The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in India rose to 29,435 on Tuesday with 62 deaths and 1543 new cases in the last 24 hours, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.&nbsp;

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday reported that the total number of COVID-19 positive cases in India rises to 29435 including 21632 active cases, 6868 cured/discharged, 934 deaths and 1 migrated.

Maharashtra continued to be the worst-hit state with the total number of COVID-19 cases at 8,590.

Meanwhile, the overall number of COVID-19 cases worldwide increased to 2,878,196 and the death count reached 198,668. There are 1,359,380 confirmed cases and 124,525 deaths in Europe. The number of cases in the Americas total 1,140,520, with 58,492 deaths.

The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in India rose to 29,435 on Tuesday with 62 deaths and 1543 new cases in the last 24 hours, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in India rose to 29,435 on Tuesday with 62 deaths and 1543 new cases in the last 24 hours, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday reported that the total number of COVID-19 positive cases in India rises to 29435 including 21632 active cases, 6868 cured/discharged, 934 deaths and 1 migrated. Maharashtra continued to be the worst-hit state with the total number of COVID-19 cases at 8,590. Meanwhile, the overall number of COVID-19 cases worldwide increased to 2,878,196 and the death count reached 198,668. There are 1,359,380 confirmed cases and 124,525 deaths in Europe. The number of cases in the Americas total 1,140,520, with 58,492 deaths.

India sees sharpest death count rise; total Covid-19 cases 29,435

US President Donald Trump suggested on Monday that he may seek damages from China over the coronavirus outbreak which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan and spread around the world.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-wuhan-fears-of-second-coronavirus-wave-in-chinas-northeast-294018">After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast</a>

"We are not happy with China," Trump said at a White House briefing. "We are not happy with that whole situation because we believe it could have been stopped at the source."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-coronavirus-chinas-double-standards-on-racism-295179/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"It could have been stopped quickly and it wouldn't have spread all over the world," he said.

"There are a lot of ways you can hold them accountable," Trump said. "We're doing some very serious investigations as you probably know."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-china-curb-the-second-wave-of-coronavirus-pandemic-292430">Can China curb the second wave of coronavirus pandemic?</a>

Trump was asked about a recent German newspaper editorial which called on China to pay Germany $165 billion in reparations because of economic damage done by the virus.

Asked if the US would consider doing the same, the US president said "we can do something much easier than that."

"Germany is looking at things, we are looking at things," he said. "We are talking about a lot more money than Germany's talking about."

"We haven't determined the final amount yet," Trump said. "It's very substantial.

"This is worldwide damage," he said. "This is damage to the US, but this is damage to the world."

There have been more than 55,000 coronavirus-related deaths in the United States and the pandemic has shut down huge swathes of the economy, leaving tens of millions unemployed.

US President Donald Trump suggested on Monday that he may seek damages from China over the coronavirus outbreak which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan and spread around the world.

US President Donald Trump suggested on Monday that he may seek damages from China over the coronavirus outbreak which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan and spread around the world. Also read: After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast "We are not happy with China," Trump said at a White House briefing. "We are not happy with that whole situation because we believe it could have been stopped at the source." "It could have been stopped quickly and it wouldn't have spread all over the world," he said. "There are a lot of ways you can hold them accountable," Trump said. "We're doing some very serious investigations as you probably know." Also read: Can China curb the second wave of coronavirus pandemic? Trump was asked about a recent German newspaper editorial which called on China to pay Germany $165 billion in reparations because of economic damage done by the virus. Asked if the US would consider doing the same, the US president said "we can do something much easier than that." "Germany is looking at things, we are looking at things," he said. "We are talking about a lot more money than Germany's talking about." "We haven't determined the final amount yet," Trump said. "It's very substantial. "This is worldwide damage," he said. "This is damage to the US, but this is damage to the world." There have been more than 55,000 coronavirus-related deaths in the United States and the pandemic has shut down huge swathes of the economy, leaving tens of millions unemployed.

'Very serious investigations' against China over coronavirus, says Trump

Karnataka on Tuesday confirmed 523 coronavirus cases in the city which includes twenty deaths due to the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-outbreak-is-mumbai-turning-into-indias-new-york-city-295323"> virus</a>.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-evidence-plasma-therapy-can-be-used-as-treatment-for-covid-19-health-ministry-295330">Also Read:&nbsp;No evidence plasma therapy can be used as treatment for COVID-19, says Health ministry</a>

Bengaluru reported the most number of cases with 131 followed by Mysuru with 87.

Belagavi and Kalaburgi also reported a high number of coronavirus cases of 52 and 44 respectively.

Meanwhile, an inter-ministerial central team today inspected different locations in Darjeeling today to assess the coronavirus situation in the area even as the health &amp; family welfare ministry issued guidelines for "home isolation" of people who either have very mild coronavirus symptoms or are in the pre-symptomatic phase.&nbsp;

The home ministry announced that several tests are being conducted so that COVID-19 cases can be identified in the initial stages itself.

As the number of cases continued to rise in the national capital, Delhi L-G Anil Baijal said: "We have to emphasise on extensive testing, faster results, meticulous contact tracing and isolation with strict perimeter control in the containment zones."

Punjab on Tuesday reported reduced number of deaths in Amritsar amid the lockdown even as one more patients tested positive for coronavirus from Hindpiri in Ranchi taking the total number of COVID-19 cases in Jharkhand to 104.

Andhra Pradesh reported 82 new cases of the virus on Tuesday in the last 24 hours taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 1,259. Thirty-one people have died to the virus in the state.

Karnataka on Tuesday confirmed 523 coronavirus cases in the city which includes twenty deaths due to the virus. Also Read: No evidence plasma therapy can be used as treatment for COVID-19, says Health ministry Bengaluru reported the most number of cases with 131 followed by Mysuru with 87.

Karnataka on Tuesday confirmed 523 coronavirus cases in the city which includes twenty deaths due to the virus. Also Read: No evidence plasma therapy can be used as treatment for COVID-19, says Health ministry Bengaluru reported the most number of cases with 131 followed by Mysuru with 87. Belagavi and Kalaburgi also reported a high number of coronavirus cases of 52 and 44 respectively. Meanwhile, an inter-ministerial central team today inspected different locations in Darjeeling today to assess the coronavirus situation in the area even as the health & family welfare ministry issued guidelines for "home isolation" of people who either have very mild coronavirus symptoms or are in the pre-symptomatic phase. The home ministry announced that several tests are being conducted so that COVID-19 cases can be identified in the initial stages itself. As the number of cases continued to rise in the national capital, Delhi L-G Anil Baijal said: "We have to emphasise on extensive testing, faster results, meticulous contact tracing and isolation with strict perimeter control in the containment zones." Punjab on Tuesday reported reduced number of deaths in Amritsar amid the lockdown even as one more patients tested positive for coronavirus from Hindpiri in Ranchi taking the total number of COVID-19 cases in Jharkhand to 104. Andhra Pradesh reported 82 new cases of the virus on Tuesday in the last 24 hours taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 1,259. Thirty-one people have died to the virus in the state.

Karnataka confirms 523 COVID-19 cases; Bengaluru most affected

The inter-ministerial central teams on COVID-19 assessment in West Bengal on Monday toured several areas of East Midnapore and Jalpaiguri districts to take stock of the situation at hospitals and oversee the implementation of lockdown norms.

The team in Kolkata, led by senior bureaucrat Apurba Chandra, went to Tamluk, Haldia and Paskura in East Midnapore district. It visited the Baroma Covid Hospital, Paskura, District Hospital in Tamluk and S D Hospital in Haldia.

“At all the three hospitals, the team met senior officials and hospital superintendents. They took stock of the situation, inquired about minute details and data of the patients,” a state government official said.

In Jalpaiguri district, the central team led by senior official Vineet Joshi visited various hospitals and quarantine centres.

“They visited COVID-19 hospitals at Rajganj and Biswa Bangla Sports Centre and a few quarantine centres,” another official said.

Joshi, while speaking to reporters, later, said in several areas, people were not adhering to lockdown norms.

There has been a war of words between the West Bengal government and the Centre over the arrival of the two central teams in the state to assess the coronavirus situation. The teams have visited several hospitals and hotspot areas in the past couple of days to look into the state’s preparedness for tackling the COVID-19 outbreak.

The inter-ministerial central teams on COVID-19 assessment in West Bengal on Monday toured several areas of East Midnapore and Jalpaiguri districts to take stock of the situation at hospitals and oversee the implementation of lockdown norms.

The inter-ministerial central teams on COVID-19 assessment in West Bengal on Monday toured several areas of East Midnapore and Jalpaiguri districts to take stock of the situation at hospitals and oversee the implementation of lockdown norms. The team in Kolkata, led by senior bureaucrat Apurba Chandra, went to Tamluk, Haldia and Paskura in East Midnapore district. It visited the Baroma Covid Hospital, Paskura, District Hospital in Tamluk and S D Hospital in Haldia. “At all the three hospitals, the team met senior officials and hospital superintendents. They took stock of the situation, inquired about minute details and data of the patients,” a state government official said. In Jalpaiguri district, the central team led by senior official Vineet Joshi visited various hospitals and quarantine centres. “They visited COVID-19 hospitals at Rajganj and Biswa Bangla Sports Centre and a few quarantine centres,” another official said. Joshi, while speaking to reporters, later, said in several areas, people were not adhering to lockdown norms. There has been a war of words between the West Bengal government and the Centre over the arrival of the two central teams in the state to assess the coronavirus situation. The teams have visited several hospitals and hotspot areas in the past couple of days to look into the state’s preparedness for tackling the COVID-19 outbreak.

COVID-19: Central teams visit East Midnapore, Jalpaiguri to asses situation

The Kerala BJP on Monday criticised Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for not participating in the video conference called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the situation arising due to the coronavirus pandemic in the country.&nbsp;

BJP state chief K Surendran said while the whole country was fighting the pandemic together, it was “inappropriate” on part of the Kerala chief minister to miss the meeting.

“Kerala chief minister said he had attended the last meeting and hence he did not attend today’s meeting. However, most of the chief ministers, who attended the last meeting, had attended Monday’s meeting. While the whole country is fighting the pandemic together, his absence cannot be justified,” Surendran said in a statement.

However, Vijayan, in his daily COVID-19 evaluation press meet, said the Union cabinet secretary had on Sunday informed that only a few chief ministers will have a chance to speak at the video conference.

“We were asked to share the topics which we would like to share in the video conference. We had informed the cabinet secretary about it on Sunday itself. The cabinet secretary had informed us that only a few chief ministers will get a chance to speak during the conference,” Vijayan said.

Only nine chief ministers got the chance to speak during the video conference called by the prime minister. Kerala Chief Secretary Tom Jose participated in the conference.

Kerala had informed the cabinet secretary about the concerns of the state government on Sunday itself. Vijayan said the state government had said that the lockdown could be extended partially till May 15.

The Kerala BJP on Monday criticised Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for not participating in the video conference called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the situation arising due to the coronavirus pandemic in the country.

The Kerala BJP on Monday criticised Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for not participating in the video conference called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the situation arising due to the coronavirus pandemic in the country. BJP state chief K Surendran said while the whole country was fighting the pandemic together, it was “inappropriate” on part of the Kerala chief minister to miss the meeting. “Kerala chief minister said he had attended the last meeting and hence he did not attend today’s meeting. However, most of the chief ministers, who attended the last meeting, had attended Monday’s meeting. While the whole country is fighting the pandemic together, his absence cannot be justified,” Surendran said in a statement. However, Vijayan, in his daily COVID-19 evaluation press meet, said the Union cabinet secretary had on Sunday informed that only a few chief ministers will have a chance to speak at the video conference. “We were asked to share the topics which we would like to share in the video conference. We had informed the cabinet secretary about it on Sunday itself. The cabinet secretary had informed us that only a few chief ministers will get a chance to speak during the conference,” Vijayan said. Only nine chief ministers got the chance to speak during the video conference called by the prime minister. Kerala Chief Secretary Tom Jose participated in the conference. Kerala had informed the cabinet secretary about the concerns of the state government on Sunday itself. Vijayan said the state government had said that the lockdown could be extended partially till May 15.

‘Cannot be justified’: BJP slams Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan for skipping PM Modi’s COVID-19 meet with chief ministers

US President Donald Trump suggested on Monday that he may seek damages from China over the coronavirus outbreak which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan and spread around the world.

"We are not happy with China," Trump said at a White House briefing. "We are not happy with that whole situation because we believe it could have been stopped at the source.

"It could have been stopped quickly and it wouldn't have spread all over the world," he said.

"There are a lot of ways you can hold them accountable," Trump said. "We're doing some very serious investigations as you probably know."

Trump was asked about a recent German newspaper editorial which called on China to pay Germany $165 billion in reparations because of economic damage done by the virus.

Asked if the US would consider doing the same, the US president said "we can do something much easier than that."

"Germany is looking at things, we are looking at things," he said. "We are talking about a lot more money than Germany's talking about."

"We haven't determined the final amount yet," Trump said. "It's very substantial.

"This is worldwide damage," he said. "This is damage to the US, but this is damage to the world."

There have been more than 55,000 coronavirus-related deaths in the United States and the pandemic has shut down huge swathes of the economy, leaving tens of millions unemployed.

US President Donald Trump suggested on Monday that he may seek damages from China over the coronavirus outbreak which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan and spread around the world. "We are not happy with China," Trump said at a White House briefing. "We are not happy with that whole situation because we believe it could have been stopped at the source. "It could have been stopped quickly and it wouldn't have spread all over the world," he said. "There are a lot of ways you can hold them accountable," Trump said. "We're doing some very serious investigations as you probably know." Trump was asked about a recent German newspaper editorial which called on China to pay Germany $165 billion in reparations because of economic damage done by the virus. Asked if the US would consider doing the same, the US president said "we can do something much easier than that." "Germany is looking at things, we are looking at things," he said. "We are talking about a lot more money than Germany's talking about." "We haven't determined the final amount yet," Trump said. "It's very substantial. "This is worldwide damage," he said. "This is damage to the US, but this is damage to the world." There have been more than 55,000 coronavirus-related deaths in the United States and the pandemic has shut down huge swathes of the economy, leaving tens of millions unemployed.

Trump says US may seek damages from China over the virus

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 29 lacs worldwide on Monday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boston-dynamics-spot-robot-helping-doctors-remotely-combat-covid-19-294866" hreflang="en">Boston Dynamics' Spot robot helping doctors 'remotely' combat COVID-19</a>

COVID-19 has now infected 2,971,831 people worldwide and 206,553 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Around 868,480 people of that tally have recovered.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-pandemic-new-york-records-lowest-death-toll-since-march-31-294963/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The United States is by far the hardest-hit country in the global pandemic, in terms of both confirmed infections and deaths.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-complaints-of-faulty-kits-by-several-nations-china-confiscates-89-million-face-masks-294838" hreflang="en">Amid complaints of faulty kits by several nations, China confiscates 89 million face masks</a>

The United States recorded 1,330 more novel coronavirus deaths in the past 24 hours, according to figures reported late Sunday by the Johns Hopkins University.

