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India on Thursday expressed its displeasure on Pakistan choosing to use the SAARC nations video conference on coronavirus to raise Kashmir issue. Pakistan State Minister of Health Zafar Mirza had joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, Bhutanese premier Lotay Tshering, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Afghan and President Ashraf Ghani in the video conferenc held on March 15 to address the global coronavirus scare.

In the conference, Mirza had called for an immediate lifting of the "lockdown" there to allow virus containment measures.

"This SAARC platform was to address this pandemic. It was a humanitarian platform that Pakistan misused," the spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Raveesh Kumar, told reporters, in a press briefing in New Delhi.

The MEA further assured the government was effectively carrying out the evacuation of Indians stuck in different parts of the world, amid the global coronavirus scare. Additional Secretary Dammu Ravi said the government was carrying out assessments of countries that require evacuation of the Indian nationals and accordingly, trying to employ its resources.

A second evacuation from Italy was also in the works.&nbsp;

"The ministry is strengthening the Covid Control Room. Right now 25-30 people are working in the control room. They work in shifts. We are getting about 400 e-mails and 1000 calls in a day. We are planning to evacuate the next batch of Indians from Italy this weekend," he said, adding, "further details are being worked out with the civil aviation ministry."

Raveesh Kumar also said all countries would be duly helped by India, as and when required, adding, "a crisis of this magnitude doesn't recognise borders."

"We're moving fast on proposals announced during PM Modi's video conferencing with SAARC leaders. The emergency fund is up and running. We've received many requests from other SAARC countries in form of masks, gloves etc. Quantum of assistance requested so far as crossed $ 1M," he said.

The MEA also said India has evacuated 590 people from Iran where the situation is very severe.&nbsp;

"Indians infected with coronavirus in Iran have been segregated are well being taken care. We believe they will recover and we will bring them back," it added.

A total of 166 cases of coronavirus have been detected in India, and four deaths have been reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-evidence-of-community-transmission-of-coronavirus-in-india-have-enough-expertise-to-deal-with-crisis-health-ministry-287390">Also read:&nbsp;No evidence of community transmission of coronavirus; have enough expertise to deal with crisis: Health ministry</a>

India on Thursday expressed its displeasure on Pakistan choosing to use the SAARC nations video conference on coronavirus to raise Kashmir issue. Pakistan State Minister of Health Zafar Mirza had joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, Bhutanese premier Lotay Tshering, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Afghan and President Ashraf Ghani in the video conferenc held on March 15 to address the global coronavirus scare.

India on Thursday expressed its displeasure on Pakistan choosing to use the SAARC nations video conference on coronavirus to raise Kashmir issue. Pakistan State Minister of Health Zafar Mirza had joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, Bhutanese premier Lotay Tshering, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Afghan and President Ashraf Ghani in the video conferenc held on March 15 to address the global coronavirus scare. In the conference, Mirza had called for an immediate lifting of the "lockdown" there to allow virus containment measures. "This SAARC platform was to address this pandemic. It was a humanitarian platform that Pakistan misused," the spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Raveesh Kumar, told reporters, in a press briefing in New Delhi. The MEA further assured the government was effectively carrying out the evacuation of Indians stuck in different parts of the world, amid the global coronavirus scare. Additional Secretary Dammu Ravi said the government was carrying out assessments of countries that require evacuation of the Indian nationals and accordingly, trying to employ its resources. A second evacuation from Italy was also in the works. "The ministry is strengthening the Covid Control Room. Right now 25-30 people are working in the control room. They work in shifts. We are getting about 400 e-mails and 1000 calls in a day. We are planning to evacuate the next batch of Indians from Italy this weekend," he said, adding, "further details are being worked out with the civil aviation ministry." Raveesh Kumar also said all countries would be duly helped by India, as and when required, adding, "a crisis of this magnitude doesn't recognise borders." "We're moving fast on proposals announced during PM Modi's video conferencing with SAARC leaders. The emergency fund is up and running. We've received many requests from other SAARC countries in form of masks, gloves etc. Quantum of assistance requested so far as crossed $ 1M," he said. The MEA also said India has evacuated 590 people from Iran where the situation is very severe. "Indians infected with coronavirus in Iran have been segregated are well being taken care. We believe they will recover and we will bring them back," it added. A total of 166 cases of coronavirus have been detected in India, and four deaths have been reported. Also read: No evidence of community transmission of coronavirus; have enough expertise to deal with crisis: Health ministry

Pak misused humanitarian platform by raising Kashmir issue: India on PM Modi's video conference on coronavirus

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Thursday said there was no concept of community transmission in the country as far as the spread of coronavirus is concerned. It also stressed on the importance of social distancing in the stemming of COVID-19.

Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, MoHFW, while addressing the reporters in a press briefing in New Delhi, also said India had sufficient expertise in this country in terms of management of this disease.

The government has issued several advisories asking people to avoid crowded places and stay at home as much as possible in order to prevent the spread of the disease. In furtherance, Agarwal said that no scheduled international commercial passenger flights shall be allowed to land in India from March 22 for one week.

"State governments shall issue appropriate directions so that all citizens above 65 (other than for medical assistance) except for public representatives/government servants/medical professionals are advised to remain at home. All children below 10 should be advised to stay at home and not to venture out," he added.

State governments are also requested to enforce work for home for private sector employees except those working in emergency/essential services. Railways and civil aviation shall suspend all concessional travel except for students, patients and divyang category.

Additionally, the ministry also informed the scribes that on March 21, 787 Dreamliner -- a 236 seater -- will airlift Indian nationals stuck in Rome, Italy. These people include pilgrims and students.

Agarwal also praised the state governments and said they have been doing great work in stemming the growth of the novel coronavirus work.

When asked about the availability of the N-95 masks, he said they were available in adequate quantity in the country.

"There is a need for awareness in the community that preventive measures need to be taken. There is no need to panic. We request people to visit the ministry's website for dos and don'ts," Agarwal further said.

The number of people in India infected with COVID-19 has risen to 169, the health ministry had earlier said. This includes the four who have died.&nbsp;

The fourth death was only recently reported.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 8 pm on Thursday over the coronavirus threat. The address comes after a high-level meeting PM Modi chaired on Wednesday to review the efforts to contain COVID-19.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-misused-humanitarian-platform-by-raising-kashmir-issue-india-on-pm-modis-video-conference-on-coronavirus-287371">Also read:&nbsp;Pak misused humanitarian platform by raising Kashmir issue: India on PM Modi's video conference on coronavirus</a>

