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Migrant workers crowd Anand Vihar bus terminus to return to their hometowns The nationwide lockdown has rendered them unemployed and subsequently, they are desperate to return to their native places despite being informed about the danger the country faces due to the outbreak of coronavirus.

Migrant workers crowd Anand Vihar bus terminus to return to their hometowns

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced a citizen assistance and relief in emergency situation fund (PM CARES Fund) for people to contribute to government's fight against coronavirus. The coronavirus tally in India has now shot upto 873.&nbsp;

Nineteen people have lost their lives to COVID-19.

The fund has been announced with the primary objective of dealing with any kind of emergency or distress situation, and to provide relief to the affected.&nbsp;

PM Modi will be the chairman of this trust and its members will include defence minister, home minister and finance minister.&nbsp;

“People from all walks of life expressed their desire to donate to India’s war against COVID-19. Respecting that spirit, the Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund has been constituted. This will go a long way in creating a healthier India,” PM Modi tweeted.&nbsp;

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The PM-CARES Fund accepts micro-donations too. It will strengthen disaster management capacities and encourage research on protecting citizens. 
 
Let us leave no stone unturned to make India healthier and more prosperous for our future generations. <a href="https://t.co/BVm7q19R52">pic.twitter.com/BVm7q19R52</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1243861543185305603?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The donations to this fund will also enjoy tax benefits.

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar has already made a hefty contribution to the fund. He has pledged to donate Rs 25 crore from his savings to the fund.

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This is that time when all that matters is the lives of our people. And we need to do anything and everything it takes. I pledge to contribute Rs 25 crores from my savings to <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji’s PM-CARES Fund. Let’s save lives, Jaan hai toh jahaan hai. 🙏🏻 <a href="https://t.co/dKbxiLXFLS">https://t.co/dKbxiLXFLS</a>
— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) <a href="https://twitter.com/akshaykumar/status/1243867585294131201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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His wife, former actor and author Twinkle Khanna, praised Akshay for the step.

"The man makes me proud. When I asked him if he was sure as it was such a massive amount and we needed to liquidate funds, he just said, ?I had nothing when I started and now that I am in this position, how can I hold back from doing whatever I can for those who have nothing,'" she wrote.

A number of celebrities have come forward to donate money so as to help people in crisis.

South superstar Rajinikanth was the first celebrity to come forward by donating Rs 50 lakh to help daily wage workers.

Several A-listers from the south, including Prabhas, Mahesh Babu, Pawan Kalyan, Ram Charan and others have also donated money.

In Bollywood, Hrithik Roshan and Kapil Sharma too had come forward to fund relief work.

The "War" star said he has procured masks for BMC workers and caretakers, while Kapil had donated Rs 50 lakh to the Prime Minister Relief Fund.

The IAS Association also has decided to contribute Rs 21 lakh to the PM-CARES Fund.

"IAS Association decides to contribute Rs 21 lakh to the PM-CARES Fund as its initial contribution to combat COVID-19. All members to contribute at least a day's salary also. We shall leave no stone unturned to ensure that we win this fight against COVID-19," the association stated.

The country is witnessing a 21-day lockdown, as announced by the PM, to contain the spread of the virus.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced a citizen assistance and relief in emergency situation fund (PM CARES Fund) for people to contribute to government's fight against coronavirus.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced a citizen assistance and relief in emergency situation fund (PM CARES Fund) for people to contribute to government's fight against coronavirus. The coronavirus tally in India has now shot upto 873. Nineteen people have lost their lives to COVID-19. The fund has been announced with the primary objective of dealing with any kind of emergency or distress situation, and to provide relief to the affected. PM Modi will be the chairman of this trust and its members will include defence minister, home minister and finance minister. “People from all walks of life expressed their desire to donate to India’s war against COVID-19. Respecting that spirit, the Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund has been constituted. This will go a long way in creating a healthier India,” PM Modi tweeted. The PM-CARES Fund accepts micro-donations too. It will strengthen disaster management capacities and encourage research on protecting citizens. Let us leave no stone unturned to make India healthier and more prosperous for our future generations. pic.twitter.com/BVm7q19R52 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 28, 2020 × The donations to this fund will also enjoy tax benefits. Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar has already made a hefty contribution to the fund. He has pledged to donate Rs 25 crore from his savings to the fund. This is that time when all that matters is the lives of our people. And we need to do anything and everything it takes. I pledge to contribute Rs 25 crores from my savings to @narendramodi ji’s PM-CARES Fund. Let’s save lives, Jaan hai toh jahaan hai. 🙏🏻 https://t.co/dKbxiLXFLS — Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) March 28, 2020 × His wife, former actor and author Twinkle Khanna, praised Akshay for the step. "The man makes me proud. When I asked him if he was sure as it was such a massive amount and we needed to liquidate funds, he just said, ?I had nothing when I started and now that I am in this position, how can I hold back from doing whatever I can for those who have nothing,'" she wrote. A number of celebrities have come forward to donate money so as to help people in crisis. South superstar Rajinikanth was the first celebrity to come forward by donating Rs 50 lakh to help daily wage workers. Several A-listers from the south, including Prabhas, Mahesh Babu, Pawan Kalyan, Ram Charan and others have also donated money. In Bollywood, Hrithik Roshan and Kapil Sharma too had come forward to fund relief work. The "War" star said he has procured masks for BMC workers and caretakers, while Kapil had donated Rs 50 lakh to the Prime Minister Relief Fund. The IAS Association also has decided to contribute Rs 21 lakh to the PM-CARES Fund. "IAS Association decides to contribute Rs 21 lakh to the PM-CARES Fund as its initial contribution to combat COVID-19. All members to contribute at least a day's salary also. We shall leave no stone unturned to ensure that we win this fight against COVID-19," the association stated. The country is witnessing a 21-day lockdown, as announced by the PM, to contain the spread of the virus. (with inputs from agencies)

PM Modi announces CARES fund for people to help govt fight coronavirus menace

The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus has risen upto 918, including 79 recovered and 19 deaths, stated the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Family Welfare (MoHFW) in a press briefing in New Delhi, on Saturday.

On Saturday morning, the count stood at 873, according to figures on the website of MoHFW.

The disease has so far spread to 27 states and UTs. A total of 103 districts have been affected by the highly contagious virus.

Meanwhile, five new cases have been detected in Noida, just a few kilometres from the national capital.

Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary in the Health Ministry, said on Saturday that the Centre was working with state governments on health infrastructure preparedness, which involves focussing on building dedicated COVID hospitals and blocks and isolation beds and other logistics. He said the Centre was also focussing on high disease-burden hotspots and closely coordinating with states to implement contact-tracing, surveillance and containment strategies. Seventeen states have started working on setting up dedicated COVID-19 hospitals, said Agarwal.

He added “rigorous” contact-tracing is underway and it’s focus is to set up Covid-19 dedciated hospitals. During the press conference, an ICMR official confirmed that 44 private laboratories have been given approval so far for testing the coronavirus.

The Health Ministry said doctors across the country are being trained on management of COVID-19 patients with the help of AIIMS, and a round-the-clock tele-consultation for doctors and medical students has been set up at AIIMS.

&nbsp;

A Ministry of Home Affairs official said state governments have been asked to utilize the disaster fund to implement relief measures for migrant workers. "States can set up camps as temporary shelter, where people could also be tested for COVID-19", said the official.

The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus has risen upto 918, including 79 recovered and 19 deaths, stated the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Family Welfare (MoHFW) in a press briefing in New Delhi, on Saturday.

The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus has risen upto 918, including 79 recovered and 19 deaths, stated the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Family Welfare (MoHFW) in a press briefing in New Delhi, on Saturday. On Saturday morning, the count stood at 873, according to figures on the website of MoHFW. The disease has so far spread to 27 states and UTs. A total of 103 districts have been affected by the highly contagious virus. Meanwhile, five new cases have been detected in Noida, just a few kilometres from the national capital. Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary in the Health Ministry, said on Saturday that the Centre was working with state governments on health infrastructure preparedness, which involves focussing on building dedicated COVID hospitals and blocks and isolation beds and other logistics. He said the Centre was also focussing on high disease-burden hotspots and closely coordinating with states to implement contact-tracing, surveillance and containment strategies. Seventeen states have started working on setting up dedicated COVID-19 hospitals, said Agarwal. He added “rigorous” contact-tracing is underway and it’s focus is to set up Covid-19 dedciated hospitals. During the press conference, an ICMR official confirmed that 44 private laboratories have been given approval so far for testing the coronavirus. The Health Ministry said doctors across the country are being trained on management of COVID-19 patients with the help of AIIMS, and a round-the-clock tele-consultation for doctors and medical students has been set up at AIIMS. A Ministry of Home Affairs official said state governments have been asked to utilize the disaster fund to implement relief measures for migrant workers. "States can set up camps as temporary shelter, where people could also be tested for COVID-19", said the official.

Coronavirus update: Cases in India cross 900 mark, 19 fatalities reported

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with a student who was evacuated from Wuhan, China. Modi also enquired about the facilities available in the quarantine centre in India.

PM Modi speaks with evacuated student from Wuhan

India said on Saturday it was planning to turn some railway coaches into isolation wards for patients with coronavirus, as authorities scramble to prepare the country`s health infrastructure for an expected surge in cases.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked the country`s 1.3 billion people this week to stay indoors for three weeks in the world`s biggest lockdown, seeking to curb the spread of the illness. India`s network of trains, the country`s lifeblood, has been idled.

One train coach has been turned into a prototype quarantine facility, state-owned Indian Railways said in a statement on Saturday.

Once they get clearance, the plan is for each of India`s railway zones to convert 10 coaches into such wards every week, the company added. Indian Railways has 16 zones, according to its website.