The country now has an overall death toll of 55,415, with 964,937 confirmed infections, according to a tally by the Baltimore-based institution at 8:30 pm.

The 24-hour US death toll was 2,494 late Saturday, and 1,258 on Friday evening -- the lowest in nearly three weeks -- as the government struggles to quell the virus.

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.

Meanwhile, after more than three months of an arduous fight, Wuhan, the city located at the heart of China and epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak, has cleared all remaining cases related to the deadly infection in its hospitals, health authorities told Xinhua news agency on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 29 lacs worldwide on Monday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Boston Dynamics' Spot robot helping doctors 'remotely' combat COVID-19 COVID-19 has now infected 2,971,831 people worldwide and 206,553 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 29 lacs worldwide on Monday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Boston Dynamics' Spot robot helping doctors 'remotely' combat COVID-19 COVID-19 has now infected 2,971,831 people worldwide and 206,553 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 868,480 people of that tally have recovered. The United States is by far the hardest-hit country in the global pandemic, in terms of both confirmed infections and deaths. Also read: Amid complaints of faulty kits by several nations, China confiscates 89 million face masks The United States recorded 1,330 more novel coronavirus deaths in the past 24 hours, according to figures reported late Sunday by the Johns Hopkins University. The country now has an overall death toll of 55,415, with 964,937 confirmed infections, according to a tally by the Baltimore-based institution at 8:30 pm. The 24-hour US death toll was 2,494 late Saturday, and 1,258 on Friday evening -- the lowest in nearly three weeks -- as the government struggles to quell the virus. 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. Meanwhile, after more than three months of an arduous fight, Wuhan, the city located at the heart of China and epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak, has cleared all remaining cases related to the deadly infection in its hospitals, health authorities told Xinhua news agency on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 positive cases near 3-million mark globally; death toll passes 2 lacs

India will be sending its medical supplies to Palestine and currently, these supplies are under preparation. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Ramallah, India's representative to the State of Palestine Sunil Kumar said, "recent global battle against the COVID-19 pandemic also witnessed India’s pledge to assist Palestine".

India will be sending its medical supplies to Palestine and currently, these supplies are under preparation. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Ramallah, India's representative to the State of Palestine Sunil Kumar said, "recent global battle against the COVID-19 pandemic also witnessed India’s pledge to assist Palestine".The Representative Office of India is in contact with Indian citizens who reside in the East Jerusalem, West Bank and Gaza Strip to ensure their safety. WION: How is India reaching out to Palestine to help at the time of COVID crisis? Indian PM Modi has assured all possible support. How much medicine --HCQ we sending to it? Sunil Kumar: India’s outreach and support to Palestine isn’t new or recent. Over the long decades of friendly and positive relations that our two friendly nations enjoy, India has always supported Palestine in several fields and on various fronts. In addition to the well-known traditional political, capacity building, budgetary, education, United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), and projects support India extends to Palestine, the recent global battle against the COVID-19 pandemic also witnessed India’s pledge to assist Palestine. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi recently conversed with President Mahmoud Abbas over the phone, appreciated the efforts being made by Palestine to protect its population from the virus and also assured all possible support from India for these efforts. During the telephone conversation, President Abbas expressed his confidence in the ability of India and Indian people under the wise leadership of Prime Minister Modi to overcome this global ordeal (corona-virus) as quickly as possible with minimal loses. Last week over the phone, Hon’ble External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar and Palestinian Foreign Minister Dr Riad Malki also discussed mutual efforts to fight the global pandemic. Dr. Jaishankar highlighted the strong historical relations between the two countries, the friendship between the two peoples and assured India’s medical assistance to Palestine at this critical time in which unified efforts of humanity is needed to overcome the pandemic. The medical supplies from India are currently being prepared and will reach Palestine very soon. WION: What has been the situation on the ground in Palestine..this when Ramazan is on? Sunil Kumar: As of now, the virus outbreak in Palestine is under control with around 495 detected cases, out of which 83 have recovered and only 4 deaths have been reported. The situation would have been worse but due to the promptness and early preemptive measures adopted by the Government of Palestine, the situation hasn’t aggravated and the total number of cases haven’t soared like in other countries of the region, in spite of all odds faced and the relatively limited resources that Palestine has. The holy month of Ramadan in Palestine is usually celebrated with lots of enthusiasm, joy and social outreach amongst the citizens. Unfortunately, Ramadan, this year comes at a very critical time in the history of humanity. In line with the measures taken by the Government of Palestine to counter the spread of the virus which include prohibiting public gatherings and closure of places of worship, but nonetheless the people are doing their best to keep the spirit of Ramadan alive since they truly believe that at times of hardship collective efforts towards compassion, patience and harmony must prevail. WION: Any Indian pilgrims in the territory. How has been the 800-year-old Indian hospice Jerusalem, it has been used by Indians. Sunil Kumar: Due to the prevailing political situation in Palestine, the Indian community here is quite limited. The Representative Office of India is in frequent contact with our citizens whom reside in the East Jerusalem, West Bank and Gaza Strip to ensure their safety and any needs in case required. Additionally our Mission has put to service a 24 hours/7 days a week emergency helpline for members of our Indian community in Palestine. The Indian Hospice in the Old City of Jerusalem is a true beacon of friendship and historic bonds that link our two peoples. Initially founded by Indian pilgrims at the dwelling place of Indian Sufi Hazrat Farid ud-Din Ganj Shakar (Baba Farid) around the year 1200, and throughout the following centuries, the Hospice adjacent to Al-Aqsa Masjid has served as a shrine, a pilgrims’ lodge, and a leave camp for the Indian Fourth Infantry division in 1948. During the 1967 Six-Day War, the Hospice was bombarded and sustained severe damages. In the early 1990’s the Hospice witnessed massive renovations and life reflowed back to it. Prominently standing with the Tri-Colour within the historic walls of ancient Jerusalem, the Hospice today houses a library, a prayer chamber and guest rooms where Indian officials, guests, pilgrims and visitors reside during their visits to the City.

COVID-19: Indian medical supplies to reach Palestine soon 

The extension of lockdown in the country was discussed in the video-conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers of nine states on Monday. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-cases-in-india-rise-to-27892-with-872-deaths-click-for-state-wise-status-294960">Coronavirus cases in India rise to 27,892 with 872 deaths | click for state-wise status</a> 
 
PM Modi assured the states that the economy is in good shape and there is no need to worry.

The chief ministers who attended the meeting included Arvind Kejriwal (Delhi), Uddhav Thackeray (Maharashtra), E K Palaniswami (Tamil Nadu), Conrad Sangma (Meghalaya) Trivendra Singh Rawat (Uttarakhand) and Yogi Adityanath (Uttar Pradesh).

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-to-cms-in-video-conference-nationwide-lockdown-in-india-helping-alot-to-contain-coronavirus-spread-295038/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the reports more than seven states have asked for lockdown extension. Few CMs wanted lockdown should be eased in non-corona zones and economic activities be allowed.

Odisha has requested for one more month of lockdown and Bihar has asked more PPE kits.

"I have demanded that lockdown should continue otherwise we can't face these things in Odisha. Let it be one month more, then, we will see what is going on," Odisha Health Minister Naba Das, who was present along with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at the video conference, said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
This was the fourth such interaction since March 22 when he first spoke to them on the pandemic, Modi also highlighted the importance for states to enforce prescribed guidelines strictly in the coronavirus hotspots zones, the government said in a statement.

What PM Modi said in the meeting?

<ul>
	<li>Lockdown has yielded positive results, the country has managed to save thousands of lives in the past 1.5 months.</li>
	<li>Our aim must be the rapid response, need to follow the mantra of ‘do gaz doori’.</li>
	<li>PM said that efforts of states should be directed towards converting the red zones into orange and thereafter to green zones.</li>
	<li>We have to be brave and bring in reforms that touch the lives of common citizens.</li>
	<li>We have to give importance to the economy as well as continue the fight against covid-19.</li>
	<li>Impact of coronavirus will remain visible in the coming months, masks and face covers will be part of our life.</li>
	<li>CMs provide feedback, suggest measures to meet economic challenges and boost health infrastructure.</li>
</ul>

 
Today's meeting comes just a week ahead of the scheduled ending of the nationwide lockdown. On March 24, the Prime Minister had announced a 21-day lockdown as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of COVID-19. The lockdown was later extended till May 3.

(With inputs from agencies)

The extension of lockdown in the country was discussed in the video-conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers of nine states on Monday.

The extension of lockdown in the country was discussed in the video-conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers of nine states on Monday. Coronavirus cases in India rise to 27,892 with 872 deaths | click for state-wise status PM Modi assured the states that the economy is in good shape and there is no need to worry. The chief ministers who attended the meeting included Arvind Kejriwal (Delhi), Uddhav Thackeray (Maharashtra), E K Palaniswami (Tamil Nadu), Conrad Sangma (Meghalaya) Trivendra Singh Rawat (Uttarakhand) and Yogi Adityanath (Uttar Pradesh). According to the reports more than seven states have asked for lockdown extension. Few CMs wanted lockdown should be eased in non-corona zones and economic activities be allowed. Odisha has requested for one more month of lockdown and Bihar has asked more PPE kits. "I have demanded that lockdown should continue otherwise we can't face these things in Odisha. Let it be one month more, then, we will see what is going on," Odisha Health Minister Naba Das, who was present along with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at the video conference, said. This was the fourth such interaction since March 22 when he first spoke to them on the pandemic, Modi also highlighted the importance for states to enforce prescribed guidelines strictly in the coronavirus hotspots zones, the government said in a statement. What PM Modi said in the meeting? Lockdown has yielded positive results, the country has managed to save thousands of lives in the past 1.5 months. Our aim must be the rapid response, need to follow the mantra of ‘do gaz doori’. PM said that efforts of states should be directed towards converting the red zones into orange and thereafter to green zones. We have to be brave and bring in reforms that touch the lives of common citizens. We have to give importance to the economy as well as continue the fight against covid-19. Impact of coronavirus will remain visible in the coming months, masks and face covers will be part of our life. CMs provide feedback, suggest measures to meet economic challenges and boost health infrastructure. Today's meeting comes just a week ahead of the scheduled ending of the nationwide lockdown. On March 24, the Prime Minister had announced a 21-day lockdown as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of COVID-19. The lockdown was later extended till May 3. (With inputs from agencies)

Lockdown has yielded positive results, says PM; States want extension with relaxations

The high Covid-19 mortality rate in Gujarat could be due to the dominance of the L-type strain of coronavirus, found to have been more prevalent in Wuhan in China, where the outbreak started, experts said.

The dominance of the more virulent L-type coronavirus strain as compared to the S-type one could be behind the high mortality rate in the state, which has reported 133 deaths so far. However, no research has been conducted to confirm this, they said.

A scientist at the state-run Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) said that the novel coronavirus used for genome sequencing recently conducted by it was found to contain the L-type strain.

"Analysis done by scientists abroad has shown that the L-type strain has been dominant where more mortality is reported among coronavirus patients. This strain was found to be more prevalent in Wuhan," director of GBRC, C G Joshi, said.

"The coronavirus sample we collected from a patient for genome sequence contained the L-type strain. This strain has a much higher virulence as compared to the S-strain," he said.

"Variation in coronavirus is in terms of number and percentage of mutations. As per the analysis, the L-type strain is dominant where more mortality is reported. Scientists have earlier found that this strain has caused more deaths," he said.

The GBRC recently succeeded in decoding the entire genome sequence of the novel coronavirus and identified its three new mutations.

Joshi added that the patient from whom the virus sample was collected for sequencing has fully recovered.

So far, no study has been conducted here to establish which strain of coronavirus is predominant in patients here.

Atul Patel, a specialist in infectious diseases, attributed the presence of the L-type strain more than the S- type one in Gujarat is behind high mortality rate.

Patel has said that a little higher presence of the L-type strain, or the original Wuhan strain, could be behind higher death rate in the state.

The state government has also attributed the high mortality among coronavirus patients in the state to comorbidities and high-risk factors.

Heart and lung diseases, diabetes, and hypertension are among common diseases that have been found among Covid-19 patients who passed away in Gujarat.

The risk factors include patients in the age group of above over 60 years and under five years of age and pregnant women, and they account for 90 per cent of patients who passed away, Principal Secretary (Health), Jayanti Ravi had recently said.

The high Covid-19 mortality rate in Gujarat could be due to the dominance of the L-type strain of coronavirus, found to have been more prevalent in Wuhan in China, where the outbreak started, experts said.

The high Covid-19 mortality rate in Gujarat could be due to the dominance of the L-type strain of coronavirus, found to have been more prevalent in Wuhan in China, where the outbreak started, experts said. The dominance of the more virulent L-type coronavirus strain as compared to the S-type one could be behind the high mortality rate in the state, which has reported 133 deaths so far. However, no research has been conducted to confirm this, they said. A scientist at the state-run Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) said that the novel coronavirus used for genome sequencing recently conducted by it was found to contain the L-type strain. "Analysis done by scientists abroad has shown that the L-type strain has been dominant where more mortality is reported among coronavirus patients. This strain was found to be more prevalent in Wuhan," director of GBRC, C G Joshi, said. "The coronavirus sample we collected from a patient for genome sequence contained the L-type strain. This strain has a much higher virulence as compared to the S-strain," he said. "Variation in coronavirus is in terms of number and percentage of mutations. As per the analysis, the L-type strain is dominant where more mortality is reported. Scientists have earlier found that this strain has caused more deaths," he said. The GBRC recently succeeded in decoding the entire genome sequence of the novel coronavirus and identified its three new mutations. Joshi added that the patient from whom the virus sample was collected for sequencing has fully recovered. So far, no study has been conducted here to establish which strain of coronavirus is predominant in patients here. Atul Patel, a specialist in infectious diseases, attributed the presence of the L-type strain more than the S- type one in Gujarat is behind high mortality rate. Patel has said that a little higher presence of the L-type strain, or the original Wuhan strain, could be behind higher death rate in the state. The state government has also attributed the high mortality among coronavirus patients in the state to comorbidities and high-risk factors. Heart and lung diseases, diabetes, and hypertension are among common diseases that have been found among Covid-19 patients who passed away in Gujarat. The risk factors include patients in the age group of above over 60 years and under five years of age and pregnant women, and they account for 90 per cent of patients who passed away, Principal Secretary (Health), Jayanti Ravi had recently said.

Wuhan's L-strain may be behind Gujarat's high death rate: Experts

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Monday reported that countrywide COVID-19 death toll has reached 872 while the number of cases climbed to 27892.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-positive-cases-near-3-million-mark-globally-death-toll-passes-2-lacs-294998">Also read: COVID-19 positive cases near 3-million mark globally; death toll passes 2 lacs</a> 
 
​​​​​​​According to the available data, the total cases in the country reached 27892, including 6184 cured/discharged/migrated and 872 deaths. In the past 24 hours, 1,396 new cases of coronavirus and 48 deaths were reported. The total number of cases in Maharashtra, the worst affected state by Covid-19, has risen to 8068 with 342 deaths.