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Thursday said there was no concept of community transmission in the country as far as the spread of coronavirus is concerned.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Thursday said there was no concept of community transmission in the country as far as the spread of coronavirus is concerned. It also stressed on the importance of social distancing in the stemming of COVID-19. Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, MoHFW, while addressing the reporters in a press briefing in New Delhi, also said India had sufficient expertise in this country in terms of management of this disease. The government has issued several advisories asking people to avoid crowded places and stay at home as much as possible in order to prevent the spread of the disease. In furtherance, Agarwal said that no scheduled international commercial passenger flights shall be allowed to land in India from March 22 for one week. "State governments shall issue appropriate directions so that all citizens above 65 (other than for medical assistance) except for public representatives/government servants/medical professionals are advised to remain at home. All children below 10 should be advised to stay at home and not to venture out," he added. State governments are also requested to enforce work for home for private sector employees except those working in emergency/essential services. Railways and civil aviation shall suspend all concessional travel except for students, patients and divyang category. Additionally, the ministry also informed the scribes that on March 21, 787 Dreamliner -- a 236 seater -- will airlift Indian nationals stuck in Rome, Italy. These people include pilgrims and students. Agarwal also praised the state governments and said they have been doing great work in stemming the growth of the novel coronavirus work. When asked about the availability of the N-95 masks, he said they were available in adequate quantity in the country. "There is a need for awareness in the community that preventive measures need to be taken. There is no need to panic. We request people to visit the ministry's website for dos and don'ts," Agarwal further said. The number of people in India infected with COVID-19 has risen to 169, the health ministry had earlier said. This includes the four who have died. The fourth death was only recently reported. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 8 pm on Thursday over the coronavirus threat. The address comes after a high-level meeting PM Modi chaired on Wednesday to review the efforts to contain COVID-19. Also read: Pak misused humanitarian platform by raising Kashmir issue: India on PM Modi's video conference on coronavirus

No evidence of community transmission of coronavirus in India; have enough expertise to deal with crisis: Health ministry

According to a new dossier by Indian security agencies, Pakistan based twitter handles pushed fake posts to spark discontent during the Delhi riots.WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Pakistan's role in fueling Delhi riots

The Central government on Thursday allowed 50 per cent of its employees to work from home and the remaining to attend office every day besides implementing different time slots for working hours in its effort to further check the spread of the coronavirus disease.

An order issued by the Personnel Ministry directed the Heads of Departments (HoDs) to ensure that 50 per cent of Group B and C employees are required to attend office every day and the remaining 50 per cent staff is instructed to work from home.

“All HoDs are advised to draft a weekly roster of duty for Group B and C staff and ask them to attend office on alternate weeks. While deciding the roster for the first 
week, HoDs are advised to include officials who are residing in close proximity to their office or use their own transport to travel to the offices,” it said.

The order further said the working hours for all employees who attend office on a particular day should be staggered.

It suggested that three groups of employees be formed and asked to attend office during three time slots — 9 AM to 5.30 PM, 9.30 AM to 6 PM and 10 AM to 6.30 PM, the ministry said.

“The officials who are working from home on a particular day as per the roster drawn up should be available on telephone and electronic means of communication at all times. They should attend office, if called for any exigency of work,” it said.

These instructions shall not apply to the offices and employees engaged in essential/emergency services and those directly engaged in taking measures to control spread of COVID-19, the ministry said.

The Department of Financial Services (DFS) and Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) may issue similar instructions regarding financial institutions and public sector undertakings, it said.

The decision came after the Personnel Ministry on Tuesday asked all central government departments to take precautionary measures.

“Discourage, to the maximum extent, entry of visitors in the office complex. Routine issue of visitor/temporary passes should be suspended with immediate effect. Only those visitors who have proper permission of the officer who they want to meet, should be allowed after being properly screened,” it had said.

All government departments were asked to install thermal scanners as feasible as well as mandatorily place hand sanitisers at the entrances of government buildings.

“Those found having flu-like symptoms may be advised to take proper treatment/quarantine etc.,” the ministry had said.

It said meetings, as far as feasible, should be done through video conferencing. All departments were asked to avoid non-essential official travel of its staff, undertake essential correspondence on official email and avoid sending files and documents to other offices, to the extent possible, and facilitate delivery and receipt of postal documents at the entry points of the office buildings as far as practicable.

“Close all gyms/recreation centres/creches located in government buildings.

Ensure proper cleaning and frequent sanitization of the workplace, particularly of the frequently touched surfaces,” the ministry said.

The order advised the leave sanctioning authorities to sanction leave whenever any request is made for self-quarantine as a precautionary measure.

“Advise all employees who are at higher risk, i.e. older employees, pregnant employees and employees who have underlying medical conditions, to take extra precautions. The ministries/departments may take care not to expose such employees to any front-line work requiring direct contact with the public,” the ministry had said in a communique to all the ministries.

The Central government on Thursday allowed 50 per cent of its employees to work from home and the remaining to attend office every day besides implementing different time slots for working hours in its effort to further check the spread of the coronavirus disease.

The Central government on Thursday allowed 50 per cent of its employees to work from home and the remaining to attend office every day besides implementing different time slots for working hours in its effort to further check the spread of the coronavirus disease. An order issued by the Personnel Ministry directed the Heads of Departments (HoDs) to ensure that 50 per cent of Group B and C employees are required to attend office every day and the remaining 50 per cent staff is instructed to work from home. “All HoDs are advised to draft a weekly roster of duty for Group B and C staff and ask them to attend office on alternate weeks. While deciding the roster for the first week, HoDs are advised to include officials who are residing in close proximity to their office or use their own transport to travel to the offices,” it said. The order further said the working hours for all employees who attend office on a particular day should be staggered. It suggested that three groups of employees be formed and asked to attend office during three time slots — 9 AM to 5.30 PM, 9.30 AM to 6 PM and 10 AM to 6.30 PM, the ministry said. “The officials who are working from home on a particular day as per the roster drawn up should be available on telephone and electronic means of communication at all times. They should attend office, if called for any exigency of work,” it said. These instructions shall not apply to the offices and employees engaged in essential/emergency services and those directly engaged in taking measures to control spread of COVID-19, the ministry said. The Department of Financial Services (DFS) and Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) may issue similar instructions regarding financial institutions and public sector undertakings, it said. The decision came after the Personnel Ministry on Tuesday asked all central government departments to take precautionary measures. “Discourage, to the maximum extent, entry of visitors in the office complex. Routine issue of visitor/temporary passes should be suspended with immediate effect. Only those visitors who have proper permission of the officer who they want to meet, should be allowed after being properly screened,” it had said. All government departments were asked to install thermal scanners as feasible as well as mandatorily place hand sanitisers at the entrances of government buildings. “Those found having flu-like symptoms may be advised to take proper treatment/quarantine etc.,” the ministry had said. It said meetings, as far as feasible, should be done through video conferencing. All departments were asked to avoid non-essential official travel of its staff, undertake essential correspondence on official email and avoid sending files and documents to other offices, to the extent possible, and facilitate delivery and receipt of postal documents at the entry points of the office buildings as far as practicable. “Close all gyms/recreation centres/creches located in government buildings. Ensure proper cleaning and frequent sanitization of the workplace, particularly of the frequently touched surfaces,” the ministry said. The order advised the leave sanctioning authorities to sanction leave whenever any request is made for self-quarantine as a precautionary measure. “Advise all employees who are at higher risk, i.e. older employees, pregnant employees and employees who have underlying medical conditions, to take extra precautions. The ministries/departments may take care not to expose such employees to any front-line work requiring direct contact with the public,” the ministry had said in a communique to all the ministries.

