India currently has 8356 active cases of coronavirus. Out of these 716 people have been discharged so far.

Additionally, 273 deaths have been reported in the country, as per data from the Ministry of Health and Family Affairs, Government of India.

Maharashtra has recorded the most number of cases -1761, where 127 have died of the virus, and 208 have recovered.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-unsc-has-an-important-role-to-play-during-covid-19-crisis-president-jose-singer-tells-wion-292034" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'UNSC has an important role to play' during COVID-19 crisis, president José Singer tells WION</a>

Delhi follows suit with 1069 cases of the virus, and 19 deaths. So far 25 people have been discharged.

Maharashtra and the National Capital Territory of Delhi are the only two states in India to cross the 1,000 cases threshold so far.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-was-agras-cluster-containment-strategy-all-about-292006/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In Southern India, Tamil Nadu has 969 cases of the virus with 10 reported deaths. The state of Andhra Pradesh has reported 381 cases and six deaths so far.

In Kerala, 364 cases have been lodged. Only two deaths have been recorded in the state.

Telangana has 504 active cases with 9 deaths reported so far.

North eastern states of Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura have the lowest number of cases in the country right now - two, one, and two respectively.

The island territory of Andaman and Nicobar currently has 11 active cases and no deaths.

In central India, Madhya Pradesh has reported 532 cases and 36 deaths.

India currently has 8356 active cases of coronavirus. Out of these 716 people have been discharged so far. Additionally, 273 deaths have been reported in the country, as per data from the Ministry of Health and Family Affairs, Government of India.

India currently has 8356 active cases of coronavirus. Out of these 716 people have been discharged so far. Additionally, 273 deaths have been reported in the country, as per data from the Ministry of Health and Family Affairs, Government of India. Maharashtra has recorded the most number of cases -1761, where 127 have died of the virus, and 208 have recovered. Also read: Exclusive: 'UNSC has an important role to play' during COVID-19 crisis, president José Singer tells WION Delhi follows suit with 1069 cases of the virus, and 19 deaths. So far 25 people have been discharged. Maharashtra and the National Capital Territory of Delhi are the only two states in India to cross the 1,000 cases threshold so far. In Southern India, Tamil Nadu has 969 cases of the virus with 10 reported deaths. The state of Andhra Pradesh has reported 381 cases and six deaths so far. In Kerala, 364 cases have been lodged. Only two deaths have been recorded in the state. Telangana has 504 active cases with 9 deaths reported so far. North eastern states of Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura have the lowest number of cases in the country right now - two, one, and two respectively. The island territory of Andaman and Nicobar currently has 11 active cases and no deaths. In central India, Madhya Pradesh has reported 532 cases and 36 deaths.

COVID-19 in India: 8356 cases; Delhi & Maharashtra only regions to cross 1,000 mark

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has ruled out lifting lockdown in the Himalayan nation, saying that cases of coronavirus have just begun to rise in the neighbouring country which shares a porous border with Nepal.

The Indo-Nepal border has already been sealed to contain the spread of coronavirus.In a video conference with the Chief Ministers of seven provinces on Saturday, Oli made it clear that the measures adopted to curb the spread of COVID-19 will not be lifted unless the situation goes back to normal in India.

Advocating for implementing harsh measures to control the spread of COVID-19, Oli said,"We cannot lift the lockdown despite the fact that the number of cases has continued to rise in India. There is no point in becoming emotional about lifting the lockdown. Instead, we have to adopt stricter measures to control the spread of COVID-19."

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Chief Minister Sher Dhan Rai, Lal Babu Raut, Dormani Poudel, Prithivi Subba Gurung, Shanker Porkharel, Mahendra Shahi, and Trilochan Bhatta further briefed the prime minister over the measures adopted to contain the deadly virus.

The video conference continued for about four hours wherein the leaders hinted for extending the lockdown which is set to end in the midst of this month.

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Nepal imposed the lockdown on March 24 following India. He also appealed to the Chief Ministers to launch an awareness campaign on COVID-19 and stressed on for the need to step up strong coordination between the federal government and provincial government.

Nepal to date has nine confirmed cases of COVID-19 with one already recovered. India has reported 8,356 cases, out of which 7,367 are active with 716 discharged and 273 deaths.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has ruled out lifting lockdown in the Himalayan nation, saying that cases of coronavirus have just begun to rise in the neighbouring country which shares a porous border with Nepal.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has ruled out lifting lockdown in the Himalayan nation, saying that cases of coronavirus have just begun to rise in the neighbouring country which shares a porous border with Nepal. The Indo-Nepal border has already been sealed to contain the spread of coronavirus.In a video conference with the Chief Ministers of seven provinces on Saturday, Oli made it clear that the measures adopted to curb the spread of COVID-19 will not be lifted unless the situation goes back to normal in India. Advocating for implementing harsh measures to control the spread of COVID-19, Oli said,"We cannot lift the lockdown despite the fact that the number of cases has continued to rise in India. There is no point in becoming emotional about lifting the lockdown. Instead, we have to adopt stricter measures to control the spread of COVID-19." Also read: Pandemic a 'perfect storm' for South Asia, World Bank says Chief Minister Sher Dhan Rai, Lal Babu Raut, Dormani Poudel, Prithivi Subba Gurung, Shanker Porkharel, Mahendra Shahi, and Trilochan Bhatta further briefed the prime minister over the measures adopted to contain the deadly virus. The video conference continued for about four hours wherein the leaders hinted for extending the lockdown which is set to end in the midst of this month. Also read: South-East Asia needs 1.9 million more nurses, midwives: WHO Nepal imposed the lockdown on March 24 following India. He also appealed to the Chief Ministers to launch an awareness campaign on COVID-19 and stressed on for the need to step up strong coordination between the federal government and provincial government. Nepal to date has nine confirmed cases of COVID-19 with one already recovered. India has reported 8,356 cases, out of which 7,367 are active with 716 discharged and 273 deaths.

Oli says Nepal can't lift lockdown unless situation normalises in India

Jammu and Kashmir Police on Sunday tightened their surveillance in Bathindi area of Jammu which has been identified as a `Red Zone` in view of the coronavirus outbreak.

A total of 207 coronavirus cases have been confirmed from Jammu and Kashmir. In order to prevent the spread of coronavirus, the J-K administration had earlier declared 20 villages as `Red Zone`.

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With 34 deaths and 909 new positive COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of coronavirus cases in India on Sunday climbed to 8,356, including 716 cured and discharged and 273 deaths, said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Jammu and Kashmir Police on Sunday tightened their surveillance in Bathindi area of Jammu which has been identified as a `Red Zone` in view of the coronavirus outbreak.

Jammu and Kashmir Police on Sunday tightened their surveillance in Bathindi area of Jammu which has been identified as a `Red Zone` in view of the coronavirus outbreak. A total of 207 coronavirus cases have been confirmed from Jammu and Kashmir. In order to prevent the spread of coronavirus, the J-K administration had earlier declared 20 villages as `Red Zone`. Also read: 51 more COVID-19 cases in Rajasthan, state tally reaches 751 With 34 deaths and 909 new positive COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of coronavirus cases in India on Sunday climbed to 8,356, including 716 cured and discharged and 273 deaths, said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

COVID-19: Police tightens surveillance in 'Red Zone' areas of J&K

51 more cases of coronavirus have been reported from Rajasthan on Sunday, taking the state`s tally to 751, the state health department said.

Out of the total cases reported today, 15 patients are from Banswara, 8 from Bikaner and a single case was reported from Churu.

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Moreover, Jaipur also reported 15 cases in the morning today while 8 people were also found COVID-19 positive from Jodhpur, one from Sikar and two from Haunmangarh.

According to the Union Health Ministry, the tally of the country`s novel coronavirus cases increased to 8356 on Sunday. Of these, 716 have been cured and discharged, and 273 have succumbed to the virus

51 more cases of coronavirus have been reported from Rajasthan on Sunday, taking the state`s tally to 751, the state health department said. Out of the total cases reported today, 15 patients are from Banswara, 8 from Bikaner and a single case was reported from Churu.

51 more cases of coronavirus have been reported from Rajasthan on Sunday, taking the state`s tally to 751, the state health department said. Out of the total cases reported today, 15 patients are from Banswara, 8 from Bikaner and a single case was reported from Churu. Also read: 15 more COVID-19 cases reported from Mumbai's Dharavi area Moreover, Jaipur also reported 15 cases in the morning today while 8 people were also found COVID-19 positive from Jodhpur, one from Sikar and two from Haunmangarh. According to the Union Health Ministry, the tally of the country`s novel coronavirus cases increased to 8356 on Sunday. Of these, 716 have been cured and discharged, and 273 have succumbed to the virus

51 more COVID-19 cases in Rajasthan, state tally reaches 751

Mumbai`s Dharavi area on Sunday reported 15 more COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of coronavirus cases in the locality to 43, the state health department said.

Four people residing in the area had earlier died due to COVID-19.Maharashtra has so far recorded 1761 cases of coronavirus with 208 patients being cured.

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Out the total cases, 127 have lost their lives, the data compiled by the Union Health Ministry revealed.

The tally of the country`s novel coronavirus cases has increased to 8356 on Sunday. Of these, 716 have been cured and discharged, and 273 have succumbed to the virus.

Mumbai`s Dharavi area on Sunday reported 15 more COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of coronavirus cases in the locality to 43, the state health department said.

Mumbai`s Dharavi area on Sunday reported 15 more COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of coronavirus cases in the locality to 43, the state health department said. Four people residing in the area had earlier died due to COVID-19.Maharashtra has so far recorded 1761 cases of coronavirus with 208 patients being cured. Also read: In the face of coronavirus pandemic, Churu residents sacrifice habits with 'Give up Something' campaign Out the total cases, 127 have lost their lives, the data compiled by the Union Health Ministry revealed. The tally of the country`s novel coronavirus cases has increased to 8356 on Sunday. Of these, 716 have been cured and discharged, and 273 have succumbed to the virus.