Through a graded, pre-emptive and pro-active approach, the Government of India is taking several steps along with the states/UTs for prevention, containment and management of COVID-19. These are being regularly reviewed and monitored at the highest level, the ministry said.

The Indian Council of Medical Research has said that a total of 280 government laboratories in the country are conducting tests for Covid-19. ICMR also released a list of 90 private labs which will conduct the testing.

Here is the total coronavirus cases in India, state-wise

Andaman and Nicobar Islands - 33

Andhra Pradesh - 1097

Arunachal Pradesh - 1

Assam - 36

Bihar - 274

Chandigarh - 30

Chhattisgarh - 37

Delhi - 2918

Goa - 7

Gujarat - 3301

Haryana - 289

Himachal Pradesh - 40

Jammu and Kashmir - 523

Jharkhand -82

Karnataka - 503

Kerala - 458

Ladakh - 20

Madhya Pradesh - 2096

Maharashtra - 8068

Manipur - 2

Meghalaya - 12

Mizoram - 1

Odisha - 103

Puducherry - 7

Punjab - 7

Rajasthan - 2185

Tamil Nadu - 1885

Telangana - 1002

Tripura - 2

Uttarakhand - 50

Uttar Pradesh - 1868

West Bengal - 649

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a video conference with the Chief Ministers of all states today amid the coronavirus lockdown.

Meanwhile, the Indian government is planning to evacuate the countrymen stranded in different countries after the nationwide lockdown is lifted. Indian missions in different countries are laying the groundwork for the same and holding consultations with authorities.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, India's Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba held a video conference with chief secretaries of all states and union territories on the situation on lockdown in the country and resumption of economic activities.

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Monday reported that countrywide COVID-19 death toll has reached 872 while the number of cases climbed to 27892. Also read: COVID-19 positive cases near 3-million mark globally; death toll passes 2 lacs According to the available data, the total cases in the country reached 27892, including 6184 cured/discharged/migrated and 872 deaths.

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Monday reported that countrywide COVID-19 death toll has reached 872 while the number of cases climbed to 27892. Also read: COVID-19 positive cases near 3-million mark globally; death toll passes 2 lacs According to the available data, the total cases in the country reached 27892, including 6184 cured/discharged/migrated and 872 deaths. In the past 24 hours, 1,396 new cases of coronavirus and 48 deaths were reported. The total number of cases in Maharashtra, the worst affected state by Covid-19, has risen to 8068 with 342 deaths. Through a graded, pre-emptive and pro-active approach, the Government of India is taking several steps along with the states/UTs for prevention, containment and management of COVID-19. These are being regularly reviewed and monitored at the highest level, the ministry said. The Indian Council of Medical Research has said that a total of 280 government laboratories in the country are conducting tests for Covid-19. ICMR also released a list of 90 private labs which will conduct the testing. Here is the total coronavirus cases in India, state-wise Andaman and Nicobar Islands - 33 Andhra Pradesh - 1097 Arunachal Pradesh - 1 Assam - 36 Bihar - 274 Chandigarh - 30 Chhattisgarh - 37 Delhi - 2918 Goa - 7 Gujarat - 3301 Haryana - 289 Himachal Pradesh - 40 Jammu and Kashmir - 523 Jharkhand -82 Karnataka - 503 Kerala - 458 Ladakh - 20 Madhya Pradesh - 2096 Maharashtra - 8068 Manipur - 2 Meghalaya - 12 Mizoram - 1 Odisha - 103 Puducherry - 7 Punjab - 7 Rajasthan - 2185 Tamil Nadu - 1885 Telangana - 1002 Tripura - 2 Uttarakhand - 50 Uttar Pradesh - 1868 West Bengal - 649 Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a video conference with the Chief Ministers of all states today amid the coronavirus lockdown. Meanwhile, the Indian government is planning to evacuate the countrymen stranded in different countries after the nationwide lockdown is lifted. Indian missions in different countries are laying the groundwork for the same and holding consultations with authorities. Earlier this week, India's Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba held a video conference with chief secretaries of all states and union territories on the situation on lockdown in the country and resumption of economic activities.

Coronavirus cases in India rise to 27,892 with 872 deaths | click for state-wise status

To contain biomedical waste, a Gujarat-based company has developed reusable Personal protective equipment (PPE) kits amid the coronavirus outbreak.

"Wearing these suits, doctors will be 100 per cent safe as it operates with positive air pressure. The air quality in the suits is also measured online. This PPE suit has its own decontamination process. As this is not disposable, so no biomedical waste will be generated," said Managing Director of Sure Safety (India) Ltd, N Dand while speaking to ANI.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-1990-new-cases-india-witnesses-highest-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hour-period-294814">Also read:&nbsp;With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest COVID-19 cases in 24-hour period</a>

"We provide COVID-19 safety equipment to Government for India, Government of Gujarat and Indian Defence," he added.

This comes after reports came from several states that health workers at the hospitals do not have PPE while treating the COVID-19 patients.

To contain biomedical waste, a Gujarat-based company has developed reusable Personal protective equipment (PPE) kits amid the coronavirus outbreak. "Wearing these suits, doctors will be 100 per cent safe as it operates with positive air pressure.

To contain biomedical waste, a Gujarat-based company has developed reusable Personal protective equipment (PPE) kits amid the coronavirus outbreak. "Wearing these suits, doctors will be 100 per cent safe as it operates with positive air pressure. The air quality in the suits is also measured online. This PPE suit has its own decontamination process. As this is not disposable, so no biomedical waste will be generated," said Managing Director of Sure Safety (India) Ltd, N Dand while speaking to ANI. Also read: With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest COVID-19 cases in 24-hour period "We provide COVID-19 safety equipment to Government for India, Government of Gujarat and Indian Defence," he added. This comes after reports came from several states that health workers at the hospitals do not have PPE while treating the COVID-19 patients.

Gujarat-based company develops reusable PPE kits

Despite budgetary challenges in view of coronavirus outbreak, the Indian Armed Forces are capable of undertaking any operational task assigned to them, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat said on Sunday.

"Whatever budget has been given to us, we must spend it pragmatically avoiding any wasteful expenditure. We don't see any major drop in our operational preparedness as far as the three services are concerned," the CDS told ANI in an exclusive interview.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nicotine-to-help-fight-coronavirus-french-authorities-limit-sale-of-product-294565">Also read:&nbsp;Nicotine to help fight coronavirus? French authorities limit sale of product</a>

General Rawat said COVID-19 has taught us a lesson to be self-reliant."COVID-19 has taught us a lesson that time has come to be self-reliant. In times of crisis, nations will have to live by themselves. In fact, a country like India, when we are looking at becoming a regional power, we will have to support other nations and not be dependent on others," the CDS said.

Stressing that it becomes very important for the country to start addressing the issue of in-house manufacturing, the CDS said: "That is why it becomes very important that we start addressing the issue of in-house manufacturing through Make in India and make sure that whatever we are importing, gradually we should start depending on Make in India. If we start depending on Make in India, we will also reduce our ab initio holdings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-pandemic-gods-wrath-for-obscenity-nudity-pak-cleric-294784">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus pandemic God's wrath for obscenity, nudity: Pak cleric</a>

"Pointing out as to how the health industry in the country has come forward during these challenging times, the CDS said: "The scientists and other agencies involved in medical research have come up with innovative ideas to produce medical equipment in the country which we were so far importing to help us tide over COVID-19 has been amazing."

"There is a very major lesson for us. We have been importing our weapons and ammunition from abroad but I think if we can give this challenge to our industry, academia and research and development organisation. I think if we can start manufacturing our own weapon, ammunition in the country, we may not have to be dependent on imports," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-we-will-get-a-million-ppes-from-singapore-indian-envoy-294796">Also read:&nbsp;EXCLUSIVE- We will get a million PPEs from Singapore: Indian envoy</a>

The CDS said he was quite sure that the defence manufacturing in the country can also move at the same pace provided "we have faith in our industry and research organisations".

"We are able to do their handholding and are able to move forward.

"General Rawat said gradually we have to start looking that most of the major components are made in India.

"I am also happy to inform that we are making our own guns, we are making our own air defence systems and small arms. You will be happy to know that the Air Chief has now placed a demand for 83 Light Combat Aircraft to be produced by the HAL. We do know that they have a lot of import content in them but gradually we have to start looking at how to ensure that most of the major components are made in India," he said.

Despite budgetary challenges in view of coronavirus outbreak, the Indian Armed Forces are capable of undertaking any operational task assigned to them, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat said on Sunday.

Despite budgetary challenges in view of coronavirus outbreak, the Indian Armed Forces are capable of undertaking any operational task assigned to them, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat said on Sunday. "Whatever budget has been given to us, we must spend it pragmatically avoiding any wasteful expenditure. We don't see any major drop in our operational preparedness as far as the three services are concerned," the CDS told ANI in an exclusive interview. Also read: Nicotine to help fight coronavirus? French authorities limit sale of product General Rawat said COVID-19 has taught us a lesson to be self-reliant."COVID-19 has taught us a lesson that time has come to be self-reliant. In times of crisis, nations will have to live by themselves. In fact, a country like India, when we are looking at becoming a regional power, we will have to support other nations and not be dependent on others," the CDS said. Stressing that it becomes very important for the country to start addressing the issue of in-house manufacturing, the CDS said: "That is why it becomes very important that we start addressing the issue of in-house manufacturing through Make in India and make sure that whatever we are importing, gradually we should start depending on Make in India. If we start depending on Make in India, we will also reduce our ab initio holdings. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic God's wrath for obscenity, nudity: Pak cleric "Pointing out as to how the health industry in the country has come forward during these challenging times, the CDS said: "The scientists and other agencies involved in medical research have come up with innovative ideas to produce medical equipment in the country which we were so far importing to help us tide over COVID-19 has been amazing." "There is a very major lesson for us. We have been importing our weapons and ammunition from abroad but I think if we can give this challenge to our industry, academia and research and development organisation. I think if we can start manufacturing our own weapon, ammunition in the country, we may not have to be dependent on imports," he said. Also read: EXCLUSIVE- We will get a million PPEs from Singapore: Indian envoy The CDS said he was quite sure that the defence manufacturing in the country can also move at the same pace provided "we have faith in our industry and research organisations". "We are able to do their handholding and are able to move forward. "General Rawat said gradually we have to start looking that most of the major components are made in India. "I am also happy to inform that we are making our own guns, we are making our own air defence systems and small arms. You will be happy to know that the Air Chief has now placed a demand for 83 Light Combat Aircraft to be produced by the HAL. We do know that they have a lot of import content in them but gradually we have to start looking at how to ensure that most of the major components are made in India," he said.

Armed Forces capable of undertaking any operational task assigned to them: CDS Gen Bipin Rawat

Days after recovering from COVID-19 and getting discharged from Lucknow`s Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Bollywood singer Kanika Kapoor on Sunday said that "no party was hosted" by her in Lucknow and that there have been several "wrong exchanges of information" about her.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood-news-kanika-kapoor-charged-with-ipc-sections-269-270-for-criminal-negligence-in-handling-covid-19-291472">Kanika Kapoor charged with IPC Sections 269, 270 for criminal negligence in handling COVID-19</a>

She took to Instagram to open up about her <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/baby-doll-singer-kanika-kapoor-tests-positive-for-covid-19-had-allegedly-attended-a-party-of-100-people-a-few-days-back-287533">coronavirus diagnosis</a> and also said that her health was normal when she attended a lunch and a dinner hosted by a friend. 
 
"I travelled from the UK to Mumbai on 10th March and was duly screened at the international airport. There was no advisory on that day (UK travel advisory was released on March 18) that stated that I needed to quarantine myself. I showed no ill health so did not quarantine myself," she said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B_cB951F0JQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B_cB951F0JQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B_cB951F0JQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B_cB951F0JQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Stay Home Stay Safe 🙏🏼</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kanik4kapoor/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Kanika Kapoor</a> (@kanik4kapoor) on <time datetime="2020-04-26T08:50:00+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Apr 26, 2020 at 1:50am PDT</time>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I travelled to Lucknow the following day on 11th March to see my family. There was no screening set up for domestic flights. On the 10th and 15th March, I attended a friend`s lunch and dinner. There was no party hosted by me and I was in absolute normal health," Kapoor added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sachin-tendulkar-saw-sachin-a-billion-dream-15-times-before-release-294876" hreflang="en">Sachin Tendulkar saw 'Sachin -A Billion Dream' 15 times before release</a> 
 
The 'Chittiyan Kalaiyan'&nbsp;singer then revealed that she started experiencing the symptoms of the virus on March 17 and hence got herself tested on March 19. 
 
"I had symptoms on the 17th and 18th of March so I requested to be tested. I was tested on 19th March and on 20th March when informed that my test was positive, I chose to go to the hospital. I was discharged after 3 negative tests and have since been at home for 21 days," her statement read.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-ramayana-to-shaktiman-how-tv-is-bringing-back-classics-amid-lockdown-294735" hreflang="en">From 'Ramayana' to 'Shaktiman', how TV is bringing back classics amid lockdown</a> 
 
The 42-year-old singer has been slammed and has also been booked for not quarantining herself and attending social events post her return from the United Kingdom. 
 
"I know there are several versions of stories out there about me. Some of these seem to be fuelled even more because I have chosen to be silent until now. I stayed quiet not because I am wrong but in fact being fully aware that there have been misunderstandings and wrong exchanges of information," the `Baby Doll` singer said. 
 
Kapoor further said that she is currently staying with her family in Lucknow and informed that every person she has come in contact with has been tested negative. 
 
"Some facts that I would like to share with you. I am at home in Lucknow spending some quality time with my parents. Every person that I have come in contact with, be it in the UK, Mumbai or Lucknow has shown no symptoms of COVID-19. In fact, all those tested have been negative," she said. 
 
Kapoor ended the note by thanking the medical staff of a Lucknow hospital where she was admitted for treatment. 
 
"I want to especially thank the doctors and nurses who have so graciously taken care of me during a very emotionally testing time. I hope that all can deal with this matter with honesty and sensitivity. Negativity thrown at a person does not change the reality. Love, Kanika 26 April 2020," her statement read. 
 
Kanika`s sixth coronavirus test came out negative on April 6 following which she was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kanika-kapoor-discharged-after-testing-negative-in-sixth-test-290787">discharged</a> from the hospital. 
 
Earlier, Lucknow Police booked the singer on charges of negligence for attending various social events in the city despite being infected with coronavirus and having been instructed by the authorities to isolate herself at her home. 
 
She has been booked under Sections 188, 269 and 270 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) at Sarojini Nagar police station in the city. The FIR was lodged based on a complaint filed by the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Lucknow.&nbsp;

Days after recovering from COVID-19 and getting discharged from Lucknow`s Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Bollywood singer Kanika Kapoor on Sunday said that "no party was hosted" by her in Lucknow and that there have been several "wrong exchanges of information" about her.