"Railways will offer clean, sanitised &amp; hygienic surroundings for the patients to comfortably recover," tweeted railways minister Piyush Goyal. He did not specify how many people could be cared for in each coach.

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Stepping up efforts to fight Coronavirus, Railways has converted a train coach into an isolation ward. 🛌 
 
Take a look at a prototype of an isolation ward, ready with medical facilities, in Kamakhya in Assam, with each coach having a capacity of serving 9 patients. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronaUpdate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronaUpdate</a> <a href="https://t.co/2R7Dzd2XWm">pic.twitter.com/2R7Dzd2XWm</a>
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1243865074197905408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

India has so far reported 873 confirmed cases, including 19 deaths.

The lockdown measures are taking a huge toll on India`s poor, including millions of migrant labourers whose jobs in cities have vanished. Many are now walking back to their home villages with public transport cancelled.

On Saturday, a migrant worker, who set out from New Delhi on a 270 kilometres (168 miles) walk to his hometown in Madhya Pradesh, collapsed and died, a police official said.

The home ministry said in a statement on Saturday it was advising states to provide food and shelter to migrants at relief camps alongside highways.

India said on Saturday it was planning to turn some railway coaches into isolation wards for patients with coronavirus, as authorities scramble to prepare the country`s health infrastructure for an expected surge in cases.

India said on Saturday it was planning to turn some railway coaches into isolation wards for patients with coronavirus, as authorities scramble to prepare the country`s health infrastructure for an expected surge in cases. Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked the country`s 1.3 billion people this week to stay indoors for three weeks in the world`s biggest lockdown, seeking to curb the spread of the illness. India`s network of trains, the country`s lifeblood, has been idled. One train coach has been turned into a prototype quarantine facility, state-owned Indian Railways said in a statement on Saturday. Once they get clearance, the plan is for each of India`s railway zones to convert 10 coaches into such wards every week, the company added. Indian Railways has 16 zones, according to its website. "Railways will offer clean, sanitised & hygienic surroundings for the patients to comfortably recover," tweeted railways minister Piyush Goyal. He did not specify how many people could be cared for in each coach. Stepping up efforts to fight Coronavirus, Railways has converted a train coach into an isolation ward. 🛌 Take a look at a prototype of an isolation ward, ready with medical facilities, in Kamakhya in Assam, with each coach having a capacity of serving 9 patients. #CoronaUpdate pic.twitter.com/2R7Dzd2XWm — Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) March 28, 2020 × India has so far reported 873 confirmed cases, including 19 deaths. The lockdown measures are taking a huge toll on India`s poor, including millions of migrant labourers whose jobs in cities have vanished. Many are now walking back to their home villages with public transport cancelled. On Saturday, a migrant worker, who set out from New Delhi on a 270 kilometres (168 miles) walk to his hometown in Madhya Pradesh, collapsed and died, a police official said. The home ministry said in a statement on Saturday it was advising states to provide food and shelter to migrants at relief camps alongside highways.

India plans to turn idled trains into coronavirus isolation wards

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Saturday said it was focusing on high disease-burden hotspots and working in tandem with states to implement rigorous contact-tracing, community surveillance and containment strategies as the number of novel coronavirus cases crossed the 900-mark in the country.

The number of coronavirus cases climbed to 918 in India on Saturday, while the death toll remained at 19. As many as 149 new COVID-19 cases, including two deaths, have been reported since Friday.

“Combined efforts are on to ensure 100 per cent lockdown and that social distancing gets implemented,” Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, MoHFW, said at a press briefing in New Delhi.

The government is working with states on health infrastructure preparedness and the focus is on having dedicated COVID-19 hospitals and blocks in every state.

Head of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases at the ICMR Raman R Gangakhedkar said all patients with severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) are being tested for the coronavirus infection, according to the revised?guidelines of COVID-19.

Refuting the possibility of community transmission, Gangakhedkar said that they have just started testing SARI cases.

"There are some sporadic instances where people are not revealing their?exposure history but their numbers are not significant that we take it that the virus is spreading rapidly," Gangakhedkar said.

"Till the time we see a significant number of cases to indicate community transmission, let us not over interpret things, he said. ? Over India's testing capacity, he said said 111 government laboratories are currently functional across the country and with the private sector being roped in, it has been increased.

Agarwal said arrangements were being made to ramp up isolation and Intensive Care Unit beds and other required logistics.

The joint secretary said 17 states have so far started work on this and doctors are being provided online training by their counterparts at the AIIMS New Delhi on the management of COVID-19 patients.

"A series of online trainings for nursing officers will be conducted by AIIMS in the next 5-7 days.This includes training in caring for patients and suspected cases of COVID-19," he said.

Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Saturday inaugurated a 24x7 national tele-consultation centre at the AIIMS through which doctors in other hospitals and medical colleges will be provided clinical guidance on managing COVID-19 patients.

"We have been pre-emptive and graded in our approach and had anticipated the situation much before, and went for a lockdown when we were getting limited cases of local transmission while other countries took steps much later," he said, adding that results will be known only after a few days.

(with quotes from PTI, ANI)

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Saturday said it was focusing on high disease-burden hotspots and working in tandem with states to implement rigorous contact-tracing, community surveillance and containment strategies as the number of novel coronavirus cases crossed the 900-mark in the country.

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Saturday said it was focusing on high disease-burden hotspots and working in tandem with states to implement rigorous contact-tracing, community surveillance and containment strategies as the number of novel coronavirus cases crossed the 900-mark in the country. The number of coronavirus cases climbed to 918 in India on Saturday, while the death toll remained at 19. As many as 149 new COVID-19 cases, including two deaths, have been reported since Friday. “Combined efforts are on to ensure 100 per cent lockdown and that social distancing gets implemented,” Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, MoHFW, said at a press briefing in New Delhi. The government is working with states on health infrastructure preparedness and the focus is on having dedicated COVID-19 hospitals and blocks in every state. Head of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases at the ICMR Raman R Gangakhedkar said all patients with severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) are being tested for the coronavirus infection, according to the revised?guidelines of COVID-19. Refuting the possibility of community transmission, Gangakhedkar said that they have just started testing SARI cases. "There are some sporadic instances where people are not revealing their?exposure history but their numbers are not significant that we take it that the virus is spreading rapidly," Gangakhedkar said. "Till the time we see a significant number of cases to indicate community transmission, let us not over interpret things, he said. ? Over India's testing capacity, he said said 111 government laboratories are currently functional across the country and with the private sector being roped in, it has been increased. Agarwal said arrangements were being made to ramp up isolation and Intensive Care Unit beds and other required logistics. The joint secretary said 17 states have so far started work on this and doctors are being provided online training by their counterparts at the AIIMS New Delhi on the management of COVID-19 patients. "A series of online trainings for nursing officers will be conducted by AIIMS in the next 5-7 days.This includes training in caring for patients and suspected cases of COVID-19," he said. Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Saturday inaugurated a 24x7 national tele-consultation centre at the AIIMS through which doctors in other hospitals and medical colleges will be provided clinical guidance on managing COVID-19 patients. "We have been pre-emptive and graded in our approach and had anticipated the situation much before, and went for a lockdown when we were getting limited cases of local transmission while other countries took steps much later," he said, adding that results will be known only after a few days. (with quotes from PTI, ANI)

Coronavirus: Working to implement rigorous contact-tracing, containment strategies, says health ministry

India is boosting its overall health infrastructure -- amid looming fears that the coronavirus infection may enter the community transmission stage -- by initiating measures like designating dedicated hospitals for affected patients in states, ramping up procurement of ventilators and mobilising resources of Railways and armed forces to deal with tougher challenges ahead.

As of now, the country has reported 873 coronavirus cases and 19 deaths.

India is under a 21-day lockdown from Tuesday midnight as part of efforts to check spread of coronavirus.

The government has started scaling up health infrastructure to deal with any situation even though the Health Ministry and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have been insisting that there is "no solid evidence" of community transmission so far.

In the midst of government ramping up preparedness to deal with rising cases of COVID-19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the creation of an assistance and emergency situation relief fund where people can contribute and help in the government's fight against the virus.

The Centre has asked all states to earmark hospitals only for treating COVID-19 patients and ramp up their capacity to manage increasing number of cases. At least 17 states have started work on it.

The armed forces are keeping ready 28 service hospitals to provide treatment to COVID-19 patients apart from five hospitals which are carrying laboratory tests for the infection.

Defence public sector undertaking Bharat Electronics Limited has been tasked with manufacture ventilators while premier defence research laboratory DRDO is producing protective gears for medical personnel and supplying hand sanitisers and face masks to various agencies involved in patient care.

On Friday, the government granted emergency financial powers to Army corps and divisional commanders to procure equipment to set up medical and quarantine facilities for affected people.

On its part, the railways has manufactured a prototype of an isolation ward for treating coronavirus patients by converting non-air-conditioned train coaches. Once the best practices were finalised in the next few days, each railway zone would manufacture a rake with 10 coaches every week, the national transporter said.

Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said aircraft are crisscrossing the country's airspace to ensure that the COVID-19 testing kits reach their destinations on time.

"India has launched a determined challenge to combat the spread of corona. I am particularly proud of the efforts being made by our civil aviation sector in ensuring smooth supply of medical &amp; essential items during the current lockdown," he tweeted.

Doctors at leading hospitals expressed fear that India ran the risk of seeing the viral transmission in stage three of infection if the lockdown and quarantine norms were not diligently complied with.

As part of its preparation to deal with large volume of cases, the Centre has also directed the states to keep some beds reserved for creating isolation facilities in public and private hospitals and ensuring that stable patients are discharged as early as possible.

The health ministry has already asked hospitals and medical education institutions to procure sufficient number of ventilators and high-flow oxygen masks to deal with rising number of patients.

A senior Uttar Pradesh government official said the state has arranged for 11,000 additional isolation beds and that eight testing labs are functional at present.

