<p content="BANGALORE, India, April 25, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown." data-reactid="12" type="text">To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown.

<p content="BANGALORE, India, April 25, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown." data-reactid="12" type="text">The COVID e-Pass system is an application where the state nodal officers will approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company will then be allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota. The companies will be able to do this&nbsp;on their own, without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass will be delivered to the applicant in a PDF format and an SMS. Carrying a photo identification card will be compulsory for all the applicants.

<p content="The COVID e-Pass system is a trust-based application where the state nodal officers must approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company is then allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota, on their own without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass is delivered to the applicant in pdf and SMS with an instruction to carry a valid photo ID. State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute." data-reactid="13" type="text"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-coronavirus-pandemic-is-this-a-world-war-in-disguise-294597">Also read:&nbsp;WION Edit: Coronavirus pandemic - is this a world war in disguise?</a>

<p content="The COVID e-Pass system is a trust-based application where the state nodal officers must approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company is then allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota, on their own without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass is delivered to the applicant in pdf and SMS with an instruction to carry a valid photo ID. State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute." data-reactid="13" type="text">State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute.

<p content="This easy to use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry &amp;amp; Karnataka State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, expressed satisfaction with the working of the system and stated that the solution will provide relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel for managing nationwide supply chains." data-reactid="14" type="text">This easy-to-use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry and Karnataka.

<p content="This easy to use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry &amp;amp; Karnataka State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, expressed satisfaction with the working of the system and stated that the solution will provide relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel for managing nationwide supply chains." data-reactid="14" type="text">State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, said he is very much satisfied with this system as it provides relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel while managing nationwide supply chains.

<p content="This easy to use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry &amp;amp; Karnataka State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, expressed satisfaction with the working of the system and stated that the solution will provide relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel for managing nationwide supply chains." data-reactid="14" type="text"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ramzan-in-the-times-of-coronavirus-294615">Also read:&nbsp;Ramzan in the times of coronavirus</a>

<p content="The e-Pass platform has also been integrated with Aarogya Setu, government's COVID-19 contact tracing app which has an estimated one million new users registering every hour, and a total of 70 million registrants. The first phase of this integration will allow the e-Pass system to poll Aarogya Setu to check the health indicator of the individuals before generating the ePass. The copy of the ePass is also deposited in the individual's Aarogya Setu app for easyaccess and verification." data-reactid="15" type="text">The e-Pass platform has also been integrated with Aarogya Setu, government's COVID-19 contact tracing app. The first phase of this integration will allow the e-Pass system to poll Aarogya Setu to check the health indicator of the individuals before generating the ePass. The copy of the ePass is also deposited in the individual's Aarogya Setu app for easy access and verification.

<p content="'The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones'- Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated 'Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown.' About eGov Foundation eGov Foundation was established in 2003 by Nandan Nilekani and Srikanth Nadhamuni to partner with city administrators in their drive to leverage the transformative power of technology for a better quality of life in our cities and to make them sustainable." data-reactid="16" type="text">"The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly, it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones," said&nbsp;Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation.

<p content="'The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones'- Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated 'Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown.' About eGov Foundation eGov Foundation was established in 2003 by Nandan Nilekani and Srikanth Nadhamuni to partner with city administrators in their drive to leverage the transformative power of technology for a better quality of life in our cities and to make them sustainable." data-reactid="16" type="text">Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated "Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown."

To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown.

To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown. The COVID e-Pass system is an application where the state nodal officers will approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company will then be allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota. The companies will be able to do this on their own, without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass will be delivered to the applicant in a PDF format and an SMS. Carrying a photo identification card will be compulsory for all the applicants. Also read: WION Edit: Coronavirus pandemic - is this a world war in disguise? State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute. This easy-to-use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry and Karnataka. State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, said he is very much satisfied with this system as it provides relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel while managing nationwide supply chains. Also read: Ramzan in the times of coronavirus The e-Pass platform has also been integrated with Aarogya Setu, government's COVID-19 contact tracing app. The first phase of this integration will allow the e-Pass system to poll Aarogya Setu to check the health indicator of the individuals before generating the ePass. The copy of the ePass is also deposited in the individual's Aarogya Setu app for easy access and verification. "The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly, it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones," said Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation. Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated "Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown."

eGov Foundation Launches COVID e-Pass Platform to make transportation of essential goods easier

The state government on Saturday appealed to the Arvind Kejriwal dispensation to make staying arrangements for Haryana residents who are employed with the Delhi government, saying their daily movement increases the risk of COVID-19 spread.

Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij on Saturday said Sonipat, which borders Delhi, has so far reported 17 coronavirus cases and claimed 13 of them were found to have contracted the infection in the national capital.

<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>

He said a Delhi police personnel, who resides in Jhajjar, was also found coronavirus positive. Besides, a few COVID-19 positive cases in Gurgaon were found to have contracted infection in Delhi, he said.

"This situation poses grave danger and increases risk of infection manifold to Haryana," he said.

Likewise, he said, there are many areas including Gurgaon, Jhajjar, Bahadurgarh and Faridabad, where Haryana residents who are employed in Delhi commute daily between their homes and workplace.

"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.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-hope-people-appreciate-value-of-sport-and-fitness-after-crisis-bhaichung-bhutia-opens-up-on-life-under-lockdown-impact-of-pandemic-on-global-football-and-more-294612">Also read:&nbsp;Exclusive: 'Hope people appreciate value of sport and fitness after crisis' - Bhaichung Bhutia opens up on life under lockdown, impact of pandemic on global football and more</a>

He said as these employees are issued passes by the Delhi government, despite heavy police presence at the inter-state borders, the authorities in Haryana have to allow them.

"The Delhi government should not issue passes and make arrangements for their stay in the national capital," he said.

Vij said he has directed Haryana's Director General of Police to completely seal off the borders with Delhi and ensure anyone, who is not authorised, does not enter the state.

On Delhi employees who travel to Haryana using passes, he said, "If the Kejriwal government does not stop issuing these passes and make arrangements for their stay, we may be forced to think about the next course of action".

The state government on Saturday appealed to the Arvind Kejriwal dispensation to make staying arrangements for Haryana residents who are employed with the Delhi government, saying their daily movement increases the risk of COVID-19 spread.

The state government on Saturday appealed to the Arvind Kejriwal dispensation to make staying arrangements for Haryana residents who are employed with the Delhi government, saying their daily movement increases the risk of COVID-19 spread. Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij on Saturday said Sonipat, which borders Delhi, has so far reported 17 coronavirus cases and claimed 13 of them were found to have contracted the infection in the national capital. Also read: Donate blood plasma, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal appeals to recovered COVID-19 patients He said a Delhi police personnel, who resides in Jhajjar, was also found coronavirus positive. Besides, a few COVID-19 positive cases in Gurgaon were found to have contracted infection in Delhi, he said. "This situation poses grave danger and increases risk of infection manifold to Haryana," he said. Likewise, he said, there are many areas including Gurgaon, Jhajjar, Bahadurgarh and Faridabad, where Haryana residents who are employed in Delhi commute daily between their homes and workplace. "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. Also read: Exclusive: 'Hope people appreciate value of sport and fitness after crisis' - Bhaichung Bhutia opens up on life under lockdown, impact of pandemic on global football and more He said as these employees are issued passes by the Delhi government, despite heavy police presence at the inter-state borders, the authorities in Haryana have to allow them. "The Delhi government should not issue passes and make arrangements for their stay in the national capital," he said. Vij said he has directed Haryana's Director General of Police to completely seal off the borders with Delhi and ensure anyone, who is not authorised, does not enter the state. On Delhi employees who travel to Haryana using passes, he said, "If the Kejriwal government does not stop issuing these passes and make arrangements for their stay, we may be forced to think about the next course of action".

Kejriwal should arrange stay of Delhi govt employees from Haryana: Anil Vij

The Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) on Saturday wrote to West Bengal Chief Secretary (CS) Rajiva Sinha, sharing its observations from spot visits in Howrah and raised issues with regard to quarantine centres and surveillance zones.