Coronavirus pandemic: Work from home, staggered working hours for central govt employees – All you need to know

A full blown unemployment crisis was already looming over the Indian economy. Now the rapidly spreading coronavirus is taking an additional toll on corporations and businesses. Watch report:

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India's government is urging people to self isolate but many people won't be able to do that as most houses in the country are just too small. Infact having a personal room is a liberty in India. Watch report:

Coronavirus: Why Home Quarantine Is Tough In India

It's almost been a month since the national capital of India witnessed its worst riots in decades. The madness not only claimed 53 lives but also left a series of troubling questions.

And the role of invisible warriors who stoked this fire on social media cannot be ruled out - especially the ones from across the border - Pakistan.&nbsp;

In December 2019, WION carried reports on Pakistan's hashtag merchants.

Dawn, Pakistan's biggest media network, had exposed such online influence campaigns in the garb of activism. Now it turns out that the same online armies sprung into action at the onset of the Delhi riots.

These are the findings of a new dossier compiled by the Indian security agencies. Islamabad used thousands of Twitter handles to spark discontent against the Indian government and the Delhi Police. Hashtags were fired like missiles - #Delhipolicetruth and #Delhipolicemurders.

The posts were pumped by vested groups in Pakistan in tandem with some in India - this was an orchestrated exercise.&nbsp;From border skirmishes to elections and now riots, Pakistan is spending millions to systematically amplify falsehoods about India on the internet.

The idea behind it was to show that the Delhi police was unfairly targetting Muslim homes and shops, and not the rioters. The dossier lists about 70 handles from Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Karachi and Lahore, which pushed this false narrative.

These handles peddled images from Syria and Bangladesh as pictures from ground zero in New Delhi. To extend the propaganda, fake information was linked to anti-India hashtags.

According to one report, #RSSKillingMuslims was one of many that trended the day riots broke out. Now, most of the handles who pushed it have been withheld in India for security reasons. The hashtag is still out there and it is being used even by the Pakistani leadership.

The Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan, Qasim Khan Suri, used the hashtag, tweeting a story which was a biased News report on the coronavirus situation in India.

Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan himself has been caught peddling fake news on his official Twitter handle. He tried to pass off a video from Bangladesh as that of an alleged pogrom in Uttar Pradesh.

 
&nbsp;

It's almost been a month since the national capital of India witnessed its worst riots in decades. The madness not only claimed 53 lives but also left a series of troubling questions.

It's almost been a month since the national capital of India witnessed its worst riots in decades. The madness not only claimed 53 lives but also left a series of troubling questions. And the role of invisible warriors who stoked this fire on social media cannot be ruled out - especially the ones from across the border - Pakistan. In December 2019, WION carried reports on Pakistan's hashtag merchants. Dawn, Pakistan's biggest media network, had exposed such online influence campaigns in the garb of activism. Now it turns out that the same online armies sprung into action at the onset of the Delhi riots. These are the findings of a new dossier compiled by the Indian security agencies. Islamabad used thousands of Twitter handles to spark discontent against the Indian government and the Delhi Police. Hashtags were fired like missiles - #Delhipolicetruth and #Delhipolicemurders. The posts were pumped by vested groups in Pakistan in tandem with some in India - this was an orchestrated exercise. From border skirmishes to elections and now riots, Pakistan is spending millions to systematically amplify falsehoods about India on the internet. The idea behind it was to show that the Delhi police was unfairly targetting Muslim homes and shops, and not the rioters. The dossier lists about 70 handles from Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Karachi and Lahore, which pushed this false narrative. These handles peddled images from Syria and Bangladesh as pictures from ground zero in New Delhi. To extend the propaganda, fake information was linked to anti-India hashtags. According to one report, #RSSKillingMuslims was one of many that trended the day riots broke out. Now, most of the handles who pushed it have been withheld in India for security reasons. The hashtag is still out there and it is being used even by the Pakistani leadership. The Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan, Qasim Khan Suri, used the hashtag, tweeting a story which was a biased News report on the coronavirus situation in India. Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan himself has been caught peddling fake news on his official Twitter handle. He tried to pass off a video from Bangladesh as that of an alleged pogrom in Uttar Pradesh.

Pakistan pushed fake posts to spark discontent during Delhi riots: Report

Seven years after the execution of Afzal Guru, Tihar Jail on Thursday prepared the ground to hang the four men convicted in the Nirbhaya gangrape-murder case after several dummy runs and officials brushing up on details specified in the jail manual. 
 
Mukesh Singh (32), Pawan Gupta (25), Vinay Sharma (26) and Akshay Kumar Singh (31) are scheduled to be hanged on Friday at 5.30 am for the savage gangrape and murder of a 23-year-old physiotherapy intern on the night of December 16, 2012.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/nirbhaya-convicts-approach-international-court-of-justice-to-seek-stay-on-execution-286732" hreflang="en">Nirbhaya convicts approached International Court of Justice to seek stay on execution</a> 
 
This is the first time that four men will be hanged together in Tihar Jail, South Asia's largest prison complex that houses more than 16,000 inmates. 
 
A senior prison official said Pawan Jallad, a hangman from Meerut, reported to the Tihar Jail administration on Tuesday evening to prepare for the exercise. 
According to the jail manual, the jail superintendent will oversee the testing of the ropes and also inspect the gallows a day before the execution. 
 
Nirbhaya case: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-case-nations-patience-tested-by-delay-tactics-of-death-row-convicts-centre-tells-sc-279296">Nation's patience tested by delay tactics of death row convicts, Centre tells SC</a> 
 
This will be followed by a dummy execution -- a dummy or a bag of sand weighing 1.5 times the weight of the prisoner will be hanged and dropped between 1.830 and 2.440 metres to test the rope. 
 
The execution, specifies the Delhi Prison Rules 2018, will take place in the presence of the superintendent, deputy superintendent, medical officer in charge, resident medical officer and the district magistrate or additional district magistrate.

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A guard of not less than 10 constables, warders and two head constables, head warders or an equal number from the prison armed guard, will also be present, it states. 
 
The families of the prisoner will not be allowed to witness the executions. All other prisoners will be kept locked till the exercise is over and the bodies removed from the prison.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
 
The manual specifies that a medical officer prepares a report four days ahead of the date of execution, mentioning the length of the drop to be given to the prisoner who is to be executed. 
 
Two spare ropes for each prisoner sentenced to death are kept in reserve. After testing, the rope and other equipment will be locked and sealed in a steel box and kept in charge of deputy superintendent, it states. 
 
If the prisoner wants, a priest of his faith may be allowed. 
 
On the morning of the execution, the prisoner will be visited by senior officials, including the superintendent, the district magistrate/additional district magistrate and the medical officer, in his cell. 
 
Any documents, including the will of the prisoner, can be signed and attested in the presence of the superintendent and the district magistrate or additional district magistrate. 
 
Just before entering the gallows-enclosure, a cotton cap with a flap will be put on the prisoner's face so he can't see the gallows, according to jail rules. 
 
The wardens will hold the prisoners and withdraw following a signal from the superintendent. After that, the hangman draws the bolt, the manual states. 
 
The body of the executed prisoner is disposed of according to the requirements of the religion to which the executed prisoner belonged. It will be handed over the family following a post-mortem. 
 
An ambulance shall be used for the transportation of the body to the cremation or burial ground. 
 
On March 5, a trial court here issued fresh warrants for March 20 at 5.30 am. Their executions were deferred thrice earlier.