Haryana has also taken a series of steps to increase the strength of doctors and paramedical staff besides setting up isolation wards to deal with COVID-19 cases.

In Delhi, the AIIMS has set up a task force to develop management protocol for COVID-19 and has constituted several committees to be able to respond to challenges which may come across in coming days due to the rising infection, officials said.

The Centre has also asked hospitals to postpone all non-essential surgeries. In Delhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said the spread of COVID-19 is "quite under control" in the city and asserted that even if novel coronavirus cases go up to 100 per day in Delhi, arrangements are in place to tackle the situation.

Addressing a digital press conference, he said a five-member panel of doctors, headed by S K Sarin, had submitted its report, prescribing the standard operating procedure for dealing with a situation involving 100, 500 and up to 1,000 new coronavirus patients per day.

Sarin is the head of the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS).

Private hospitals too have ramped up their facilities and creating focussed team to handle any surge of patients in future.

Dr Sandeep Budhiraja, group medical director, Max Healthcare, said, "This is worse than a World War situation. And, we are in it together."

He said Max group has planned a three-pronged strategy to "meet the worse scenario" in future, in case the situation befalls on India.

"We are creating a designated facility at our Greatear Noida hospital only for COVID-19 patients. It had 200 beds, 40 ICU beds and 160 wards. This will be solely for coronavirus patients," Budhiraja told PTI.

Besides, at three hospital units, one each in north, south and east Delhi -- BLK Hospital, Max Saket and Max Patparganj respectively, there are segregated wards for suspected patients of coronavirus, he said.

"Slowly, we are moving our non-COVID patients in phases from the three units, just in case God forbid, we enter into large-scale community transmission stage which is when there will be a huge surge of coronavirus patients," he said, adding, these three facilities will then become also designated hospitals.

But, this will happen in the planned three phases and currently "we are in phase one of our plan", Budhiraja added.

Dr Prathap C Reddy, chairman of Apollo Hospitals Group, said, "We are fighting a war not just for this generation but also for the generations to come."

On March 26, the group launched Project Kavach, a response plan that is a comprehensive approach that encompasses all aspects from information, screening and assessment, testing, to readying the infrastructure for quarantine and treatment.

The project will bring together all the resources of Apollo Hospitals to fight for the people of the country against this pandemic, a spokesperson of the group said.

She said the group will soon be launching "Project Stay I", an innovative strategy to create medical rooms in hotels or hostels with light medical supervision for quarantine and creating a barrier before people come into the hospitals.

Health ministry officials said only five per cent of the total affected patients require critical care as they go on respiratory failure and need to put on ventilators while rest recover with supportive treatment.

To address the shortage of ventilators in the country, the government has placed an order to procure 10,000 ventilators in addition to earlier order of 1,200 ventilators.

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has been asked to supply 30,000 additional ventilators in one-two months to address the shortage of ventilators in the country.

Dr Giridhar Gyani, convenor of a task force on COVID-19 hospitals , said, there are few cases which are not known to have link with foreign travel or direct contact of anybody who had travelled abroad.

"If such cases come in large number then we take it as beginning of community spread. In that sense though we are not in stage 3 but it would be better that we do all our preparations," he said.

"Luckily till today the increase in number of cases is pure arithmetic and things are under control while in community spread it goes geometrically or exponentially," the official said. He said effective implementation of lockdown will help India arrest the further spread of the infection and government is fully prepared to meet any level of crisis.

(with inputs from PTI)

India is boosting its overall health infrastructure -- amid looming fears that the coronavirus infection may enter the community transmission stage -- by initiating measures like designating dedicated hospitals for affected patients in states, ramping up procurement of ventilators and mobilising resources of Railways and armed forces to deal with tougher challenges ahead.

India is boosting its overall health infrastructure -- amid looming fears that the coronavirus infection may enter the community transmission stage -- by initiating measures like designating dedicated hospitals for affected patients in states, ramping up procurement of ventilators and mobilising resources of Railways and armed forces to deal with tougher challenges ahead. As of now, the country has reported 873 coronavirus cases and 19 deaths. India is under a 21-day lockdown from Tuesday midnight as part of efforts to check spread of coronavirus. The government has started scaling up health infrastructure to deal with any situation even though the Health Ministry and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have been insisting that there is "no solid evidence" of community transmission so far. In the midst of government ramping up preparedness to deal with rising cases of COVID-19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the creation of an assistance and emergency situation relief fund where people can contribute and help in the government's fight against the virus. The Centre has asked all states to earmark hospitals only for treating COVID-19 patients and ramp up their capacity to manage increasing number of cases. At least 17 states have started work on it. The armed forces are keeping ready 28 service hospitals to provide treatment to COVID-19 patients apart from five hospitals which are carrying laboratory tests for the infection. Defence public sector undertaking Bharat Electronics Limited has been tasked with manufacture ventilators while premier defence research laboratory DRDO is producing protective gears for medical personnel and supplying hand sanitisers and face masks to various agencies involved in patient care. On Friday, the government granted emergency financial powers to Army corps and divisional commanders to procure equipment to set up medical and quarantine facilities for affected people. On its part, the railways has manufactured a prototype of an isolation ward for treating coronavirus patients by converting non-air-conditioned train coaches. Once the best practices were finalised in the next few days, each railway zone would manufacture a rake with 10 coaches every week, the national transporter said. Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said aircraft are crisscrossing the country's airspace to ensure that the COVID-19 testing kits reach their destinations on time. "India has launched a determined challenge to combat the spread of corona. I am particularly proud of the efforts being made by our civil aviation sector in ensuring smooth supply of medical & essential items during the current lockdown," he tweeted. Doctors at leading hospitals expressed fear that India ran the risk of seeing the viral transmission in stage three of infection if the lockdown and quarantine norms were not diligently complied with. As part of its preparation to deal with large volume of cases, the Centre has also directed the states to keep some beds reserved for creating isolation facilities in public and private hospitals and ensuring that stable patients are discharged as early as possible. The health ministry has already asked hospitals and medical education institutions to procure sufficient number of ventilators and high-flow oxygen masks to deal with rising number of patients. A senior Uttar Pradesh government official said the state has arranged for 11,000 additional isolation beds and that eight testing labs are functional at present. Haryana has also taken a series of steps to increase the strength of doctors and paramedical staff besides setting up isolation wards to deal with COVID-19 cases. In Delhi, the AIIMS has set up a task force to develop management protocol for COVID-19 and has constituted several committees to be able to respond to challenges which may come across in coming days due to the rising infection, officials said. The Centre has also asked hospitals to postpone all non-essential surgeries. In Delhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said the spread of COVID-19 is "quite under control" in the city and asserted that even if novel coronavirus cases go up to 100 per day in Delhi, arrangements are in place to tackle the situation. Addressing a digital press conference, he said a five-member panel of doctors, headed by S K Sarin, had submitted its report, prescribing the standard operating procedure for dealing with a situation involving 100, 500 and up to 1,000 new coronavirus patients per day. Sarin is the head of the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS). Private hospitals too have ramped up their facilities and creating focussed team to handle any surge of patients in future. Dr Sandeep Budhiraja, group medical director, Max Healthcare, said, "This is worse than a World War situation. And, we are in it together." He said Max group has planned a three-pronged strategy to "meet the worse scenario" in future, in case the situation befalls on India. "We are creating a designated facility at our Greatear Noida hospital only for COVID-19 patients. It had 200 beds, 40 ICU beds and 160 wards. This will be solely for coronavirus patients," Budhiraja told PTI. Besides, at three hospital units, one each in north, south and east Delhi -- BLK Hospital, Max Saket and Max Patparganj respectively, there are segregated wards for suspected patients of coronavirus, he said. "Slowly, we are moving our non-COVID patients in phases from the three units, just in case God forbid, we enter into large-scale community transmission stage which is when there will be a huge surge of coronavirus patients," he said, adding, these three facilities will then become also designated hospitals. But, this will happen in the planned three phases and currently "we are in phase one of our plan", Budhiraja added. Dr Prathap C Reddy, chairman of Apollo Hospitals Group, said, "We are fighting a war not just for this generation but also for the generations to come." On March 26, the group launched Project Kavach, a response plan that is a comprehensive approach that encompasses all aspects from information, screening and assessment, testing, to readying the infrastructure for quarantine and treatment. The project will bring together all the resources of Apollo Hospitals to fight for the people of the country against this pandemic, a spokesperson of the group said. She said the group will soon be launching "Project Stay I", an innovative strategy to create medical rooms in hotels or hostels with light medical supervision for quarantine and creating a barrier before people come into the hospitals. Health ministry officials said only five per cent of the total affected patients require critical care as they go on respiratory failure and need to put on ventilators while rest recover with supportive treatment. To address the shortage of ventilators in the country, the government has placed an order to procure 10,000 ventilators in addition to earlier order of 1,200 ventilators. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has been asked to supply 30,000 additional ventilators in one-two months to address the shortage of ventilators in the country. Dr Giridhar Gyani, convenor of a task force on COVID-19 hospitals , said, there are few cases which are not known to have link with foreign travel or direct contact of anybody who had travelled abroad. "If such cases come in large number then we take it as beginning of community spread. In that sense though we are not in stage 3 but it would be better that we do all our preparations," he said. "Luckily till today the increase in number of cases is pure arithmetic and things are under control while in community spread it goes geometrically or exponentially," the official said. He said effective implementation of lockdown will help India arrest the further spread of the infection and government is fully prepared to meet any level of crisis. (with inputs from PTI)

India boosts capacity for tougher challenges ahead amid spurt in coronavirus cases

The Tata Trusts on Saturday announced a donation of Rs 500 crore to fight the COVID-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in the country.