Days after recovering from COVID-19 and getting discharged from Lucknow`s Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Bollywood singer Kanika Kapoor on Sunday said that "no party was hosted" by her in Lucknow and that there have been several "wrong exchanges of information" about her. Also read: Kanika Kapoor charged with IPC Sections 269, 270 for criminal negligence in handling COVID-19 She took to Instagram to open up about her coronavirus diagnosis and also said that her health was normal when she attended a lunch and a dinner hosted by a friend. "I travelled from the UK to Mumbai on 10th March and was duly screened at the international airport. There was no advisory on that day (UK travel advisory was released on March 18) that stated that I needed to quarantine myself. I showed no ill health so did not quarantine myself," she said. View this post on Instagram Stay Home Stay Safe 🙏🏼 A post shared by Kanika Kapoor (@kanik4kapoor) on Apr 26, 2020 at 1:50am PDT × "I travelled to Lucknow the following day on 11th March to see my family. There was no screening set up for domestic flights. On the 10th and 15th March, I attended a friend`s lunch and dinner. There was no party hosted by me and I was in absolute normal health," Kapoor added. Also read: Sachin Tendulkar saw 'Sachin -A Billion Dream' 15 times before release The 'Chittiyan Kalaiyan' singer then revealed that she started experiencing the symptoms of the virus on March 17 and hence got herself tested on March 19. "I had symptoms on the 17th and 18th of March so I requested to be tested. I was tested on 19th March and on 20th March when informed that my test was positive, I chose to go to the hospital. I was discharged after 3 negative tests and have since been at home for 21 days," her statement read. In pics: From 'Ramayana' to 'Shaktiman', how TV is bringing back classics amid lockdown The 42-year-old singer has been slammed and has also been booked for not quarantining herself and attending social events post her return from the United Kingdom. "I know there are several versions of stories out there about me. Some of these seem to be fuelled even more because I have chosen to be silent until now. I stayed quiet not because I am wrong but in fact being fully aware that there have been misunderstandings and wrong exchanges of information," the `Baby Doll` singer said. Kapoor further said that she is currently staying with her family in Lucknow and informed that every person she has come in contact with has been tested negative. "Some facts that I would like to share with you. I am at home in Lucknow spending some quality time with my parents. Every person that I have come in contact with, be it in the UK, Mumbai or Lucknow has shown no symptoms of COVID-19. In fact, all those tested have been negative," she said. Kapoor ended the note by thanking the medical staff of a Lucknow hospital where she was admitted for treatment. "I want to especially thank the doctors and nurses who have so graciously taken care of me during a very emotionally testing time. I hope that all can deal with this matter with honesty and sensitivity. Negativity thrown at a person does not change the reality. Love, Kanika 26 April 2020," her statement read. Kanika`s sixth coronavirus test came out negative on April 6 following which she was discharged from the hospital. Earlier, Lucknow Police booked the singer on charges of negligence for attending various social events in the city despite being infected with coronavirus and having been instructed by the authorities to isolate herself at her home. She has been booked under Sections 188, 269 and 270 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) at Sarojini Nagar police station in the city. The FIR was lodged based on a complaint filed by the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Lucknow.

Kanika Kapoor opens up about COVID-19 diagnosis: There was no party hosted by me

As India is battling against COVID-19, RSS chief Mohan Bhagawat made a public address on the issue "current scenario and our role" at 5 pm on Sunday (today).

On Twitter, the RSS informed that Bhagwat will speak on "current scenario and our role" and all are invited to participate in an online event.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-complaints-of-faulty-kits-by-several-nations-china-confiscates-89-million-face-masks-294838">Also read:&nbsp;Amid complaints of faulty kits by several nations, China confiscates 89 million face masks</a>

"All of you along with your family and well-wishers are invited to participate in this online event," the RSS said."Today, 26 April at 5pm, Pujya Sarsanghchalak of RSS, Dr Mohan ji Bhagawat will make a public address. Large numbers of TV Channels are broadcasting it live. It will also be available live at @RSSorg nhttp://Facebook.com/rssorg and http://YouTube.com/RSSOrg," Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju tweeted.

Kiren Rijiju addresses the party only twice a year — once on Vijaydashmi to&nbsp;set the agenda&nbsp;and in the first week of June on the conclusion of the annual training session of the RSS for its workers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-briefed-eu-on-methodology-followed-in-combating-spread-of-covid-19-indias-envoy-to-eu-gaitri-issar-kumar-294850">Also read:&nbsp;India briefed EU on methodology followed in combating spread of COVID-19: India's envoy to EU Gaitri Issar Kumar</a>

In his address today, he said "It is not right to blame the entire community for the acts of a few done due to fear or anger."

Talking about the recent events in the country, he said, "Two sanyasees were killed in Maharashtra. Should that happen? what should police do? We must think upon it," stated &nbsp;Mr. Bhagwat.

"We all are sad because of their deaths. We will follow the program given by VHP to pay tributes to them," he added.

As India is battling against COVID-19, RSS chief Mohan Bhagawat made a public address on the issue "current scenario and our role" at 5 pm on Sunday (today). On Twitter, the RSS informed that Bhagwat will speak on "current scenario and our role" and all are invited to participate in an online event.

As India is battling against COVID-19, RSS chief Mohan Bhagawat made a public address on the issue "current scenario and our role" at 5 pm on Sunday (today). On Twitter, the RSS informed that Bhagwat will speak on "current scenario and our role" and all are invited to participate in an online event. Also read: Amid complaints of faulty kits by several nations, China confiscates 89 million face masks "All of you along with your family and well-wishers are invited to participate in this online event," the RSS said."Today, 26 April at 5pm, Pujya Sarsanghchalak of RSS, Dr Mohan ji Bhagawat will make a public address. Large numbers of TV Channels are broadcasting it live. It will also be available live at @RSSorg nhttp://Facebook.com/rssorg and http://YouTube.com/RSSOrg," Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju tweeted. Kiren Rijiju addresses the party only twice a year — once on Vijaydashmi to set the agenda and in the first week of June on the conclusion of the annual training session of the RSS for its workers. Also read: India briefed EU on methodology followed in combating spread of COVID-19: India's envoy to EU Gaitri Issar Kumar In his address today, he said "It is not right to blame the entire community for the acts of a few done due to fear or anger." Talking about the recent events in the country, he said, "Two sanyasees were killed in Maharashtra. Should that happen? what should police do? We must think upon it," stated Mr. Bhagwat. "We all are sad because of their deaths. We will follow the program given by VHP to pay tributes to them," he added.

RSS is active during lockdown, its work has taken shape of relief activities: Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat

Babu Jagjivan Ram Hospital in Jahangirpuri area of Delhi area has been sealed as the hospital is being sanitised. The hospital had to be sealed as&nbsp;44 staff members, including doctors, were tested positive for COVID-19.

"Total 44 staff members including doctors at Babu Jagjivan Ram Hospital in Jahangirpuri area of Delhi have tested positive for COVID-19. Test reports of other staff members are awaited. Hospital's medical services have been closed and the hospital is being sanitized," Delhi Health Department said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/donate-blood-plasma-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-appeals-to-recovered-covid-19-patients-294509">Also read:&nbsp;Donate blood plasma, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal appeals to recovered COVID-19 patients</a>

This is the second hospital to be sealed within 24 hours in the capital.&nbsp;Hindu Rao Hospital was sealed yesterday as a nurse, who had been working at different sections of the building for the last two weeks, tested positive for coronavirus.

Nearly 111 positive cases were reported yesterday in the capital which took the total number of cases to&nbsp;2,625.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tax-officers-suggest-40-tax-on-super-rich-higher-levy-on-foreign-companies-to-fund-covid-19-fight-294860">Also read:&nbsp;Tax officers suggest 40% tax on super-rich, higher levy on foreign companies to fund COVID-19 fight</a>

Considering the constant increase in the number of positive cases in Delhi, the lockdown might have to be extended till May 16, said a top official in the Delhi government's Covid-19 committee.

"India is still on the ascending limb of the epidemic curve and so, to ease the restrictions will mean the cases will multiply uncontrollably. And, Delhi has a large number of containment zones, so it will be wise to extend it," said Dr S K Sarin, chairman of Delhi government's committee on combating Covid-19.

He stated that the lockdown, according to him, should be extended as that is when the epidemic curve is likely to start declining, which happens after&nbsp;he flattening of the curve.

"But, after the flattening of the curve, its decline also needs to be seen over a few weeks to make any assessment," Sarin said.

Babu Jagjivan Ram Hospital in Jahangirpuri area of Delhi area has been sealed as the hospital is being sanitised. The hospital had to be sealed as 44 staff members, including doctors, were tested positive for COVID-19.

Babu Jagjivan Ram Hospital in Jahangirpuri area of Delhi area has been sealed as the hospital is being sanitised. The hospital had to be sealed as 44 staff members, including doctors, were tested positive for COVID-19. "Total 44 staff members including doctors at Babu Jagjivan Ram Hospital in Jahangirpuri area of Delhi have tested positive for COVID-19. Test reports of other staff members are awaited. Hospital's medical services have been closed and the hospital is being sanitized," Delhi Health Department said. Also read: Donate blood plasma, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal appeals to recovered COVID-19 patients This is the second hospital to be sealed within 24 hours in the capital. Hindu Rao Hospital was sealed yesterday as a nurse, who had been working at different sections of the building for the last two weeks, tested positive for coronavirus. Nearly 111 positive cases were reported yesterday in the capital which took the total number of cases to 2,625. Also read: Tax officers suggest 40% tax on super-rich, higher levy on foreign companies to fund COVID-19 fight Considering the constant increase in the number of positive cases in Delhi, the lockdown might have to be extended till May 16, said a top official in the Delhi government's Covid-19 committee. "India is still on the ascending limb of the epidemic curve and so, to ease the restrictions will mean the cases will multiply uncontrollably. And, Delhi has a large number of containment zones, so it will be wise to extend it," said Dr S K Sarin, chairman of Delhi government's committee on combating Covid-19. He stated that the lockdown, according to him, should be extended as that is when the epidemic curve is likely to start declining, which happens after he flattening of the curve. "But, after the flattening of the curve, its decline also needs to be seen over a few weeks to make any assessment," Sarin said.

Babu Jagjivan Ram Memorial Hospital in Delhi sealed; second hospital in less than 24 hours

Union Health Ministry on Sunday said that countrywide COVID-19 death toll has reached 826 while the number of cases climbed to 26,917.&nbsp;

1975 new COVID-19 cases and 47 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, the health ministry said.

Among 26,917 positive cases, 20177 active cases, 5914 cured/discharged/migrated and 826 deaths), according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.&nbsp;

Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Sunday said the coronavirus situation in the country is improving as many hotspot districts (HSD) are moving towards being non-hotspot districts (NHSD).

The minister visited All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Trauma Centre to take stock of the preparedness to overcome COVID-19, a statement from the ministry said.

During his visit, he spoke to some COVID-19 positive people through video calling and enquired about their health. Robots handled the technology at the patients' end, it said.

Vardhan also sought their feedback about the facilities available at AIIMS so that necessary improvements can be made, the statement said.

Through a graded, pre-emptive and pro-active approach, the Government of India is taking several steps along with the states/UTs for prevention, containment and management of COVID-19. These are being regularly reviewed and monitored at the highest level,&nbsp;the ministry said.

Union Health Ministry on Sunday said that countrywide COVID-19 death toll has reached 826 while the number of cases climbed to 26,917. 1975 new COVID-19 cases and 47 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, the health ministry said.

Union Health Ministry on Sunday said that countrywide COVID-19 death toll has reached 826 while the number of cases climbed to 26,917. 1975 new COVID-19 cases and 47 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, the health ministry said. Among 26,917 positive cases, 20177 active cases, 5914 cured/discharged/migrated and 826 deaths), according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Sunday said the coronavirus situation in the country is improving as many hotspot districts (HSD) are moving towards being non-hotspot districts (NHSD). The minister visited All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Trauma Centre to take stock of the preparedness to overcome COVID-19, a statement from the ministry said. During his visit, he spoke to some COVID-19 positive people through video calling and enquired about their health. Robots handled the technology at the patients' end, it said. Vardhan also sought their feedback about the facilities available at AIIMS so that necessary improvements can be made, the statement said. Through a graded, pre-emptive and pro-active approach, the Government of India is taking several steps along with the states/UTs for prevention, containment and management of COVID-19. These are being regularly reviewed and monitored at the highest level, the ministry said.

Countrywide COVID-19 death toll 826, number of cases climbs to 26,917: Union Health Ministry

<div style="border:0px; margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:start; -webkit-text-stroke-width:0px">
<meta charset="utf-8" />

The Indian government is planning to evacuate the countrymen stranded in different countries after the nationwide lockdown is lifted. Indian missions in different countries are laying the groundwork for the same and holding consultations with authorities.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, India's Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba held a video conference with chief secretaries of all states and union territories on the situation on lockdown in the country and resumption of economic activities.

During that meeting, the issue of Indians stranded abroad was also discussed. A government release said cabinet secretary informed that "Ministry of External Affairs has started the process of consultation with the States/UTs to bringing back the Indian nationals stranded in different countries."

The final call for this will be taken after "getting feedback on the preparedness of the states/UTs to receive such people and taking into consideration all required health precautions" which includes quarantine and testing facility.

Several Indians have been stranded across the world, from Japan to Singapore to Europe and Gulf who are keen to come back to India but cannot due to non-operation of flights and pan India lockdown. As of now, the Indian missions have told them to stay put and are reaching out to them by providing them food, accommodation and even dry ration.&nbsp;

While the evacuation of Indians is expected to be a huge task, before the lockdown India had evacuated more than 2000 of its citizens from China, Japan, Italy and Iran.

This also included 48 foreigners, many of them from neighbouring countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
</div>

The Indian government is planning to evacuate the countrymen stranded in different countries after the nationwide lockdown is lifted. Indian missions in different countries are laying the groundwork for the same and holding consultations with authorities.

The Indian government is planning to evacuate the countrymen stranded in different countries after the nationwide lockdown is lifted. Indian missions in different countries are laying the groundwork for the same and holding consultations with authorities. Earlier this week, India's Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba held a video conference with chief secretaries of all states and union territories on the situation on lockdown in the country and resumption of economic activities. During that meeting, the issue of Indians stranded abroad was also discussed. A government release said cabinet secretary informed that "Ministry of External Affairs has started the process of consultation with the States/UTs to bringing back the Indian nationals stranded in different countries." The final call for this will be taken after "getting feedback on the preparedness of the states/UTs to receive such people and taking into consideration all required health precautions" which includes quarantine and testing facility. Several Indians have been stranded across the world, from Japan to Singapore to Europe and Gulf who are keen to come back to India but cannot due to non-operation of flights and pan India lockdown. As of now, the Indian missions have told them to stay put and are reaching out to them by providing them food, accommodation and even dry ration. While the evacuation of Indians is expected to be a huge task, before the lockdown India had evacuated more than 2000 of its citizens from China, Japan, Italy and Iran. This also included 48 foreigners, many of them from neighbouring countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Indian missions lay groundwork to bring back stranded Indians from abroad post lockdown

The American engineering and robotics design company - Boston Dynamics - has recently announced that its quadruped Spot robot is already being used to help with COVID-19 treatment.