The last hanging in Tihar was on February 9, 2013, when Afzal Guru, a resident of Sopore in north Kashmir, was executed at 8 am and buried on the prison premises for his role in the terror attack on Parliament.

Seven years after the execution of Afzal Guru, Tihar Jail on Thursday prepared the ground to hang the four men convicted in the Nirbhaya gangrape-murder case after several dummy runs and officials brushing up on details specified in the jail manual.

Seven years after the execution of Afzal Guru, Tihar Jail on Thursday prepared the ground to hang the four men convicted in the Nirbhaya gangrape-murder case after several dummy runs and officials brushing up on details specified in the jail manual. Mukesh Singh (32), Pawan Gupta (25), Vinay Sharma (26) and Akshay Kumar Singh (31) are scheduled to be hanged on Friday at 5.30 am for the savage gangrape and murder of a 23-year-old physiotherapy intern on the night of December 16, 2012. Also read: Nirbhaya convicts approached International Court of Justice to seek stay on execution This is the first time that four men will be hanged together in Tihar Jail, South Asia's largest prison complex that houses more than 16,000 inmates. A senior prison official said Pawan Jallad, a hangman from Meerut, reported to the Tihar Jail administration on Tuesday evening to prepare for the exercise. According to the jail manual, the jail superintendent will oversee the testing of the ropes and also inspect the gallows a day before the execution. Nirbhaya case: Nation's patience tested by delay tactics of death row convicts, Centre tells SC This will be followed by a dummy execution -- a dummy or a bag of sand weighing 1.5 times the weight of the prisoner will be hanged and dropped between 1.830 and 2.440 metres to test the rope. The execution, specifies the Delhi Prison Rules 2018, will take place in the presence of the superintendent, deputy superintendent, medical officer in charge, resident medical officer and the district magistrate or additional district magistrate. A guard of not less than 10 constables, warders and two head constables, head warders or an equal number from the prison armed guard, will also be present, it states. The families of the prisoner will not be allowed to witness the executions. All other prisoners will be kept locked till the exercise is over and the bodies removed from the prison. The manual specifies that a medical officer prepares a report four days ahead of the date of execution, mentioning the length of the drop to be given to the prisoner who is to be executed. Two spare ropes for each prisoner sentenced to death are kept in reserve. After testing, the rope and other equipment will be locked and sealed in a steel box and kept in charge of deputy superintendent, it states. If the prisoner wants, a priest of his faith may be allowed. On the morning of the execution, the prisoner will be visited by senior officials, including the superintendent, the district magistrate/additional district magistrate and the medical officer, in his cell. Any documents, including the will of the prisoner, can be signed and attested in the presence of the superintendent and the district magistrate or additional district magistrate. Just before entering the gallows-enclosure, a cotton cap with a flap will be put on the prisoner's face so he can't see the gallows, according to jail rules. The wardens will hold the prisoners and withdraw following a signal from the superintendent. After that, the hangman draws the bolt, the manual states. The body of the executed prisoner is disposed of according to the requirements of the religion to which the executed prisoner belonged. It will be handed over the family following a post-mortem. An ambulance shall be used for the transportation of the body to the cremation or burial ground. On March 5, a trial court here issued fresh warrants for March 20 at 5.30 am. Their executions were deferred thrice earlier. The last hanging in Tihar was on February 9, 2013, when Afzal Guru, a resident of Sopore in north Kashmir, was executed at 8 am and buried on the prison premises for his role in the terror attack on Parliament.

Nirbhaya gang rape case: New Delhi's Tihar jail gets ready to hang the four convicts

India is at a crucial stage in the outbreak of novel coronavirus. The virus has been spreading from individuals who have been abroad. This is called stage 2. Community transmission of stage 3 has not been reported yet. Watch WION's report on how the country is battling the coronavirus.

Amid Coronavirus outbreak Indian HRD Ministry postpones all exams

Even as G20 leaders are all set to meet via video conference to tackle the coronavirus crisis, an Indian idea accepted by G20 Chair Saudi Arabia, India's Sherpa or the chief negotiator at the grouping Suresh Prabhu has said that the grouping should develop a vaccine for the epidemic as soon as possible.&nbsp;

Suresh Prabhu speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal also said,"PM Modi is very keen that we must address this global challenge together ".&nbsp;

Prabhu is currently in self-quarantine as a precaution after his return from Riyadh G20 Sherpa meet.

WION: What is India's expectation from the G20 summit via video conference on the coronavirus?

Suresh Prabhu: Our honourable Prime Minister has always taken a lead in dealing with global issues.&nbsp;G20, the grouping, representing 86 per cent of global GDP is a forum that can play a leadership role.&nbsp;

Coronavirus has become one of the most destabilising factors, economically, socially, politically all over the world.&nbsp;A situation like this must have prevailed during the World War-II, businesses are shutting down, people are apprehensive.&nbsp;

G20 should play a key role. He had instructed me when I went to Saudi Arabia for the second Sherpa meet to ensure that the group comes out with a statement on coronavirus.&nbsp;

One of the key points is we must develop a vaccine as early as possible. The WHO must develop an early warning system which is very important and then whatever investment is going on to fight coronavirus must also go to address the long term challenges. Money should be used in creating an infrastructure which will help us deal with a future crisis.&nbsp;

WION: What suggestions can be expected from India, from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi?&nbsp;

Suresh Prabhu: We will see when he addresses the nation. PM Modi has been consistently and always has been playing a leadership role in dealing with global challenges.&nbsp;

PM Modi has always said that G20 must not always speak for the 20 countries, but for those who are not in the room. Many countries who are outside the room and not in the G20, we should all speak for them, we must think of them, we must act. It is also imperative that countries who are more vulnerable, have less financial resources even suffer more because of such viruses.

WION: What has been the response of other G20 countries on Indian proposals, on the summit as well as the vaccine?

Suresh Prabhu: All countries supported us and I must thank my Saudi counterpart, the Saudi minister, who supported India's stance to work together in a manner that the world community as a whole must address this challenge. PM Modi always believes in the unity of action is what is necessary.&nbsp;

WION: In the past also India has taken up the lead role, this time new proposals can be expected...

Sidhant Sibal: That we will come to know when the summit takes place. PM Modi is very keen that we must address this global challenge together and bring our resources together and make sure teamwork can result in fighting this menace.

Even as G20 leaders are all set to meet via video conference to tackle the coronavirus crisis, an Indian idea accepted by G20 Chair Saudi Arabia, India's Sherpa or the chief negotiator at the grouping Suresh Prabhu has said that the grouping should develop a vaccine for the epidemic as soon as possible.