15 more COVID-19 cases reported from Mumbai's Dharavi area

South Asia is on course for its worst economic performance in 40 years, with decades of progress in the battle against poverty at risk, because of coronavirus, the World Bank said Sunday.

India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Afghanistan and other smaller nations, which have 1.8 billion people and some of the planet's most densely populated cities, have so far reported relatively few coronavirus cases but experts fear they could be the next hotspots.

The dire economic effects are already much in evidence, with widespread lockdowns freezing most normal activity, Western factory orders cancelled and vast numbers of poor workers suddenly jobless.

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"South Asia finds itself in a perfect storm of adverse effects. Tourism has dried up, supply chains have been disrupted, demand for garments has collapsed and consumer and investor sentiments have deteriorated," said a World Bank report.

It slashed its growth forecast for the region this year to 1.8-2.8 percent from its pre-pandemic projection of 6.3 percent, with at least half the countries falling into "deep recession".

Worst hit will be the Maldives where the collapse of tourism will result in gross domestic output contracting by as much as 13 percent, while Afghanistan could shrink by as much as 5.9 percent and Pakistan by up to 2.2 percent.

Regional heavyweight India, where the fiscal year began on April 1, will see growth of just 1.5-2.8 percent in its current financial year, down from an expected 4.8-5.0 percent for the year just ended, the bank predicted.

Inequality 
The report also warned that the pandemic will reinforce inequality in the region, with the pandemic hitting informal workers with limited or no access to healthcare or social safety the hardest.

In India for instance, the world's biggest lockdown has prompted hundreds of thousands of migrant workers to return to their home villages, many on foot.

Governments need to "ramp up action to curb the health emergency, protect their people, especially the poorest and most vulnerable, and set the stage now for fast economic recovery," the World Bank said.

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In the short term this means preparing weak healthcare systems, providing safety nets and securing access to food, medical supplies and necessities for the most vulnerable, it advised.

It recommended temporary work programmes for migrant workers, debt relief for business and individuals and cutting red tape on imports and exports of essential goods.

And once the crisis is over, governments need urgently to pursue "innovative policies" and jumpstart economies.

"Failure to do so can lead to long-term growth disruptions and reverse hard-won progress in reducing poverty," the bank's Hartwig Schafer said.

The World Bank is taking "broad, fast action", deploying up to $160 billion in financial support over the next 15 months to help countries protect the poor and vulnerable, support businesses, and bolster economic recovery. &nbsp;

South Asia is on course for its worst economic performance in 40 years, with decades of progress in the battle against poverty at risk, because of coronavirus, the World Bank said Sunday.

South Asia is on course for its worst economic performance in 40 years, with decades of progress in the battle against poverty at risk, because of coronavirus, the World Bank said Sunday. India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Afghanistan and other smaller nations, which have 1.8 billion people and some of the planet's most densely populated cities, have so far reported relatively few coronavirus cases but experts fear they could be the next hotspots. The dire economic effects are already much in evidence, with widespread lockdowns freezing most normal activity, Western factory orders cancelled and vast numbers of poor workers suddenly jobless. Also read: Pakistan to receive medical supplies from China as coronavirus cases rise to 4,892 "South Asia finds itself in a perfect storm of adverse effects. Tourism has dried up, supply chains have been disrupted, demand for garments has collapsed and consumer and investor sentiments have deteriorated," said a World Bank report. It slashed its growth forecast for the region this year to 1.8-2.8 percent from its pre-pandemic projection of 6.3 percent, with at least half the countries falling into "deep recession". Worst hit will be the Maldives where the collapse of tourism will result in gross domestic output contracting by as much as 13 percent, while Afghanistan could shrink by as much as 5.9 percent and Pakistan by up to 2.2 percent. Regional heavyweight India, where the fiscal year began on April 1, will see growth of just 1.5-2.8 percent in its current financial year, down from an expected 4.8-5.0 percent for the year just ended, the bank predicted. Inequality The report also warned that the pandemic will reinforce inequality in the region, with the pandemic hitting informal workers with limited or no access to healthcare or social safety the hardest. In India for instance, the world's biggest lockdown has prompted hundreds of thousands of migrant workers to return to their home villages, many on foot. Governments need to "ramp up action to curb the health emergency, protect their people, especially the poorest and most vulnerable, and set the stage now for fast economic recovery," the World Bank said. Also read: 20 employees of Afghan Presidential Palace test positive for coronavirus In the short term this means preparing weak healthcare systems, providing safety nets and securing access to food, medical supplies and necessities for the most vulnerable, it advised. It recommended temporary work programmes for migrant workers, debt relief for business and individuals and cutting red tape on imports and exports of essential goods. And once the crisis is over, governments need urgently to pursue "innovative policies" and jumpstart economies. "Failure to do so can lead to long-term growth disruptions and reverse hard-won progress in reducing poverty," the bank's Hartwig Schafer said. The World Bank is taking "broad, fast action", deploying up to $160 billion in financial support over the next 15 months to help countries protect the poor and vulnerable, support businesses, and bolster economic recovery.

Pandemic a 'perfect storm' for South Asia, World Bank says

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India has risen to 8,447, including 273 deaths. Of these, over 900 fresh cases were reported in last 24 hours.&nbsp;

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Sunday said that 765 people have so far recovered from the infection.&nbsp;

To this end, Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) said the government was increasing the testing capacity in private and government medical colleges.

"We have a detailed discussion with the health minister and home minister according to which we are increasing testing capacity in private and government medical colleges," he said, adding, "to support this effort, 14 mental institutes have been identified including AIIMS and Nimhans, through which we will increase our testing capacity in government medical colleges."

The ministry added that a resurge in the cases of novel Coronavirus cases in countries such as China, Japan and South Korea was a cause for concern.

Agarwal suggested that people should follow social distancing even after the lockdown is lifted.

"Not much is known about this virus. Different facts about it are continuously coming before us on a daily basis and we are reacting accordingly. A resurge of cases in China, Japan and South Korea in the last few days, is a cause for concern. It is very important to ensure that we continue to follow our containment and social distancing measures like we are following today," he said.

(with inputs from agencies)

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India has risen to 8,447, including 273 deaths. Of these, over 900 fresh cases were reported in last 24 hours.

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India has risen to 8,447, including 273 deaths. Of these, over 900 fresh cases were reported in last 24 hours. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Sunday said that 765 people have so far recovered from the infection. To this end, Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) said the government was increasing the testing capacity in private and government medical colleges. "We have a detailed discussion with the health minister and home minister according to which we are increasing testing capacity in private and government medical colleges," he said, adding, "to support this effort, 14 mental institutes have been identified including AIIMS and Nimhans, through which we will increase our testing capacity in government medical colleges." The ministry added that a resurge in the cases of novel Coronavirus cases in countries such as China, Japan and South Korea was a cause for concern. Agarwal suggested that people should follow social distancing even after the lockdown is lifted. "Not much is known about this virus. Different facts about it are continuously coming before us on a daily basis and we are reacting accordingly. A resurge of cases in China, Japan and South Korea in the last few days, is a cause for concern. It is very important to ensure that we continue to follow our containment and social distancing measures like we are following today," he said. (with inputs from agencies)

India's COVID-19 cases rise to 8,447; 273 deaths reported

San Francisco Mayor London Breed has confirmed that 70 people including 60 homeless and two staff members were tested positive for COVID-19 in a homeless shelter. All the patients are under isolation.

US: COVID-19 spreads in San Francisco homeless shelters

Another 103&nbsp;crew&nbsp;members on the U.S. aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt have tested positive for the coronavirus, the Navy said on Saturday, bringing the total number of cases from the&nbsp;ship&nbsp;to 550.

In a statement on its website, the Navy said 92% of the carrier's&nbsp;crew&nbsp;members had been tested for the virus, with 550 positive and 3,673 negative results. It said 3,696 sailors had moved ashore.

On Friday, the Navy had reported 447 positive cases and on Thursday, 416.

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The outbreak aboard the nuclear-powered carrier led to the resignation on Tuesday of Thomas Modly as acting Navy secretary following a mounting backlash for his firing and ridiculing of the&nbsp;ship's commander, who had pleaded for help stemming a coronavirus&nbsp;outbreak onboard.&nbsp;

On Thursday, a sailor from the carrier was admitted to an intensive care unit in Guam after testing positive for the coronavirus&nbsp;last month.

Another 103 crew members on the U.S. aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt have tested positive for the coronavirus, the Navy said on Saturday, bringing the total number of cases from the ship to 550.

Another 103 crew members on the U.S. aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt have tested positive for the coronavirus, the Navy said on Saturday, bringing the total number of cases from the ship to 550. In a statement on its website, the Navy said 92% of the carrier's crew members had been tested for the virus, with 550 positive and 3,673 negative results. It said 3,696 sailors had moved ashore. On Friday, the Navy had reported 447 positive cases and on Thursday, 416. Also read: Exclusive: 'UNSC has an important role to play' during COVID-19 crisis, president José Singer tells WION The outbreak aboard the nuclear-powered carrier led to the resignation on Tuesday of Thomas Modly as acting Navy secretary following a mounting backlash for his firing and ridiculing of the ship's commander, who had pleaded for help stemming a coronavirus outbreak onboard. On Thursday, a sailor from the carrier was admitted to an intensive care unit in Guam after testing positive for the coronavirus last month.

Another 103 sailors from US carrier test positive for coronavirus

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson left hospital on Sunday and thanked the National Health Service for saving his life, saying "things could have gone either way" for him as he battled COVID-19.