The basic purpose behind the initiative is to reduce the infection rates seen among medical personnel by shifting to the practice of telemedicine.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-confirms-288-new-coronavirus-deaths-lowest-in-a-month-294846">Also read:&nbsp;Spain confirms 288 new coronavirus deaths, lowest in a month</a>

The hospital, Brigham And Women's Hospital of Harvard University, has been using a Spot unit since last week for remote triage of patients suspected of having COVID-19.

"Today marks the second week of Spot's presence at a local Boston hospital, Brigham and Women's, where the robot is being deployed as a mobile telemedicine platform, enabling healthcare providers to remotely triage patients," The Verge quoted the company's statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-in-italy-pm-giuseppe-conte-vows-to-reopen-schools-in-september-294855">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus in Italy: PM Giuseppe Conte vows to reopen schools in September</a>

"We're listening to their feedback on how Spot can do more but are encouraged by their reports that using the robot has helped their nursing staff minimize time exposed to potentially contagious patients," the statement further read.

At present, Spot is currently used to video conference with suspected patients for the initial assessment. (ANI)

The American engineering and robotics design company - Boston Dynamics - has recently announced that its quadruped Spot robot is already being used to help with COVID-19 treatment.

The American engineering and robotics design company - Boston Dynamics - has recently announced that its quadruped Spot robot is already being used to help with COVID-19 treatment. The basic purpose behind the initiative is to reduce the infection rates seen among medical personnel by shifting to the practice of telemedicine. Also read: Spain confirms 288 new coronavirus deaths, lowest in a month The hospital, Brigham And Women's Hospital of Harvard University, has been using a Spot unit since last week for remote triage of patients suspected of having COVID-19. "Today marks the second week of Spot's presence at a local Boston hospital, Brigham and Women's, where the robot is being deployed as a mobile telemedicine platform, enabling healthcare providers to remotely triage patients," The Verge quoted the company's statement. Also read: Coronavirus in Italy: PM Giuseppe Conte vows to reopen schools in September "We're listening to their feedback on how Spot can do more but are encouraged by their reports that using the robot has helped their nursing staff minimize time exposed to potentially contagious patients," the statement further read. At present, Spot is currently used to video conference with suspected patients for the initial assessment. (ANI)

Boston Dynamics' Spot robot helping doctors 'remotely' combat COVID-19

West Bengal Medical officer Doctor Biplab Kanti Dasgupta who was diagnosed with COVID-19 passed away at a hospital here on Sunday.

Dasgupta has becomes the first case of a doctor succumbing to the deadly infection in the state.

The doctor (60) along with another man (34), both diagnosed with the disease and on ventilators died at a hospital here.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-australia-launches-app-to-trace-patients-contacts-294845">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus: Australia launches app to trace patients' contacts</a>

Dasgupta was in charge of the central medical store wing of West Bengal government's health and family welfare department.

The resident of Haridevpur, who was admitted to hospital on April 18 with respiratory distress and other co-morbidities,&nbsp;passed away at around 1:20 am on Sunday.

The other 34-year-old patient from the city`s Garden Reach area who had tested positive for the disease and admitted on April 23 to the hospital also succumbed around 7 am at the same facility.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-worth-the-time-us-president-donald-trump-says-about-media-briefings-after-backtracking-on-his-controversial-comment-294807">Also read:&nbsp;Not worth the time: US President Donald Trump says about media briefings after backtracking on his controversial comment</a>

"We are deeply saddened by the news of Dr. Biplab Kanti Dasgupta, ADHS, Central Medical Store, WBHS passing away in the early hours of April 26," read a message from West Bengal Doctors Forum (WBDF).

The WBDF said: "This is the first reported death of a member of our medical fraternity, in the state, who was tested positive for COVID-19. Unfortunately, his spouse has also tested positive for Corona. Our prayers are with her and we wish her a speedy recovery. "Pointing out that over the last few weeks more and more healthcare workers are diagnosed with COVID-19, the WBDF urged health and administrative authorities to "proactively look into the matter as it is a matter of grave concern".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-should-provide-rs-7500-per-month-for-three-months-to-those-who-lost-livelihood-in-lockdown-sitaram-yechury-294844">Also read:&nbsp;Govt should provide Rs 7,500 per month for three months to those who lost livelihood in lockdown: Sitaram Yechury</a>

"With limited resources at disposal, we cannot afford to have a situation where the shortage of healthcare providers pose a threat to the delivery of care."

The Forum also requested the State administration to issue a separate medical bulletin daily to appraise about the condition of the healthcare workers under treatment and quarantine.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee too condoled the demise of Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta saying his sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will "ever be in our hearts."

"We have lost Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta Assistant Director, Health Services, West Bengal in the early hours of today. He was Assistant Director of Health Services, Central Medical Stores. We are deeply pained with his untimely demise," the Chief Minister said in a tweet.

"His sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will ever be in our hearts and will make our COVID warriors fight the deadly virus with even greater determination. My heartfelt condolence to Dr Dasgupta`s bereaved family members and colleagues," she added.

West Bengal Medical officer Doctor Biplab Kanti Dasgupta who was diagnosed with COVID-19 passed away at a hospital here on Sunday. Dasgupta has becomes the first case of a doctor succumbing to the deadly infection in the state.

West Bengal Medical officer Doctor Biplab Kanti Dasgupta who was diagnosed with COVID-19 passed away at a hospital here on Sunday. Dasgupta has becomes the first case of a doctor succumbing to the deadly infection in the state. The doctor (60) along with another man (34), both diagnosed with the disease and on ventilators died at a hospital here. Also read: Coronavirus: Australia launches app to trace patients' contacts Dasgupta was in charge of the central medical store wing of West Bengal government's health and family welfare department. The resident of Haridevpur, who was admitted to hospital on April 18 with respiratory distress and other co-morbidities, passed away at around 1:20 am on Sunday. The other 34-year-old patient from the city`s Garden Reach area who had tested positive for the disease and admitted on April 23 to the hospital also succumbed around 7 am at the same facility. Also read: Not worth the time: US President Donald Trump says about media briefings after backtracking on his controversial comment "We are deeply saddened by the news of Dr. Biplab Kanti Dasgupta, ADHS, Central Medical Store, WBHS passing away in the early hours of April 26," read a message from West Bengal Doctors Forum (WBDF). The WBDF said: "This is the first reported death of a member of our medical fraternity, in the state, who was tested positive for COVID-19. Unfortunately, his spouse has also tested positive for Corona. Our prayers are with her and we wish her a speedy recovery. "Pointing out that over the last few weeks more and more healthcare workers are diagnosed with COVID-19, the WBDF urged health and administrative authorities to "proactively look into the matter as it is a matter of grave concern". Also read: Govt should provide Rs 7,500 per month for three months to those who lost livelihood in lockdown: Sitaram Yechury "With limited resources at disposal, we cannot afford to have a situation where the shortage of healthcare providers pose a threat to the delivery of care." The Forum also requested the State administration to issue a separate medical bulletin daily to appraise about the condition of the healthcare workers under treatment and quarantine. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee too condoled the demise of Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta saying his sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will "ever be in our hearts." "We have lost Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta Assistant Director, Health Services, West Bengal in the early hours of today. He was Assistant Director of Health Services, Central Medical Stores. We are deeply pained with his untimely demise," the Chief Minister said in a tweet. "His sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will ever be in our hearts and will make our COVID warriors fight the deadly virus with even greater determination. My heartfelt condolence to Dr Dasgupta`s bereaved family members and colleagues," she added.

Doctor dies of COVID-19 in West Bengal; CM Mamata condoles

With a rise in the temperature in the country,&nbsp;Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued a set of guidelines compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) advising people about&nbsp;ideal temperature of an air-conditioner during the lockdown.

There has been an increase in the usage of air conditioners and desert coolers as the public has been spending more time at home under the lockdown in the bustling heat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-coronavirus-fight-is-people-driven-says-pm-narendra-modi-in-mann-ki-baat-294821">Also read:&nbsp;India's coronavirus fight is people-driven, says PM Narendra Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat'</a>

Due to this, there have been several concerns over the use of ACs and coolers over what temperature should&nbsp;we use the AC at this point of time.

As per the 18-page guideline, the temperature of the home-run AC should be between 24-30 degrees Celcius and the humidity should be between 40-70 per cent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-lauds-india-post-postmen-for-their-stupendous-efforts-during-lockdown-294785">Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown</a>

"Recirculation of cool air by room air conditioners must be accompanied by outdoor air intake through slightly open windows and exhaust by natural exfiltration," the advisory said.

“Too much humidity leads to higher levels of dust mites and fungi, two of the worst culprits for indoor allergy sufferers. Mold and fungi are known to exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma,” it added.

The centre also advised people to keep rooms ventilated when ACs are not in use, and to keep the windows partly kept open while using electric fans.

For commercial, industrial facilities, the government has suggested ventilation with outdoor air.&nbsp;“The mechanical exhaust air shall be 70-80 percent of the fresh air quantity to maintain necessary positive pressure in the space,” the advisory read.

With a rise in the temperature in the country, Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued a set of guidelines compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) advising people about ideal temperature of an air-conditioner during the lockdown.

With a rise in the temperature in the country, Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued a set of guidelines compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) advising people about ideal temperature of an air-conditioner during the lockdown. There has been an increase in the usage of air conditioners and desert coolers as the public has been spending more time at home under the lockdown in the bustling heat. Also read: India's coronavirus fight is people-driven, says PM Narendra Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat' Due to this, there have been several concerns over the use of ACs and coolers over what temperature should we use the AC at this point of time. As per the 18-page guideline, the temperature of the home-run AC should be between 24-30 degrees Celcius and the humidity should be between 40-70 per cent. Also read: PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown "Recirculation of cool air by room air conditioners must be accompanied by outdoor air intake through slightly open windows and exhaust by natural exfiltration," the advisory said. “Too much humidity leads to higher levels of dust mites and fungi, two of the worst culprits for indoor allergy sufferers. Mold and fungi are known to exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma,” it added. The centre also advised people to keep rooms ventilated when ACs are not in use, and to keep the windows partly kept open while using electric fans. For commercial, industrial facilities, the government has suggested ventilation with outdoor air. “The mechanical exhaust air shall be 70-80 percent of the fresh air quantity to maintain necessary positive pressure in the space,” the advisory read.

24-30 degree celsius is the ideal temperature for your AC, says CPWD in a guideline

The Federation of Resident Doctors` Association (FORDA) wrote to the Union Health Minister, Dr Harsh Vardhan, requesting him to arrange&nbsp;accommodation facilities for resident doctors advised for home quarantine.

Explaining their anxiety for the safety of their family members, the letter stated the recent reports of resident doctors being tested positive for coronavirus. Sue to that, some resident doctors, who were their primary contacts, have been advised to home quarantine. Some resident doctors stay in hostels allotted on the hospital campus while many stay at their homes in various locations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-employees-receive-10-salary-cut-request-minister-of-civil-aviation-to-intervene-294737">Also read:&nbsp;Air India employees receive 10% salary cut; request Minister of Civil Aviation to intervene</a>

"There are aged family members as well as young children at home who are the most vulnerable to this disease. The doctors themselves might be a source of infection for their family members. Therefore, it is necessary to provide separate accommodation or the resident doctors who are primary contacts, till they test negative for the virus," the letter reads.

The letter assured that the medical fraternity stands together with the nation in the times of a global pandemic. "We appreciate the efforts of the Government of India in providing accommodation and other facilities for the doctors on COVID-19 duties," it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/donate-blood-plasma-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-appeals-to-recovered-covid-19-patients-294509">Also read:&nbsp;Donate blood plasma, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal appeals to recovered COVID-19 patients</a>

The letter came a day after Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij requested Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to provide accommodation facilities to the government officials who travel from Haryana to Delhi for their work.

"I request the Arvind Kejriwal government that those Delhi government employees who reside in Haryana, the arrangements for their stay should be made in the national capital itself and no passes should be issued to them for visiting their homes (in Haryana)," Vij, who is also the state's Health Minister, said.

The Federation of Resident Doctors` Association (FORDA) wrote to the Union Health Minister, Dr Harsh Vardhan, requesting him to arrange accommodation facilities for resident doctors advised for home quarantine.

The Federation of Resident Doctors` Association (FORDA) wrote to the Union Health Minister, Dr Harsh Vardhan, requesting him to arrange accommodation facilities for resident doctors advised for home quarantine. Explaining their anxiety for the safety of their family members, the letter stated the recent reports of resident doctors being tested positive for coronavirus. Sue to that, some resident doctors, who were their primary contacts, have been advised to home quarantine. Some resident doctors stay in hostels allotted on the hospital campus while many stay at their homes in various locations. Also read: Air India employees receive 10% salary cut; request Minister of Civil Aviation to intervene "There are aged family members as well as young children at home who are the most vulnerable to this disease. The doctors themselves might be a source of infection for their family members. Therefore, it is necessary to provide separate accommodation or the resident doctors who are primary contacts, till they test negative for the virus," the letter reads. The letter assured that the medical fraternity stands together with the nation in the times of a global pandemic. "We appreciate the efforts of the Government of India in providing accommodation and other facilities for the doctors on COVID-19 duties," it said. Also read: Donate blood plasma, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal appeals to recovered COVID-19 patients The letter came a day after Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij requested Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to provide accommodation facilities to the government officials who travel from Haryana to Delhi for their work. "I request the Arvind Kejriwal government that those Delhi government employees who reside in Haryana, the arrangements for their stay should be made in the national capital itself and no passes should be issued to them for visiting their homes (in Haryana)," Vij, who is also the state's Health Minister, said.

Doctors urge Health Minister to arrange accommodation for medical officials who are on house quarantine

The Pakistan government has authorised the Pakistan army to take over if the public violates lockdown rules. The order has been issued specifically keeping in mind the&nbsp;business community and religious clerics. The decision has been taken by Prime Minister Imran Khan to contain the spread of coronavirus.

The decision came out after a meeting that took place at the ISI Headquarters in Rawalpindi on April 23. The meeting was attended by Imran Khan, COAS Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, DG-ISI Lt. Gen Faiz Hameed, some of the Cabinet ministers and advisors. The motive of the meeting was to discuss the tense situation in the country and to plan counter measures in case of emergencies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-mosques-could-close-forever-due-to-coronavirus-lockdown-says-muslim-council-of-britain-294493">Also read:&nbsp;UK mosques could close forever due to coronavirus lockdown, says Muslim Council of Britain</a>

This is not the first time Imran Khan has been overpowered by the country's army. On March 22, Prime Minister addressed the nation and explained his reasons for not imposing a complete lockdown, stating that a lot of people would lose their jobs. However, few hours later&nbsp;Pakistan Army spokesperson Major General Babar Iftikhar announced a complete lockdown. Following the announcement, military was deployed in the country&nbsp;an was seen handling the COVID-19 response through the National Core Committee, a body set up to coordinate policy between the national and provincial governments.