Even as G20 leaders are all set to meet via video conference to tackle the coronavirus crisis, an Indian idea accepted by G20 Chair Saudi Arabia, India's Sherpa or the chief negotiator at the grouping Suresh Prabhu has said that the grouping should develop a vaccine for the epidemic as soon as possible. Suresh Prabhu speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal also said,"PM Modi is very keen that we must address this global challenge together ". Prabhu is currently in self-quarantine as a precaution after his return from Riyadh G20 Sherpa meet. WION: What is India's expectation from the G20 summit via video conference on the coronavirus? Suresh Prabhu: Our honourable Prime Minister has always taken a lead in dealing with global issues. G20, the grouping, representing 86 per cent of global GDP is a forum that can play a leadership role. Coronavirus has become one of the most destabilising factors, economically, socially, politically all over the world. A situation like this must have prevailed during the World War-II, businesses are shutting down, people are apprehensive. G20 should play a key role. He had instructed me when I went to Saudi Arabia for the second Sherpa meet to ensure that the group comes out with a statement on coronavirus. One of the key points is we must develop a vaccine as early as possible. The WHO must develop an early warning system which is very important and then whatever investment is going on to fight coronavirus must also go to address the long term challenges. Money should be used in creating an infrastructure which will help us deal with a future crisis. WION: What suggestions can be expected from India, from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi? Suresh Prabhu: We will see when he addresses the nation. PM Modi has been consistently and always has been playing a leadership role in dealing with global challenges. PM Modi has always said that G20 must not always speak for the 20 countries, but for those who are not in the room. Many countries who are outside the room and not in the G20, we should all speak for them, we must think of them, we must act. It is also imperative that countries who are more vulnerable, have less financial resources even suffer more because of such viruses. WION: What has been the response of other G20 countries on Indian proposals, on the summit as well as the vaccine? Suresh Prabhu: All countries supported us and I must thank my Saudi counterpart, the Saudi minister, who supported India's stance to work together in a manner that the world community as a whole must address this challenge. PM Modi always believes in the unity of action is what is necessary. WION: In the past also India has taken up the lead role, this time new proposals can be expected... Sidhant Sibal: That we will come to know when the summit takes place. PM Modi is very keen that we must address this global challenge together and bring our resources together and make sure teamwork can result in fighting this menace.

G20 must develop a vaccine against coronavirus fast: Suresh Prabhu, India's Sherpa at G20

All eyes will be on Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;today when he addresses the nation on the contagion. The rapidly spreading coronavirus has shaken the world&nbsp;and&nbsp;India is in stage 2 battle&nbsp;to contain it. The nature of the contagion has made it imperative to look at the best practices being followed by various countries to imbibe and follow.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/coronavirus-fears-continue-to-hurt-indian-markets-sensex-tumble-nearly-2000-points-287286">Also Read:&nbsp;Coronavirus fears continue to hurt Indian markets</a>

WION brings the&nbsp;practices&nbsp;that we have analysed over the days practiced by other countries.

1.&nbsp;Roping of private players:&nbsp;Nationalisation by Spain of private&nbsp;hospitals and infrastructure, France and Germany mulling it.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/woman-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-in-chandigarh-with-travel-history-to-uk-287268">Also Read:&nbsp;Woman tests positive for coronavirus in Chandigarh with travel history to UK</a>

2. Administrative measures as partial or complete lockdowns:&nbsp;Eventually to create isolation by clamping on travel,and as much of social distancing

3. Calling&nbsp;Army:&nbsp;as it's a war situation and there is no other force best equipped to handle it tha the armies. Besides this, it will also give&nbsp;the numerical support that the other civilian arms of the government would require.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-confirmed-cases-rise-to-166-in-india-287283">Also Read:&nbsp;Coronavirus confirmed cases rise to 166 in India</a>

4. Financial succour: With the shutdown taking a toll and the costly nature of&nbsp;tests, several countries have resorted to direct money transfer (US, Canada and more).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-passengers-coming-to-kashmir-from-leh-to-be-quarantined-srinagar-dm-287228">Also Read: All passengers coming to Kashmir from Leh to be quarantined&nbsp;</a>

This essentially to ascertain that the two basic essential -food and medicine can be taken care of.

Then we can bring in PM Modi leading the fight on the subcontinent bringing SAARC on one platform. G20 collaboration video conferencing &nbsp;proposed next week which the chair Saudi has agreed too will be another step in the direction. When it is more or less settled that while each country would have to identify it's own ways to battle coronavirus given the nature of diversities.

All eyes will be on Prime Minister Narendra Modi today when he addresses the nation on the contagion. The rapidly spreading coronavirus has shaken the world and India is in stage 2 battle to contain it.

All eyes will be on Prime Minister Narendra Modi today when he addresses the nation on the contagion. The rapidly spreading coronavirus has shaken the world and India is in stage 2 battle to contain it. The nature of the contagion has made it imperative to look at the best practices being followed by various countries to imbibe and follow. Also Read: Coronavirus fears continue to hurt Indian markets WION brings the practices that we have analysed over the days practiced by other countries. 1. Roping of private players: Nationalisation by Spain of private hospitals and infrastructure, France and Germany mulling it. Also Read: Woman tests positive for coronavirus in Chandigarh with travel history to UK 2. Administrative measures as partial or complete lockdowns: Eventually to create isolation by clamping on travel,and as much of social distancing 3. Calling Army: as it's a war situation and there is no other force best equipped to handle it tha the armies. Besides this, it will also give the numerical support that the other civilian arms of the government would require. Also Read: Coronavirus confirmed cases rise to 166 in India 4. Financial succour: With the shutdown taking a toll and the costly nature of tests, several countries have resorted to direct money transfer (US, Canada and more). Also Read: All passengers coming to Kashmir from Leh to be quarantined This essentially to ascertain that the two basic essential -food and medicine can be taken care of. Then we can bring in PM Modi leading the fight on the subcontinent bringing SAARC on one platform. G20 collaboration video conferencing proposed next week which the chair Saudi has agreed too will be another step in the direction. When it is more or less settled that while each country would have to identify it's own ways to battle coronavirus given the nature of diversities.

COVID-19: Setting the agenda ahead of PM Modi's address

According to the latest reports, 276 Indian nationals are infected abroad with the global pandemic coronavirus. The number of coronavirus infected cases in India have rose to 166 with 3 people dead.

Coronavirus infected cases in India rise to 166 | Coronavirus Outbreak

In the wake of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-confirmed-cases-rise-to-166-in-india-287283">rapidly spreading coronavirus</a>, Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (ICSE) postponed class 10th and 12th examination on Thursday. The revised dates will be announced later.

"In view of the novel coronavirus spreading across the country and with much uncertainty and speculation in the air, the Council in the interest of the health and well-being of the students and the teaching community has decide to postpone all ICSE and ISC year 2020 examinations scheduled to be conducted between the period of March 19 to March 31," the council said in an official statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-passengers-coming-to-kashmir-from-leh-to-be-quarantined-srinagar-dm-287228">Also Read: All passengers coming to Kashmir from Leh to be quarantined&nbsp;</a>

The number of coronavirus cases rose to 166 in the country with 141 Indian nationals affected including 25 foreigners.

Maharashtra was worst-affected state with 42 confirmed cases followed by Kerala which has 25 cases.

The national capital reported 11 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Karnataka reported 14 cases of the virus in the last 24 hours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/woman-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-in-chandigarh-with-travel-history-to-uk-287268">Also Read:&nbsp;Woman tests positive for coronavirus in Chandigarh with travel history to UK</a>

Meanwhile, Indian authorities continued to put a mechanism in place to fight the virus with Union Health Minister Dr <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/woman-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-in-chandigarh-with-travel-history-to-uk-287268">Harsh Vardhan visiting Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport</a> to take stock of preparedness to fight the virus.