Johnson, 55, was taken to St Thomas` Hospital in central London on April 5, suffering from persistent symptoms of the disease caused by the new coronavirus. On April 6 he was moved into intensive care, where he remained until April 9.

"I have today left hospital after a week in which the NHS has saved my life, no question," he said in a five-minute video message posted on Twitter from 10 Downing Street as the official death toll in Britain passed 10,000.

He named and thanked the nurses who had cared for him, with a special mention for two of them, Jenny from New Zealand and Luis from Portugal, who he said had stood by his bedside for 48 hours "when things could have gone either way".

"The reason in the end my body did start to get enough oxygen was because for every second of the night they were watching and they were thinking and they were caring and making the interventions I needed," he said.

Johnson wore a suit and tie and spoke in his usual energetic manner. In characteristic fashion, he made a joke, thanking the doctors who had cared for him, "several of them for some reason called Nick".

Johnson will continue his recovery at Chequers, the official prime ministerial country residence northwest of London, his office said.

A Reuters photographer saw Johnson and his pregnant fiancee Carrie Symonds, 32, who has also suffered from COVID-19 symptoms, being driven out of Downing Street, in central London, with their dog.

"There were times last week that were very dark indeed. My heart goes out to all those in similar situations, worried sick about their loved ones," Symonds said on Twitter. "Today I`m feeling incredibly lucky."

While Johnson has been out of action, his ministers have come under mounting pressure to explain why the national death toll is rising so fast.

Britain has reported two days in a row of hospital deaths increasing by more than 900 people. Friday`s death toll of 980 surpassed the highest recorded in a single day in Italy, the hardest hit country in Europe so far.

The death toll in Britain rose to 10,612, an officials statement said on Sunday.

Johnson thanked the public for following strict social distancing guidelines in place since March 23 and assured them their efforts were paying off.

"I want you to know that this Easter Sunday I do believe that your efforts are worth it, and are daily proving their worth," he said.

"Because although we mourn every day those who are taken from us in such numbers, and though the struggle is by no means over, we are now making progress in this incredible national battle against coronavirus."

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson left hospital on Sunday and thanked the National Health Service for saving his life, saying "things could have gone either way" for him as he battled COVID-19.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson left hospital on Sunday and thanked the National Health Service for saving his life, saying "things could have gone either way" for him as he battled COVID-19. Johnson, 55, was taken to St Thomas` Hospital in central London on April 5, suffering from persistent symptoms of the disease caused by the new coronavirus. On April 6 he was moved into intensive care, where he remained until April 9. "I have today left hospital after a week in which the NHS has saved my life, no question," he said in a five-minute video message posted on Twitter from 10 Downing Street as the official death toll in Britain passed 10,000. He named and thanked the nurses who had cared for him, with a special mention for two of them, Jenny from New Zealand and Luis from Portugal, who he said had stood by his bedside for 48 hours "when things could have gone either way". "The reason in the end my body did start to get enough oxygen was because for every second of the night they were watching and they were thinking and they were caring and making the interventions I needed," he said. Johnson wore a suit and tie and spoke in his usual energetic manner. In characteristic fashion, he made a joke, thanking the doctors who had cared for him, "several of them for some reason called Nick". Johnson will continue his recovery at Chequers, the official prime ministerial country residence northwest of London, his office said. A Reuters photographer saw Johnson and his pregnant fiancee Carrie Symonds, 32, who has also suffered from COVID-19 symptoms, being driven out of Downing Street, in central London, with their dog. "There were times last week that were very dark indeed. My heart goes out to all those in similar situations, worried sick about their loved ones," Symonds said on Twitter. "Today I`m feeling incredibly lucky." While Johnson has been out of action, his ministers have come under mounting pressure to explain why the national death toll is rising so fast. Britain has reported two days in a row of hospital deaths increasing by more than 900 people. Friday`s death toll of 980 surpassed the highest recorded in a single day in Italy, the hardest hit country in Europe so far. The death toll in Britain rose to 10,612, an officials statement said on Sunday. Johnson thanked the public for following strict social distancing guidelines in place since March 23 and assured them their efforts were paying off. "I want you to know that this Easter Sunday I do believe that your efforts are worth it, and are daily proving their worth," he said. "Because although we mourn every day those who are taken from us in such numbers, and though the struggle is by no means over, we are now making progress in this incredible national battle against coronavirus."

In video message, UK PM says medics saved his life as he battled COVID-19

Fish and vegetable merchants are reopening stalls at wet markets in China's central city of Wuhan as it lifts a months-long lockdown against the coronavirus pandemic, but their future looks uncertain with few customers as the virus stigma persists.

The virus, which has infected 1.6 million people and killed 106,000 in 214 countries, is believed to have originated late last year among wild animals on sale in a seafood market in Wuhan that has been closed and boarded up since January.

That has prompted heavy scrutiny for wet markets, a key facet of China's daily life, even though only a few sell wildlife. Some U.S. officials have called for them, and others across Asia, to be closed.&nbsp;

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"This is a person-to-person virus, no matter where you are," said Jin Qinzhi, a vegetable and meat vendor at a wet market, when asked what she thought about demands for their closure.

"Even the supermarket is full of people. Here people are more scattered. As long as we take precautionary measures, and we pay attention to disinfecting, it should be fine."&nbsp;

A common sight across Asia, wet markets traditionally sell fresh produce and live animals, such as fish, in the open air. They tend to be popular with shoppers who believe the items on sale are cheaper and fresher than in supermarkets.

Stall owners in Wuhan said they were not optimistic after their business was badly hurt by the strict shutdowns in China, which ordered a temporary ban on trade and consumption of wildlife in January.

"There is no business and no one is coming," said a worker chopping fish who only gave her surname, Zhang. "Everywhere is blocked and people cannot come in. Everyone is scared to go out and contract the virus."

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Wuhan will spend 200 million yuan ($28 million) to upgrade its 425 farmers' markets, in a campaign to improve hygiene, city officials said on Friday. Still, some worry they may not stay around long enough to see it.&nbsp;

"We don't have any income and business," said Jin. "If it goes on like this, it will be very difficult for us to survive."&nbsp;

Many stores remain shut and some curbs continue, even though a sharp drop in new local cases prompted lifting of the lockdown.&nbsp;

China reported 99 new virus infections on Saturday, taking its tally to 82,052, with a death toll of 3,339. Globally, the virus has reached 214 countries.

Fish and vegetable merchants are reopening stalls at wet markets in China's central city of Wuhan as it lifts a months-long lockdown against the coronavirus pandemic, but their future looks uncertain with few customers as the virus stigma persists.

Fish and vegetable merchants are reopening stalls at wet markets in China's central city of Wuhan as it lifts a months-long lockdown against the coronavirus pandemic, but their future looks uncertain with few customers as the virus stigma persists. The virus, which has infected 1.6 million people and killed 106,000 in 214 countries, is believed to have originated late last year among wild animals on sale in a seafood market in Wuhan that has been closed and boarded up since January. That has prompted heavy scrutiny for wet markets, a key facet of China's daily life, even though only a few sell wildlife. Some U.S. officials have called for them, and others across Asia, to be closed. Also read: Exclusive: 'UNSC has an important role to play' during COVID-19 crisis, president José Singer tells WION "This is a person-to-person virus, no matter where you are," said Jin Qinzhi, a vegetable and meat vendor at a wet market, when asked what she thought about demands for their closure. "Even the supermarket is full of people. Here people are more scattered. As long as we take precautionary measures, and we pay attention to disinfecting, it should be fine." A common sight across Asia, wet markets traditionally sell fresh produce and live animals, such as fish, in the open air. They tend to be popular with shoppers who believe the items on sale are cheaper and fresher than in supermarkets. Stall owners in Wuhan said they were not optimistic after their business was badly hurt by the strict shutdowns in China, which ordered a temporary ban on trade and consumption of wildlife in January. "There is no business and no one is coming," said a worker chopping fish who only gave her surname, Zhang. "Everywhere is blocked and people cannot come in. Everyone is scared to go out and contract the virus." Also read: Coronavirus infections continue to increase, US logs most deaths in any country ever Wuhan will spend 200 million yuan ($28 million) to upgrade its 425 farmers' markets, in a campaign to improve hygiene, city officials said on Friday. Still, some worry they may not stay around long enough to see it. "We don't have any income and business," said Jin. "If it goes on like this, it will be very difficult for us to survive." Many stores remain shut and some curbs continue, even though a sharp drop in new local cases prompted lifting of the lockdown. China reported 99 new virus infections on Saturday, taking its tally to 82,052, with a death toll of 3,339. Globally, the virus has reached 214 countries.

Wet markets in China's Wuhan struggle to survive coronavirus blow

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has sought participation in a randomised controlled study to assess the safety and efficacy of convalescent plasma to limit complications associated with COVID-19.

Similarly, it has also sought participation in the study on therapeutic plasma exchange in improving the clinical status of COVID-19 patients.

Convalescent plasma is an experimental procedure for COVID-19 patients. As per the guidelines, hospitals and institutions planning to provide this modality of treatment should do so in a clinical trial with protocols which are cleared by the Institutional Ethics Committee. 
At this moment, the ICMR does not recommend this as a treatment option outside of clinical trials.

"ICMR is inviting a letter of intent from institutions with the equipment and infrastructure available to participate in a clinical trial to study the safety and efficacy of convalescent plasma in COVID-19 patients, subsequent to necessary approvals and clearances. 
"Institutions which are interested to collaborate with ICMR on undertaking this trial intervention may express their interest by providing the details," the ICMR said.

In convalescent plasma therapy, antibodies from the blood of patients who have recovered from COVID-19 are used to treat severely infected patients.