In the letter to Sinha, IMCT head Apurva Chandra, Additional Secretary with the Central government, also enquired about personal protective equipment (PPE) stock and contact tracing and quarantine of individuals, who returned from Delhi's Markaz event.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-explicitly-appeasing-minority-community-governor-attacks-bengal-cm-294466">Also read:&nbsp;Mamata explicitly appeasing minority community: Governor attacks Bengal CM</a>

Talking about its visit to Damorjala quarantine centre, Chandra said there are 80 inmates in the 118 capacity quarantine centre who were sent for testing in a "cramped van without maintaining any social distance. "The government officials have taken away the mobile phones of these inmates and they could not inform their families about their condition.

"Since the State government has taken away mobiles from inmates in hospitals, the inmates of the quarantine centre were apprehensive as they had no information about the safety of their kin admitted to COVID hospitals. Effectively, an inmate is relieved only after two weeks of quarantine even if he has tested negative and there remains a possibility of his catching infection during the period," he said.

With reference to the Sanjivan Multi-speciality hospital at Uluberia in Howrah, the ICMT chief has stated that it is a 320-bedded hospital, which is currently treating 70 COVID-19 patients. However, doctors and healthcare staff here are placed in rotational quarantine for 14 days, which reduces staff strength to one-fourth of normal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1684-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hours-confirmed-cases-nationwide-at-23077-india-health-ministry-294534">Also read:&nbsp;1,684 coronavirus cases in 24 hours, confirmed cases nationwide at 23,077: India health ministry</a>

"Thus, it may not be in a position to accommodate additional patients without augmentation of health workers. The hospital management is trying to train interns and other skilled professionals and also seeking permission to engage them which needs to be facilitated," the IMCT noted.

The ICMT leader has highlighted that in Salkia containment zone, the health professionals are not part of the surveillance team and are likely to join on Monday.

The IMCT may be provided with full records of the surveillance carried out in the containment zone and it would also like to interact with food and civil supply officials on how the supply of essential commodities is being ensured to the residents in the containment zones, he said. It has sought information regarding the inventories for 30 days for PPE kits and other safety equipment available in all COVID hospitals, and testing and quarantine of those returning from abroad as well as tracing of individuals from the Markaz event in Delhi.

The IMCT on Friday had inspected a quarantine centre, Sanjiban Hospital and other COVID-19 hotspots. The IMCT visited Dumurjala stadium, a quarantine centre and Sanjiban Hospital and various other red zones in Howrah district for inspection, after which the team returned to Kolkata.

Meanwhile, senior Trinamool Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Derek O' Brien hit out at the IMCT, stating that its West Bengal visit served no purpose as the teams are visiting districts with no hotspots.

Calling IMCT as India's Most Callous Team, he claimed that the committee's real aim is to spread the "political virus."

"IMCT Bengal visit served no purpose - Visiting districts with no hotspots - Asking for committee already in place Real aim is to spread the political virus. Doing it shamelessly. Blatantly. Take ur pick. IMCT= India's Most Callous Team IMCT= I Must Cause Trouble (in Bengal)," he tweeted.

The Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) on Saturday wrote to West Bengal Chief Secretary (CS) Rajiva Sinha, sharing its observations from spot visits in Howrah and raised issues with regard to quarantine centres and surveillance zones.

The Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) on Saturday wrote to West Bengal Chief Secretary (CS) Rajiva Sinha, sharing its observations from spot visits in Howrah and raised issues with regard to quarantine centres and surveillance zones. In the letter to Sinha, IMCT head Apurva Chandra, Additional Secretary with the Central government, also enquired about personal protective equipment (PPE) stock and contact tracing and quarantine of individuals, who returned from Delhi's Markaz event. Also read: Mamata explicitly appeasing minority community: Governor attacks Bengal CM Talking about its visit to Damorjala quarantine centre, Chandra said there are 80 inmates in the 118 capacity quarantine centre who were sent for testing in a "cramped van without maintaining any social distance. "The government officials have taken away the mobile phones of these inmates and they could not inform their families about their condition. "Since the State government has taken away mobiles from inmates in hospitals, the inmates of the quarantine centre were apprehensive as they had no information about the safety of their kin admitted to COVID hospitals. Effectively, an inmate is relieved only after two weeks of quarantine even if he has tested negative and there remains a possibility of his catching infection during the period," he said. With reference to the Sanjivan Multi-speciality hospital at Uluberia in Howrah, the ICMT chief has stated that it is a 320-bedded hospital, which is currently treating 70 COVID-19 patients. However, doctors and healthcare staff here are placed in rotational quarantine for 14 days, which reduces staff strength to one-fourth of normal. Also read: 1,684 coronavirus cases in 24 hours, confirmed cases nationwide at 23,077: India health ministry "Thus, it may not be in a position to accommodate additional patients without augmentation of health workers. The hospital management is trying to train interns and other skilled professionals and also seeking permission to engage them which needs to be facilitated," the IMCT noted. The ICMT leader has highlighted that in Salkia containment zone, the health professionals are not part of the surveillance team and are likely to join on Monday. The IMCT may be provided with full records of the surveillance carried out in the containment zone and it would also like to interact with food and civil supply officials on how the supply of essential commodities is being ensured to the residents in the containment zones, he said. It has sought information regarding the inventories for 30 days for PPE kits and other safety equipment available in all COVID hospitals, and testing and quarantine of those returning from abroad as well as tracing of individuals from the Markaz event in Delhi. The IMCT on Friday had inspected a quarantine centre, Sanjiban Hospital and other COVID-19 hotspots. The IMCT visited Dumurjala stadium, a quarantine centre and Sanjiban Hospital and various other red zones in Howrah district for inspection, after which the team returned to Kolkata. Meanwhile, senior Trinamool Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Derek O' Brien hit out at the IMCT, stating that its West Bengal visit served no purpose as the teams are visiting districts with no hotspots. Calling IMCT as India's Most Callous Team, he claimed that the committee's real aim is to spread the "political virus." "IMCT Bengal visit served no purpose - Visiting districts with no hotspots - Asking for committee already in place Real aim is to spread the political virus. Doing it shamelessly. Blatantly. Take ur pick. IMCT= India's Most Callous Team IMCT= I Must Cause Trouble (in Bengal)," he tweeted.

IMCT chief writes to West Bengal CS, shares concerns with regard to quarantine centres, surveillance zones

In the wake of COVID-19 crisis, GVK MIAL managing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has put together measures to curb the spread of coronavirus.

The airport has formulated standard operating procedures for post-lockdown safety of the passengers, which include social distancing, stringent thermal screening, positioning temporary quarantine centres and also continues to sanitise and disinfect the airport to ensure safety and well-being of the passengers when operations resume.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dharavi-slum-area-in-mumbai-reports-six-new-covid-19-cases-294592">Also read:&nbsp;Dharavi slum area in Mumbai reports six new COVID-19 cases</a>

"To enable safety precautions at the airport, CSMIA plans to maintain social distancing through distinctive markings at both the terminals, maintaining 1.5 metres distance between each passenger," GVK MIAL said in a statement on Saturday.

The special markings will be spread across the entry gate, check-in counters, self-check-in kiosks, security checkpoints, food courts, lounge area and the boarding area among others. Furthermore, the seating arrangements at the food court as well as in the terminal building are reshuffled in a manner that promotes social distancing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-man-arrested-for-religious-discrimination-against-a-delivery-boy-294431">Also read:&nbsp;Mumbai man arrested for religious discrimination against a delivery boy</a>

Besides, CSMIA has also created quarantine centres at both the terminals of the airport in case any passenger shows symptoms of the deadly virus during screening which will be conducted before entering the terminal building.

The airport will be assigning their personnel to assist travellers at the self-check-in kiosks to help with the boarding copy and other details along with stationing hand sanitisers at all the touchpoints. CSMIA said it puts special emphasis on the need for passengers to wear masks and gloves during the entire course of their travel. It encourages passengers to check-in online from the comfort of their home or office the use of card payment transaction and contactless payment at the airport restaurants and retail stores.

GVK Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) is a public-private partnership joint venture between a GVK-led consortium and the Airports Authority of India (AAI).

The new integrated Terminal 2 at CSMIA enhances the airport`s capacity to service 40 million passengers and 1.6 million tonnes of cargo annually.

In the wake of COVID-19 crisis, GVK MIAL managing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has put together measures to curb the spread of coronavirus.