Tata Trusts Chairman Ratan N Tata said that the current situation in India and across the world was of grave concern and needed immediate action. He also made a pledge to protect and empower all affected communities with a commitment of Rs 500 crore for waging the "war against virus".

"In this exceptionally difficult period, I believe that urgent emergency resources need to be deployed to cope with the needs of fighting the COVID-19 crisis, which is one of the toughest challenges the human race will face," Tata said.

The amount would be used for personal protective equipment for the medical personnel on the frontlines, respiratory systems for treating increasing cases, testing kits to increase per capita testing, setting up modular treatment facilities for infected patients, and knowledge management and training of health workers plus the general public.

Tata Trusts, Tata Sons and Tata Group companies are joined by committed local and global partners and the government to fight this crisis on a united public health collaboration platform which will strive to reach sections that are underprivileged and deprived.

"We are deeply grateful and have immense respect for every person of member organisations who have risked their lives and safety to fight this pandemic," Tata said in a statement.

The Tata Trusts on Saturday announced a donation of Rs 500 crore to fight the COVID-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in the country. Tata Trusts Chairman Ratan N Tata said that the current situation in India and across the world was of grave concern and needed immediate action.

The Tata Trusts on Saturday announced a donation of Rs 500 crore to fight the COVID-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in the country. Tata Trusts Chairman Ratan N Tata said that the current situation in India and across the world was of grave concern and needed immediate action. He also made a pledge to protect and empower all affected communities with a commitment of Rs 500 crore for waging the "war against virus". "In this exceptionally difficult period, I believe that urgent emergency resources need to be deployed to cope with the needs of fighting the COVID-19 crisis, which is one of the toughest challenges the human race will face," Tata said. The amount would be used for personal protective equipment for the medical personnel on the frontlines, respiratory systems for treating increasing cases, testing kits to increase per capita testing, setting up modular treatment facilities for infected patients, and knowledge management and training of health workers plus the general public. Tata Trusts, Tata Sons and Tata Group companies are joined by committed local and global partners and the government to fight this crisis on a united public health collaboration platform which will strive to reach sections that are underprivileged and deprived. "We are deeply grateful and have immense respect for every person of member organisations who have risked their lives and safety to fight this pandemic," Tata said in a statement.

Tata Trusts announces Rs 500 crore to fight COVID-19 menace

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal briefed media. Delhi CM appreciated PM Modi's step to impose lockdown in the country. Arvind Kejriwal urged people to stay at home and follow guidelines.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal briefs on coronavirus outbreak

The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare holds press briefing on coronavirus outbreak. Health Ministry briefed on lockdown and health preparedness of India.

Indian Health Ministry briefs on lockdown and health preparedness

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will present his monthly radio programme `Mann Ki Baat` on Sunday — for the first time since India went into a lockdown in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic.

PM Modi, to this end, took to Twitter and sought ideas for Sunday’s Radio programme. "On the 29th (March), this month`s #MannKiBaat will take place. Would love to hear your suggestions for the programme. Dial 1800-11-7800 to record your message. Or, share your inputs on MyGov and the NaMo App," the Prime Minister tweeted.

PM Modi is expected to speak about health, hygiene and India`s war on coronavirus that has affected 873 and killed 19.

The prime minister may also dedicate a segment of the `Mann Ki Baat` for the coronavirus warriors -- doctors, nurses, police personnel -- who are at the frontline.

On Friday, when the Prime Minister reached out to select radio jockeys (RJs) to help disseminate correct information about the pandemic, they called him part of the fraternity as he hosted this radio show with a massive listener base, across India.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will present his monthly radio programme `Mann Ki Baat` on Sunday — for the first time since India went into a lockdown in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will present his monthly radio programme `Mann Ki Baat` on Sunday — for the first time since India went into a lockdown in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. PM Modi, to this end, took to Twitter and sought ideas for Sunday’s Radio programme. "On the 29th (March), this month`s #MannKiBaat will take place. Would love to hear your suggestions for the programme. Dial 1800-11-7800 to record your message. Or, share your inputs on MyGov and the NaMo App," the Prime Minister tweeted. PM Modi is expected to speak about health, hygiene and India`s war on coronavirus that has affected 873 and killed 19. The prime minister may also dedicate a segment of the `Mann Ki Baat` for the coronavirus warriors -- doctors, nurses, police personnel -- who are at the frontline. On Friday, when the Prime Minister reached out to select radio jockeys (RJs) to help disseminate correct information about the pandemic, they called him part of the fraternity as he hosted this radio show with a massive listener base, across India. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' on Sunday; first since coronavirus lockdown

The Uttar Pradesh government has arranged for 1,000 buses to ferry&nbsp;migrant labourers who are stranded on the border districts&nbsp;owing to a&nbsp;countrywide lockdown. Officials of the Transport Department, bus drivers and conductors were contacted on Friday night to help the people who were stranded in Noida, Ghaziabad, Bulandshahar and Aligarh, among other places,.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has also directed officials to arrange for food and water for such people and their families.

On Saturday morning, senior police officers reached the Charbagh bus station in Lucknow to ensure that those arriving there were provided with food and water.

The buses later left for Kanpur, Ballia, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Azamgarh, Faizabad, Basti, Pratapgarh, Sultanpur, Amethi, Rae Bareli, Gonda, Etawah, Bahraich and Shravasti.

State’s DGP Hitesh Chandra Awasthi and Lucknow Police Commissioner Sujit Kumar Pande were personally present at the bus station to monitor the arrangements, the spokesman added.

The 21-day lockdown imposed from Tuesday midnight in a bid to halt the spread of coronavirus has triggered a mass exodus of migrant workers from cities in several states to their villages.

Meanwhile, five more people tested positive for coronavirus -- three in Noida and two in Dadri -- on Saturday, taking the tally of COVID-10 cases in Uttar Pradesh's Gautam Buddh Nagar to 22.

Two of the new-found cases are from Accheja village in Dadri, while one each has been detected in Noida's Sector 37, 44 and 128, according to a statement from District Magistrate BN Singh.

The village in Dadri and the sectors concerned in Noida are being temporarily sealed for a period of 48 hours so that sanitisation work could be carried out there.

The UP government had on Friday evening put the total number of cases in the state at 50, including 18 in Gautam Buddh Nagar, even as the Health Department officials here had said that the total cases were 17.

One person had tested positive at a private laboratory on Friday whose sample was re-sent for assessment of COVID-19, official sources had said.

The number of COVID-19 cases climbed to 873 in India on Saturday with the death toll rising to 19, according to the Union Health Ministry.

(with inputs from PTI)

The Uttar Pradesh government has arranged for 1,000 buses to ferry migrant labourers who are stranded on the border districts owing to a countrywide lockdown. Officials of the Transport Department, bus drivers and conductors were contacted on Friday night to help the people who were stranded in Noida, Ghaziabad, Bulandshahar and Aligarh, among other places,.

The Uttar Pradesh government has arranged for 1,000 buses to ferry migrant labourers who are stranded on the border districts owing to a countrywide lockdown. Officials of the Transport Department, bus drivers and conductors were contacted on Friday night to help the people who were stranded in Noida, Ghaziabad, Bulandshahar and Aligarh, among other places,. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has also directed officials to arrange for food and water for such people and their families. On Saturday morning, senior police officers reached the Charbagh bus station in Lucknow to ensure that those arriving there were provided with food and water. The buses later left for Kanpur, Ballia, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Azamgarh, Faizabad, Basti, Pratapgarh, Sultanpur, Amethi, Rae Bareli, Gonda, Etawah, Bahraich and Shravasti. State’s DGP Hitesh Chandra Awasthi and Lucknow Police Commissioner Sujit Kumar Pande were personally present at the bus station to monitor the arrangements, the spokesman added. The 21-day lockdown imposed from Tuesday midnight in a bid to halt the spread of coronavirus has triggered a mass exodus of migrant workers from cities in several states to their villages. Meanwhile, five more people tested positive for coronavirus -- three in Noida and two in Dadri -- on Saturday, taking the tally of COVID-10 cases in Uttar Pradesh's Gautam Buddh Nagar to 22. Two of the new-found cases are from Accheja village in Dadri, while one each has been detected in Noida's Sector 37, 44 and 128, according to a statement from District Magistrate BN Singh. The village in Dadri and the sectors concerned in Noida are being temporarily sealed for a period of 48 hours so that sanitisation work could be carried out there. The UP government had on Friday evening put the total number of cases in the state at 50, including 18 in Gautam Buddh Nagar, even as the Health Department officials here had said that the total cases were 17. One person had tested positive at a private laboratory on Friday whose sample was re-sent for assessment of COVID-19, official sources had said. The number of COVID-19 cases climbed to 873 in India on Saturday with the death toll rising to 19, according to the Union Health Ministry. (with inputs from PTI)

UP govt arranges for 1,000 buses to ferry stranded labourers

The government on Saturday refuted report&nbsp;that said&nbsp;India had entered Stage 3 of COVID-19 pandemic — propagated by an online news portal earlier in the day.

The news portal had quoted Dr Girdhar Gyani — an engineer who holds a PhD in Quality Management, saying they were calling it Stage 3.

“Officially we may not call it — but it is the beginning of Stage 3,” Dr Gyani, the convenor of a task force on COVID-19 hospitals, had said in an interview to the news portal.

The PIB, however, quashed this report, saying the headline was blown out of proportion.

The&nbsp;headline of the said story was: "India May be in Stage 3: COVID-19 Hospital Task Force Convener"

“If cases increase exponentially then only we can call it community transmission. That situation hasn’t come till now. The numbers are increasing artihmetically,” the PIB said, in a post on Twitter, adding, “Dr Gyani meant we should be prepared if we enter Stage 3. He did not mean we are already in Stage 3.”