However, business community and religious clerics have claimed they will continue to operate their day-to-day life normal.&nbsp;According to sources, it was agreed in principle during the meeting that police, rangers and even troops can be used to maintain law and order if the business community and religious clerics attempt to cross their limit and violate the lockdown instructions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ramzan-amitabh-bachchan-sonam-kapoor-others-wish-fans-urge-people-to-stay-at-home-294517">Also read:&nbsp;Ramzan: Amitabh Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor &amp; others wish fans, urge people to stay at home</a>

Ramazan is an important month for the Muslim community all over the world. While the community is doing its best to stay indoors and celebrate from their homes, the situation seems to be tense in Pakistan.&nbsp;

Several violators were reportedly arrested in Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Peshawar, Rawalpindi, Islamabad and other cities on the first day of the holy month of Ramadan.

"The situation will worsen soon if the government would not ease its restrictions since poor people are very frustrated of not getting food and other basic amenities," the sources said, adding "government system is not effective".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-to-keep-mosques-open-during-ramadan-coronavirus-outbreak-294348">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan to keep mosques open during Ramadan | Coronavirus Outbreak</a>

Total number of reported positive coronavirus cases have risen to&nbsp;12,723 with a death toll of 269. However, several questions have been raised on whether the actual number is as reported. The Pakistan government, following the figures, extended the lockdown till May 09.

The health officials of the country have been staging protests for weeks claiming that the&nbsp;hospitals are suffering from acute&nbsp;shortage&nbsp;of safety gear.

"Overall circumstances are not short of civilian disobedience if the government does not relax its strict measures to maintain lockdown effectively, it will face a difficult position," sources said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-reject-afghan-ceasefire-offer-during-ramadan-294562">Also read:&nbsp;Taliban reject Afghan ceasefire offer during Ramadan</a>

Dismissing reports of having made a vaccine for coronavirus, Advisor on Health Zafar Mirza informed the media that there is no coronavirus vaccine presently

“Let me clarify that while there are several initiatives to develop vaccines across the world, there is no such initiative in Pakistan at the moment," he said.

However, he confirmed the reports of a Chinese and Japanese manufacturer contacting the country for developing a vaccine.&nbsp;“We have asked for more information from them," Mirza said.

The Pakistan government has authorised the Pakistan army to take over if the public violates lockdown rules. The order has been issued specifically keeping in mind the business community and religious clerics.

The Pakistan government has authorised the Pakistan army to take over if the public violates lockdown rules. The order has been issued specifically keeping in mind the business community and religious clerics. The decision has been taken by Prime Minister Imran Khan to contain the spread of coronavirus. The decision came out after a meeting that took place at the ISI Headquarters in Rawalpindi on April 23. The meeting was attended by Imran Khan, COAS Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, DG-ISI Lt. Gen Faiz Hameed, some of the Cabinet ministers and advisors. The motive of the meeting was to discuss the tense situation in the country and to plan counter measures in case of emergencies. Also read: UK mosques could close forever due to coronavirus lockdown, says Muslim Council of Britain This is not the first time Imran Khan has been overpowered by the country's army. On March 22, Prime Minister addressed the nation and explained his reasons for not imposing a complete lockdown, stating that a lot of people would lose their jobs. However, few hours later Pakistan Army spokesperson Major General Babar Iftikhar announced a complete lockdown. Following the announcement, military was deployed in the country an was seen handling the COVID-19 response through the National Core Committee, a body set up to coordinate policy between the national and provincial governments. However, business community and religious clerics have claimed they will continue to operate their day-to-day life normal. According to sources, it was agreed in principle during the meeting that police, rangers and even troops can be used to maintain law and order if the business community and religious clerics attempt to cross their limit and violate the lockdown instructions. Also read: Ramzan: Amitabh Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor & others wish fans, urge people to stay at home Ramazan is an important month for the Muslim community all over the world. While the community is doing its best to stay indoors and celebrate from their homes, the situation seems to be tense in Pakistan. Several violators were reportedly arrested in Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Peshawar, Rawalpindi, Islamabad and other cities on the first day of the holy month of Ramadan. "The situation will worsen soon if the government would not ease its restrictions since poor people are very frustrated of not getting food and other basic amenities," the sources said, adding "government system is not effective". Also read: Pakistan to keep mosques open during Ramadan | Coronavirus Outbreak Total number of reported positive coronavirus cases have risen to 12,723 with a death toll of 269. However, several questions have been raised on whether the actual number is as reported. The Pakistan government, following the figures, extended the lockdown till May 09. The health officials of the country have been staging protests for weeks claiming that the hospitals are suffering from acute shortage of safety gear. "Overall circumstances are not short of civilian disobedience if the government does not relax its strict measures to maintain lockdown effectively, it will face a difficult position," sources said. Also read: Taliban reject Afghan ceasefire offer during Ramadan Dismissing reports of having made a vaccine for coronavirus, Advisor on Health Zafar Mirza informed the media that there is no coronavirus vaccine presently “Let me clarify that while there are several initiatives to develop vaccines across the world, there is no such initiative in Pakistan at the moment," he said. However, he confirmed the reports of a Chinese and Japanese manufacturer contacting the country for developing a vaccine. “We have asked for more information from them," Mirza said.

Imran Khan's government authorises army to take over in case of lockdown violations

Assam Chief Secretary, Kumar Sanjay Krishna on Saturday informed that no decision has been taken by the government pertaining to relaxation of ongoing lockdown such as opening of salons, shops, etc.

A decision in this regard will be taken on April 27, Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/4291-of-total-14378-covid-19-cases-related-to-nizamuddin-markaz-health-ministry-293315">Also read:&nbsp;4,291 of total 14,378 COVID-19 cases related to Nizamuddin Markaz: Health Ministry</a>

This comes just a day after the Spokesperson of the Home Affairs tweeted stating that "All registered shops registered under Shops and Establishment Act of respective States/ UTs, including shops in residential complexes, neighborhood and standalone shops exempted from lockdown restrictions."

"Market complexes, except those within the limits of municipal corporations and municipalities, are allowed to open. Mandatory: 50 per cent strength of workers, wearing of masks and observing Social Distancing. Relaxations not applicable in Hotspots/containment zones."

The entire country is under lockdown till May 3 as the number of cases of coronavirus are growing each day.

With 1,429 more COVID-19 cases reported in the last 24 hours, India's count of coronavirus cases has reached 24,506, said Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday.

Out of these, 18,668 patients are active cases and 5063 cases have been cured and discharged, or migrated.The death toll stands at 775, with as many as 57 deaths reported in the last 24 hours.

Assam Chief Secretary, Kumar Sanjay Krishna on Saturday informed that no decision has been taken by the government pertaining to relaxation of ongoing lockdown such as opening of salons, shops, etc.

Assam Chief Secretary, Kumar Sanjay Krishna on Saturday informed that no decision has been taken by the government pertaining to relaxation of ongoing lockdown such as opening of salons, shops, etc. A decision in this regard will be taken on April 27, Monday. Also read: 4,291 of total 14,378 COVID-19 cases related to Nizamuddin Markaz: Health Ministry This comes just a day after the Spokesperson of the Home Affairs tweeted stating that "All registered shops registered under Shops and Establishment Act of respective States/ UTs, including shops in residential complexes, neighborhood and standalone shops exempted from lockdown restrictions." "Market complexes, except those within the limits of municipal corporations and municipalities, are allowed to open. Mandatory: 50 per cent strength of workers, wearing of masks and observing Social Distancing. Relaxations not applicable in Hotspots/containment zones." The entire country is under lockdown till May 3 as the number of cases of coronavirus are growing each day. With 1,429 more COVID-19 cases reported in the last 24 hours, India's count of coronavirus cases has reached 24,506, said Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday. Out of these, 18,668 patients are active cases and 5063 cases have been cured and discharged, or migrated.The death toll stands at 775, with as many as 57 deaths reported in the last 24 hours.

Assam government to take decision on opening of shops on April 27

A total of 205 people belonging to Ladakh who returned from abroad and were quarantined at an Indian Army facility at Jodhpur have now arrived at Leh, after completing the isolation period, Northern Command said.

"#OpNamaste #CoronaMuktAwaam 205 foreign returnees belonging to Ladakh arrived at Leh, after completing quarantine at an Indian Army facility at Jodhpur. Reception and screening at Leh Airfield facilitated by #FireAndFuryCorps," Northern Command said in a tweet.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OpNamaste?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OpNamaste</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronaMuktAwaam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronaMuktAwaam</a> 
205 foreign returnees belonging to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ladakh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ladakh</a> arrived at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Leh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Leh</a>, after completing quarantine at an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> facility at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jodhpur?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jodhpur</a>. Reception &amp; screening at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Leh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Leh</a> Airfield facilitated by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FireAndFuryCorps?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FireAndFuryCorps</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adgpi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IAF_MCC</a><a href="https://twitter.com/lg_ladakh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lg_ladakh</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeCanWeCare?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeCanWeCare</a> <a href="https://t.co/UEXcculX5G">pic.twitter.com/UEXcculX5G</a>
— NorthernComd.IA (@NorthernComd_IA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NorthernComd_IA/status/1253865164815794176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Indian Air Force (IAF) too tweeted to inform that on Friday, its C130 and IL-76 aircraft airlifted 52 and 205 evacuees from Jaisalmer to Srinagar and Jodhpur to Leh respectively.

"#HarKaamDeshKeNaam 24 Apr 20, IAF`s C130 &amp; IL-76 aircraft airlifted 52 &amp; 205 evacuees from Jaisalmer to Srinagar &amp; Jodhpur to Leh respectively. All these people tested negative for #coronavirus after the quarantine period," said IAF in a tweet.

A total of 205 people belonging to Ladakh who returned from abroad and were quarantined at an Indian Army facility at Jodhpur have now arrived at Leh, after completing the isolation period, Northern Command said.

A total of 205 people belonging to Ladakh who returned from abroad and were quarantined at an Indian Army facility at Jodhpur have now arrived at Leh, after completing the isolation period, Northern Command said. "#OpNamaste #CoronaMuktAwaam 205 foreign returnees belonging to Ladakh arrived at Leh, after completing quarantine at an Indian Army facility at Jodhpur. Reception and screening at Leh Airfield facilitated by #FireAndFuryCorps," Northern Command said in a tweet. #OpNamaste #CoronaMuktAwaam 205 foreign returnees belonging to #Ladakh arrived at #Leh, after completing quarantine at an #IndianArmy facility at #Jodhpur. Reception & screening at #Leh Airfield facilitated by #FireAndFuryCorps.@adgpi@IAF_MCC@lg_ladakh#WeCanWeCare pic.twitter.com/UEXcculX5G — NorthernComd.IA (@NorthernComd_IA) April 25, 2020 × Indian Air Force (IAF) too tweeted to inform that on Friday, its C130 and IL-76 aircraft airlifted 52 and 205 evacuees from Jaisalmer to Srinagar and Jodhpur to Leh respectively. "#HarKaamDeshKeNaam 24 Apr 20, IAF`s C130 & IL-76 aircraft airlifted 52 & 205 evacuees from Jaisalmer to Srinagar & Jodhpur to Leh respectively. All these people tested negative for #coronavirus after the quarantine period," said IAF in a tweet.

205 foreign returnees arrive at Leh after completing quarantine at Jodhpur's army facility

China has dispatched a team to North Korea including medical experts to advise on North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, according to three people familiar with the situation.

The trip by the Chinese doctors and officials comes amid conflicting reports about the health of the North Korean leader. Reuters was unable to immediately determine what the trip by the Chinese team signaled in terms of Kim's health.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/reports-on-kims-ailing-health-incorrect-says-trump-294378">Also read:&nbsp;Reports on Kim's ailing health incorrect, says Trump</a>

A delegation led by a senior member of the Chinese Communist Party's International Liaison Department left Beijing for North Korea on Thursday, two of the people said. The department is the main Chinese body dealing with neighbouring North Korea.

The sources declined to be identified given the sensitivity of the matter.

The Liaison Department could not be reached by Reuters for comment late on Friday. China's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment late on Friday.

Daily NK, a Seoul-based website, reported earlier this week that Kim was recovering after undergoing a cardiovascular procedure on April 12. It cited one unnamed source in North Korea.

South Korean government officials and a Chinese official with the Liaison Department challenged subsequent reports suggesting that Kim was in grave danger after surgery. South Korean officials said they had detected no signs of unusual activity in North Korea.

On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump also downplayed earlier reports that Kim was gravely ill. "I think the report was incorrect," Trump told reporters, but he declined to say if he had been in touch with North Korean officials.

On Friday, a South Korean source told Reuters their intelligence was that Kim was alive and would likely make an appearance soon. The person said he did not have any comment on Kim's current condition or any Chinese involvement.

An official familiar with U.S. intelligence said that Kim was known to have health problems but they had no reason to conclude he was seriously ill or unable eventually to reappear in public.

A U.S. State department spokeswoman had no comment. U.S. Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, when asked about Kim's health on Fox News after Trump spoke said, "I don’t have anything I can share with you tonight, but the American people should know we're watching the situation very keenly."

North Korea is one of the world's most isolated and secretive countries, and the health of its leaders is treated as a matter of state security. Reuters has not been able to independently confirm any details on Kim's whereabouts or condition.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-capital-witness-panic-buying-of-food-after-strict-covid-19-norms-announced-294205">Also read:&nbsp;North Korean capital witness panic buying of food after strict covid-19 norms announced</a>

North Korea's state media last reported on Kim's whereabouts when he presided over a meeting on April 11. State media did not report that he was in attendance at an event to mark the birthday of his grandfather, Kim Il Sung, on April 15, an important anniversary in North Korea.

Kim, believed to be 36, has disappeared from coverage in North Korean state media before. In 2014, he vanished for more than a month and North Korean state TV later showed him walking with a limp. Speculation about his health has been fanned by his heavy smoking, apparent weight gain since taking power and family history of cardiovascular problems.

When Kim Jong Un's father, Kim Jong Il, suffered a stroke in 2008, South Korean media reported at the time that Chinese doctors were involved in his treatment along with French physicians.

Last year, Chinese President Xi Jinping made the first state visit in 14 years by a Chinese leader to North Korea, an impoverished state that depends on Beijing for economic and diplomatic support.

China is North Korea's chief ally and the economic lifeline for a country hard-hit by U.N. sanctions, and has a keen interest in the stability of the country with which it shares a long, porous border.

Kim is a third-generation hereditary leader who came to power after his father Kim Jong Il died in 2011 from a heart attack. He has visited China four times since 2018.

Trump held unprecedented summits with Kim in 2018 and 2019 as part of a bid to persuade him to give up North Korea’s nuclear arsenal.

China has dispatched a team to North Korea including medical experts to advise on North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, according to three people familiar with the situation.