In the wake of COVID-19 crisis, GVK MIAL managing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has put together measures to curb the spread of coronavirus. The airport has formulated standard operating procedures for post-lockdown safety of the passengers, which include social distancing, stringent thermal screening, positioning temporary quarantine centres and also continues to sanitise and disinfect the airport to ensure safety and well-being of the passengers when operations resume. Also read: Dharavi slum area in Mumbai reports six new COVID-19 cases "To enable safety precautions at the airport, CSMIA plans to maintain social distancing through distinctive markings at both the terminals, maintaining 1.5 metres distance between each passenger," GVK MIAL said in a statement on Saturday. The special markings will be spread across the entry gate, check-in counters, self-check-in kiosks, security checkpoints, food courts, lounge area and the boarding area among others. Furthermore, the seating arrangements at the food court as well as in the terminal building are reshuffled in a manner that promotes social distancing. Also read: Mumbai man arrested for religious discrimination against a delivery boy Besides, CSMIA has also created quarantine centres at both the terminals of the airport in case any passenger shows symptoms of the deadly virus during screening which will be conducted before entering the terminal building. The airport will be assigning their personnel to assist travellers at the self-check-in kiosks to help with the boarding copy and other details along with stationing hand sanitisers at all the touchpoints. CSMIA said it puts special emphasis on the need for passengers to wear masks and gloves during the entire course of their travel. It encourages passengers to check-in online from the comfort of their home or office the use of card payment transaction and contactless payment at the airport restaurants and retail stores. GVK Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) is a public-private partnership joint venture between a GVK-led consortium and the Airports Authority of India (AAI). The new integrated Terminal 2 at CSMIA enhances the airport`s capacity to service 40 million passengers and 1.6 million tonnes of cargo annually.

Mumbai airport gears up to restart operations with safety measures in place

Boris Johnson's government on Saturday was embroiled in a political row after it emerged his chief advisor attended meetings of the main scientific group advising ministers on the coronavirus pandemic in Britain.

Downing Street was forced to deny that Dominic Cummings and another advisor, Ben Warner, were members of the politically independent Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).

However, following reports in The Guardian newspaper, the government admitted that Cummings had sat in on group meetings, prompting the opposition Labour Party to ask for "answers" over his exact role.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-johnson-recuperating-from-covid-19-faces-lockdown-conundrum-294504">Also read:&nbsp;UK PM Johnson, recuperating from COVID-19, faces lockdown conundrum</a>

The row emerged as the government's general COVID-19 approach came under increasing scrutiny and the official death toll approached 20,000 in one of the countries worst hit by the pandemic.

In a statement, a Number 10 spokesman said: "It is not true that Mr Cummings or Dr Warner are 'on' or members of SAGE.

"Mr Cummings and Dr Warner have attended some SAGE meetings and listen to some meetings now they are all virtual.

"They do this in order to understand better the scientific debates concerning this emergency and also to understand better the limits of how science and data can help government decisions."

<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>

The statement added that it was "factually wrong and damaging to sensible public debate" to suggest the committee's advice was affected by the government.

Until now, membership of the &nbsp;committee, which is a key body in shaping the UK's response to the pandemic, has not been made public.

Labour's health spokesman, John Ashworth told BBC radio on Saturday that his "concern" was "that political advisers have influenced the debate.

"The way to clear this up is for all the minutes to be published; we've called on the government to do this," he said.

<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 UK government has come under increasing pressure on a number of fronts in recent weeks, including criticism over shortages in personal protective equipment and a lack of widespread testing, particularly of frontline health and social care workers.

Questions have also been asked why it was slow in enforcing a nationwide lockdown to enforce social distancing measures.

There are also growing demands for a government exit strategy from the current lockdown, first imposed on March 23, extended on April 16 and due for review on May 7, as concerns grow over the huge impact the crisis is having on the economy.

Meanwhile, a new website to offer testing for up to 10 million key workers and their families has been overwhelmed.

On Saturday, health officials announced that as many as 5,000 severely ill coronavirus patients could be treated with plasma from people who have recovered from the illness as part of a new approach.

Figures expected later on Saturday could push Britain's official death toll past 20,000.

The number of deaths for COVID-19 in hospital currently stands at 19,506.

In March, the UK's chief scientific advisor, Sir Patrick Vallance, said keeping the number of UK fatalities to less than 20,000 would be "a good outcome".

Boris Johnson's government on Saturday was embroiled in a political row after it emerged his chief advisor attended meetings of the main scientific group advising ministers on the coronavirus pandemic in Britain.

Boris Johnson's government on Saturday was embroiled in a political row after it emerged his chief advisor attended meetings of the main scientific group advising ministers on the coronavirus pandemic in Britain. Downing Street was forced to deny that Dominic Cummings and another advisor, Ben Warner, were members of the politically independent Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE). However, following reports in The Guardian newspaper, the government admitted that Cummings had sat in on group meetings, prompting the opposition Labour Party to ask for "answers" over his exact role. Also read: UK PM Johnson, recuperating from COVID-19, faces lockdown conundrum The row emerged as the government's general COVID-19 approach came under increasing scrutiny and the official death toll approached 20,000 in one of the countries worst hit by the pandemic. In a statement, a Number 10 spokesman said: "It is not true that Mr Cummings or Dr Warner are 'on' or members of SAGE. "Mr Cummings and Dr Warner have attended some SAGE meetings and listen to some meetings now they are all virtual. "They do this in order to understand better the scientific debates concerning this emergency and also to understand better the limits of how science and data can help government decisions." Also read: COVID-19: UK death toll drops in last 24 hours as infection cases rise The statement added that it was "factually wrong and damaging to sensible public debate" to suggest the committee's advice was affected by the government. Until now, membership of the committee, which is a key body in shaping the UK's response to the pandemic, has not been made public. Labour's health spokesman, John Ashworth told BBC radio on Saturday that his "concern" was "that political advisers have influenced the debate. "The way to clear this up is for all the minutes to be published; we've called on the government to do this," he said. Also read: 'Just another patient': New Zealand nurse tells of treating British PM for coronavirus The UK government has come under increasing pressure on a number of fronts in recent weeks, including criticism over shortages in personal protective equipment and a lack of widespread testing, particularly of frontline health and social care workers. Questions have also been asked why it was slow in enforcing a nationwide lockdown to enforce social distancing measures. There are also growing demands for a government exit strategy from the current lockdown, first imposed on March 23, extended on April 16 and due for review on May 7, as concerns grow over the huge impact the crisis is having on the economy. Meanwhile, a new website to offer testing for up to 10 million key workers and their families has been overwhelmed. On Saturday, health officials announced that as many as 5,000 severely ill coronavirus patients could be treated with plasma from people who have recovered from the illness as part of a new approach. Figures expected later on Saturday could push Britain's official death toll past 20,000. The number of deaths for COVID-19 in hospital currently stands at 19,506. In March, the UK's chief scientific advisor, Sir Patrick Vallance, said keeping the number of UK fatalities to less than 20,000 would be "a good outcome".

Political row hits UK govt as virus death toll nears 20,000

In a stern message to China, African nations are closely scrutinising the cost-benefits of Chinese investments and the conditions attached to such funds, according to news agency ANI.

In a stern message to China, African nations are closely scrutinising the cost-benefits of Chinese investments and the conditions attached to such funds, according to news agency ANI. As the COVID-19 pandemic rages across Africa, the local populations are reacting with hostility to the presence of Chinese labour, the report added. There have also been protests across Africa, calling for a complete cut-off of economic links with China as they are proving to be too expensive. Africa-China relations recently ran into rough waters after a large number of African nationals, most of them students, were harassed and discriminated as the Asian giant forced coronavirus testing and quarantine over fears of imported infections. Several African expatriates were left homeless after being evicted by hotels and landlords as China put strong control on overseas travellers to contain the second-wave of the pathogen that originated in its courtyard before spreading and spraying out to the whole world. This led to a tension between China and Africa, reported CNN earlier this month. The incident hurt China-Africa business relations, which had been built over the decades with China`s trade with the continent clocking USD 208 billion in 2019, according to official figures from China`s General Administration of Customs. Beijing has investments in some infrastructure projects in Africa but US officials have warned of the `Chinese debt-trap diplomacy` wherein countries are forced to hand over key assets to service loans which they can`t repay. Media reports suggested that Tanzania also joined the growing ranks of African nations, which have put Chinese investments under the scanner. There are reports, which could not be independently verified, that Tanzanian President John Magufuli has cancelled the USD 10 billion Chinese loan agreement signed by his predecessor Jakaya Kikwete. The Chinese investors had signed the loan agreement with the erstwhile President for the construction of a port at Mbegani creek in Bagamoyo. (With inputs from ANI)

African nations scrutinise cost-benefits of Chinese investments, conditions attached to such funds

Pakistan on Friday extended the partial lockdown imposed in the country by another two weeks as the number of people affected by the deadly virus rose to over 11,000.