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PIBFactcheck?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PIBFactcheck</a> : An online news portal has carried an interview with DG, AHPI claiming that India is in Stage 3 i.e. community transmission stage of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID2019india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID2019india</a> . It is clarified that this is misleading and has been denied by the concerned person himself <a href="https://t.co/O0ZftC0f2F">https://t.co/O0ZftC0f2F</a>
— PIB India 🇮🇳 #StayHome #StaySafe (@PIB_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India/status/1243830331830124548?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

For the unversed, Stage 3 of a pandemic refers to community transmission. In it, it gets difficult to trace the original source of transmission, and the number of cases rise exponentially.

Dr Gyani’s NGO – the Association of Healthcare Providers –&nbsp;advises the government with policy-making around healthcare. The NGO was also a part of a video conference of healthcare professionals with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 24. He is also designated as DG, AHPI.

COVID-19 has till now claimed 19 lives in India, with the total number of cases shooting upto 873.

The government on Saturday refuted report that said India had entered Stage 3 of COVID-19 pandemic — propagated by an online news portal earlier in the day. The news portal had quoted Dr Girdhar Gyani — an engineer who holds a PhD in Quality Management, saying they were calling it Stage 3.

The government on Saturday refuted report that said India had entered Stage 3 of COVID-19 pandemic — propagated by an online news portal earlier in the day. The news portal had quoted Dr Girdhar Gyani — an engineer who holds a PhD in Quality Management, saying they were calling it Stage 3. “Officially we may not call it — but it is the beginning of Stage 3,” Dr Gyani, the convenor of a task force on COVID-19 hospitals, had said in an interview to the news portal. The PIB, however, quashed this report, saying the headline was blown out of proportion. The headline of the said story was: "India May be in Stage 3: COVID-19 Hospital Task Force Convener" “If cases increase exponentially then only we can call it community transmission. That situation hasn’t come till now. The numbers are increasing artihmetically,” the PIB said, in a post on Twitter, adding, “Dr Gyani meant we should be prepared if we enter Stage 3. He did not mean we are already in Stage 3.” #PIBFactcheck : An online news portal has carried an interview with DG, AHPI claiming that India is in Stage 3 i.e. community transmission stage of #COVID2019india . It is clarified that this is misleading and has been denied by the concerned person himself https://t.co/O0ZftC0f2F — PIB India 🇮🇳 #StayHome #StaySafe (@PIB_India) March 28, 2020 × For the unversed, Stage 3 of a pandemic refers to community transmission. In it, it gets difficult to trace the original source of transmission, and the number of cases rise exponentially. Dr Gyani’s NGO – the Association of Healthcare Providers – advises the government with policy-making around healthcare. The NGO was also a part of a video conference of healthcare professionals with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 24. He is also designated as DG, AHPI. COVID-19 has till now claimed 19 lives in India, with the total number of cases shooting upto 873.

India not in Stage 3 of COVID-19 pandemic, confirms Centre

Indian Railways on Saturday announced that one of its prototypes has been converted into an isolation ward on a trail basis in view of the growing number of COVID-19 cases in the country.

"On a trial basis, for now, we have converted only one prototype into an isolation ward. If this goes well then 10 coaches per week will be converted into an isolation ward in every Railways zone," said an Indian Railways official.Informing further about the isolation coaches, the official said, "Each non-AC coach has 9 compartments and 4 toilets, of which 2 can be converted into bathrooms.

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"Ten cabins will be available with six berths in each and there will be separate cabins for patients and medical staff, said the official.

"Each compartment can be converted into a cubicle for one patient when needed. However, one compartment will have to be used as `nursing station` for healthcare personnel," said the official while adding "with minor changes, one coach can handle upto eight patients."

"To make the patient cabin, the middle berth has been removed from one side, all three berths in front of the patient berth have been removed, all ladders for climbing up the berths have been removed. The bathrooms, aisle areas and other areas have also been modified to prepare the Isolation Coach," he added.

In these coaches, all except one berth have been removed in the patient cabin and each cabin has been isolated with ply and plastic curtain, said the official.

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The patient cabins will also have four bottle holders and coat hangers provided for holding medical equipment.

Meanwhile, in the Doctor, Nurse and Medico-cum-store Cabins the middle berth has been removed and coat hangars and trays have been provided to hold medicines, the Railways added.

Besides, each compartment has been provided with 220 v elect point for medical instruments.In the worst-case scenario (later stages of pandemic), when capacities of the health facilities including such `train-hospitals` may get overwhelmed, 2 patients per compartment (i.e. 16 per coach) can be accommodated, said the Railways official."As many coaches as required can be converted into `wards/hospitals`. If upto 20,000 coaches are used, around 3,20,000 beds can be made available in train-hospitals," the official added. A total of 11,519 AC coaches and 34,017 non-AC coaches, excluding chair-cars, are part of the initiative.

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However, according to experts, the non-AC coaches are better suited (compared to AC coaches) to treat cases of coronavirus infections.

This comes in the backdrop of the Indian Railways` earlier announcement of suspending the running of all passenger trains till March 31 except for the operations of good trains carrying essential supplies amid the worst health crisis witnessed by the nation.&nbsp;

Indian Railways on Saturday announced that one of its prototypes has been converted into an isolation ward on a trail basis in view of the growing number of COVID-19 cases in the country.

Indian Railways on Saturday announced that one of its prototypes has been converted into an isolation ward on a trail basis in view of the growing number of COVID-19 cases in the country. "On a trial basis, for now, we have converted only one prototype into an isolation ward. If this goes well then 10 coaches per week will be converted into an isolation ward in every Railways zone," said an Indian Railways official.Informing further about the isolation coaches, the official said, "Each non-AC coach has 9 compartments and 4 toilets, of which 2 can be converted into bathrooms. Also read: TikTok comes up with 'Ghar Baitho India' campaign to promote creativity during lockdown "Ten cabins will be available with six berths in each and there will be separate cabins for patients and medical staff, said the official. "Each compartment can be converted into a cubicle for one patient when needed. However, one compartment will have to be used as `nursing station` for healthcare personnel," said the official while adding "with minor changes, one coach can handle upto eight patients." "To make the patient cabin, the middle berth has been removed from one side, all three berths in front of the patient berth have been removed, all ladders for climbing up the berths have been removed. The bathrooms, aisle areas and other areas have also been modified to prepare the Isolation Coach," he added. In these coaches, all except one berth have been removed in the patient cabin and each cabin has been isolated with ply and plastic curtain, said the official. Also read: Corona helmet: Chennai cops' unique way to dissuade lockdown defiers The patient cabins will also have four bottle holders and coat hangers provided for holding medical equipment. Meanwhile, in the Doctor, Nurse and Medico-cum-store Cabins the middle berth has been removed and coat hangars and trays have been provided to hold medicines, the Railways added. Besides, each compartment has been provided with 220 v elect point for medical instruments.In the worst-case scenario (later stages of pandemic), when capacities of the health facilities including such `train-hospitals` may get overwhelmed, 2 patients per compartment (i.e. 16 per coach) can be accommodated, said the Railways official."As many coaches as required can be converted into `wards/hospitals`. If upto 20,000 coaches are used, around 3,20,000 beds can be made available in train-hospitals," the official added. A total of 11,519 AC coaches and 34,017 non-AC coaches, excluding chair-cars, are part of the initiative. Also read: Delhi Police issue advisory on cyber crime threat amid coronavirus outbreak However, according to experts, the non-AC coaches are better suited (compared to AC coaches) to treat cases of coronavirus infections. This comes in the backdrop of the Indian Railways` earlier announcement of suspending the running of all passenger trains till March 31 except for the operations of good trains carrying essential supplies amid the worst health crisis witnessed by the nation.

Railways converts coaches into isolation wards for COVID-19 patients

India has reported the biggest single-day jump in coronavirus cases, there are now 873 cases in India - including 20 fatalities.

In Northern India -- the capital city of New Delhi has recorded 39 cases and one death. The state of Punjab has recorded 38 cases of COVID-19 and reported one death. In Uttar Pradesh there are 45 cases of COVID-19, including 11 people who have since recovered.

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In Central India, the state of Madhya Pradesh has recorded 30 cases.

In Western India, Maharashtra is now the worst hit state in the country, with 180 cases. The&nbsp; largest state of Rajasthan has recorded 48 cases. Goa has also recorded 3 cases.

Eastern part of India has also recorded many cases in West Bengal, Bihar and Odisha. And also two deaths.

West Bengal has now recorded 15 cases.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tiktok-comes-up-with-ghar-baitho-india-campaign-to-promote-creativity-during-lockdown-289113" hreflang="en">TikTok comes up with 'Ghar Baitho India' campaign to promote creativity during lockdown</a>

Kerala is now the second worst-hit state in the country, with 173 cases. Karnataka has recorded 55 cases.

India is currently reeling under a 21-day lockdown.

People in Chandigarh will&nbsp; be able to buy&nbsp;essential items like milk, vegetables, ration items, and meat shops from 10 am to 6 pm.

Himachal Pradesh authorities also relaxed the curfew for three hours&nbsp;in some districts.

There will be curfew relaxations in Shimla, and Kullu today&nbsp; from 10 am to 1 pm as well as in Kangra and Solan.

Meanwhile Infosys has now fired an employee in Bengaluru for putting up a post on his social media account asking people to go out in the public, sneeze and spread the coronavirus.

The man has been arrested by Bengaluru's Central Crime Branch.

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Infosys has completed its investigation on the social media post by one of its employees and we believe that this is not a case of mistaken identity. (1/2)
— Infosys (@Infosys) <a href="https://twitter.com/Infosys/status/1243552068171730945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Infosys in a statement has said, “Infosys has completed its investigation on the social media post by one of its employees and we believe that this is not a case of mistaken identity”.

