virus, the maulana said.

The central and state governments should not only take notice of it but condemn the propaganda against Muslims, he said.

"Such propaganda would damage communal harmony in the country, as the people unitedly are fighting a strong war against the epidemic," he said.

Madani also said that during and after the Tablighi Jamaat programme, a larger number of religious and non-religious events took place in every corner of the country under the patronage of politicians.

"Therefore, if an FIR can be filed against Nizamuddin's office, then there should be an FIR against the central and state government officials who could not manage properly millions of workers gathered at Anand Vihar railway station and other places after the lockdown order," he said.

India registered 386 new cases of COVID-19 in last 24 hours, taking the tally to 1,637 in the country, the government said on Wednesday, and linked the sharp increase in number of cases to the Tablighi meet since early March at Nizamuddin which has become the new epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country --from Kashmir to Tamil Nadu.

Prominent Muslim body Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind on Wednesday slammed the "communalisation" of the sharp rise in coronavirus cases and linking them to a Tablighi Jamaat gathering in Delhi's Nizamuddin area and asserted that this would harm the united fight against the pandemic.

Prominent Muslim body Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind on Wednesday slammed the "communalisation" of the sharp rise in coronavirus cases and linking them to a Tablighi Jamaat gathering in Delhi's Nizamuddin area and asserted that this would harm the united fight against the pandemic. Jamiat president Maulana Arshad Madani hit out at the "negative propaganda" in the media on the Jamaat Markaz (headquarters), saying it is deeply condemnable to give this fight a religious colour. Madani said in a statement that with the sudden announcement of the lockdown on March 24, millions of people were "trapped" across the country and were trying to return to their homes. "So in those situations, if some people get locked up in the markaz, we think that there is no such thing as breaking the law," the Jamiat chief said. Announcing the lockdown, the prime minister had said one must stay wherever he is, and not come out, Madani said. "There are reports that the markaz had informed, in writing, the concerned authorities and agencies, and even permission was sought for people to send them to their homes, so the markaz cannot be blamed in this regard," Madani said. "In this situation, the media of the country is making a dangerous conspiracy to mislead the people by presenting only one side of the picture," he said. The sectarian mindset and communalisation of the cases is a bigger threat than the virus, the maulana said. The central and state governments should not only take notice of it but condemn the propaganda against Muslims, he said. "Such propaganda would damage communal harmony in the country, as the people unitedly are fighting a strong war against the epidemic," he said. Madani also said that during and after the Tablighi Jamaat programme, a larger number of religious and non-religious events took place in every corner of the country under the patronage of politicians. "Therefore, if an FIR can be filed against Nizamuddin's office, then there should be an FIR against the central and state government officials who could not manage properly millions of workers gathered at Anand Vihar railway station and other places after the lockdown order," he said. India registered 386 new cases of COVID-19 in last 24 hours, taking the tally to 1,637 in the country, the government said on Wednesday, and linked the sharp increase in number of cases to the Tablighi meet since early March at Nizamuddin which has become the new epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country --from Kashmir to Tamil Nadu.

Communalisation of Nizamuddin gathering will harm united fight against COVID-19: Jamiat chief

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