About 79 per cent of the total coronavirus cases in Pakistan are now locally transmitted, health authorities said.

According to the Ministry of National Health Services, 13 more patients died due to the novel coronavirus, taking the toll to 237 and another 2,527 recovered.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-pakistan-prepares-for-ramazan-coronavirus-cases-surge-to-over-11500-242-dead-294577">Also read:&nbsp;As Pakistan prepares for Ramazan, coronavirus cases surge to over 11,500; 242 dead</a>

In the last 24 hours, 642 new cases were reported, taking the tally to 11,155 in the country, health officials said.

Punjab reported 4,767 patients, Sindh 3,671, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 1,541, Balochistan 607, Gilgit-Baltistan 300, Islamabad 214 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 55 patients.

So far, 13,365 tests have been done in the country, including 6,839 in the last 24 hours.

The confirmed cases are steadily increasing and the officials have warned that the peak would reach by the end of May or beginning of June.

Addressing the media in Islamabad, Planning Minister Asad Umar said, 'It has been decided that the ongoing restrictions will continue till May 9.' He said the decision was taken in a meeting of the National Coordination Committee, which was chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-to-keep-mosques-open-during-ramzan-pak-govt-acts-against-doctors-advice-294628">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan to keep mosques open during Ramzan: Pak govt acts against doctor's advice</a>

The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Friday said that 79 per cent of all cases in the country were due to local transmissions.

The government has decided to introduce a track and trace system under which random testing of people will start in a few days.

The whole situation has changed due to local transmission, it had been decided to change the policy to tackle the issue, Executive Director of the National Institute of Health Professor Aamer Ikram was quoted as saying by the Dawn.

'Earlier most of the cases were being reported in those people who were coming from abroad and even cases of local transmission were being reported among those who had come into contact with foreign travellers. However now a majority of cases are being attributed to local transmission of the virus,' he said.

Authorities also urged people to offer prayers at home on Friday when big congregations are held in mosques.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-79-covid-19-cases-in-pakistan-caused-by-local-transmission-294427">Also read:&nbsp;At least 79% COVID-19 cases in Pakistan caused by local transmission</a>

Pakistan has allowed conditional congregational prayers in mosques during Ramzan, endangering the drive to curb the spread of coronavirus.

Minister Umar asked the people to follow the restrictions during Ramzan which will start from Saturday. “The month of Ramzan will be decisive and if succeeded in reinforcing restrictions, the situation could get better after Eid,' he said.

The minister said that the Army was helping the government to tackle the COVID-19 situation. He said cash was being distributed to the poor under the Ehsaas program and it will continue during Ramazan.

'At least Rs 69 billion have been distributed among deserving people under the Ehsaas program,' he said, adding Rs 144 billion will be distributed to the poor.

Meanwhile, Asian Development Bank assured to provide 1.7 billion dollars to Pakistan to fight the impacts of coronavirus.

The assurance was given by the President of the bank during a virtual meeting with Minister for Economic Affairs Khusro Bakhtiar.

Radio Pakistan reported that the bank will approve USD 800 budget support by June this year.

It will provide the next tranche of USD 900 million by the end of this year.

The budget support will be provided to Pakistan on special concessionary basis.

The Minister for Economic Affairs thanked the Asian Development Bank for extending the financial cooperation to Pakistan.

Earlier, the International Monetary Fund provided USD 1.4 billion under an emergency arrangement to help Pakistan.

Pakistan on Friday extended the partial lockdown imposed in the country by another two weeks as the number of people affected by the deadly virus rose to over 11,000.

Pakistan on Friday extended the partial lockdown imposed in the country by another two weeks as the number of people affected by the deadly virus rose to over 11,000. About 79 per cent of the total coronavirus cases in Pakistan are now locally transmitted, health authorities said. According to the Ministry of National Health Services, 13 more patients died due to the novel coronavirus, taking the toll to 237 and another 2,527 recovered. Also read: As Pakistan prepares for Ramazan, coronavirus cases surge to over 11,500; 242 dead In the last 24 hours, 642 new cases were reported, taking the tally to 11,155 in the country, health officials said. Punjab reported 4,767 patients, Sindh 3,671, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 1,541, Balochistan 607, Gilgit-Baltistan 300, Islamabad 214 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 55 patients. So far, 13,365 tests have been done in the country, including 6,839 in the last 24 hours. The confirmed cases are steadily increasing and the officials have warned that the peak would reach by the end of May or beginning of June. Addressing the media in Islamabad, Planning Minister Asad Umar said, 'It has been decided that the ongoing restrictions will continue till May 9.' He said the decision was taken in a meeting of the National Coordination Committee, which was chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan. Also read: Pakistan to keep mosques open during Ramzan: Pak govt acts against doctor's advice The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Friday said that 79 per cent of all cases in the country were due to local transmissions. The government has decided to introduce a track and trace system under which random testing of people will start in a few days. The whole situation has changed due to local transmission, it had been decided to change the policy to tackle the issue, Executive Director of the National Institute of Health Professor Aamer Ikram was quoted as saying by the Dawn. 'Earlier most of the cases were being reported in those people who were coming from abroad and even cases of local transmission were being reported among those who had come into contact with foreign travellers. However now a majority of cases are being attributed to local transmission of the virus,' he said. Authorities also urged people to offer prayers at home on Friday when big congregations are held in mosques. Also read: At least 79% COVID-19 cases in Pakistan caused by local transmission Pakistan has allowed conditional congregational prayers in mosques during Ramzan, endangering the drive to curb the spread of coronavirus. Minister Umar asked the people to follow the restrictions during Ramzan which will start from Saturday. “The month of Ramzan will be decisive and if succeeded in reinforcing restrictions, the situation could get better after Eid,' he said. The minister said that the Army was helping the government to tackle the COVID-19 situation. He said cash was being distributed to the poor under the Ehsaas program and it will continue during Ramazan. 'At least Rs 69 billion have been distributed among deserving people under the Ehsaas program,' he said, adding Rs 144 billion will be distributed to the poor. Meanwhile, Asian Development Bank assured to provide 1.7 billion dollars to Pakistan to fight the impacts of coronavirus. The assurance was given by the President of the bank during a virtual meeting with Minister for Economic Affairs Khusro Bakhtiar. Radio Pakistan reported that the bank will approve USD 800 budget support by June this year. It will provide the next tranche of USD 900 million by the end of this year. The budget support will be provided to Pakistan on special concessionary basis. The Minister for Economic Affairs thanked the Asian Development Bank for extending the financial cooperation to Pakistan. Earlier, the International Monetary Fund provided USD 1.4 billion under an emergency arrangement to help Pakistan.

Coronavirus: Pakistan extends partial lockdown till May 9

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, has banned all kinds of public gathering till June end. The order was directed to the officials in a meeting chaired by the chief minister. The meeting followed the protocols of social distancing.

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मुख्यमंत्री श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/myogiadityanath?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@myogiadityanath</a> जी ने अपने सरकारी आवास, लखनऊ पर प्रदेश में <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> के संबंध में गठित समितियों के अध्यक्षों के साथ समीक्षा बैठक की। <a href="https://t.co/5CXOofcO0m">pic.twitter.com/5CXOofcO0m</a>
— CM Office, GoUP (@CMOfficeUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOfficeUP/status/1253938523696017410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The decision has been made to contain the spread of coronavirus, which has been rising rapidly in the state. Uttar Pradesh is one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus cases in the country. As of Saturday morning, total positive coronavirus cases in the state are 1,621, while 247 patients have recovered.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-health-officials-to-set-camp-in-worst-hit-15-districts-to-oversee-coronavirus-response-294296">Also read:&nbsp;UP health officials to set camp in worst-hit 15 districts to oversee coronavirus response</a>

He further instructed all the officials to make sure that the rules of lockdown are properly implemented and proper precautions are being taken.