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The social media post by the employee is against Infosys’ code of conduct and its commitment to responsible social sharing. Infosys has a zero tolerance policy towards such acts and has accordingly, terminated the services of the employee. (2/2)
— Infosys (@Infosys) <a href="https://twitter.com/Infosys/status/1243552191350214668?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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“The social media post by the employee is against Infosys’ code of conduct and its commitment to responsible social sharing. Infosys has a zero tolerance policy towards such acts and has accordingly, terminated the services of the employee”, the statement added.

India has reported the biggest single-day jump in coronavirus cases, there are now 873 cases in India - including 20 fatalities. In Northern India -- the capital city of New Delhi has recorded 39 cases and one death.

India has reported the biggest single-day jump in coronavirus cases, there are now 873 cases in India - including 20 fatalities. In Northern India -- the capital city of New Delhi has recorded 39 cases and one death. The state of Punjab has recorded 38 cases of COVID-19 and reported one death. In Uttar Pradesh there are 45 cases of COVID-19, including 11 people who have since recovered. Also read: Corona helmet: Chennai cops' unique way to dissuade lockdown defiers In Central India, the state of Madhya Pradesh has recorded 30 cases. In Western India, Maharashtra is now the worst hit state in the country, with 180 cases. The largest state of Rajasthan has recorded 48 cases. Goa has also recorded 3 cases. Eastern part of India has also recorded many cases in West Bengal, Bihar and Odisha. And also two deaths. West Bengal has now recorded 15 cases. Also read: TikTok comes up with 'Ghar Baitho India' campaign to promote creativity during lockdown Kerala is now the second worst-hit state in the country, with 173 cases. Karnataka has recorded 55 cases. India is currently reeling under a 21-day lockdown. People in Chandigarh will be able to buy essential items like milk, vegetables, ration items, and meat shops from 10 am to 6 pm. Himachal Pradesh authorities also relaxed the curfew for three hours in some districts. There will be curfew relaxations in Shimla, and Kullu today from 10 am to 1 pm as well as in Kangra and Solan. Meanwhile Infosys has now fired an employee in Bengaluru for putting up a post on his social media account asking people to go out in the public, sneeze and spread the coronavirus. The man has been arrested by Bengaluru's Central Crime Branch. Infosys has completed its investigation on the social media post by one of its employees and we believe that this is not a case of mistaken identity. (1/2) — Infosys (@Infosys) March 27, 2020 × Infosys in a statement has said, “Infosys has completed its investigation on the social media post by one of its employees and we believe that this is not a case of mistaken identity”. The social media post by the employee is against Infosys’ code of conduct and its commitment to responsible social sharing. Infosys has a zero tolerance policy towards such acts and has accordingly, terminated the services of the employee. (2/2) — Infosys (@Infosys) March 27, 2020 × “The social media post by the employee is against Infosys’ code of conduct and its commitment to responsible social sharing. Infosys has a zero tolerance policy towards such acts and has accordingly, terminated the services of the employee”, the statement added.

Infosys employee arrested for asking people to spread COVID-19

Delhi Police on Saturday issued an advisory regarding cybercrimes in the wake of coronavirus, warning people against fraudulent schemes.

The advisory issued by the Police warned people against falling prey to online frauds, telephone frauds and phishing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/corona-helmet-chennai-cops-unique-way-to-dissuade-lockdown-defiers-289107" hreflang="en">Corona helmet: Chennai cops' unique way to dissuade lockdown defiers</a>

Listing the do`s and don`ts for people, the advisory read, "Avoid opening suspicious e-mails and clicking on unverified coronavirus related links circulated on social messaging apps, emails, etc."

It also read, "Use strong passwords and multi-level authentication option for social media and banking activities; and people need to check the credentials of charity fund before donating money."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tiktok-comes-up-with-ghar-baitho-india-campaign-to-promote-creativity-during-lockdown-289113" hreflang="en">TikTok comes up with 'Ghar Baitho India' campaign to promote creativity during lockdown</a>

"If you become a victim, ensure you alert Delhi Police immediately," the advisory read.&nbsp;

Delhi Police on Saturday issued an advisory regarding cybercrimes in the wake of coronavirus, warning people against fraudulent schemes. The advisory issued by the Police warned people against falling prey to online frauds, telephone frauds and phishing.

Delhi Police on Saturday issued an advisory regarding cybercrimes in the wake of coronavirus, warning people against fraudulent schemes. The advisory issued by the Police warned people against falling prey to online frauds, telephone frauds and phishing. Also read: Corona helmet: Chennai cops' unique way to dissuade lockdown defiers Listing the do`s and don`ts for people, the advisory read, "Avoid opening suspicious e-mails and clicking on unverified coronavirus related links circulated on social messaging apps, emails, etc." It also read, "Use strong passwords and multi-level authentication option for social media and banking activities; and people need to check the credentials of charity fund before donating money." Also read: TikTok comes up with 'Ghar Baitho India' campaign to promote creativity during lockdown "If you become a victim, ensure you alert Delhi Police immediately," the advisory read.

Delhi Police issue advisory on cyber crime threat amid coronavirus outbreak

The state governments of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka carried out a joint quarantine operation to help over a thousand migrant labourers from various districts of Andhra Pradesh.

The Andhra Pradesh administration received the information that 1,334 migrant labourers were trying to return to the state after obtaining passes from the Deputy Director of Fisheries in Mangalore, Karnataka.

The labourers, according to a press release by the Andhra Pradesh government, were headed towards the Nangili Toll Plaza in Kolar district, from where they would enter the state to return to their native places."The Chittoor Collector, Superintendent of Police and Sub-Collector rushed to the spot to coordinate with their counterparts from Kolar, Karnataka.

The migrant workers were not permitted to enter AP due to the lockdown and the guidelines of the Union as well as state government," according to the release.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/police-conducting-thorough-checks-at-delhi-noida-border-amid-lockdown-289109">Police conducting thorough checks at Delhi-Noida border amid lockdown</a>

Instead, both the governments decided to initiate a joint quarantine operation in Kolar while taking precautionary measures to ensure that none of the labourers are carriers of the COVID-19 infection.

The Andhra government also reassured the Kolar administration that it will provide doctors, healthcare and all other facilities.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/corona-helmet-chennai-cops-unique-way-to-dissuade-lockdown-defiers-289107" hreflang="en">Corona helmet: Chennai cops' unique way to dissuade lockdown defiers</a>

It has also issued directions for logistical support, food, water, transport to take the labourers to quarantine facility, and medical team, consisting of 12 doctors, 22 supervisors and other staff, to be provided.

While the Prime Minister had imposed a nationwide lockdown, including the suspension of inter-state travel to prevent the spread of coronavirus, migrant workers and labourers around the country have started returning back to their native places fearing joblessness and cash crunch.

Andhra Pradesh as of Saturday 9:30 am, had 14 confirmed cases of coronavirus while Karnataka`s count stood at 55, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The state governments of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka carried out a joint quarantine operation to help over a thousand migrant labourers from various districts of Andhra Pradesh.

The state governments of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka carried out a joint quarantine operation to help over a thousand migrant labourers from various districts of Andhra Pradesh. The Andhra Pradesh administration received the information that 1,334 migrant labourers were trying to return to the state after obtaining passes from the Deputy Director of Fisheries in Mangalore, Karnataka. The labourers, according to a press release by the Andhra Pradesh government, were headed towards the Nangili Toll Plaza in Kolar district, from where they would enter the state to return to their native places."The Chittoor Collector, Superintendent of Police and Sub-Collector rushed to the spot to coordinate with their counterparts from Kolar, Karnataka. The migrant workers were not permitted to enter AP due to the lockdown and the guidelines of the Union as well as state government," according to the release. Also read: Police conducting thorough checks at Delhi-Noida border amid lockdown Instead, both the governments decided to initiate a joint quarantine operation in Kolar while taking precautionary measures to ensure that none of the labourers are carriers of the COVID-19 infection. The Andhra government also reassured the Kolar administration that it will provide doctors, healthcare and all other facilities. Also read: Corona helmet: Chennai cops' unique way to dissuade lockdown defiers It has also issued directions for logistical support, food, water, transport to take the labourers to quarantine facility, and medical team, consisting of 12 doctors, 22 supervisors and other staff, to be provided. While the Prime Minister had imposed a nationwide lockdown, including the suspension of inter-state travel to prevent the spread of coronavirus, migrant workers and labourers around the country have started returning back to their native places fearing joblessness and cash crunch. Andhra Pradesh as of Saturday 9:30 am, had 14 confirmed cases of coronavirus while Karnataka`s count stood at 55, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Andhra and Karnataka govts carry out joint quarantine operations for migrant labourers amid lockdown

As the world is coming together to prevent the spread of coronavirus and multiple countries, including India, have imposed nationwide lockdown to keep their citizens at home, viral video app TikTok has come up with a unique #GharBaithoIndia campaign to encourage people to utilise their creativity while practising self-isolation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/police-conducting-thorough-checks-at-delhi-noida-border-amid-lockdown-289109">Police conducting thorough checks at Delhi-Noida border amid lockdown</a>

The unique campaign brings people closer through social media, in these testing times which require distancing, and aims at bringing out the creativity of the people and at the same time encouraging others to hone their skills.

The campaign has seen massive engagement from general users and celebrities alike.TikTok users have been uploading unique recipes, their home-workout routine and even glimpses of them working from home due to the lockdown.Popular Bollywood celebrities and TikTok creators such as Kajol Devgan, Riteish Deshmukh, Rannvijay Singh, Karanveer Bohra, Yo Yo Honey Singh, Sejal Kumar, among others have shared their moments of fun, leisure and learning from daily life during the lockdown.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/corona-helmet-chennai-cops-unique-way-to-dissuade-lockdown-defiers-289107" hreflang="en">Corona helmet: Chennai cops' unique way to dissuade lockdown defiers</a>

A total of 873 confirmed cases of coronavirus have been reported in India, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The centre and all state governments have asked the people to refrain from venturing outside of their houses during the 21-day nationwide lockdown.