"I reviewed the arrangements we have made here to ensure everything is running smoothly," Harsh Vardhan said, adding,"we are doing our utmost to ensure that we take care of what is required to manage the situation in a scientific and professional manner."

In the wake of rapidly spreading coronavirus, Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (ICSE) postponed class 10th and 12th examination on Thursday.

In the wake of rapidly spreading coronavirus, Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (ICSE) postponed class 10th and 12th examination on Thursday. The revised dates will be announced later. "In view of the novel coronavirus spreading across the country and with much uncertainty and speculation in the air, the Council in the interest of the health and well-being of the students and the teaching community has decide to postpone all ICSE and ISC year 2020 examinations scheduled to be conducted between the period of March 19 to March 31," the council said in an official statement. Also Read: All passengers coming to Kashmir from Leh to be quarantined The number of coronavirus cases rose to 166 in the country with 141 Indian nationals affected including 25 foreigners. Maharashtra was worst-affected state with 42 confirmed cases followed by Kerala which has 25 cases. The national capital reported 11 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Karnataka reported 14 cases of the virus in the last 24 hours. Also Read: Woman tests positive for coronavirus in Chandigarh with travel history to UK Meanwhile, Indian authorities continued to put a mechanism in place to fight the virus with Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan visiting Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport to take stock of preparedness to fight the virus. "I reviewed the arrangements we have made here to ensure everything is running smoothly," Harsh Vardhan said, adding,"we are doing our utmost to ensure that we take care of what is required to manage the situation in a scientific and professional manner."

ICSE exams postponed due to coronavrius outbreak

As Indian authorities confirmed the number of coronavirus cases had risen to 166, Uttar Pradesh capital Lucknow reported two more cases of the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/woman-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-in-chandigarh-with-travel-history-to-uk-287268">Also Read:&nbsp;Woman tests positive for coronavirus in Chandigarh with travel history to UK</a>

The patients were moved to the COVID-19 isolation ward.

HCL technology said that an employee had tested positive for the virus who&nbsp;worked in the Noida office while he was in self-isolation after his return from international travel.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Mumbai's "Dabbawalas" have suspended their services from March 20 till March 31 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"We are fighting a war against coronavirus. We all have to take precautionary measures, avoid unnecessary travelling. The situation is not critical but it is worrisome," Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray said.

PM Modi is due to address the nation on COVID-19 today.

"A 24-year-old woman has tested positive for coronavirus in Raipur; she has travel history to London," Chhattisgarh health minister TS Singh Deo said.

"Her family members have been directed to home quarantine themselves," the minister added.

Uttarakhand's health department said 128 people have been home quarantined in order to control the spread of coronavirus.

As Indian authorities confirmed the number of coronavirus cases had risen to 166, Uttar Pradesh capital Lucknow reported two more cases of the virus. Also Read: Woman tests positive for coronavirus in Chandigarh with travel history to UK The patients were moved to the COVID-19 isolation ward.

As Indian authorities confirmed the number of coronavirus cases had risen to 166, Uttar Pradesh capital Lucknow reported two more cases of the virus. Also Read: Woman tests positive for coronavirus in Chandigarh with travel history to UK The patients were moved to the COVID-19 isolation ward. HCL technology said that an employee had tested positive for the virus who worked in the Noida office while he was in self-isolation after his return from international travel. Meanwhile, Mumbai's "Dabbawalas" have suspended their services from March 20 till March 31 due to the coronavirus pandemic. "We are fighting a war against coronavirus. We all have to take precautionary measures, avoid unnecessary travelling. The situation is not critical but it is worrisome," Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray said. PM Modi is due to address the nation on COVID-19 today. "A 24-year-old woman has tested positive for coronavirus in Raipur; she has travel history to London," Chhattisgarh health minister TS Singh Deo said. "Her family members have been directed to home quarantine themselves," the minister added. Uttarakhand's health department said 128 people have been home quarantined in order to control the spread of coronavirus.

Coronavirus: HCL Technologies employee tests positive; 2 cases reported in Lucknow

Saudi Arabia has accepted Indian PM&nbsp;Narendra Modi's proposal for a G20 summit via video conference to deal with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-crosses-100-in-us-as-coronavirus-spreads-to-all-states-287098">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;crisis next week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-spain-grapple-with-coronavirus-epidemic-as-death-toll-rises-287087">Also Read: Italy, Spain grapple with coronavirus epidemic as death toll rises</a>

Saudi Arabia is the chair of the G20 this year and will be taking all calls regarding the summit.

The G-20 secretariat in Riyadh in a release said, "The Saudi G-20 Presidency is communicating with G20 countries to convene an extraordinary virtual G20 leaders' Summit next week to advance a coordinated response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its human and economic implications."

"The Saudi Presidency will continue to support and coordinate international efforts to counter the impact of the pandemic, both in human and economic terms," it said.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the two leaders discussed the COVID –19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi during the telephonic talk highlighted India’s initiative to organise a video conference among SAARC countries on Sunday evening.

The Indian government readout of the talks said, "The two leaders agreed that a similar exercise at the level of G-20 leaders, under the aegis of Saudi Arabia as the Chair of G20, would be useful at a global scale, both for discussing specific measures to address the challenges posed by the global outbreak of COVID-19."

PM Modi has suggested the idea of G20 summit via video conferencing to other G20 leaders as well.&nbsp;

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison over the weekend said, "I'm also aware that (Indian) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is keen to organise a link-up between all the G20 leaders. I think that's a commendable initiative, Australia obviously supports that, communicate that."&nbsp;

Morrison called for a further meet on G20 finance meeting to deal with the economic impact.

The EU is also keen on the summit. The spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy EU Virginie Battu-Henriksson told WION, "We need strong G20 coordination and leadership. COVID-19 is a severe public health emergency and a major economic shock affecting many countries around the world."

G20, at summit level, emerged after the 2008 financial crisis and since then has been playing a major role in shaping global policy actions. The grouping meets once a year and has a rotational presidency.

Saudi Arabia has accepted Indian PM Narendra Modi's proposal for a G20 summit via video conference to deal with the coronavirus crisis next week. Also Read: Italy, Spain grapple with coronavirus epidemic as death toll rises Saudi Arabia is the chair of the G20 this year and will be taking all calls regarding the summit.