The situation in Agra, one of the most affected cities in the state, has not shown any signs of improvement as the cases have been on a constant rise. A special team, sent to the city to read the situation, has blamed the local administration for late implementation of lockdown rules.

Following the rise in number is positive cases, he has also ordered the health officials to set up camp in the districts where there are more than 20 positive cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-adityanath-pulls-up-officials-in-gautam-buddh-nagar-hotspot-of-covid-19-cases-in-up-289508">Watch: Adityanath pulls up officials in Gautam Buddh Nagar, hotspot of COVID-19 cases in UP</a>

While the Yogi Adityanath&nbsp;issued a directive for the officials to implement the precautionary measures in a better way, videos of a group of 69 coronavirus patients seen waiting on a footpath took over the internet. The patients, who were being transferred from Agra to Etawah in a city bus, had to wait on the footpath outside the locked doors of a government medical college.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, has banned all kinds of public gathering till June end. The order was directed to the officials in a meeting chaired by the chief minister.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, has banned all kinds of public gathering till June end. The order was directed to the officials in a meeting chaired by the chief minister. The meeting followed the protocols of social distancing. मुख्यमंत्री श्री @myogiadityanath जी ने अपने सरकारी आवास, लखनऊ पर प्रदेश में #COVID19 के संबंध में गठित समितियों के अध्यक्षों के साथ समीक्षा बैठक की। pic.twitter.com/5CXOofcO0m — CM Office, GoUP (@CMOfficeUP) April 25, 2020 × The decision has been made to contain the spread of coronavirus, which has been rising rapidly in the state. Uttar Pradesh is one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus cases in the country. As of Saturday morning, total positive coronavirus cases in the state are 1,621, while 247 patients have recovered. Also read: UP health officials to set camp in worst-hit 15 districts to oversee coronavirus response He further instructed all the officials to make sure that the rules of lockdown are properly implemented and proper precautions are being taken. The situation in Agra, one of the most affected cities in the state, has not shown any signs of improvement as the cases have been on a constant rise. A special team, sent to the city to read the situation, has blamed the local administration for late implementation of lockdown rules. Following the rise in number is positive cases, he has also ordered the health officials to set up camp in the districts where there are more than 20 positive cases. Watch: Adityanath pulls up officials in Gautam Buddh Nagar, hotspot of COVID-19 cases in UP While the Yogi Adityanath issued a directive for the officials to implement the precautionary measures in a better way, videos of a group of 69 coronavirus patients seen waiting on a footpath took over the internet. The patients, who were being transferred from Agra to Etawah in a city bus, had to wait on the footpath outside the locked doors of a government medical college.

Yogi Adityanath bans all public gatherings in UP till June 30

Spain officials reported 367 deaths in the past 24 hours, on Friday. The officials said that the number of daily coronavirus-related fatalities fell to its lowest level in more than a month, with 367 deaths in the previous 24 hours.

That took the total number of positive cases 22,524 from 22,157 the day before, the health ministry said. The overall number of coronavirus cases rose to 219,764 with&nbsp;Community of Madrid being a hotspot for coronavirus in the country.

These figures revealed Spain to be the worst-hit country by coronavirus in Europe, and second in the world, first being the US.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-rush-to-restart-la-liga-bale-warns-294432">Also read:&nbsp;Don't rush to restart La Liga, Bale warns</a>

Considering the tough times, Spain also suspended the tradition of exchanging books on&nbsp;the death anniversary of William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes. To keep up the spirits of people, Red Cross Barcelona&nbsp;delivered books to hundreds of children.

Spain officials reported 367 deaths in the past 24 hours, on Friday. The officials said that the number of daily coronavirus-related fatalities fell to its lowest level in more than a month, with 367 deaths in the previous 24 hours.

Spain officials reported 367 deaths in the past 24 hours, on Friday. The officials said that the number of daily coronavirus-related fatalities fell to its lowest level in more than a month, with 367 deaths in the previous 24 hours. That took the total number of positive cases 22,524 from 22,157 the day before, the health ministry said. The overall number of coronavirus cases rose to 219,764 with Community of Madrid being a hotspot for coronavirus in the country. These figures revealed Spain to be the worst-hit country by coronavirus in Europe, and second in the world, first being the US. Also read: Don't rush to restart La Liga, Bale warns Considering the tough times, Spain also suspended the tradition of exchanging books on the death anniversary of William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes. To keep up the spirits of people, Red Cross Barcelona delivered books to hundreds of children.

Spain reports lowest number of coronavirus-related deaths in the past month

After a review meeting, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, orders have been issued for a complete lockdown in five cities of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur and Salem.

The lockdown will be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai. Tiruppur and Salem, however, will be on the lockdown from April 26 to April 28 between&nbsp;6 a.m. to 9 p.m.&nbsp;

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Complete lockdown to be enforced in Chennai, Coimbatore &amp; Madurai from April 26 to April 29 between 6 AM&amp;9PM. In Salem&amp;Tiruppur, complete lockdown will be enforced from April 26 &amp; April 28 between 6 AM &amp; 9 PM. Online food delivery to be allowed: Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi Palaniswami <a href="https://t.co/vJnGL8ZUef">pic.twitter.com/vJnGL8ZUef</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1253619843762454529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, food delivery will be allowed through food delivery apps during the lockdown, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys.

According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Tamil Nadu has 1,629 coronavirus cases, including 662 cured and 18 deaths.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-social-distancing-encouraged-at-tamil-nadu-ministers-event-in-madurai-293995">Also read:&nbsp;No social distancing encouraged at Tamil Nadu Minister’s event in Madurai</a>

With such a high number of&nbsp;positive coronavirus cases, Tamil Nadu is one of the worst coronavirus-hit state in the country. To contain the spread of the virus, Tamil Nadu government identified hotspots in the state.&nbsp;As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu. Some hotspots have also been identified within Chennai and Coimbatore. While there are&nbsp;13 urban red zones in Chennai, Coimbatore has 10 urban and 8 rural red zones.

After a review meeting, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, orders have been issued for a complete lockdown in five cities of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur and Salem.

After a review meeting, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, orders have been issued for a complete lockdown in five cities of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur and Salem. The lockdown will be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai. Tiruppur and Salem, however, will be on the lockdown from April 26 to April 28 between 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Complete lockdown to be enforced in Chennai, Coimbatore & Madurai from April 26 to April 29 between 6 AM&9PM. In Salem&Tiruppur, complete lockdown will be enforced from April 26 & April 28 between 6 AM & 9 PM. Online food delivery to be allowed: Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi Palaniswami pic.twitter.com/vJnGL8ZUef — ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2020 × However, food delivery will be allowed through food delivery apps during the lockdown, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys. According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Tamil Nadu has 1,629 coronavirus cases, including 662 cured and 18 deaths. Also read: No social distancing encouraged at Tamil Nadu Minister’s event in Madurai With such a high number of positive coronavirus cases, Tamil Nadu is one of the worst coronavirus-hit state in the country. To contain the spread of the virus, Tamil Nadu government identified hotspots in the state. As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu. Some hotspots have also been identified within Chennai and Coimbatore. While there are 13 urban red zones in Chennai, Coimbatore has 10 urban and 8 rural red zones.

Tamil Nadu government announces complete lockdown in five cities, including Chennai and Coimbatore

Two 60-year-old male patients, who died at a SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have tested positive for COVID-19&nbsp;taking the number of deaths due to coronavirus in the state to 32.

According to the state Health Department, a resident of Ramganj, who had&nbsp;comorbidity of coronary artery disease,&nbsp;was admitted to the SMS Hospital on April 22 and took his last breath on April 23. He was detected positive for COVID-19 on April 23.

Another patient, a resident of MD road, was brought dead to the SMS Hospital on April 22. As he was a suspected COVID-19 patient, a sample was taken which was reported positive on April 23.