As the world is coming together to prevent the spread of coronavirus and multiple countries, including India, have imposed nationwide lockdown to keep their citizens at home, viral video app TikTok has come up with a unique #GharBaithoIndia campaign to encourage people to utilise their creativity while practising self-isolation.

As the world is coming together to prevent the spread of coronavirus and multiple countries, including India, have imposed nationwide lockdown to keep their citizens at home, viral video app TikTok has come up with a unique #GharBaithoIndia campaign to encourage people to utilise their creativity while practising self-isolation. Also read: Police conducting thorough checks at Delhi-Noida border amid lockdown The unique campaign brings people closer through social media, in these testing times which require distancing, and aims at bringing out the creativity of the people and at the same time encouraging others to hone their skills. The campaign has seen massive engagement from general users and celebrities alike.TikTok users have been uploading unique recipes, their home-workout routine and even glimpses of them working from home due to the lockdown.Popular Bollywood celebrities and TikTok creators such as Kajol Devgan, Riteish Deshmukh, Rannvijay Singh, Karanveer Bohra, Yo Yo Honey Singh, Sejal Kumar, among others have shared their moments of fun, leisure and learning from daily life during the lockdown. Also read: Corona helmet: Chennai cops' unique way to dissuade lockdown defiers A total of 873 confirmed cases of coronavirus have been reported in India, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The centre and all state governments have asked the people to refrain from venturing outside of their houses during the 21-day nationwide lockdown.

TikTok comes up with 'Ghar Baitho India' campaign to promote creativity during lockdown

The Kerala government on Saturday reported the first death in the state due to coronavirus."A 69-year-old man died due to coronavirus at Kochi Medical College today," said Dr NK Kuttappan Ernakulam District Medical Officer.

This comes in the backdrop of the latest update by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare which confirmed the total number of positive COVID-19 cases as 873, of which 173 cases were reported in Kerala.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/police-conducting-thorough-checks-at-delhi-noida-border-amid-lockdown-289109">Police conducting thorough checks at Delhi-Noida border amid lockdown</a>

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India have shot up to 902, with the addition of over 150 new cases registered in the last 24 hours.

The number of active cases right now stand at 800.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/corona-helmet-chennai-cops-unique-way-to-dissuade-lockdown-defiers-289107" hreflang="en">Corona helmet: Chennai cops' unique way to dissuade lockdown defiers</a>

Maharashtra and Gujarat recorded six new cases each, with Madhya Pradesh adding four new cases.

Currently, there are 800 active cases in the country. Out of the total 902, 83 have recovered so far, with eight new recoveries in the last 24 hours.

The Kerala government on Saturday reported the first death in the state due to coronavirus."A 69-year-old man died due to coronavirus at Kochi Medical College today," said Dr NK Kuttappan Ernakulam District Medical Officer.

The Kerala government on Saturday reported the first death in the state due to coronavirus."A 69-year-old man died due to coronavirus at Kochi Medical College today," said Dr NK Kuttappan Ernakulam District Medical Officer. This comes in the backdrop of the latest update by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare which confirmed the total number of positive COVID-19 cases as 873, of which 173 cases were reported in Kerala. Also read: Police conducting thorough checks at Delhi-Noida border amid lockdown The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India have shot up to 902, with the addition of over 150 new cases registered in the last 24 hours. The number of active cases right now stand at 800. Also read: Corona helmet: Chennai cops' unique way to dissuade lockdown defiers Maharashtra and Gujarat recorded six new cases each, with Madhya Pradesh adding four new cases. Currently, there are 800 active cases in the country. Out of the total 902, 83 have recovered so far, with eight new recoveries in the last 24 hours.

Kerala confirms first COVID-19 death

Amid the lockdown imposed due to the coronavirus outbreak, police are conducting checks on the non-essential movement of people at the Delhi-Noida border on Saturday.

The police personnel were asking questions to the non-essential travellers and were only sanctioning movement if a valid reason was given.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/corona-helmet-chennai-cops-unique-way-to-dissuade-lockdown-defiers-289107" hreflang="en">Corona helmet: Chennai cops' unique way to dissuade lockdown defiers</a>

Tight security has been deployed at the border.Similarly, police on late Friday evening stopped people in large numbers who tried to cross the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border at Ghazipur.

Migrants living in the national capital have been trying to reach their native places after the 21-day nationwide lockdown was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/six-more-test-positive-for-covid-19-in-gujarat-289104" hreflang="en">Six more test positive for COVID-19 in Gujarat</a>

The Prime Minister on Tuesday announced a 21-day lockdown in the entire country to deal with the spread of coronavirus, saying that "social distancing" is the only option to deal with the disease.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had reported a total of 873 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in India.

Amid the lockdown imposed due to the coronavirus outbreak, police are conducting checks on the non-essential movement of people at the Delhi-Noida border on Saturday.

Amid the lockdown imposed due to the coronavirus outbreak, police are conducting checks on the non-essential movement of people at the Delhi-Noida border on Saturday. The police personnel were asking questions to the non-essential travellers and were only sanctioning movement if a valid reason was given. Also read: Corona helmet: Chennai cops' unique way to dissuade lockdown defiers Tight security has been deployed at the border.Similarly, police on late Friday evening stopped people in large numbers who tried to cross the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border at Ghazipur. Migrants living in the national capital have been trying to reach their native places after the 21-day nationwide lockdown was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Also read: Six more test positive for COVID-19 in Gujarat The Prime Minister on Tuesday announced a 21-day lockdown in the entire country to deal with the spread of coronavirus, saying that "social distancing" is the only option to deal with the disease. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had reported a total of 873 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in India.

Police conducting thorough checks at Delhi-Noida border amid lockdown

In a bid to spread awareness about the severity of the coronavirus pandemic, a local artist in collaboration with a police official here has made a unique `Corona` helmet to dissuade commuters from coming out on the streets during the nationwide lockdown.

Gowtham, the artist, who designed the helmet told ANI here, "The public at large is not treating the COVID-19 situation seriously, whereas, the police personnel are working round the clock to ensure people stay at home and do not venture out so that further spread of the disease can be stopped".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-lockdown-migrants-walk-on-foot-board-buses-at-ups-ghaziabad-289102" hreflang="en">Coronavirus lockdown: Migrants walk on foot, board buses at UP's Ghaziabad</a>

"I came up with the idea and used a broken helmet and papers to prepare this. I have also prepared many placards displaying slogans and handed them over to the police," he added.

The police personnel, who are serving 24/7 on the streets, said that the helmet was proving to be useful in making people aware.

Police Inspector Rajesh Babu, who wears the gear while speaking to commuters on the street said that the approach has had a positive effect so far.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-lockdown-daily-routine-is-the-key-says-former-army-chief-on-how-to-cope-with-isolation-289087" hreflang="en">Coronavirus lockdown: 'Daily routine' is the key, says Former Army chief on how to cope with isolation</a>

"We take all the steps but still people come out on the streets. Therefore, this corona helmet is one of the steps we are taking to ensure that people are aware of the seriousness of the police. The helmet is an attempt to do something different when I wear this the thought of coronavirus comes into the minds of the commuters. Especially, the children react strongly after seeing this and want to be taken home," Babu told ANI here.

Tamil Nadu as of March 28 morning had 38 confirmed cases of the disease, including 6 foreigners. While the state has reported one death due to the infection two confirmed cases have also been cured and discharged, as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

In a bid to spread awareness about the severity of the coronavirus pandemic, a local artist in collaboration with a police official here has made a unique `Corona` helmet to dissuade commuters from coming out on the streets during the nationwide lockdown.

In a bid to spread awareness about the severity of the coronavirus pandemic, a local artist in collaboration with a police official here has made a unique `Corona` helmet to dissuade commuters from coming out on the streets during the nationwide lockdown. Gowtham, the artist, who designed the helmet told ANI here, "The public at large is not treating the COVID-19 situation seriously, whereas, the police personnel are working round the clock to ensure people stay at home and do not venture out so that further spread of the disease can be stopped". Also read: Coronavirus lockdown: Migrants walk on foot, board buses at UP's Ghaziabad "I came up with the idea and used a broken helmet and papers to prepare this. I have also prepared many placards displaying slogans and handed them over to the police," he added. The police personnel, who are serving 24/7 on the streets, said that the helmet was proving to be useful in making people aware. Police Inspector Rajesh Babu, who wears the gear while speaking to commuters on the street said that the approach has had a positive effect so far. Also read: Coronavirus lockdown: 'Daily routine' is the key, says Former Army chief on how to cope with isolation "We take all the steps but still people come out on the streets. Therefore, this corona helmet is one of the steps we are taking to ensure that people are aware of the seriousness of the police. The helmet is an attempt to do something different when I wear this the thought of coronavirus comes into the minds of the commuters. Especially, the children react strongly after seeing this and want to be taken home," Babu told ANI here. Tamil Nadu as of March 28 morning had 38 confirmed cases of the disease, including 6 foreigners. While the state has reported one death due to the infection two confirmed cases have also been cured and discharged, as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Corona helmet: Chennai cops' unique way to dissuade lockdown defiers

Six more people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Gujarat, said Jayanti Ravi, Principal Secretary, Health and Family Welfare Department of the state.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-over-150-new-covid-19-cases-over-the-last-24-hours-289058">&nbsp;India records over 150 new COVID-19 cases over the last 24 hours</a>

The total number of coronavirus positive cases now stands at 53 in the state while the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India rose to 873 on Saturday, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The total number of active cases in the country rose to 775, while 78 patients have been cured and discharged.