The study is aimed at assessing the efficacy of convalescent plasma to limit complications in COVID-19 patients and to evaluate the safety of treatment with anti SARS-CoV-2 plasma in coronavirus-infected patients.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has sought participation in a randomised controlled study to assess the safety and efficacy of convalescent plasma to limit complications associated with COVID-19.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has sought participation in a randomised controlled study to assess the safety and efficacy of convalescent plasma to limit complications associated with COVID-19. Similarly, it has also sought participation in the study on therapeutic plasma exchange in improving the clinical status of COVID-19 patients. Convalescent plasma is an experimental procedure for COVID-19 patients. As per the guidelines, hospitals and institutions planning to provide this modality of treatment should do so in a clinical trial with protocols which are cleared by the Institutional Ethics Committee. At this moment, the ICMR does not recommend this as a treatment option outside of clinical trials. "ICMR is inviting a letter of intent from institutions with the equipment and infrastructure available to participate in a clinical trial to study the safety and efficacy of convalescent plasma in COVID-19 patients, subsequent to necessary approvals and clearances. "Institutions which are interested to collaborate with ICMR on undertaking this trial intervention may express their interest by providing the details," the ICMR said. In convalescent plasma therapy, antibodies from the blood of patients who have recovered from COVID-19 are used to treat severely infected patients. The study is aimed at assessing the efficacy of convalescent plasma to limit complications in COVID-19 patients and to evaluate the safety of treatment with anti SARS-CoV-2 plasma in coronavirus-infected patients.

ICMR seeks participation in trial to study efficacy of convalescent plasma in COVID-19 patients

Americans spent Sunday on lockdown as the U.S. toll from the novel coronavirus pandemic surpassed 21,300 deaths and more than half a million confirmed cases over the Easter weekend.

With almost all the country under stay-at-home orders to curb the spread of the disease, many turned to online church services to mark the holiest day in the Christian calendar.

"Future generations will look back on this as the long Lent of 2020, a time when disease and death suddenly darkened the whole earth," Archbishop Jose Gomez of Los Angeles wrote to priests and parishioners nationwide, urging them to hold steadfast. "Our churches may be closed but Christ is not quarantined and his Gospel is not in chains."

The United States has recorded more fatalities from the COVID-19 disease caused by the coronavirus than any other country in the world. Roughly 2,000 deaths a day were reported for the last four days in a row, the largest number in and around New York City. Even that is viewed as understated, as New York is still figuring out how best to include a surge in deaths at home in its official statistics.

As the death toll has mounted, President Donald Trump mulled over when the country might begin to see a return to normality.

The sweeping restrictions on non-essential movement that were imposed in recent weeks across 42 states have taken a huge toll on commerce and raised questions over how long business closures and travel curbs can be sustained.

The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits in the last three weeks surpassed 16 million.

The Trump administration sees May 1 as a target date for relaxing the stay-at-home restrictions, the commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, Stephen Hahn, said on Sunday. But he cautioned that it was still too early to say whether that goal would be met. 
"We see light at the end of the tunnel," Hahn told ABC`s "This Week," adding, "Public safety and the welfare of the American people has to come first. That has to ultimately drive these decisions"

SUNDAY SERVICES

Most states have issued broad stay-at-home orders that prohibit any large gatherings. In some states, that has sparked legal battles over whether there should be exceptions to attend Easter services in person.

On Saturday, the Kansas Supreme Court upheld an executive order barring more than 10 people from gathering for religious and funeral services. The decision, a victory for Democratic Governor Laura Kelly, followed an attempt by a Republican-led legislative body to overturn the order.

Some religious leaders plan to defy coronavirus bans, saying their right to worship outweighed the warnings.

Reverend Tony Spell told Reuters he expected more than 2,000 to congregate for services on Sunday at his evangelical Life Tabernacle megachurch near Baton Rouge, Louisiana. 
US Attorney General William Barr will be monitoring the regulation of religious services, Department of Justice spokeswoman Kerri Kupac wrote on Twitter on Saturday.

"While social distancing policies are appropriate during this emergency, they must be applied evenhandedly &amp; not single out religious orgs," Kupac wrote. "Expect action from DOJ next week!"

In recent days, US public health experts and some governors have pointed to signs that the country is starting to see a turnaround in the fight against the outbreak.

Dr Anthony Fauci, the country's top US infectious disease expert, said he was cautiously optimistic and pointed to the New York metropolitan area, which had its highest daily death toll last week but also saw a decrease in hospitalizations, intensive care admissions and the need to intubate critically ill patients.

"Once you turn that corner, hopefully you'll see a very sharp decline and then you can start thinking about how we can keep it that way," Fauci said on CNN's "State of the Union."

"If all of a sudden we decide 'OK, it's May whatever,' and we just turn the switch on, that could be a real problem."

Fauci and other public health experts say widespread testing will be key to efforts to reopen the economy, including antibody tests to find out who has already had the disease and could be safe to return to work.

The FDA's Hahn said he was concerned that some antibody tests on the market that had not gone through the FDA scientific review process "may not be as accurate as we'd like them to be."

"I can assure the American people that what we're doing is using data and science to look at those tests to make sure that they're valid, they're accurate and they`re reproducible," he said.

New government data shows a summer surge in infections if stay-at-home orders are lifted after only 30 days, according to projections first reported by the New York Times and confirmed by a Department of Homeland Security official.

Americans spent Sunday on lockdown as the U.S. toll from the novel coronavirus pandemic surpassed 21,300 deaths and more than half a million confirmed cases over the Easter weekend.

Americans spent Sunday on lockdown as the U.S. toll from the novel coronavirus pandemic surpassed 21,300 deaths and more than half a million confirmed cases over the Easter weekend. With almost all the country under stay-at-home orders to curb the spread of the disease, many turned to online church services to mark the holiest day in the Christian calendar. "Future generations will look back on this as the long Lent of 2020, a time when disease and death suddenly darkened the whole earth," Archbishop Jose Gomez of Los Angeles wrote to priests and parishioners nationwide, urging them to hold steadfast. "Our churches may be closed but Christ is not quarantined and his Gospel is not in chains." The United States has recorded more fatalities from the COVID-19 disease caused by the coronavirus than any other country in the world. Roughly 2,000 deaths a day were reported for the last four days in a row, the largest number in and around New York City. Even that is viewed as understated, as New York is still figuring out how best to include a surge in deaths at home in its official statistics. As the death toll has mounted, President Donald Trump mulled over when the country might begin to see a return to normality. The sweeping restrictions on non-essential movement that were imposed in recent weeks across 42 states have taken a huge toll on commerce and raised questions over how long business closures and travel curbs can be sustained. The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits in the last three weeks surpassed 16 million. The Trump administration sees May 1 as a target date for relaxing the stay-at-home restrictions, the commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, Stephen Hahn, said on Sunday. But he cautioned that it was still too early to say whether that goal would be met. "We see light at the end of the tunnel," Hahn told ABC`s "This Week," adding, "Public safety and the welfare of the American people has to come first. That has to ultimately drive these decisions" SUNDAY SERVICES Most states have issued broad stay-at-home orders that prohibit any large gatherings. In some states, that has sparked legal battles over whether there should be exceptions to attend Easter services in person. On Saturday, the Kansas Supreme Court upheld an executive order barring more than 10 people from gathering for religious and funeral services. The decision, a victory for Democratic Governor Laura Kelly, followed an attempt by a Republican-led legislative body to overturn the order. Some religious leaders plan to defy coronavirus bans, saying their right to worship outweighed the warnings. Reverend Tony Spell told Reuters he expected more than 2,000 to congregate for services on Sunday at his evangelical Life Tabernacle megachurch near Baton Rouge, Louisiana. US Attorney General William Barr will be monitoring the regulation of religious services, Department of Justice spokeswoman Kerri Kupac wrote on Twitter on Saturday. "While social distancing policies are appropriate during this emergency, they must be applied evenhandedly & not single out religious orgs," Kupac wrote. "Expect action from DOJ next week!" In recent days, US public health experts and some governors have pointed to signs that the country is starting to see a turnaround in the fight against the outbreak. Dr Anthony Fauci, the country's top US infectious disease expert, said he was cautiously optimistic and pointed to the New York metropolitan area, which had its highest daily death toll last week but also saw a decrease in hospitalizations, intensive care admissions and the need to intubate critically ill patients. "Once you turn that corner, hopefully you'll see a very sharp decline and then you can start thinking about how we can keep it that way," Fauci said on CNN's "State of the Union." "If all of a sudden we decide 'OK, it's May whatever,' and we just turn the switch on, that could be a real problem." Fauci and other public health experts say widespread testing will be key to efforts to reopen the economy, including antibody tests to find out who has already had the disease and could be safe to return to work. The FDA's Hahn said he was concerned that some antibody tests on the market that had not gone through the FDA scientific review process "may not be as accurate as we'd like them to be." "I can assure the American people that what we're doing is using data and science to look at those tests to make sure that they're valid, they're accurate and they`re reproducible," he said. New government data shows a summer surge in infections if stay-at-home orders are lifted after only 30 days, according to projections first reported by the New York Times and confirmed by a Department of Homeland Security official.

With over 21,300 coronavirus deaths, US spends Easter Sunday on lockdown

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India has reached 8,356, including 273 deaths. Of these, as many as 909 fresh cases were reported in&nbsp;last 24 hours.&nbsp;

716 people have recovered so far.

"A total of 8,356 confirmed cases have been reported in India including 273 deaths and 716 people who were COVID-19 positive have been recovered. Out of the total deaths, 34 deaths have been reported during the day," Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Minister of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) said, on Sunday.

Agarwal added the government was increasing the testing capacity in private and government medical colleges.

"We have a detailed discussion with the health minister and home minister according to which we are increasing testing capacity in private and government medical colleges," he said, adding, "to support this effort, 14 mental institutes have been identified including AIIMS and Nimhans, through which we will increase our testing capacity in government medical colleges."