Meanwhile, a 70-year-old female from Adarsh Nagar who tested positive for coronavirus on April 21 also succumbed to the infection today. She also had comorbidity of coronary artery disease, the health officials said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-couple-stranded-in-tripura-names-their-newborn-lockdown-293913">Also read:&nbsp;Rajasthan couple stranded in Tripura names their newborn 'Lockdown'</a>

These figures have taken the total number of positive cases in Rajasthan to 1,890, with 27 deaths in the state.&nbsp;

The department also shared the details of evacuees from Iran who were quarantined at the Army facility in Jaisalmer and now have been shifted to various places in Jammu and Kashmir. On April 21, 180 evacuees were rushed to Srinagar, while 225 were moved to Ladakh on April 22. On Friday, 52 were taken to Srinagar. With 44 fresh cases reported in Rajasthan today, 2,008 people are infected with virus in the state so far.&nbsp;

Two 60-year-old male patients, who died at a SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have tested positive for COVID-19 taking the number of deaths due to coronavirus in the state to 32.

Two 60-year-old male patients, who died at a SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have tested positive for COVID-19 taking the number of deaths due to coronavirus in the state to 32. According to the state Health Department, a resident of Ramganj, who had comorbidity of coronary artery disease, was admitted to the SMS Hospital on April 22 and took his last breath on April 23. He was detected positive for COVID-19 on April 23. Another patient, a resident of MD road, was brought dead to the SMS Hospital on April 22. As he was a suspected COVID-19 patient, a sample was taken which was reported positive on April 23. Meanwhile, a 70-year-old female from Adarsh Nagar who tested positive for coronavirus on April 21 also succumbed to the infection today. She also had comorbidity of coronary artery disease, the health officials said. Also read: Rajasthan couple stranded in Tripura names their newborn 'Lockdown' These figures have taken the total number of positive cases in Rajasthan to 1,890, with 27 deaths in the state. The department also shared the details of evacuees from Iran who were quarantined at the Army facility in Jaisalmer and now have been shifted to various places in Jammu and Kashmir. On April 21, 180 evacuees were rushed to Srinagar, while 225 were moved to Ladakh on April 22. On Friday, 52 were taken to Srinagar. With 44 fresh cases reported in Rajasthan today, 2,008 people are infected with virus in the state so far.

Two 60-year-old male patients test positive of coronavirus post-death

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;to intervene in bringing back bodies of the Keralites who died in Gulf countries of reasons other than COVID-19 infection.

"I would like to draw your attention to the grievances received from Non-resident Keralites Associations (NRKs) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries on the delay caused in bringing home the mortal remains of NRKs who had expired due to reasons other than the COVID-19 infection," read the letter by the CM.

"It is learnt that a clearance certificate&nbsp;from the Indian Embassies is required to process the application of bringing home the mortal remains of the dead. The Embassies are insisting on the production of a no-objection certificate from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), New Delhi," it read.

The letter also pointed out that according to a notification by the government, no such certificate is needed to bring back&nbsp;the mortal remains of the deceased who died due to reasons other than coronavirus.

"To enable to bring back the bodies of the NRIs whose deaths occurred due to reasons other than COVID-19 infection, without necessary procedural hassles, I request your kind intervention," read the letter further.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-government-takes-30-per-cent-cut-in-salary-to-overcome-covid-19-induced-financial-crisis-294132">Also read:&nbsp;Kerala government takes 30 per cent cut in salary to overcome COVID-19-induced financial crisis</a>

The bodies are now being brought back to the country in cargo planes as passenger flights have been halted due to lockdown restrictions.

"They are already under tremendous stress and anxiety due to the lockdown imposed in those countries and the consequent stoppage of international flights", he said.

Meanwhile, 324 out of a total of 447 coronavirus cases have recovered, with only three reported deaths. The chief minister has asked the health officials to conduct more tests in the state.

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene in bringing back bodies of the Keralites who died in Gulf countries of reasons other than COVID-19 infection.

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene in bringing back bodies of the Keralites who died in Gulf countries of reasons other than COVID-19 infection. "I would like to draw your attention to the grievances received from Non-resident Keralites Associations (NRKs) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries on the delay caused in bringing home the mortal remains of NRKs who had expired due to reasons other than the COVID-19 infection," read the letter by the CM. "It is learnt that a clearance certificate from the Indian Embassies is required to process the application of bringing home the mortal remains of the dead. The Embassies are insisting on the production of a no-objection certificate from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), New Delhi," it read. The letter also pointed out that according to a notification by the government, no such certificate is needed to bring back the mortal remains of the deceased who died due to reasons other than coronavirus. "To enable to bring back the bodies of the NRIs whose deaths occurred due to reasons other than COVID-19 infection, without necessary procedural hassles, I request your kind intervention," read the letter further. Also read: Kerala government takes 30 per cent cut in salary to overcome COVID-19-induced financial crisis The bodies are now being brought back to the country in cargo planes as passenger flights have been halted due to lockdown restrictions. "They are already under tremendous stress and anxiety due to the lockdown imposed in those countries and the consequent stoppage of international flights", he said. Meanwhile, 324 out of a total of 447 coronavirus cases have recovered, with only three reported deaths. The chief minister has asked the health officials to conduct more tests in the state.

Kerala CM requests PM to help bring back the remains of NKRs who died due to non-COVID reasons in Gulf countries

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 27 lacs worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/most-patients-hospitalised-with-covid-19-had-chronic-health-issues-says-study-294411" hreflang="en">Most patients hospitalised with COVID-19 had chronic health issues, says study</a>

COVID-19 has now infected 2,710,264 people worldwide and 190,896 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-nears-50000-coronavirus-deaths-more-than-85-lakh-infected-294382">Also read |&nbsp;US nears 50,000 coronavirus deaths, more than 8.5 lakh infected</a>

Around 743,419 people of that tally have recovered.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/harvard-professor-becomes-a-billionaire-from-stake-in-company-discovering-covid-19-vaccine-294398" hreflang="en">Harvard professor becomes a billionaire from stake in company discovering Covid-19 vaccine</a>

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.

COVID19 - CONTINENT WISE DATA:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Europe has listed 1,293,822 cases and 115,990 deaths to date,</li>
	<li>US and Canada together have 897,961 cases with 49,377 deaths,&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Asia 183,577 cases with 7,511 deaths,</li>
	<li>Middle East 141,267 cases with 6,005 deaths,&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Latin America and the Caribbean 123,517 cases with 6,202 deaths,&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Africa 26,856 cases with 1,279 deaths&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Oceania 7,950 cases with 98 deaths.</li>
</ul>

The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America.

Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment.

The novel coronavirus has killed nearly 50,000 people in the United States, after one of the deadliest days of the pandemic which saw 3,176 deaths, according to a tally from Johns Hopkins University.

The deaths were recorded in the 24 hours up to 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Friday), bringing the overall coronavirus death toll in the United States to 49,759, according to the Baltimore-based university.

The US, the worst-hit country in the world, now has 866,646 confirmed cases of coronavirus, up 26,971 from the previous day.

Due to a lack of testing, the actual number of infections is likely to be much higher.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 27 lacs worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Most patients hospitalised with COVID-19 had chronic health issues, says study COVID-19 has now infected 2,710,264 people worldwide and 190,896 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 27 lacs worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Most patients hospitalised with COVID-19 had chronic health issues, says study COVID-19 has now infected 2,710,264 people worldwide and 190,896 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Also read | US nears 50,000 coronavirus deaths, more than 8.5 lakh infected Around 743,419 people of that tally have recovered. Also read: Harvard professor becomes a billionaire from stake in company discovering Covid-19 vaccine 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. COVID19 - CONTINENT WISE DATA: Europe has listed 1,293,822 cases and 115,990 deaths to date, US and Canada together have 897,961 cases with 49,377 deaths, Asia 183,577 cases with 7,511 deaths, Middle East 141,267 cases with 6,005 deaths, Latin America and the Caribbean 123,517 cases with 6,202 deaths, Africa 26,856 cases with 1,279 deaths Oceania 7,950 cases with 98 deaths. The epicentre of the pandemic has shifted twice, first from China to Europe, and then from Europe to North America. Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. The novel coronavirus has killed nearly 50,000 people in the United States, after one of the deadliest days of the pandemic which saw 3,176 deaths, according to a tally from Johns Hopkins University. The deaths were recorded in the 24 hours up to 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Friday), bringing the overall coronavirus death toll in the United States to 49,759, according to the Baltimore-based university. The US, the worst-hit country in the world, now has 866,646 confirmed cases of coronavirus, up 26,971 from the previous day. Due to a lack of testing, the actual number of infections is likely to be much higher.