The number of deaths due to the infection stood at 19 and one patient has migrated.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-lockdown-migrants-walk-on-foot-board-buses-at-ups-ghaziabad-289102" hreflang="en">Coronavirus lockdown: Migrants walk on foot, board buses at UP's Ghaziabad</a>

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India have shot up to 902, with the addition of over 150 new cases registered in the last 24 hours.

The number of active cases right now stand at 800.

Six more people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Gujarat, said Jayanti Ravi, Principal Secretary, Health and Family Welfare Department of the state. Also read: India records over 150 new COVID-19 cases over the last 24 hours The total number of coronavirus positive cases now stands at 53 in the state while the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India rose to 873 on Saturday, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Six more people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Gujarat, said Jayanti Ravi, Principal Secretary, Health and Family Welfare Department of the state. Also read: India records over 150 new COVID-19 cases over the last 24 hours The total number of coronavirus positive cases now stands at 53 in the state while the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India rose to 873 on Saturday, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The total number of active cases in the country rose to 775, while 78 patients have been cured and discharged. The number of deaths due to the infection stood at 19 and one patient has migrated. Also read: Coronavirus lockdown: Migrants walk on foot, board buses at UP's Ghaziabad The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India have shot up to 902, with the addition of over 150 new cases registered in the last 24 hours. The number of active cases right now stand at 800.

Six more test positive for COVID-19 in Gujarat

Hundreds of migrant workers reached Ghaziabad`s Lal Kuan on Saturday after taking an arduous trek on foot through Delhi and Gurugram and other cities.

The people took buses to their respective native places from Lal Kuan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-lockdown-daily-routine-is-the-key-says-former-army-chief-on-how-to-cope-with-isolation-289087" hreflang="en">Coronavirus lockdown: 'Daily routine' is the key, says Former Army chief on how to cope with isolation</a>

The migrant workers from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana and several other places have been left with little option as the country is in a 21-day lockdown to curb the spread of Covid-19.

It was meant to enforce people to observe social distancing the pictures tell a different story. But it has some pitfalls too- leaving daily wagers and marginalised high and dry.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-over-150-new-covid-19-cases-over-the-last-24-hours-289058" hreflang="en">India records over 150 new COVID-19 cases over the last 24 hours</a>

The government has announced various welfare schemes, food distribution programmes, nigh shelters but a section of poor men and women continue to move towards their native places.

The buses were all crowded and people jostled with each other for space, some even sat atop the buses.In a similar situation, several workers reached Ghaziabad`s Kaushambi Bus Station on Friday to take buses to their respective native places in the state.

Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has requested the chief ministers of Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, and Haryana to arrange food and lodging for citizens of UP living in their states.

Hundreds of migrant workers reached Ghaziabad`s Lal Kuan on Saturday after taking an arduous trek on foot through Delhi and Gurugram and other cities. The people took buses to their respective native places from Lal Kuan.

Hundreds of migrant workers reached Ghaziabad`s Lal Kuan on Saturday after taking an arduous trek on foot through Delhi and Gurugram and other cities. The people took buses to their respective native places from Lal Kuan. Also read: Coronavirus lockdown: 'Daily routine' is the key, says Former Army chief on how to cope with isolation The migrant workers from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana and several other places have been left with little option as the country is in a 21-day lockdown to curb the spread of Covid-19. It was meant to enforce people to observe social distancing the pictures tell a different story. But it has some pitfalls too- leaving daily wagers and marginalised high and dry. Also read: India records over 150 new COVID-19 cases over the last 24 hours The government has announced various welfare schemes, food distribution programmes, nigh shelters but a section of poor men and women continue to move towards their native places. The buses were all crowded and people jostled with each other for space, some even sat atop the buses.In a similar situation, several workers reached Ghaziabad`s Kaushambi Bus Station on Friday to take buses to their respective native places in the state. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has requested the chief ministers of Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, and Haryana to arrange food and lodging for citizens of UP living in their states.

Coronavirus lockdown: Migrants walk on foot, board buses at UP's Ghaziabad

Delhi government assured food for migrant workers, India is under lockdown for 21 days, economic activities have come to halt.The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India have shot up to 902, with the addition of over 150 new cases registered in the last 24 hours. The number of active cases right now stand at 800.

Delhi govt assures food for migrant workers

India is currently reeling under a 21-day lockdown. In these times of social distancing, many have been left wondering what to do to in this free time

Earlier we spoke to former Indian Army Chief General JJ Singh for some tips on how to deal with isolation amid these trying times.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-over-150-new-covid-19-cases-over-the-last-24-hours-289058"> India records over 150 new COVID-19 cases over the last 24 hours</a>

During the conversation, former Army chief stressed on practising&nbsp;a fixed routine on daily basis.

"First and foremost is we follow a disciplined life. A daily routine has been worked out&nbsp;in various situations and&nbsp;positions when we are guarding the borders," Singh said, adding, "In Siachen, there is a different routine;&nbsp;for other mountainous areas there is a separate routine. Forest&nbsp;areas like Arunachal Pradesh we have a different routine."&nbsp;

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"The routine is followed from the moment we wake up till the time we sleep," Singh also said.

Over 800 people have been confirmed of coronavirus in India, while 19 others have lost their lives.&nbsp;

Maharashtra is worst affected-state with 180 cases followed by Kerala with 176 reports of infections.

Under the preventive measures, the government has put the nation under 21-days lockdown during which except essentials services everything has been shut including transport services and malls.

 
&nbsp;

India is currently reeling under a 21-day lockdown. In these times of social distancing, many have been left wondering what to do to in this free time Earlier we spoke to former Indian Army Chief General JJ Singh for some tips on how to deal with isolation amid these trying times.

India is currently reeling under a 21-day lockdown. In these times of social distancing, many have been left wondering what to do to in this free time Earlier we spoke to former Indian Army Chief General JJ Singh for some tips on how to deal with isolation amid these trying times. Also read: India records over 150 new COVID-19 cases over the last 24 hours During the conversation, former Army chief stressed on practising a fixed routine on daily basis. "First and foremost is we follow a disciplined life. A daily routine has been worked out in various situations and positions when we are guarding the borders," Singh said, adding, "In Siachen, there is a different routine; for other mountainous areas there is a separate routine. Forest areas like Arunachal Pradesh we have a different routine." × "The routine is followed from the moment we wake up till the time we sleep," Singh also said. Over 800 people have been confirmed of coronavirus in India, while 19 others have lost their lives. Maharashtra is worst affected-state with 180 cases followed by Kerala with 176 reports of infections. Under the preventive measures, the government has put the nation under 21-days lockdown during which except essentials services everything has been shut including transport services and malls.

Coronavirus lockdown: 'Daily routine' is the key, says Former Army chief on how to cope with isolation

The first images from India of what the coronavirus looks like are out. The images of the coronavirus have been taken by a team of ICMR-NIV scientists in Pune. The images have been captured using a transmission electron microscope and have been published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research.

The images of Sars-Cov-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, are from the throat swab of the first laboratory confirmed case in India reported on January 30. The woman, among three students studying medicine in Wuhan in China, was diagnosed with COVID-19 after returning to India.

The gene sequencing of the samples from Kerala done at the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune found that the virus was a 99.98 per cent match with the virus in Wuhan.

The image revealed the presence of stalk-like projections ending in round structures typical of a coronavirus particle.

"In summary, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report from India detecting the SARS-CoV-2 virus using TEM directly in a throat swab specimen confirmed by PCR..." the study said.

The article titled "Transmission electron microscopy imaging of SARS-CoV-2" has been authored by the ICMR-NIV National Influenza Centre Team. The authors include Atanu Basu, deputy director and head of electron microscopy and pathology at NIV Pune.

According to the article, one particular virus particle was very well preserved, showing features very typical of coronaviruses. These bind only to certain receptors on the host cell.

According to the study, the description of a novel human coronavirus, initially referred to as the Wuhan coronavirus (CoV), is currently designated as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-CoV-2 as per the latest International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) classification. It is probably the most recent human pneumonia virus with high outbreak potential.

This novel virus was initially identified through next-generation sequencing (NGS) and was suggested to have a possible zoonotic origin. Till date, detailed morphology and ultrastructure of this virus remains incompletely understood.

The first images from India of what the coronavirus looks like are out. The images of the coronavirus have been taken by a team of ICMR-NIV scientists in Pune. The images have been captured using a transmission electron microscope and have been published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research.

The first images from India of what the coronavirus looks like are out. The images of the coronavirus have been taken by a team of ICMR-NIV scientists in Pune. The images have been captured using a transmission electron microscope and have been published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research. The images of Sars-Cov-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, are from the throat swab of the first laboratory confirmed case in India reported on January 30. The woman, among three students studying medicine in Wuhan in China, was diagnosed with COVID-19 after returning to India. The gene sequencing of the samples from Kerala done at the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune found that the virus was a 99.98 per cent match with the virus in Wuhan. The image revealed the presence of stalk-like projections ending in round structures typical of a coronavirus particle. "In summary, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report from India detecting the SARS-CoV-2 virus using TEM directly in a throat swab specimen confirmed by PCR..." the study said. The article titled "Transmission electron microscopy imaging of SARS-CoV-2" has been authored by the ICMR-NIV National Influenza Centre Team. The authors include Atanu Basu, deputy director and head of electron microscopy and pathology at NIV Pune. According to the article, one particular virus particle was very well preserved, showing features very typical of coronaviruses. These bind only to certain receptors on the host cell. According to the study, the description of a novel human coronavirus, initially referred to as the Wuhan coronavirus (CoV), is currently designated as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-CoV-2 as per the latest International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) classification. It is probably the most recent human pneumonia virus with high outbreak potential. This novel virus was initially identified through next-generation sequencing (NGS) and was suggested to have a possible zoonotic origin. Till date, detailed morphology and ultrastructure of this virus remains incompletely understood.

First electron microscope image of coronavirus from India released

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