The ministry added that a resurge in the cases of novel Coronavirus cases in countries such as China, Japan and South Korea was a cause for concern.

Agarwal suggested that people should follow social distancing even after the lockdown is lifted.

"Not much is known about this virus. Different facts about it are continuously coming before us on a daily basis and we are reacting accordingly. A resurge of cases in China, Japan and South Korea in the last few days, is a cause for concern. It is very important to ensure that we continue to follow our containment and social distancing measures like we are following today," he said.

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India has reached 8,356, including 273 deaths. Of these, as many as 909 fresh cases were reported in last 24 hours.

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India has reached 8,356, including 273 deaths. Of these, as many as 909 fresh cases were reported in last 24 hours. 716 people have recovered so far. "A total of 8,356 confirmed cases have been reported in India including 273 deaths and 716 people who were COVID-19 positive have been recovered. Out of the total deaths, 34 deaths have been reported during the day," Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Minister of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) said, on Sunday. Agarwal added the government was increasing the testing capacity in private and government medical colleges. "We have a detailed discussion with the health minister and home minister according to which we are increasing testing capacity in private and government medical colleges," he said, adding, "to support this effort, 14 mental institutes have been identified including AIIMS and Nimhans, through which we will increase our testing capacity in government medical colleges." The ministry added that a resurge in the cases of novel Coronavirus cases in countries such as China, Japan and South Korea was a cause for concern. Agarwal suggested that people should follow social distancing even after the lockdown is lifted. "Not much is known about this virus. Different facts about it are continuously coming before us on a daily basis and we are reacting accordingly. A resurge of cases in China, Japan and South Korea in the last few days, is a cause for concern. It is very important to ensure that we continue to follow our containment and social distancing measures like we are following today," he said.

India reports 909 coronavirus cases in one day; tally climbs to 8,356

A World Bank report on Sunday said South Asia, in the face of lockdown imposed due to coronavirus pandemic, may witness its worst economic performance in the last 40 years.

The report also said that at least half of the countries in the region are likely to fall in deep recession.

It said, "South Asia will likely experience the worst economic performance of the last 40 years. Because of the unparalleled uncertainty, this report presents a range forecast, estimating that regional growth will fall to a range between 1.8 and 2.8 per cent in 2020, down from 6.3 per cent projected six months ago.

"The hardest hit is the Maldives where GDP is expected to decline by between 8.5 and 13 per cent this year, as tourism has dried up. Also, for Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, the full range of their forecast GDP growth for this fiscal year is in negative territory."

In a worst-case scenario, the whole region would experience a contraction of GDP, it added.

"While usually, GDP decelerates faster than consumption, as consumers smooth their spending over economic cycles, this time consumption is falling sharply. Moreover, supply disruptions and panic buying can jeopardize food security. The sudden disappearance of service sector jobs and the rise in food prices have created economic hardship, especially for people in the informal sector.

"The first task is to prepare the, still underdeveloped, health-care system for the fight against COVID-19. Another immediate task is to secure access to food and basic needs to the most vulnerable people in society."

The report added it was equally important to secure other vital functions in the economy, such as payment systems and banking operations. "This all has to be achieved in a deteriorating global environment, while dealing with fiscal stress and problems in financial markets that were caused by pre-existing vulnerabilities," it said.

 
&nbsp;

A World Bank report on Sunday said South Asia, in the face of lockdown imposed due to coronavirus pandemic, may witness its worst economic performance in the last 40 years.

A World Bank report on Sunday said South Asia, in the face of lockdown imposed due to coronavirus pandemic, may witness its worst economic performance in the last 40 years. The report also said that at least half of the countries in the region are likely to fall in deep recession. It said, "South Asia will likely experience the worst economic performance of the last 40 years. Because of the unparalleled uncertainty, this report presents a range forecast, estimating that regional growth will fall to a range between 1.8 and 2.8 per cent in 2020, down from 6.3 per cent projected six months ago. "The hardest hit is the Maldives where GDP is expected to decline by between 8.5 and 13 per cent this year, as tourism has dried up. Also, for Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, the full range of their forecast GDP growth for this fiscal year is in negative territory." In a worst-case scenario, the whole region would experience a contraction of GDP, it added. "While usually, GDP decelerates faster than consumption, as consumers smooth their spending over economic cycles, this time consumption is falling sharply. Moreover, supply disruptions and panic buying can jeopardize food security. The sudden disappearance of service sector jobs and the rise in food prices have created economic hardship, especially for people in the informal sector. "The first task is to prepare the, still underdeveloped, health-care system for the fight against COVID-19. Another immediate task is to secure access to food and basic needs to the most vulnerable people in society." The report added it was equally important to secure other vital functions in the economy, such as payment systems and banking operations. "This all has to be achieved in a deteriorating global environment, while dealing with fiscal stress and problems in financial markets that were caused by pre-existing vulnerabilities," it said.

Coronavirus: South Asia may see worst economic performance in 40 years, says WB report

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&nbsp;

Coronavirus infections continue to increase, US logs most deaths in any country ever Canadian legislators approve wage subsidy as coronavirus spreads North Kore

Coronavirus infections continue to increase, US logs most deaths in any country ever Canadian legislators approve wage subsidy as coronavirus spreads North Korea calls for tougher virus curbs, but leader wears no mask in photographs New coronavirus cases double to 99 in mainland China as imported infections jump France's coronavirus death toll rises to 13,832 'Easter isn't cancelled', announces Queen Elizabeth in her new address

Morning news brief: Coronavirus infections continue to rise, Queen calls for resolute action, and more!

The coronavirus pandemic has infected 1.7 million people and killed more than 107,000 around the world so far, according to the latest tally by the Johns Hopkins University.

In the United States alone, there are over half a million cases. The US state of New York currently has more cases than any other country. 
 
Additionally, the US recently overtook Italy and logged the highest number of coronavirus related deaths in a country ever!

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/easter-isnt-cancelled-announces-queen-elizabeth-in-her-new-address-292019" hreflang="en">'Easter isn't cancelled', announces Queen Elizabeth in her new address</a>

The Pope recently pleaded to the world to remain calm and to “not yield to fear” ahead of Easter Sunday, which will be marked by most Christians from their homes and not from churches.

Pope Francis intends to livestream the service on YouTube for his followers.

Churches remained empty across the world as people were advised to stay at home to practice social distancing.

A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe.

More than half of the world population is currently self-isolating.

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Be it New York or New Delhi, businesses remain closed. Schools have been forced shut and the International Monetary Fund recently claimed that this is the worst economic fallout since the 1930s.

Europe remains the hardest hit with 70 per cent deaths recorded there.

The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

Over half a million cases have been now been confirmed in the US, more than any other country so far.

However, yesterday researchers showed optimism and claimed that the curve was beginning to flatten.

Trump, the President of the United States claimed that the infection rate was “near the peak” and his plans to reopen&nbsp;the US economy “as soon as possible”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-legislators-approve-wage-subsidy-as-coronavirus-spreads-292024" hreflang="en">Canadian legislators approve wage subsidy as coronavirus spreads</a>

"Without question it's the biggest decision I've ever had to make," Trump said.

He was wary though, suggesting his awareness of the risks associated with reopening too quickly.

"But you know what? Staying at home leads to death also," he said, while alluding to the economic losses.

“Coronavirus would not overcome us”, announced Queen Elizabeth of the United Kingdom in her second address to the nation in less than a week.

The head of Church of England, and the monarch of the UK, the 93-year-old further said that “Easter isn’t cancelled”. This was the first time she ever spoke on the holiday.

The coronavirus pandemic has infected 1.7 million people and killed more than 107,000 around the world so far, according to the latest tally by the Johns Hopkins University.

The coronavirus pandemic has infected 1.7 million people and killed more than 107,000 around the world so far, according to the latest tally by the Johns Hopkins University. In the United States alone, there are over half a million cases. The US state of New York currently has more cases than any other country. Additionally, the US recently overtook Italy and logged the highest number of coronavirus related deaths in a country ever! Also read: 'Easter isn't cancelled', announces Queen Elizabeth in her new address The Pope recently pleaded to the world to remain calm and to “not yield to fear” ahead of Easter Sunday, which will be marked by most Christians from their homes and not from churches. Pope Francis intends to livestream the service on YouTube for his followers. Churches remained empty across the world as people were advised to stay at home to practice social distancing. A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed how lifting lockdowns too early could lead to a second wave and would be a catastrophe. More than half of the world population is currently self-isolating. Be it New York or New Delhi, businesses remain closed. Schools have been forced shut and the International Monetary Fund recently claimed that this is the worst economic fallout since the 1930s. Europe remains the hardest hit with 70 per cent deaths recorded there. The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America. Over half a million cases have been now been confirmed in the US, more than any other country so far. However, yesterday researchers showed optimism and claimed that the curve was beginning to flatten. Trump, the President of the United States claimed that the infection rate was “near the peak” and his plans to reopen the US economy “as soon as possible”. Also read: Canadian legislators approve wage subsidy as coronavirus spreads "Without question it's the biggest decision I've ever had to make," Trump said. He was wary though, suggesting his awareness of the risks associated with reopening too quickly. "But you know what? Staying at home leads to death also," he said, while alluding to the economic losses. “Coronavirus would not overcome us”, announced Queen Elizabeth of the United Kingdom in her second address to the nation in less than a week. The head of Church of England, and the monarch of the UK, the 93-year-old further said that “Easter isn’t cancelled”. This was the first time she ever spoke on the holiday.

Coronavirus infections continue to increase, US logs most deaths in any country ever

Britain has not yet reached the COVID-19 peak which would allow for an easing of tight restrictions of movement, health minister Matt Hancock said on Saturday. Britain said on Sunday it was pledging 200 million pounds ($248 million) to the World Health Organisation (WHO) and charities to help slow the spread of the coronavirus in vulnerable countries and so help prevent a second wave of infections.