Global coronavirus death toll passes 190,000; US has most fatalities with over 50,000

Maharashtra has been one of the worst-affected states by coronavirus. On Friday, 14 more COVID-19 deaths and 778 new positive coronavirus cases have been reported by the officials.

The total count of coronavirus cases in the state has now climbed to 6,427, said the state Public Health Department. With 14 more deaths, the toll due to the infection has risen to 283. This has been the biggest spike in COVID cases in the past 24 hours.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1684-more-cases-reported-in-last-24-hours-taking-indias-covid-19-tally-to-23077-294444">Also read: 1,684 more cases reported in last 24 hours taking India's COVID-19 tally to 23,077</a>

Pune alone has recorded 963 coronavirus patients, and the death toll has climbed to 67. Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray has ordered the health officials to take strict measures to flatten the curve in the state, especially Mumbai and Pune.

This has taken India's total number of coronavirus&nbsp;case count to 23,077, with 1,684 more COVID-19 cases reported in the last 24 hours, as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-allows-pre-monsoon-works-in-coronavirus-hit-mumbai-pune-294457">Also read:&nbsp;Govt allows pre-monsoon works in coronavirus-hit Mumbai, Pune</a>

The state of Maharashtra has become the epicenter of the pandemic in India. To make sure people adhere to lockdown rules, the officials of BMC are using drones to keep an eye on the densely populated areas like Dharavi which has seen a rise in the number of positive cases.

Maharashtra has been one of the worst-affected states by coronavirus. On Friday, 14 more COVID-19 deaths and 778 new positive coronavirus cases have been reported by the officials.

Maharashtra has been one of the worst-affected states by coronavirus. On Friday, 14 more COVID-19 deaths and 778 new positive coronavirus cases have been reported by the officials. The total count of coronavirus cases in the state has now climbed to 6,427, said the state Public Health Department. With 14 more deaths, the toll due to the infection has risen to 283. This has been the biggest spike in COVID cases in the past 24 hours. Also read: 1,684 more cases reported in last 24 hours taking India's COVID-19 tally to 23,077 Pune alone has recorded 963 coronavirus patients, and the death toll has climbed to 67. Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray has ordered the health officials to take strict measures to flatten the curve in the state, especially Mumbai and Pune. This has taken India's total number of coronavirus case count to 23,077, with 1,684 more COVID-19 cases reported in the last 24 hours, as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Friday. Also read: Govt allows pre-monsoon works in coronavirus-hit Mumbai, Pune The state of Maharashtra has become the epicenter of the pandemic in India. To make sure people adhere to lockdown rules, the officials of BMC are using drones to keep an eye on the densely populated areas like Dharavi which has seen a rise in the number of positive cases.

Maharashtra sees the biggest spike in COVID cases in the past 24 hours; 14 more deaths reported

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the biggest lesson that the coronavirus crisis has taught the country is to become self-reliant.

"The corona crisis has given us its biggest message, that we have to become self-reliant. Villages, districts and states at their levels as well the country should be self-dependent for their needs. This has become very essential," the Prime Minister said while interacting with Sarpanchs from across the nation via video conferencing, on the occasion of Panchayati Raj Diwas.

He also launched a unified e-GramSwaraj Portal and Mobile App and 'Swamitva Scheme'. E-GramSwaraj Portal, which is an initiative of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj that will provide the Gram Panchayats with a single interface to prepare and implement their Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP).

'Swamitva Scheme' will ensure the demarcation of inhabited land in rural areas with the use of the latest surveying methods including the use of drones.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the biggest lesson that the coronavirus crisis has taught the country is to become self-reliant. "The corona crisis has given us its biggest message, that we have to become self-reliant.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the biggest lesson that the coronavirus crisis has taught the country is to become self-reliant. "The corona crisis has given us its biggest message, that we have to become self-reliant. Villages, districts and states at their levels as well the country should be self-dependent for their needs. This has become very essential," the Prime Minister said while interacting with Sarpanchs from across the nation via video conferencing, on the occasion of Panchayati Raj Diwas. He also launched a unified e-GramSwaraj Portal and Mobile App and 'Swamitva Scheme'. E-GramSwaraj Portal, which is an initiative of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj that will provide the Gram Panchayats with a single interface to prepare and implement their Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP). 'Swamitva Scheme' will ensure the demarcation of inhabited land in rural areas with the use of the latest surveying methods including the use of drones.

Biggest lesson taught by coronavirus is to be self-reliant, says PM Modi via video conference

As the nation is under lockdown in the wake of COVID-19, differently-abled persons are facing difficulties in order to cope up with their daily needs like food availability and medicine.

Highlighting the plight of the differently-abled people, executive director of National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP), Arman Ali said, "The daily survival has become a fight. Even they are not able to have food availability and medicine. Most of the differently-abled persons live in rural areas. Differently-abled persons in urban areas are somehow able to survive."

"But those who are poor and their identity is a daily struggle, are finding it difficult to survive in this lockdown. There is a lack of awareness among the differently-abled persons regarding lockdown," Ali added.

However, he pointed out that he has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi asking for implementation of guidelines issued by Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities in the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, and an economic package should be given during the lockdown along with a hike in pension.

"Awareness should be increased through electronic and print media," he added.

"Most of the differently-abled people are under stress regarding food and medicine and employment. There is lack of awareness... We want our dignity. We have requested the Prime Minister to look into the matter. There should be an economic package for the disabled. I hope Prime minister will listen to us," Ali further said.

Afroz Alam, a differently-abled person, said, "During the lockdown, we are having issues regarding clothes and daily needs. It is difficult to replace the wheelchair tyre as there is no mechanic. Food is not a big issue as we are getting it from NGOs. Sometimes we get and sometimes we don't."

Echoing similar sentiments, another differently-abled person named Salim, expressed that food and groceries are an issue along with difficulty in movement during the lockdown.

He said that he has no source of income and is dependent on NGOs for food.

Radha Devi, another differently-abled person said, "We are not able to get clothes. But some are helping us and children by providing food. We do not have clothes as the market is not open."

Satish, a specially-abled person, has urged the government to look into the matter and help the poor and the needy.

As the nation is under lockdown in the wake of COVID-19, differently-abled persons are facing difficulties in order to cope up with their daily needs like food availability and medicine.

As the nation is under lockdown in the wake of COVID-19, differently-abled persons are facing difficulties in order to cope up with their daily needs like food availability and medicine. Highlighting the plight of the differently-abled people, executive director of National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP), Arman Ali said, "The daily survival has become a fight. Even they are not able to have food availability and medicine. Most of the differently-abled persons live in rural areas. Differently-abled persons in urban areas are somehow able to survive." "But those who are poor and their identity is a daily struggle, are finding it difficult to survive in this lockdown. There is a lack of awareness among the differently-abled persons regarding lockdown," Ali added. However, he pointed out that he has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi asking for implementation of guidelines issued by Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities in the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, and an economic package should be given during the lockdown along with a hike in pension. "Awareness should be increased through electronic and print media," he added. "Most of the differently-abled people are under stress regarding food and medicine and employment. There is lack of awareness... We want our dignity. We have requested the Prime Minister to look into the matter. There should be an economic package for the disabled. I hope Prime minister will listen to us," Ali further said. Afroz Alam, a differently-abled person, said, "During the lockdown, we are having issues regarding clothes and daily needs. It is difficult to replace the wheelchair tyre as there is no mechanic. Food is not a big issue as we are getting it from NGOs. Sometimes we get and sometimes we don't." Echoing similar sentiments, another differently-abled person named Salim, expressed that food and groceries are an issue along with difficulty in movement during the lockdown. He said that he has no source of income and is dependent on NGOs for food. Radha Devi, another differently-abled person said, "We are not able to get clothes. But some are helping us and children by providing food. We do not have clothes as the market is not open." Satish, a specially-abled person, has urged the government to look into the matter and help the poor and the needy.

Differently-abled persons face difficulties in obtaining basic needs amid lockdown; they depend on NGOs for food

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with Sarpanchs from across the nation on the occasion of Panchayati Raj Day, being observed amid the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown.