Saudi Arabia has accepted Indian PM Narendra Modi's proposal for a G20 summit via video conference to deal with the coronavirus crisis next week. Also Read: Italy, Spain grapple with coronavirus epidemic as death toll rises Saudi Arabia is the chair of the G20 this year and will be taking all calls regarding the summit. The G-20 secretariat in Riyadh in a release said, "The Saudi G-20 Presidency is communicating with G20 countries to convene an extraordinary virtual G20 leaders' Summit next week to advance a coordinated response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its human and economic implications." "The Saudi Presidency will continue to support and coordinate international efforts to counter the impact of the pandemic, both in human and economic terms," it said. On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the two leaders discussed the COVID –19 pandemic. Prime Minister Modi during the telephonic talk highlighted India’s initiative to organise a video conference among SAARC countries on Sunday evening. The Indian government readout of the talks said, "The two leaders agreed that a similar exercise at the level of G-20 leaders, under the aegis of Saudi Arabia as the Chair of G20, would be useful at a global scale, both for discussing specific measures to address the challenges posed by the global outbreak of COVID-19." PM Modi has suggested the idea of G20 summit via video conferencing to other G20 leaders as well. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison over the weekend said, "I'm also aware that (Indian) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is keen to organise a link-up between all the G20 leaders. I think that's a commendable initiative, Australia obviously supports that, communicate that." Morrison called for a further meet on G20 finance meeting to deal with the economic impact. The EU is also keen on the summit. The spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy EU Virginie Battu-Henriksson told WION, "We need strong G20 coordination and leadership. COVID-19 is a severe public health emergency and a major economic shock affecting many countries around the world." G20, at summit level, emerged after the 2008 financial crisis and since then has been playing a major role in shaping global policy actions. The grouping meets once a year and has a rotational presidency.

G20 chair Saudi Arabia accepts PM Modi's call for meet via video conference over coronavirus

There is now one confirmed case of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-embassy-in-italy-says-its-assisting-more-than-300-indian-students-in-rome-287097">COVID-19</a> in the Indian Army after a soldier&nbsp;from Ladakh whose father had travelled to Iran tested positive.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-positive-cases-in-india-jumps-to-147-287102">Also Read:&nbsp;COVID-19 positive cases in India jumps to 147</a>

The Army has taken large scale precautions to prevent the infection from spreading.

Watch Video:

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It has suspended all courses in the military starting from next Monday which includes courses for officers who are taking up senior command positions.&nbsp;

The courses which are already underway will continue but with major precautions in place. All non-essential training regimes have been cancelled and conferences too have been postponed or have gone digital.

The National Defence College will remain closed until March 31 with recruitment drives postponed by a month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-indian-evacuees-from-wuhan-dance-at-indian-armys-quarantine-facility-in-manesar-278164">Also Read:&nbsp;Indian evacuees from Wuhan dance at Indian Army's quarantine facility in Manesar</a>

An advisory has been issued to all military staff to avoid mass gatherings as much as possible which includes festival celebrations as well as visits to shopping malls and movie theatres.

The Indian Navy has also issued health advisories to all naval ships moving in international waters. Earlier, the Navy had deferred Milan - the largest ever multi-country wargame involving 30 nations.

There is now one confirmed case of COVID-19 in the Indian Army after a soldier from Ladakh whose father had travelled to Iran tested positive. Also Read: COVID-19 positive cases in India jumps to 147 The Army has taken large scale precautions to prevent the infection from spreading.

There is now one confirmed case of COVID-19 in the Indian Army after a soldier from Ladakh whose father had travelled to Iran tested positive. Also Read: COVID-19 positive cases in India jumps to 147 The Army has taken large scale precautions to prevent the infection from spreading. Watch Video: It has suspended all courses in the military starting from next Monday which includes courses for officers who are taking up senior command positions. The courses which are already underway will continue but with major precautions in place. All non-essential training regimes have been cancelled and conferences too have been postponed or have gone digital. The National Defence College will remain closed until March 31 with recruitment drives postponed by a month. Also Read: Indian evacuees from Wuhan dance at Indian Army's quarantine facility in Manesar An advisory has been issued to all military staff to avoid mass gatherings as much as possible which includes festival celebrations as well as visits to shopping malls and movie theatres. The Indian Navy has also issued health advisories to all naval ships moving in international waters. Earlier, the Navy had deferred Milan - the largest ever multi-country wargame involving 30 nations.

Indian army soldier's father from Ladakh confirmed with coronavirus

Even as G20 is set to meet via video conference for a global coordinated after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proposal, France has welcomed the development saying they expect India to be very dynamic. French envoy Emmanuel Lenain speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal said, "we expect India to be very dynamic in raising the issue within G20."

WION Dispatch: France welcomes India's active role in G20, Lauds SAARC video conference

India's Civil Aviation Ministry has issued standard operating procedures to screen passengers at airports arriving in the country. The SOP's include steps that have to be followed by countries at the airports to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Fineprint: New SOPs for arrivals at airports in India to contain spread of Coronavirus

In the first case of coronavirus affecting military personnel, a soldier from Leh is reported to have been infected by the virus. He was on leave from February 25 to March 1. The soldier's father had returned from a pilgrimage in Iran.

Indian Army soldier tests positive for coronavirus

The Indian embassy in Italy said on Tuesday that it was supporting and assisting more than 300 Indian students in Rome and nearby areas. ''We are doing all that is possible within our limited resources, despite the current lock-down, to support and assist more than 300 Indian students in Rome and nearby areas.

The Indian embassy in Italy said on Tuesday that it was supporting and assisting more than 300 Indian students in Rome and nearby areas. ''We are doing all that is possible within our limited resources, despite the current lock-down, to support and assist more than 300 Indian students in Rome and nearby areas. Their swab tests have been taken over the weekend and reports are awaited,'' tweeted Indian embassy in Italy on Wednesday. Indian Embassy Rome is doing all that is possible within its limited resources and despite the current lockdown, to support and assist more than 300 Indian students in Rome and nearby areas. (1/3) @DrSJaishankar @MEAIndia @harshvshringla @MOS_MEA — India in Italy (@IndiainItaly) March 17, 2020 × Italy, Europe`s worst coronavirus-hit country and the world`s second after China, on Tuesday reported a further 345 deaths in the past 24 hours. This was the third day running that it reported over 300 deaths - after 368 on Sunday, and 349 on Monday. While the country`s toll has gone up to 2,503, a point of optimism was that the infection rate had slowed down, according to the BBC. The country now has 31,506 cases - with 2,060 people in intensive care, up from 27,980 earlier. However, this was the slowest rate of increase since the country identified the presence of the virus last month.

Indian embassy in Italy says it's assisting more than 300 Indian students in Rome

Health Ministry of India is planning to enhance the capacity for diagnosis and detection of novel coronavirus and has decided to allow accredited private labs to conduct the tests across the country.

India plans to boost Covid-19 testing

The time when the whole world is sealing borders and two of the biggest economies are blaming each other for the outbreak, India through its efforts is setting a global example. India has reported 139 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus so far, with three fatalities.

India battles deadly COVID -19 pandemic

Two more persons have tested positive for coronavirus in the city, taking the total number of cases in Karnataka to 13, Health Minister B Sriramulu said on Wednesday.

The two patients--56-year-old man and 25-year-old woman--had returned from the US and Spain, respectively.

Two more COVID-19 cases have been registered in Bengaluru today, taking the total infected cases to 13, the minister tweeted.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
2 more <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid19</a> case has been registered in Bangalore today, taking the total infected cases to 13. 56yr old male, resident of Bangalore returned from USA on 6th March. Another, 25 yr old female, who has returned from Spain. Both are admitted in designated isolated hospital
— B Sriramulu (@sriramulubjp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sriramulubjp/status/1240191093561409536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The man, a city resident, had returned from the US on March 6 while the woman from Spain, Sriramulu said, adding the duo were admitted to a designated hospital's isolation ward.

A 67-year-old woman, who is resident of the city and had returned from Dubai via Goa last week, tested positive on Tuesday.