UK: Country hasn't hit its COVID-19 peak yet

Bangladesh on Sunday announced a relief package worth about $1.7 billion to help farmers struggling because of restrictions imposed to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

Bangladesh has extended its lockdown by 11 days to last till April 25, a move that could exacerbate the difficulties faced by the country's hundreds of thousands of rice, fish, dairy, poultry and vegetable farmers.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said the relief package, which includes $590 million for cheap farm loans and $1.1 billion for fertiliser subsidies, is designed to help farmers who are struggling to sell their produce during the lockdown.

"Disasters come. We'll have to face it boldly," Hasina said. "We want to make sure that our farming sector continues its smooth production."

The number of coronavirus cases in the South Asia region crossed 14,500 on Sunday. India, with 8,356 cases and 273 deaths, was the worst hit.

(with inputs from Reuters)

Bangladesh on Sunday announced a relief package worth about $1.7 billion to help farmers struggling because of restrictions imposed to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

Bangladesh on Sunday announced a relief package worth about $1.7 billion to help farmers struggling because of restrictions imposed to stem the spread of the coronavirus. Bangladesh has extended its lockdown by 11 days to last till April 25, a move that could exacerbate the difficulties faced by the country's hundreds of thousands of rice, fish, dairy, poultry and vegetable farmers. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said the relief package, which includes $590 million for cheap farm loans and $1.1 billion for fertiliser subsidies, is designed to help farmers who are struggling to sell their produce during the lockdown. "Disasters come. We'll have to face it boldly," Hasina said. "We want to make sure that our farming sector continues its smooth production." The number of coronavirus cases in the South Asia region crossed 14,500 on Sunday. India, with 8,356 cases and 273 deaths, was the worst hit. (with inputs from Reuters)

Bangladesh announces coronavirus farm relief package

Lockdown has triggered food crisis in United Kingdom. There is 300% rise in footfall in food banks. Britain's Queen Elizabeth said on Saturday that coronavirus "would not overcome us" as she delivered her second rallying message to the nation in a week.

UK: Food banks struggle to keep up with surging demand

North Korea called for tougher and more thorough countermeasures to keep citizens safe from the fast-spreading coronavirus at a meeting where leader Kim Jong Un presided, state media said on Sunday.

North Korea continues testing for the virus, with more than 500 people in quarantine, but has no confirmed infections yet, a country representative of the World Health Organization told Reuters this week.

The Korean Central News Agency said the virus had created obstacles to work on the economy, but the North had enforced consistent and compulsory "strict top-class emergency anti-epidemic measures" to maintain a stable situation.

At a meeting on Saturday, the political bureau of the central committee of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea adopted a resolution to take "more thorough state measures" to protect people's lives and safety against the pandemic, KCNA added.

It also aimed to step up emergency services nationwide against the outbreak and push ahead with economic construction, increasing the national defence capability and stabilising people's livelihoods this year, the agency said.

But state media photographs showed that none of those at the meeting, including Kim, wore masks or sat unusually far apart from each other.

Neighbouring South Korea reported 32 new infections by the end of Saturday, taking its tally to 10,512, with three more deaths for a total of 214, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.

KCNA said part of Saturday's agenda was to have been presented to a meeting of the Supreme People's Assembly, initially set for Friday, but it was not clear if the larger body had already met, or if not, when it is scheduled to do so.

Kim Yo Jong, Kim Jong Un's sister and a senior government official, was elected an alternate member of the Political Bureau, KCNA added.

In a separate report on Sunday, KCNA said Kim Jong Un expressed satisfaction at a drill of North Korea's pursuit assault aircraft that he oversaw, but suggested important tasks to "further enhance combat efficiency".

Agency photographs of the event showed some military officials wearing masks at the airfield, but not Kim.

North Korea called for tougher and more thorough countermeasures to keep citizens safe from the fast-spreading coronavirus at a meeting where leader Kim Jong Un presided, state media said on Sunday.

North Korea called for tougher and more thorough countermeasures to keep citizens safe from the fast-spreading coronavirus at a meeting where leader Kim Jong Un presided, state media said on Sunday. North Korea continues testing for the virus, with more than 500 people in quarantine, but has no confirmed infections yet, a country representative of the World Health Organization told Reuters this week. The Korean Central News Agency said the virus had created obstacles to work on the economy, but the North had enforced consistent and compulsory "strict top-class emergency anti-epidemic measures" to maintain a stable situation. At a meeting on Saturday, the political bureau of the central committee of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea adopted a resolution to take "more thorough state measures" to protect people's lives and safety against the pandemic, KCNA added. It also aimed to step up emergency services nationwide against the outbreak and push ahead with economic construction, increasing the national defence capability and stabilising people's livelihoods this year, the agency said. But state media photographs showed that none of those at the meeting, including Kim, wore masks or sat unusually far apart from each other. Neighbouring South Korea reported 32 new infections by the end of Saturday, taking its tally to 10,512, with three more deaths for a total of 214, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. KCNA said part of Saturday's agenda was to have been presented to a meeting of the Supreme People's Assembly, initially set for Friday, but it was not clear if the larger body had already met, or if not, when it is scheduled to do so. Kim Yo Jong, Kim Jong Un's sister and a senior government official, was elected an alternate member of the Political Bureau, KCNA added. In a separate report on Sunday, KCNA said Kim Jong Un expressed satisfaction at a drill of North Korea's pursuit assault aircraft that he oversaw, but suggested important tasks to "further enhance combat efficiency". Agency photographs of the event showed some military officials wearing masks at the airfield, but not Kim.

North Korea calls for tougher virus curbs, but leader wears no mask in photographs

Canadian government and opposition legislators approved a wage subsidy worth C$73 billion ($52 billion) on Saturday to support the ravaged economy, in an emergency sitting in the House of Commons.

Opposition parties had agreed prior to the sitting to support the bill. It was expected to also receive Senate approval and royal assent by Canada's Governor General, which is usually a formality.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke for the first time in weeks in the House after self-isolating with his family as his wife Sophie was infected with the novel coronavirus.

"This situation may get worse before getting better," Trudeau said in Ottawa, comparing it to a war. "Let us make a commitment among ourselves, to do what needs to be done for as long as it takes."

Trudeau's Liberals control a minority in the House of Commons and require support from the other parties to govern.&nbsp;

The subsidy covers 75% of a worker's wages. Finance Minister Bill Morneau said the government may send payments within two to five weeks.

The economy lost a record 1 million jobs last month.

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As of Friday, more than 5.85 million Canadians had applied for federal emergency unemployment help since March 15, government data showed.

Canada's death toll rose 13% in the past day to 600, and total cases climbed by 6% to 22,559, health officials said.

Deaths are set to soar to as high as 22,000 by the end of the pandemic, according to government projections.&nbsp;

In the province of Quebec, Canada's epicenter, Premier Francois Legault said 31 people have died in a single Montreal-area care home since March 13, prompting a police investigation.

He said authorities have so far confirmed that five of the deaths were from COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the new coronavirus.&nbsp;

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Health authorities that visited the 150-bed residence in late March found "serious problems" and a severe staff shortage, Legault said.

Many deaths in Canada have occurred among elderly people, and the Liberal government released new guidelines for long-term care homes, including monitoring that all staff and visitors wear masks.

Canada's most populous province, Ontario, has seen declines in new cases over the past several days, which is cause for optimism, said Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. David Williams.&nbsp;

Ontario accounts for the second-highest numbers of cases and deaths among provinces, after Quebec.

Canadian government and opposition legislators approved a wage subsidy worth C$73 billion ($52 billion) on Saturday to support the ravaged economy, in an emergency sitting in the House of Commons.

Canadian government and opposition legislators approved a wage subsidy worth C$73 billion ($52 billion) on Saturday to support the ravaged economy, in an emergency sitting in the House of Commons. Opposition parties had agreed prior to the sitting to support the bill. It was expected to also receive Senate approval and royal assent by Canada's Governor General, which is usually a formality. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke for the first time in weeks in the House after self-isolating with his family as his wife Sophie was infected with the novel coronavirus. "This situation may get worse before getting better," Trudeau said in Ottawa, comparing it to a war. "Let us make a commitment among ourselves, to do what needs to be done for as long as it takes." Trudeau's Liberals control a minority in the House of Commons and require support from the other parties to govern. The subsidy covers 75% of a worker's wages. Finance Minister Bill Morneau said the government may send payments within two to five weeks. The economy lost a record 1 million jobs last month. Also read: 'Easter isn't cancelled', announces Queen Elizabeth in her new address As of Friday, more than 5.85 million Canadians had applied for federal emergency unemployment help since March 15, government data showed. Canada's death toll rose 13% in the past day to 600, and total cases climbed by 6% to 22,559, health officials said. Deaths are set to soar to as high as 22,000 by the end of the pandemic, according to government projections. In the province of Quebec, Canada's epicenter, Premier Francois Legault said 31 people have died in a single Montreal-area care home since March 13, prompting a police investigation. He said authorities have so far confirmed that five of the deaths were from COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the new coronavirus. Also read: US marks a grim milestone, reports highest daily coronavirus death toll Health authorities that visited the 150-bed residence in late March found "serious problems" and a severe staff shortage, Legault said. Many deaths in Canada have occurred among elderly people, and the Liberal government released new guidelines for long-term care homes, including monitoring that all staff and visitors wear masks. Canada's most populous province, Ontario, has seen declines in new cases over the past several days, which is cause for optimism, said Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. David Williams. Ontario accounts for the second-highest numbers of cases and deaths among provinces, after Quebec.