China has dispatched a team to North Korea including medical experts to advise on North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, according to three people familiar with the situation. The trip by the Chinese doctors and officials comes amid conflicting reports about the health of the North Korean leader. Reuters was unable to immediately determine what the trip by the Chinese team signaled in terms of Kim's health. Also read: Reports on Kim's ailing health incorrect, says Trump A delegation led by a senior member of the Chinese Communist Party's International Liaison Department left Beijing for North Korea on Thursday, two of the people said. The department is the main Chinese body dealing with neighbouring North Korea. The sources declined to be identified given the sensitivity of the matter. The Liaison Department could not be reached by Reuters for comment late on Friday. China's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment late on Friday. Daily NK, a Seoul-based website, reported earlier this week that Kim was recovering after undergoing a cardiovascular procedure on April 12. It cited one unnamed source in North Korea. South Korean government officials and a Chinese official with the Liaison Department challenged subsequent reports suggesting that Kim was in grave danger after surgery. South Korean officials said they had detected no signs of unusual activity in North Korea. On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump also downplayed earlier reports that Kim was gravely ill. "I think the report was incorrect," Trump told reporters, but he declined to say if he had been in touch with North Korean officials. On Friday, a South Korean source told Reuters their intelligence was that Kim was alive and would likely make an appearance soon. The person said he did not have any comment on Kim's current condition or any Chinese involvement. An official familiar with U.S. intelligence said that Kim was known to have health problems but they had no reason to conclude he was seriously ill or unable eventually to reappear in public. A U.S. State department spokeswoman had no comment. U.S. Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, when asked about Kim's health on Fox News after Trump spoke said, "I don’t have anything I can share with you tonight, but the American people should know we're watching the situation very keenly." North Korea is one of the world's most isolated and secretive countries, and the health of its leaders is treated as a matter of state security. Reuters has not been able to independently confirm any details on Kim's whereabouts or condition. Also read: North Korean capital witness panic buying of food after strict covid-19 norms announced North Korea's state media last reported on Kim's whereabouts when he presided over a meeting on April 11. State media did not report that he was in attendance at an event to mark the birthday of his grandfather, Kim Il Sung, on April 15, an important anniversary in North Korea. Kim, believed to be 36, has disappeared from coverage in North Korean state media before. In 2014, he vanished for more than a month and North Korean state TV later showed him walking with a limp. Speculation about his health has been fanned by his heavy smoking, apparent weight gain since taking power and family history of cardiovascular problems. When Kim Jong Un's father, Kim Jong Il, suffered a stroke in 2008, South Korean media reported at the time that Chinese doctors were involved in his treatment along with French physicians. Last year, Chinese President Xi Jinping made the first state visit in 14 years by a Chinese leader to North Korea, an impoverished state that depends on Beijing for economic and diplomatic support. China is North Korea's chief ally and the economic lifeline for a country hard-hit by U.N. sanctions, and has a keen interest in the stability of the country with which it shares a long, porous border. Kim is a third-generation hereditary leader who came to power after his father Kim Jong Il died in 2011 from a heart attack. He has visited China four times since 2018. Trump held unprecedented summits with Kim in 2018 and 2019 as part of a bid to persuade him to give up North Korea’s nuclear arsenal.

China sent team including medical experts to advise on North Korea’s Kim, after news of his death surfaces

The sun is only just rising in Berlin but Lothar Kopp, 65, is already standing in line outside a clinic in the district of Reinickendorf.

Along with a handful of mask-clad people standing two metres apart, he is here to give a blood sample -- for antibody tests in the hope of finding out if he has previously contracted the coronavirus and since developed immunity.

"If I've already had corona then I'm not infectious," said Kopp, hoping to test positive for antibodies as it could allow him to visit his elderly mother without the risk of spreading the disease.

As nations around the world look to ease curbs on public life, some experts have mooted the possibility of so-called "immunity passports" to allow those who have antibodies to return to work first.

In Germany, tens of thousands of tests have been performed and large studies are ongoing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/air-pollution-is-linked-to-higher-covid-19-death-rates-says-study-294477">Also read:&nbsp;Air pollution is linked to higher COVID-19 death rates, says study</a>

Elsewhere in the world, efforts are also under way to determine the so-called level of immunity in the population.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said last week that the state will be launching tests "in the most aggressive way in the nation" to find out how many have already had the disease.

In a rush to catch up with testing, the US regulator had even taken the extraordinary decision to allow commercial manufacturers to market their tests without formal authorisation.

But experts including from the World Health Organization have urged caution over the accuracy of the nascent tests.

Among the unknowns of the virus is how long immunity could last -- meaning that even positive antibody tests may not be meaningful for long.

'Nonsense'

Urging prudence, a WHO spokeswoman noted that there is "much discussion" over the antibody tests.

But "once we have validated tests we may still not know how well a positive result correlates with protection against disease or for how long the protection will last," she told AFP.

Matthias Orth, a board member of the Professional Association of German Laboratory Doctors (BDL), said inaccuracies are a big problem.

People can test negative even if they have had COVID-19, he said.

"There are also quite banal coronaviruses that do not cause serious illness, and they can give a positive result."

As for so-called rapid antibody tests -- home kits that extract blood from your finger and promise a result within 15 minutes -- Orth's verdict: "They're nonsense."

More accurate tests will come within weeks, he said, but he stressed that "it's a little too early to give patients a clear statement that they are definitely immune".

70,000 tests

Experts also note that while large-scale studies underway across Europe's biggest economy can serve to determine what proportion of the population has been infected, they cannot say for sure how many people are actually immune given the limitations on current antibodies tests.

Nevertheless, the studies, including one that started in Munich over the weekend with scientists picking 3,000 households at random to test for antibodies, are being closely watched.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-adds-another-feather-to-its-cap-partners-with-germanys-leading-broadcaster-dw-294624">Also read:&nbsp;WION adds another feather to its cap, partners with Germany's leading broadcaster DW</a>

A separate study is ongoing in Gangelt, in the Heinsberg district -- where Germany's first major cluster of infections was uncovered. So far, researchers have determined that 14 percent of the population had previously been infected.

Beyond studies, several pharmaceutical companies in Germany have also begun marketing such antibody tests -- which must be analysed in a laboratory.

And around 70,000 tests have so far been processed by 54 laboratories, according to the ALM association of accredited medical laboratories.

Doctor Ulrike Leimer-Lipke of the Reinickendorf clinic, which has been offering antibody tests since mid-March, said: "I think it makes a lot of sense, because this way we can find out if people have immunity.

"It is very important for people if they have a grandmother or a mother or father who they care for, to know if they are already immune."

The sun is only just rising in Berlin but Lothar Kopp, 65, is already standing in line outside a clinic in the district of Reinickendorf. Along with a handful of mask-clad people standing two metres apart, he is here to give a blood sample -- for antibody tests in the hope of finding out if he has previously contracted the coronavirus and since developed immunity.

The sun is only just rising in Berlin but Lothar Kopp, 65, is already standing in line outside a clinic in the district of Reinickendorf. Along with a handful of mask-clad people standing two metres apart, he is here to give a blood sample -- for antibody tests in the hope of finding out if he has previously contracted the coronavirus and since developed immunity. "If I've already had corona then I'm not infectious," said Kopp, hoping to test positive for antibodies as it could allow him to visit his elderly mother without the risk of spreading the disease. As nations around the world look to ease curbs on public life, some experts have mooted the possibility of so-called "immunity passports" to allow those who have antibodies to return to work first. In Germany, tens of thousands of tests have been performed and large studies are ongoing. Also read: Air pollution is linked to higher COVID-19 death rates, says study Elsewhere in the world, efforts are also under way to determine the so-called level of immunity in the population. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said last week that the state will be launching tests "in the most aggressive way in the nation" to find out how many have already had the disease. In a rush to catch up with testing, the US regulator had even taken the extraordinary decision to allow commercial manufacturers to market their tests without formal authorisation. But experts including from the World Health Organization have urged caution over the accuracy of the nascent tests. Among the unknowns of the virus is how long immunity could last -- meaning that even positive antibody tests may not be meaningful for long. 'Nonsense' Urging prudence, a WHO spokeswoman noted that there is "much discussion" over the antibody tests. But "once we have validated tests we may still not know how well a positive result correlates with protection against disease or for how long the protection will last," she told AFP. Matthias Orth, a board member of the Professional Association of German Laboratory Doctors (BDL), said inaccuracies are a big problem. People can test negative even if they have had COVID-19, he said. "There are also quite banal coronaviruses that do not cause serious illness, and they can give a positive result." As for so-called rapid antibody tests -- home kits that extract blood from your finger and promise a result within 15 minutes -- Orth's verdict: "They're nonsense." More accurate tests will come within weeks, he said, but he stressed that "it's a little too early to give patients a clear statement that they are definitely immune". 70,000 tests Experts also note that while large-scale studies underway across Europe's biggest economy can serve to determine what proportion of the population has been infected, they cannot say for sure how many people are actually immune given the limitations on current antibodies tests. Nevertheless, the studies, including one that started in Munich over the weekend with scientists picking 3,000 households at random to test for antibodies, are being closely watched. Also read: WION adds another feather to its cap, partners with Germany's leading broadcaster DW A separate study is ongoing in Gangelt, in the Heinsberg district -- where Germany's first major cluster of infections was uncovered. So far, researchers have determined that 14 percent of the population had previously been infected. Beyond studies, several pharmaceutical companies in Germany have also begun marketing such antibody tests -- which must be analysed in a laboratory. And around 70,000 tests have so far been processed by 54 laboratories, according to the ALM association of accredited medical laboratories. Doctor Ulrike Leimer-Lipke of the Reinickendorf clinic, which has been offering antibody tests since mid-March, said: "I think it makes a lot of sense, because this way we can find out if people have immunity. "It is very important for people if they have a grandmother or a mother or father who they care for, to know if they are already immune."

Hopes grow for antibody tests, but experts urge caution

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to return to work soon after his recovery from COVID-19, as pressure mounts on his government to explain how to get Britain out of lockdown.

Johnson, 55, has been recuperating at the British prime ministerial retreat, Chequers, outside London since his release from hospital on April 12.

He spent three days in intensive care and later admitted that "things could have gone either way", forcing him to take it easy before returning to the political fray.

But there have been increasing signs his return to Downing Street could be imminent, after officials said he had spoken to Queen Elizabeth II and also US President Donald Trump.

Trump on Thursday said Johnson was full of "tremendous energy" and sounded "incredible" when they talked on the phone.

"I was actually surprised... he was ready to go," he told reporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/just-another-patient-new-zealand-nurse-tells-of-treating-british-pm-for-coronavirus-294210">Also read:&nbsp;'Just another patient': New Zealand nurse tells of treating British PM for coronavirus</a>

The Daily Telegraph, Johnson's former employer, suggested he could be back at his desk on Monday, and hold briefing meetings with individual cabinet ministers.

But Health Secretary Matt Hancock was more cautious, despite the prime minister's progress.

"I spoke to him yesterday, he's cheerful, and he's ebullient and he's definitely on the mend in a big way," he said on Friday.

"When exactly he comes back is a matter for him and his doctors."

Growing criticism

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has been deputising since Johnson was taken to hospital on April 6, chairing cabinet meetings about political strategy to fight the outbreak.

But while nominally in charge, Raab as "first secretary of state" would have required overall cabinet approval to take any major decisions, such as easing lockdown measures.

In reality, Raab, senior minister Michael Gove and Health Minister Matt Hancock have largely shared the leadership burden in Johnson's absence, which has coincided with the suspected peak in hospital deaths and positive tests.

Britain has been one of the worst-hit countries in the world by the virus, with hundreds of deaths reported every day.

The actual death toll could rise further when deaths in the community are taken into account, particularly from care homes.

While Johnson was away, senior ministers have faced collective criticism over shortages in personal protective equipment (PPE) and a lack of widespread testing, particularly of frontline health and social care workers.

"The government hasn't been as agile as it should have been," Chaand Nagpaul, chair of the council of the British Medical Association (BMA), told Sky News television.

"This is extremely emotionally taxing and it's showing its toll on the healthcare workforce."

Johnson has received support during his illness, which has been seen as a clear demonstration of the indiscriminate nature of the virus.

But sympathy could wane as he once again becomes the focal point of the government if issues about gaps in PPE supply and lack of testing persist.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-uk-death-toll-drops-in-last-24-hours-as-infection-cases-rise-294338">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: UK death toll drops in last 24 hours as infection cases rise</a>

His actions in the early days of the outbreak came in for harsh criticism last week, after he held off introducing strict measures adopted by European neighbours.

The main opposition Labour party leader Keir Starmer accused the government of being "slow into lockdown, slow on testing, slow on protective equipment".

He will also be expected to immediately explain how he plans to get the country's economy up and running again while controlling the spread of the virus.

Deep recession

There have been growing demands for an exit strategy from the current national lockdown, which was first imposed on March 23, extended on April 16 and is due for review on May 7.

Ministers have so far refused publicly to speculate on when restrictions will be lifted, saying that experts were not sure Britain was over the peak of the outbreak.

There have been calls for more clarity, however, including from within Johnson's ruling Conservative party, as the economic consequences of the outbreak become more stark.

Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith said the government needed to "bite the bullet and do it", as some businesses began reopening despite the ban.

The Bank of England warned on Thursday that the country faces its worst recession in "several centuries".

Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon also upped the ante by revealing her broader strategy, including the possible phased reopening of some businesses and schools.

Northern Ireland's First Minister Arlene Foster has also suggested she could lift restrictions before England.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to return to work soon after his recovery from COVID-19, as pressure mounts on his government to explain how to get Britain out of lockdown.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to return to work soon after his recovery from COVID-19, as pressure mounts on his government to explain how to get Britain out of lockdown. Johnson, 55, has been recuperating at the British prime ministerial retreat, Chequers, outside London since his release from hospital on April 12. He spent three days in intensive care and later admitted that "things could have gone either way", forcing him to take it easy before returning to the political fray. But there have been increasing signs his return to Downing Street could be imminent, after officials said he had spoken to Queen Elizabeth II and also US President Donald Trump. Trump on Thursday said Johnson was full of "tremendous energy" and sounded "incredible" when they talked on the phone. "I was actually surprised... he was ready to go," he told reporters. Also read: 'Just another patient': New Zealand nurse tells of treating British PM for coronavirus The Daily Telegraph, Johnson's former employer, suggested he could be back at his desk on Monday, and hold briefing meetings with individual cabinet ministers. But Health Secretary Matt Hancock was more cautious, despite the prime minister's progress. "I spoke to him yesterday, he's cheerful, and he's ebullient and he's definitely on the mend in a big way," he said on Friday. "When exactly he comes back is a matter for him and his doctors." Growing criticism Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has been deputising since Johnson was taken to hospital on April 6, chairing cabinet meetings about political strategy to fight the outbreak. But while nominally in charge, Raab as "first secretary of state" would have required overall cabinet approval to take any major decisions, such as easing lockdown measures. In reality, Raab, senior minister Michael Gove and Health Minister Matt Hancock have largely shared the leadership burden in Johnson's absence, which has coincided with the suspected peak in hospital deaths and positive tests. Britain has been one of the worst-hit countries in the world by the virus, with hundreds of deaths reported every day. The actual death toll could rise further when deaths in the community are taken into account, particularly from care homes. While Johnson was away, senior ministers have faced collective criticism over shortages in personal protective equipment (PPE) and a lack of widespread testing, particularly of frontline health and social care workers. "The government hasn't been as agile as it should have been," Chaand Nagpaul, chair of the council of the British Medical Association (BMA), told Sky News television. "This is extremely emotionally taxing and it's showing its toll on the healthcare workforce." Johnson has received support during his illness, which has been seen as a clear demonstration of the indiscriminate nature of the virus. But sympathy could wane as he once again becomes the focal point of the government if issues about gaps in PPE supply and lack of testing persist. Also read: COVID-19: UK death toll drops in last 24 hours as infection cases rise His actions in the early days of the outbreak came in for harsh criticism last week, after he held off introducing strict measures adopted by European neighbours. The main opposition Labour party leader Keir Starmer accused the government of being "slow into lockdown, slow on testing, slow on protective equipment". He will also be expected to immediately explain how he plans to get the country's economy up and running again while controlling the spread of the virus. Deep recession There have been growing demands for an exit strategy from the current national lockdown, which was first imposed on March 23, extended on April 16 and is due for review on May 7. Ministers have so far refused publicly to speculate on when restrictions will be lifted, saying that experts were not sure Britain was over the peak of the outbreak. There have been calls for more clarity, however, including from within Johnson's ruling Conservative party, as the economic consequences of the outbreak become more stark. Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith said the government needed to "bite the bullet and do it", as some businesses began reopening despite the ban. The Bank of England warned on Thursday that the country faces its worst recession in "several centuries". Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon also upped the ante by revealing her broader strategy, including the possible phased reopening of some businesses and schools. Northern Ireland's First Minister Arlene Foster has also suggested she could lift restrictions before England.