Two more persons have tested positive for coronavirus in the city, taking the total number of cases in Karnataka to 13, Health Minister B Sriramulu said on Wednesday.

Two more persons have tested positive for coronavirus in the city, taking the total number of cases in Karnataka to 13, Health Minister B Sriramulu said on Wednesday. The two patients--56-year-old man and 25-year-old woman--had returned from the US and Spain, respectively. Two more COVID-19 cases have been registered in Bengaluru today, taking the total infected cases to 13, the minister tweeted. 2 more #Covid19 case has been registered in Bangalore today, taking the total infected cases to 13. 56yr old male, resident of Bangalore returned from USA on 6th March. Another, 25 yr old female, who has returned from Spain. Both are admitted in designated isolated hospital — B Sriramulu (@sriramulubjp) March 18, 2020 × The man, a city resident, had returned from the US on March 6 while the woman from Spain, Sriramulu said, adding the duo were admitted to a designated hospital's isolation ward. A 67-year-old woman, who is resident of the city and had returned from Dubai via Goa last week, tested positive on Tuesday.

Two more test positive for covid-19 in Karanataka, total now at 13

The counsel for the four death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case moved a court on Wednesday seeking quashing of their death penalty, saying the second mercy plea of one of them is still pending.

Additional Sessions Judge Dharmendra Rana issued notices to the Tihar jail authorities and the police on the plea and said he will hear it tomorrow.

Convict Akshay Singh had on Tuesday filed a second mercy petition before President Ram Nath Kovind.

On the same day, another convict, Pawan Gupta had also moved the Supreme Court with a curative petition against the dismissal of his review plea rejecting his juvenility claim.

The convicts -- Mukesh Singh (32), Pawan (25), Vinay Sharma (26) and Akshay (31) -- are scheduled to be hanged on March 20 at 5.30 am.

The counsel for the four death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case moved a court on Wednesday seeking quashing of their death penalty, saying the second mercy plea of one of them is still pending.

The counsel for the four death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case moved a court on Wednesday seeking quashing of their death penalty, saying the second mercy plea of one of them is still pending. Additional Sessions Judge Dharmendra Rana issued notices to the Tihar jail authorities and the police on the plea and said he will hear it tomorrow. Convict Akshay Singh had on Tuesday filed a second mercy petition before President Ram Nath Kovind. On the same day, another convict, Pawan Gupta had also moved the Supreme Court with a curative petition against the dismissal of his review plea rejecting his juvenility claim. The convicts -- Mukesh Singh (32), Pawan (25), Vinay Sharma (26) and Akshay (31) -- are scheduled to be hanged on March 20 at 5.30 am.

Nirbhaya convicts seek quashing of death penalty citing second mercy plea

All passengers coming to Kashmir from Leh will be quarantined, District Magistrate Srinagar Sahid Choudhary said on Wednesday.

Taking to Twitter, Choudhary wrote, "A Srinagar bound AI flight was returned this morning deboarding 25 passengers at Leh while other 81 who landed later have been quarantined. Henceforth all passengers coming from Leh shall have to be quarantined. Pl, note(sic)."

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has decided to send people entering the Valley from the Ladakh region to compulsory quarantine, as two more people on Wednesday were tested positive for coronavirus in Ladakh, taking the cases of the deadly virus in the region to eight.

Both the COVID-19 positive patients are the relatives of people who were previously tested positive for the disease.

Earlier in the day, Rigzin Sampheal, Commissioner Secretary of Ladakh said, the district administration of Leh and Kargil will decide on imposing Section 144 of CrPC to limit the crowd."District administration of Leh and Kargil will decide on Section 144 of CrPC to limit the crowd," he said.&nbsp;

Sampheal said, "A total of 34 sample reports have been received and the result of 70 samples are awaited."A total of 151 positive cases of coronavirus have been reported in India so far, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Wednesday.The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic.

All passengers coming to Kashmir from Leh will be quarantined, District Magistrate Srinagar Sahid Choudhary said on Wednesday. Taking to Twitter, Choudhary wrote, "A Srinagar bound AI flight was returned this morning deboarding 25 passengers at Leh while other 81 who landed later have been quarantined.

All passengers coming to Kashmir from Leh will be quarantined, District Magistrate Srinagar Sahid Choudhary said on Wednesday. Taking to Twitter, Choudhary wrote, "A Srinagar bound AI flight was returned this morning deboarding 25 passengers at Leh while other 81 who landed later have been quarantined. Henceforth all passengers coming from Leh shall have to be quarantined. Pl, note(sic)." The Jammu and Kashmir administration has decided to send people entering the Valley from the Ladakh region to compulsory quarantine, as two more people on Wednesday were tested positive for coronavirus in Ladakh, taking the cases of the deadly virus in the region to eight. Both the COVID-19 positive patients are the relatives of people who were previously tested positive for the disease. Earlier in the day, Rigzin Sampheal, Commissioner Secretary of Ladakh said, the district administration of Leh and Kargil will decide on imposing Section 144 of CrPC to limit the crowd."District administration of Leh and Kargil will decide on Section 144 of CrPC to limit the crowd," he said. Sampheal said, "A total of 34 sample reports have been received and the result of 70 samples are awaited."A total of 151 positive cases of coronavirus have been reported in India so far, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Wednesday.The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic.

All passengers coming to Kashmir from Leh to be quarantined: Srinagar DM

Indian Army has postponed or cancelled all wargames and training activities in view of the threat posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, an advisory issued on Tuesday said.

As per the advisory accessed by ANI, the leave granting authorities have been told to grant leave only on essential or compassionate grounds till the situation improves. Troops returning from leave especially from COVID-19 hotspots or to be in likely contact with persons having international travel history may be screened and quarantined on arrival in unit, the advisory added.

Further, as per the advisory, any assembly of persons beyond 50 in number is requested to be avoided. Physical training may be carried out while keeping a distance of one metre between the personnel. The advisory says that all sports competitions are to be postponed.

In the 2-page advisory, the army has also asked the formations to regulate entry into canteens and essential item stores in shopping complexes. All non-essential stores have been asked to be shut down.

A total of 147 positive cases of coronavirus have been reported in India so far, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Wednesday.

Indian Army has postponed or cancelled all wargames and training activities in view of the threat posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, an advisory issued on Tuesday said.

Indian Army has postponed or cancelled all wargames and training activities in view of the threat posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, an advisory issued on Tuesday said. As per the advisory accessed by ANI, the leave granting authorities have been told to grant leave only on essential or compassionate grounds till the situation improves. Troops returning from leave especially from COVID-19 hotspots or to be in likely contact with persons having international travel history may be screened and quarantined on arrival in unit, the advisory added. Further, as per the advisory, any assembly of persons beyond 50 in number is requested to be avoided. Physical training may be carried out while keeping a distance of one metre between the personnel. The advisory says that all sports competitions are to be postponed. In the 2-page advisory, the army has also asked the formations to regulate entry into canteens and essential item stores in shopping complexes. All non-essential stores have been asked to be shut down. A total of 147 positive cases of coronavirus have been reported in India so far, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Wednesday.

COVID-19: Indian Army postpones, cancels wargames and training activities

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