Canadian legislators approve wage subsidy as coronavirus spreads

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Top ten world news today: Europe's coronavirus death toll, Japan PM criticised and more

Mainland China reported 99 new coronavirus infections on April 11, more than doubling from the previous day to reach a one-month high, as the number of single-day imported cases hit a record, official data released on Sunday showed.

In addition, highlighting another major source of risk, newly reported asymptomatic coronavirus cases nearly doubled to 63 on April 11, from 34 the previous day, according to China's National Health Commission (NHC).

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Almost all the new infections - the biggest daily count since March 6 - involve travelers from overseas. Just two out of the 99 cases were locally transmitted.

Shanghai, China's commercial hub, contribute to more than half of the imported cases. The city reported 52 new coronavirus cases on April 11, all involving Chinese nationals traveling from overseas, the municipal health commission said on Sunday.

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Of Shanghai's new cases, 51 flew in on the same flight from Russia on April 10. The 52nd case involves a Chinese national arriving in Shanghai from a trip to Canada.

China's northeastern province of Heilongjiang reported 21 new imported cases on April 11, all involving Chinese nationals traveling from Russia.

The country's tally of infections now stands at 82,052, while the death toll stands at 3,339.

Mainland China reported 99 new coronavirus infections on April 11, more than doubling from the previous day to reach a one-month high, as the number of single-day imported cases hit a record, official data released on Sunday showed.

Mainland China reported 99 new coronavirus infections on April 11, more than doubling from the previous day to reach a one-month high, as the number of single-day imported cases hit a record, official data released on Sunday showed. In addition, highlighting another major source of risk, newly reported asymptomatic coronavirus cases nearly doubled to 63 on April 11, from 34 the previous day, according to China's National Health Commission (NHC). Also read: 'Easter isn't cancelled', announces Queen Elizabeth in her new address Almost all the new infections - the biggest daily count since March 6 - involve travelers from overseas. Just two out of the 99 cases were locally transmitted. Shanghai, China's commercial hub, contribute to more than half of the imported cases. The city reported 52 new coronavirus cases on April 11, all involving Chinese nationals traveling from overseas, the municipal health commission said on Sunday. Also read: US marks a grim milestone, reports highest daily coronavirus death toll Of Shanghai's new cases, 51 flew in on the same flight from Russia on April 10. The 52nd case involves a Chinese national arriving in Shanghai from a trip to Canada. China's northeastern province of Heilongjiang reported 21 new imported cases on April 11, all involving Chinese nationals traveling from Russia. The country's tally of infections now stands at 82,052, while the death toll stands at 3,339.

New coronavirus cases double to 99 in mainland China as imported infections jump to record

France's death toll from the new coronavirus outbreak rose to nearly 14,000 on Saturday, but the number of patients in intensive care fell for the third day in a row, raising hopes that a nationwide lockdown is curbing the spread of the disease.

The number of people in intensive care units fell to 6,883 from 7,004 a day before, down nearly 2%, while the number of people in hospital virtually stabilised at 31,320, up by just 53 or 0.2%, ministry data showed.

The total death toll rose by 635 or 5% to 13,832 - with 8,943 dead in hospital and 4,889 in nursing homes - but that was less than on Friday, when the total toll rose by 987 as nursing home deaths soared.

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"We are confronting a massive and murderous epidemic, which has reached an unprecedented level," health ministry director Jerome Salomon said at a daily briefing.&nbsp;

He said new cases kept arriving at hospitals and the French people needed to remain vigilant.&nbsp;

The ministry reported that the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in France rose by 3,114 to 93,790, an increase of 3.4%, which was slower than the 5% seen over the previous four days.&nbsp;

The number of cases in nursing homes rose by 1,671 or 5% to 35,864. For the first time, the ministry gave a breakdown of those numbers, saying that 11,175 of the nursing home cases were confirmed cases already included in the confirmed cases tally. It added that another 24,689 cases were possible cases.&nbsp;

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France does not test all suspected COVID-19 patients in nursing homes. Once two or three cases are confirmed by testing in one home, other residents with symptoms of the disease are tallied as possible or probable cases.&nbsp;

Adding the possible cases in nursing homes to the confirmed cases, France had a total of 118,479 confirmed or possible cases of coronavirus as of Saturday.

France's death toll from the new coronavirus outbreak rose to nearly 14,000 on Saturday, but the number of patients in intensive care fell for the third day in a row, raising hopes that a nationwide lockdown is curbing the spread of the disease.

France's death toll from the new coronavirus outbreak rose to nearly 14,000 on Saturday, but the number of patients in intensive care fell for the third day in a row, raising hopes that a nationwide lockdown is curbing the spread of the disease. The number of people in intensive care units fell to 6,883 from 7,004 a day before, down nearly 2%, while the number of people in hospital virtually stabilised at 31,320, up by just 53 or 0.2%, ministry data showed. The total death toll rose by 635 or 5% to 13,832 - with 8,943 dead in hospital and 4,889 in nursing homes - but that was less than on Friday, when the total toll rose by 987 as nursing home deaths soared. Also read: 'Easter isn't cancelled', announces Queen Elizabeth in her new address "We are confronting a massive and murderous epidemic, which has reached an unprecedented level," health ministry director Jerome Salomon said at a daily briefing. He said new cases kept arriving at hospitals and the French people needed to remain vigilant. The ministry reported that the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in France rose by 3,114 to 93,790, an increase of 3.4%, which was slower than the 5% seen over the previous four days. The number of cases in nursing homes rose by 1,671 or 5% to 35,864. For the first time, the ministry gave a breakdown of those numbers, saying that 11,175 of the nursing home cases were confirmed cases already included in the confirmed cases tally. It added that another 24,689 cases were possible cases. Also read: US marks a grim milestone, reports highest daily coronavirus death toll France does not test all suspected COVID-19 patients in nursing homes. Once two or three cases are confirmed by testing in one home, other residents with symptoms of the disease are tallied as possible or probable cases. Adding the possible cases in nursing homes to the confirmed cases, France had a total of 118,479 confirmed or possible cases of coronavirus as of Saturday.

France's coronavirus death toll rises to 13,832

Britain said on Sunday it was pledging 200 million pounds ($248 million) to the World Health Organisation (WHO) and charities to help slow the spread of the coronavirus in vulnerable countries and so help prevent a second wave of infections.

More than 1.6 million people are reported to have been infected by the novel coronavirus globally and deaths have topped 100,000 according to a Reuters tally.

Infections have been reported in 210 countries since the first cases were identified in China in December last year and British aid minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan said assisting the poorest nations now would help prevent the virus returning to the United Kingdom.

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Britain has reported almost 10,000 deaths from the coronavirus so far, the fifth highest national number globally.&nbsp;

"While our brilliant doctors and nurses fight coronavirus at home, we’re deploying British expertise and funding around the world to prevent a second deadly wave reaching the UK," Trevelyan said in a statement.

"Coronavirus does not respect country borders so our ability to protect the British public will only be effective if we strengthen the healthcare systems of vulnerable developing countries too."

The British government said 130 million pounds would go to United Nations' agencies, with 65 million for the WHO. Another 50 million pounds would go to the Red Cross to help war-torn and hard to reach areas, and 20 million pounds going to other organisations and charities.&nbsp;

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The cash would help areas with weak health systems such as war-ravaged Yemen, which reported its first case on Friday, and Bangladesh, which is hosting 850,000 Rohingya refugees in crowded camps, it said.&nbsp;

Britain's support for the WHO contrasts with the view of U.S. President Donald Trump who has criticised its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic with suggestions his administration might re-evaluate U.S. funding

"The United Kingdom’s generous contribution is a strong statement that this is a global threat that demands a global response," Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO's Director General said.

"We are all in this together, which means protecting health around the world will help to protect the health of people in the UK."

Britain said on Sunday it was pledging 200 million pounds ($248 million) to the World Health Organisation (WHO) and charities to help slow the spread of the coronavirus in vulnerable countries and so help prevent a second wave of infections.

Britain said on Sunday it was pledging 200 million pounds ($248 million) to the World Health Organisation (WHO) and charities to help slow the spread of the coronavirus in vulnerable countries and so help prevent a second wave of infections. More than 1.6 million people are reported to have been infected by the novel coronavirus globally and deaths have topped 100,000 according to a Reuters tally. Infections have been reported in 210 countries since the first cases were identified in China in December last year and British aid minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan said assisting the poorest nations now would help prevent the virus returning to the United Kingdom. Also read: 'Easter isn't cancelled', announces Queen Elizabeth in her new address Britain has reported almost 10,000 deaths from the coronavirus so far, the fifth highest national number globally. "While our brilliant doctors and nurses fight coronavirus at home, we’re deploying British expertise and funding around the world to prevent a second deadly wave reaching the UK," Trevelyan said in a statement. "Coronavirus does not respect country borders so our ability to protect the British public will only be effective if we strengthen the healthcare systems of vulnerable developing countries too." The British government said 130 million pounds would go to United Nations' agencies, with 65 million for the WHO. Another 50 million pounds would go to the Red Cross to help war-torn and hard to reach areas, and 20 million pounds going to other organisations and charities. Also read: US marks a grim milestone, reports highest daily coronavirus death toll The cash would help areas with weak health systems such as war-ravaged Yemen, which reported its first case on Friday, and Bangladesh, which is hosting 850,000 Rohingya refugees in crowded camps, it said. Britain's support for the WHO contrasts with the view of U.S. President Donald Trump who has criticised its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic with suggestions his administration might re-evaluate U.S. funding "The United Kingdom’s generous contribution is a strong statement that this is a global threat that demands a global response," Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO's Director General said. "We are all in this together, which means protecting health around the world will help to protect the health of people in the UK."

UK pleges 200 million pounds in aid to help stop second coronavirus wave

The United States is now worst-hit country with coronavirus in the world. The US has now surpassed Italy's death toll. The coronavirus cases topped 500,000 on Friday in US, the death toll is more than 20,500.