Boris Johnson set to return to office as pressure mounts to explain UK virus plan

Two Chinese pharma companies, which supplied 5.5 lakh rapid testing kits for COVID-19 to India, said they are ready to cooperate with Indian agencies looking into allegations of poor accuracy of their products.

In separate statements, Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Livzon Diagnostics said they follow strict quality control of their products, asserting that specified guidelines must be followed in the storage of the kits as well in their usages to get accurate results.

India's apex medical research body ICMR on Tuesday advised states to stop using the rapid antibody test kits for next two days till it examines their quality following complaints that they are not fully effective in detecting coronavirus infection.

Last week, India procured 5.5 lakh rapid antibody test kits from these two Chinese firms and they were distributed to several states reporting rising cases of coronavirus infection.

While Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech supplied 3 lakh test kits, Livzon Diagnostics delivered 2.5 lakh.

Livzon Diagnostics, in its statement, said: "We are shocked to receive negative reports from India related to poor accuracy of COVID 19 rapid testing kits made in China including our brand.

We have shown great concern on this issue, and we are willing to coordinate with the related government departments for investigation."

The company said it fulfilled all required quality control standards prescribed by Chinese government and that the company has been exporting the product to at least 10 countries including Brazil, Peru, Columbia and several European nations.

"The test kits should be stored at a temperature between 2 and 30-degree Celsius and should not be frozen. If the storage temperature is too high, the accuracy of the test may be influenced," it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-rapid-testing-paused-due-to-issues-with-chinese-kits-293997">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: Rapid testing paused due to issues with Chinese kits</a>

In its statement, Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech said the company has been exporting the kits to more than 70 countries and that the product was validated and approved by the ICMR through National Institute of Virology in Pune.

"In the process of exporting the products to overseas countries, Wondfo fully cooperates with relevant health authorities in each country to carry out various verifications on the sensitivity and specificity of our products," it said.

The statements by the two companies were released to the media by an official of the Chinese embassy here.

At present, the government hospitals have been using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests to detect coronavirus from the throat or nasal swab samples of people.

These take around five to six hours to show the results.

In the rapid antibody tests, the blood samples of suspected patients are taken, and it normally takes around 15-30 minutes to give the result.

India has been facing a severe shortage of testing kits in view of rising cases of the coronavirus.

Two Chinese pharma companies, which supplied 5.5 lakh rapid testing kits for COVID-19 to India, said they are ready to cooperate with Indian agencies looking into allegations of poor accuracy of their products.

Two Chinese pharma companies, which supplied 5.5 lakh rapid testing kits for COVID-19 to India, said they are ready to cooperate with Indian agencies looking into allegations of poor accuracy of their products. In separate statements, Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Livzon Diagnostics said they follow strict quality control of their products, asserting that specified guidelines must be followed in the storage of the kits as well in their usages to get accurate results. India's apex medical research body ICMR on Tuesday advised states to stop using the rapid antibody test kits for next two days till it examines their quality following complaints that they are not fully effective in detecting coronavirus infection. Last week, India procured 5.5 lakh rapid antibody test kits from these two Chinese firms and they were distributed to several states reporting rising cases of coronavirus infection. While Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech supplied 3 lakh test kits, Livzon Diagnostics delivered 2.5 lakh. Livzon Diagnostics, in its statement, said: "We are shocked to receive negative reports from India related to poor accuracy of COVID 19 rapid testing kits made in China including our brand. We have shown great concern on this issue, and we are willing to coordinate with the related government departments for investigation." The company said it fulfilled all required quality control standards prescribed by Chinese government and that the company has been exporting the product to at least 10 countries including Brazil, Peru, Columbia and several European nations. "The test kits should be stored at a temperature between 2 and 30-degree Celsius and should not be frozen. If the storage temperature is too high, the accuracy of the test may be influenced," it said. Also read: COVID-19: Rapid testing paused due to issues with Chinese kits In its statement, Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech said the company has been exporting the kits to more than 70 countries and that the product was validated and approved by the ICMR through National Institute of Virology in Pune. "In the process of exporting the products to overseas countries, Wondfo fully cooperates with relevant health authorities in each country to carry out various verifications on the sensitivity and specificity of our products," it said. The statements by the two companies were released to the media by an official of the Chinese embassy here. At present, the government hospitals have been using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests to detect coronavirus from the throat or nasal swab samples of people. These take around five to six hours to show the results. In the rapid antibody tests, the blood samples of suspected patients are taken, and it normally takes around 15-30 minutes to give the result. India has been facing a severe shortage of testing kits in view of rising cases of the coronavirus.

Chinese suppliers of faulty rapid kits say they are ready to cooperate with Indian agencies

China is dropping a requirement that several key virus treatment products get regulatory approval before export, as long as they are approved in the importing countries, news agency Reuters reported quoting&nbsp;commerce ministry.

China had been stipulating such approval since the end of March after several European countries complained that Chinese-made test kits were inaccurate, in effect hampering many firms' efforts to supply global efforts against the coronavirus pandemic, the report added.

The new ruling applies to products such as coronavirus tests, medical masks, protective suits, infrared thermometers and ventilators.

"Tonight's new rule is a revision to (the older rule)," said Zhang Shuwen, the CEO of Liming Bio-products, a biotech firm offering coronavirus tests targeting the overseas market. "It's wrong to have a one-size-fits-all policy..."

"Each country may have different criteria for medicines and medical devices. The priority is to meet the requirement in the countries where the product will be sold, instead of where the product is made," Zhang said. 
The previous ban vexed medical device firms in the cities of Hangzhou and Shenzhen, who tried to seek help from local governments, Zhang added.

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

China is dropping a requirement that several key virus treatment products get regulatory approval before export, as long as they are approved in the importing countries, news agency Reuters reported quoting commerce ministry.

China is dropping a requirement that several key virus treatment products get regulatory approval before export, as long as they are approved in the importing countries, news agency Reuters reported quoting commerce ministry. China had been stipulating such approval since the end of March after several European countries complained that Chinese-made test kits were inaccurate, in effect hampering many firms' efforts to supply global efforts against the coronavirus pandemic, the report added. The new ruling applies to products such as coronavirus tests, medical masks, protective suits, infrared thermometers and ventilators. "Tonight's new rule is a revision to (the older rule)," said Zhang Shuwen, the CEO of Liming Bio-products, a biotech firm offering coronavirus tests targeting the overseas market. "It's wrong to have a one-size-fits-all policy..." "Each country may have different criteria for medicines and medical devices. The priority is to meet the requirement in the countries where the product will be sold, instead of where the product is made," Zhang said. The previous ban vexed medical device firms in the cities of Hangzhou and Shenzhen, who tried to seek help from local governments, Zhang added. (With inputs from Reuters)

China eases restrictions on exports of some coronavirus equipment: Report

With the U.S. coronavirus death toll topping 51,000 and nearly one in six workers out of a job, Georgia, Oklahoma and several other states took tentative steps at reopening businesses on Friday, despite disapproval from President Donald Trump and medical experts.

Fitness clubs, hair salons, tattoo parlours and some other workplaces were allowed to open their doors by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, disregarding warnings from public health officials that easing restrictions too soon could lead to more infections and deaths.

Georgia, one of several states in the Deep South that waited until early April to mandate restrictions imposed weeks before across much of the rest of the country to curb the outbreak, has become a flashpoint in the debate over how and when the nation should return to work.

While the COVID-19 illness is killing thousands of Americans daily, stay-at-home orders and business closures have thrown more than 26 million people out of work, a level of unemployment not seen since the Great Depression of the 1930s.

"We've been hurting real bad," said Lester Crowell, co-owner and manager of the Three-13 hair salon in suburban Atlanta, which reopened after 33 days. "I had to dip into my own bank account to keep the lights on here."

A dozen customers lined up outside the salon, each standing 6 feet apart. Before they could enter, staff members took their temperatures and asked if anyone had a cough, a recent fever or a housemate who had been sick or quarantined.

Despite the lost revenue, not all eligible merchants in Georgia jumped at the chance to resume business. Shay Cannon, owner of Liberty Tattoo in Atlanta, said he would reopen in May by appointment only and did not foresee a return to normal until June or later.

"We're just watching the numbers and doing what seems right to us," Cannon told Reuters.

The U.S. death toll from COVID-19, the highest in the world, surpassed 51,000 on Friday, having doubled in 10 days, according to a Reuters tally, and the number of Americans known to be infected surpassed 900,000.

Other states reopening&nbsp;

Georgia was not alone in reopening.

Oklahoma was permitting some retailers to resume business on Friday, Florida began reopening its beaches a week ago, South Carolina started easing restrictions on Monday, and other states will follow suit next week.

Trump, who had staked his November re-election on the nation's booming economy before the pandemic, has given mixed signals about when and how the country should begin to get back to work.

Last Friday, a day after the White House issued federal guidelines urging a gradual, cautious approach advocated by health experts, he called for several Democratic governors to "liberate" their states from economic restrictions. But in a reversal this week, he publicly criticized fellow Republican Kemp's moves to reopen Georgia.

Late on Thursday, Trump sparked fresh confusion over prospects for COVID-19 treatments, suggesting scientists should investigate whether patients might be cured by ingesting disinfectants or being bathed in ultraviolet light.

The comments prompted doctors, health experts and manufacturers of bleach to warn the public not to drink or inject disinfectant. On Friday, Trump said his remarks were meant as sarcasm.

U.S. Representative Doug Collins, a Georgia Republican, said restarting commerce on Friday was sending mixed messages.

"Everyone's supposed to be staying home, but yet we're opening up these businesses," Collins told Fox News. He cited the guidelines calling for states to register a two-week decline in coronavirus cases before easing restrictions, and said parts of Georgia were still struggling to treat patients.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, whose state has been the worst hit by the virus, said reopening the economy prematurely in any U.S. state was a danger to others.

With the U.S. coronavirus death toll topping 51,000 and nearly one in six workers out of a job, Georgia, Oklahoma and several other states took tentative steps at reopening businesses on Friday, despite disapproval from President Donald Trump and medical experts.

With the U.S. coronavirus death toll topping 51,000 and nearly one in six workers out of a job, Georgia, Oklahoma and several other states took tentative steps at reopening businesses on Friday, despite disapproval from President Donald Trump and medical experts. Fitness clubs, hair salons, tattoo parlours and some other workplaces were allowed to open their doors by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, disregarding warnings from public health officials that easing restrictions too soon could lead to more infections and deaths. Georgia, one of several states in the Deep South that waited until early April to mandate restrictions imposed weeks before across much of the rest of the country to curb the outbreak, has become a flashpoint in the debate over how and when the nation should return to work. While the COVID-19 illness is killing thousands of Americans daily, stay-at-home orders and business closures have thrown more than 26 million people out of work, a level of unemployment not seen since the Great Depression of the 1930s. "We've been hurting real bad," said Lester Crowell, co-owner and manager of the Three-13 hair salon in suburban Atlanta, which reopened after 33 days. "I had to dip into my own bank account to keep the lights on here." A dozen customers lined up outside the salon, each standing 6 feet apart. Before they could enter, staff members took their temperatures and asked if anyone had a cough, a recent fever or a housemate who had been sick or quarantined. Despite the lost revenue, not all eligible merchants in Georgia jumped at the chance to resume business. Shay Cannon, owner of Liberty Tattoo in Atlanta, said he would reopen in May by appointment only and did not foresee a return to normal until June or later. "We're just watching the numbers and doing what seems right to us," Cannon told Reuters. The U.S. death toll from COVID-19, the highest in the world, surpassed 51,000 on Friday, having doubled in 10 days, according to a Reuters tally, and the number of Americans known to be infected surpassed 900,000. Other states reopening Georgia was not alone in reopening. Oklahoma was permitting some retailers to resume business on Friday, Florida began reopening its beaches a week ago, South Carolina started easing restrictions on Monday, and other states will follow suit next week. Trump, who had staked his November re-election on the nation's booming economy before the pandemic, has given mixed signals about when and how the country should begin to get back to work. Last Friday, a day after the White House issued federal guidelines urging a gradual, cautious approach advocated by health experts, he called for several Democratic governors to "liberate" their states from economic restrictions. But in a reversal this week, he publicly criticized fellow Republican Kemp's moves to reopen Georgia. Late on Thursday, Trump sparked fresh confusion over prospects for COVID-19 treatments, suggesting scientists should investigate whether patients might be cured by ingesting disinfectants or being bathed in ultraviolet light. The comments prompted doctors, health experts and manufacturers of bleach to warn the public not to drink or inject disinfectant. On Friday, Trump said his remarks were meant as sarcasm. U.S. Representative Doug Collins, a Georgia Republican, said restarting commerce on Friday was sending mixed messages. "Everyone's supposed to be staying home, but yet we're opening up these businesses," Collins told Fox News. He cited the guidelines calling for states to register a two-week decline in coronavirus cases before easing restrictions, and said parts of Georgia were still struggling to treat patients. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, whose state has been the worst hit by the virus, said reopening the economy prematurely in any U.S. state was a danger to others.

As US coronavirus death toll tops 51,000, handful of states move toward reopening

covid-19-1

Covid 19, News on Covid 19, stories on Covid 19, articles on Covid 19, Covid 19 stories at Wion, Covid 19 news, Covid 19 latest news

covid 19-1