Coronavirus Outbreak: United States surpasses Italy's death toll

Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Sunday drew an angry response from some Twitter users after he shared a video of himself lounging on a sofa with his dog, with a message telling people to stay at home.

The prime minister -- in the luxurious setting -- was drinking tea and reading.

"Who do you think you are?" became a top trend on Twitter, with users saying Abe's message ignored the plight of those struggling to make a living during the coronavirus outbreak.

Abe's video, which featured his pet dog, was a response to popular musician Gen Hoshino, who uploaded a video of himself singing about dancing indoors and invited people to collaborate.

"At a time when people are fighting for survival, to show a video of such luxury ... one can't help but wonder, 'who do you think you are?'," one Twitter user said.

Other Twitter users defended Abe, saying that even the prime minister should be allowed down time.

The number of novel coronavirus infections in Japan has exceeded 7,000. It was the first weekend since Japan declared a state of emergency in major population centres to fight the spread of the coronavirus.

The state of emergency will include the city of Sapporo on the northern island of Hokkaido from Tuesday.

The Sapporo state of emergency is expected to run until May 6 and will see other public facilities shut down, while residents will be asked to stay indoors for non-essential business.

 
&nbsp;

Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Sunday drew an angry response from some Twitter users after he shared a video of himself lounging on a sofa with his dog, with a message telling people to stay at home.

Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Sunday drew an angry response from some Twitter users after he shared a video of himself lounging on a sofa with his dog, with a message telling people to stay at home. The prime minister -- in the luxurious setting -- was drinking tea and reading. "Who do you think you are?" became a top trend on Twitter, with users saying Abe's message ignored the plight of those struggling to make a living during the coronavirus outbreak. Abe's video, which featured his pet dog, was a response to popular musician Gen Hoshino, who uploaded a video of himself singing about dancing indoors and invited people to collaborate. "At a time when people are fighting for survival, to show a video of such luxury ... one can't help but wonder, 'who do you think you are?'," one Twitter user said. Other Twitter users defended Abe, saying that even the prime minister should be allowed down time. The number of novel coronavirus infections in Japan has exceeded 7,000. It was the first weekend since Japan declared a state of emergency in major population centres to fight the spread of the coronavirus. The state of emergency will include the city of Sapporo on the northern island of Hokkaido from Tuesday. The Sapporo state of emergency is expected to run until May 6 and will see other public facilities shut down, while residents will be asked to stay indoors for non-essential business.

Japan PM Shinzo Abe criticised as tone deaf after Twitter video

The report of a Malayan tiger being tested positive for COVID-19 in the United States caught the headlines earlier this month. This was followed by reports that the cat family can contract coronavirus, prompting the Indian authorities to look for a solution.

To this end, India's oldest National Park Jim Corbett, situated in Uttarakhand's Paurhi Garhwal region, has built isolation wards for animals.

At least 10 quarantine centres are being prepared within the premises to contain animals.

In addition, the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) -- in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to tigers through the humans -- also recently issued a direction that all workers coming in contact with tigers and elephants should be tested for novel coronavirus.

The tiger welfare body also asked the parks to immediately inform about the animals falling ill.

This week there was another tiger death in US' Bronx zoo due to Covid-19.

The report of a Malayan tiger being tested positive for COVID-19 in the United States caught the headlines earlier this month. This was followed by reports that the cat family can contract coronavirus, prompting the Indian authorities to look for a solution.

The report of a Malayan tiger being tested positive for COVID-19 in the United States caught the headlines earlier this month. This was followed by reports that the cat family can contract coronavirus, prompting the Indian authorities to look for a solution. To this end, India's oldest National Park Jim Corbett, situated in Uttarakhand's Paurhi Garhwal region, has built isolation wards for animals. At least 10 quarantine centres are being prepared within the premises to contain animals. In addition, the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) -- in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to tigers through the humans -- also recently issued a direction that all workers coming in contact with tigers and elephants should be tested for novel coronavirus. The tiger welfare body also asked the parks to immediately inform about the animals falling ill. This week there was another tiger death in US' Bronx zoo due to Covid-19.

Jim Corbett is India's first quarantine facility for animals

People in Hong Kong thronged beaches, ferries and outlying islands on Sunday, many of them violating a ban on gatherings of more than four people aimed at containing the spread of the new coronavirus.

Clear blue skies lured people to popular areas across the territory over the long Easter weekend and many of them were without surgical masks. People in the city of 7.4 million have made a point of wearing masks in the past months.

"We always stay at home and it is quite boring," said Banny Mak, 24, a local resident.

"We are social animal(s), we need to go out for some fun. I think with proper protection (for) ourselves and to protect other people. I think it is already ok to go out."

Hong Kong has recorded 1,005 cases of COVID-19, which has killed four people in the city.

It banned public gatherings of more than four people for 14 days from March 29, after recording the biggest daily increase in new COVID-19 infections, and later extended that restriction until April 23.

Police have been visible in some of the popular sites, although there were no signs or reports of arrests in a city where pro-democracy activists who clashed with security forces regularly last year have paused their demonstrations.

While Hong Kong, along with Singapore and Taiwan, have been held up as examples in their efforts to curb the coronavirus, the widespread flouting of social distancing rules over the weekend threatens to derail the city`s efforts so far.

"I was a little bit scared when I was on the MTR (metro)... there were so many people," said resident Irene Chong, 24. "I (am) concerned, but I wear mask and bring alcohol (disinfectant) and stuff."

In a Facebook post on Saturday, the Chinese-ruled city's leader Carrie Lam urged citizens to comply with social distancing orders in restaurants and said the government would ramp up checks.

"But the most important thing is that customers oblige by the rules. I hope everybody will feel at ease when eating, and go home early," she wrote.

People in Hong Kong thronged beaches, ferries and outlying islands on Sunday, many of them violating a ban on gatherings of more than four people aimed at containing the spread of the new coronavirus.

People in Hong Kong thronged beaches, ferries and outlying islands on Sunday, many of them violating a ban on gatherings of more than four people aimed at containing the spread of the new coronavirus. Clear blue skies lured people to popular areas across the territory over the long Easter weekend and many of them were without surgical masks. People in the city of 7.4 million have made a point of wearing masks in the past months. "We always stay at home and it is quite boring," said Banny Mak, 24, a local resident. "We are social animal(s), we need to go out for some fun. I think with proper protection (for) ourselves and to protect other people. I think it is already ok to go out." Hong Kong has recorded 1,005 cases of COVID-19, which has killed four people in the city. It banned public gatherings of more than four people for 14 days from March 29, after recording the biggest daily increase in new COVID-19 infections, and later extended that restriction until April 23. Police have been visible in some of the popular sites, although there were no signs or reports of arrests in a city where pro-democracy activists who clashed with security forces regularly last year have paused their demonstrations. While Hong Kong, along with Singapore and Taiwan, have been held up as examples in their efforts to curb the coronavirus, the widespread flouting of social distancing rules over the weekend threatens to derail the city`s efforts so far. "I was a little bit scared when I was on the MTR (metro)... there were so many people," said resident Irene Chong, 24. "I (am) concerned, but I wear mask and bring alcohol (disinfectant) and stuff." In a Facebook post on Saturday, the Chinese-ruled city's leader Carrie Lam urged citizens to comply with social distancing orders in restaurants and said the government would ramp up checks. "But the most important thing is that customers oblige by the rules. I hope everybody will feel at ease when eating, and go home early," she wrote.

'We are social animals': Hong Kong residents flout coronavirus rules to throng popular sites

The HRD ministry on Sunday launched a portal to monitor and record initiatives, especially related to COVID-19, taken by its various departments and academic institutions.

YUKTI (Young India Combating COVID with Knowledge, Technology and Innovation) will cover various initiatives and efforts of institutions in academics and research, social initiatives by institutions and measures taken for the betterment of students, Union Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' said.

"The portal will cover both qualitative and quantitative parameters for effective delivery of services to the academic community at large," he said.

"It will also allow various institutions to share their strategies for various challenges which are there because of the unprecedented situation of COVID-19 and other future initiatives. We hope the portal will give inputs for better planning and enable us to monitor effectively our activities for coming six months," Nishank added.

The portal will also establish a two-way communication channel between the ministry and the institutions so that necessary support system can be provided to the institutions.

"We are confident that this portal will help in critical issues related to student promotion policies, placements related challenges and physical and mental well-being of students in these challenging times. The web platform will epitomise its name and prove to be a great enabler in taking the research to the ultimate stakeholders, the citizens of our country," he added.&nbsp;

The HRD ministry on Sunday launched a portal to monitor and record initiatives, especially related to COVID-19, taken by its various departments and academic institutions.

The HRD ministry on Sunday launched a portal to monitor and record initiatives, especially related to COVID-19, taken by its various departments and academic institutions. YUKTI (Young India Combating COVID with Knowledge, Technology and Innovation) will cover various initiatives and efforts of institutions in academics and research, social initiatives by institutions and measures taken for the betterment of students, Union Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' said. "The portal will cover both qualitative and quantitative parameters for effective delivery of services to the academic community at large," he said. "It will also allow various institutions to share their strategies for various challenges which are there because of the unprecedented situation of COVID-19 and other future initiatives. We hope the portal will give inputs for better planning and enable us to monitor effectively our activities for coming six months," Nishank added. The portal will also establish a two-way communication channel between the ministry and the institutions so that necessary support system can be provided to the institutions. "We are confident that this portal will help in critical issues related to student promotion policies, placements related challenges and physical and mental well-being of students in these challenging times. The web platform will epitomise its name and prove to be a great enabler in taking the research to the ultimate stakeholders, the citizens of our country," he added.

HRD ministry launches portal to monitor, record initiatives related to COVID-19

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