"At 11 AM today, PM Narendra Modi would be interacting with Sarpanchs from across the nation via video conferencing. All Sarpanchs will be able to join this interaction through Doordarshan, from their respective homes adhering to social distancing norms," the official twitter handle of PMO said.

"Those Sarpanchs who will be sharing their views with PM Narendra Modi will be doing so by joining the interaction at a Common Service Centre close to them," it added. On the occasion of Panchayati Raj Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had in a letter to Panchayati Raj Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said: "The members of the Panchayati Raj system, who are fighting in a committed manner against this challenge like brave warriors act as a source of inspiration for the rest of us. This combined force is our strength in this fight. We will definitely defeat this pandemic by staying strong through our unity."&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with Sarpanchs from across the nation on the occasion of Panchayati Raj Day, being observed amid the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with Sarpanchs from across the nation on the occasion of Panchayati Raj Day, being observed amid the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown. "At 11 AM today, PM Narendra Modi would be interacting with Sarpanchs from across the nation via video conferencing. All Sarpanchs will be able to join this interaction through Doordarshan, from their respective homes adhering to social distancing norms," the official twitter handle of PMO said. "Those Sarpanchs who will be sharing their views with PM Narendra Modi will be doing so by joining the interaction at a Common Service Centre close to them," it added. On the occasion of Panchayati Raj Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had in a letter to Panchayati Raj Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said: "The members of the Panchayati Raj system, who are fighting in a committed manner against this challenge like brave warriors act as a source of inspiration for the rest of us. This combined force is our strength in this fight. We will definitely defeat this pandemic by staying strong through our unity."

Narendra Modi to interact through video call with Sarpanchs on Panchayti Raj Day

Fifty terrorists, including several top commanders of Jaish-e-Mohmmad (JeM) and Lashker-e-Tioba (LeT), were killed in counter terrorism operations by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir this year so far, officials said on Friday.

Seventeen security forces personnel lost their lives while fighting the terrorists in the union territory, they said.

Giving details, a senior official told PTI that the slain terrorists included top commanders of JeM, LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen.

He said of the 50 terrorists killed so far this year, 18 were eliminated during the ongoing lockdown imposed to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Four terrorists, including district commander of LeT Muzaffar Ahmed Bhat, were killed in an encounter with security forces in the Dialgam area of Anantnag district in south Kashmir on March 15, the official said, adding they belonged to LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen outfits

On January 25, three terrorists, including JeM self-styled Kashmir chief Qari Yasir, were killed while three soldiers were injured in an encounter between security forces and ultras in the Tral area of south Kashmir's Pulwama district, he said.

On January 23, another top militant commander Abu Saifullah alias Abu Qasim, an associate of Yasir, was killed in the Khrew area of Pulwama district, the official said.

On April 9, top Jaish-e-Mohammed commander Sajad Nawab Dar was killed by security forces in Sopore in Baramulla district in north Kashmir, he said.

A top Hizbul Mujahideen 'commander' Haroon Wani was killed in a fierce encounter with the security forces in the Gundana area of Doda in Jammu and Kashmir on January 15, he said.

Giving further details, the officer said 18 terrorists were killed during the lockdown in the union territory since March 14.

As many as nine civilians were killed by the terrorists during this year, he said. Besides, seventeen security force personnel were killed during the same period, which includes 13 security personnel, three Special Police officers (SPOs) and one policeman, he added.

As many as 160 terrorists were killed and 102 arrested in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, Director General of Police Dilbag Singh had said earlier.&nbsp;

Fifty terrorists, including several top commanders of Jaish-e-Mohmmad (JeM) and Lashker-e-Tioba (LeT), were killed in counter terrorism operations by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir this year so far, officials said on Friday.

Fifty terrorists, including several top commanders of Jaish-e-Mohmmad (JeM) and Lashker-e-Tioba (LeT), were killed in counter terrorism operations by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir this year so far, officials said on Friday. Seventeen security forces personnel lost their lives while fighting the terrorists in the union territory, they said. Giving details, a senior official told PTI that the slain terrorists included top commanders of JeM, LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen. He said of the 50 terrorists killed so far this year, 18 were eliminated during the ongoing lockdown imposed to contain the spread of coronavirus. Four terrorists, including district commander of LeT Muzaffar Ahmed Bhat, were killed in an encounter with security forces in the Dialgam area of Anantnag district in south Kashmir on March 15, the official said, adding they belonged to LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen outfits On January 25, three terrorists, including JeM self-styled Kashmir chief Qari Yasir, were killed while three soldiers were injured in an encounter between security forces and ultras in the Tral area of south Kashmir's Pulwama district, he said. On January 23, another top militant commander Abu Saifullah alias Abu Qasim, an associate of Yasir, was killed in the Khrew area of Pulwama district, the official said. On April 9, top Jaish-e-Mohammed commander Sajad Nawab Dar was killed by security forces in Sopore in Baramulla district in north Kashmir, he said. A top Hizbul Mujahideen 'commander' Haroon Wani was killed in a fierce encounter with the security forces in the Gundana area of Doda in Jammu and Kashmir on January 15, he said. Giving further details, the officer said 18 terrorists were killed during the lockdown in the union territory since March 14. As many as nine civilians were killed by the terrorists during this year, he said. Besides, seventeen security force personnel were killed during the same period, which includes 13 security personnel, three Special Police officers (SPOs) and one policeman, he added. As many as 160 terrorists were killed and 102 arrested in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, Director General of Police Dilbag Singh had said earlier.

50 terrorists gunned down in Jammu and Kashmir this year; 18 eliminated during lockdown

Human trials of a potential coronavirus vaccine will start in the UK from today. The US continues to have a lead in adding new cases to the global tally of Covid-19 infections.

Human trials of a potential coronavirus vaccine will start in the UK from today. The US continues to have a lead in adding new cases to the global tally of Covid-19 infections. COVID-19 has now infected 2,626,929 people worldwide and 183,120 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 710,405 people of that tally have recovered. 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. Among continents, North America is the most affected at present, accounting for more cases than the combined number for Europe, the previous epicentre of the pandemic, and Asia, where the novel coronavirus was first identified. COVID19 - CONTINENT WISE DATA: - Europe has listed 1,261,757 cases and 112,855 deaths to date, - US and Canada together have 875,112 cases with 47,973 deaths, - Asia 178,630 cases with 7,389 deaths, - Middle East 137,642 cases with 5,902 deaths, - Latin America and the Caribbean 116,131 cases with 5,797 deaths, - Africa 25,461 cases with 1,223 deaths - Oceania 7,942 cases with 95 deaths.

Coronavirus outbreak: Over 7 lakh coronavirus patients recovered worldwide

Governors of about half a dozen U.S. states pushed ahead on Tuesday with plans to partially reopen for business despite warnings by some health officials that doing so could trigger a new surge in coronavirus cases.

The easing of sweeping restrictions in Georgia, South Carolina and other mostly Southern U.S. states follows protests against rules imposed during the pandemic that shut down businesses and largely confined residents to their homes.

A Reuters/Ipsos opinion poll showed a majority of Americans believed stay-at-home orders should remain in place until public health officials determine lifting them is safe, despite the damage to the U.S. economy.

"It`s a matter of concern, this whole idea of opening up. It`s based on non-science generated parameters," Dr. Boris Lushniak, dean of the University of Maryland School of Public Health, told Reuters in an interview.

Deaths from COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by coronavirus, topped 45,150 nationwide as cases climbed to over 810,000, according to a Reuters tally.

New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Michigan each reported their highest single-day coronavirus-related death tolls - over 800 between the three states. New York state, the epicentre of the U.S. outbreak, reported 481 new deaths. 
Governors are under pressure from businesses and some constituents to relax stay-at-home orders that have thrown over 20 million people out of work in the past month alone.

In Wisconsin, Republican lawmakers who filed a lawsuit against Democratic Governor Tony Evers, challenging his stay-at-home order that runs until May 26.

CDC WARNS OF FALL OUTBREAK

Tensions between U.S. President Donald Trump, a Republican, and local officials have risen over the U.S. government`s role in ramping up testing, which infectious disease experts say is key to enable a safe reopening.

Those experts say the United States, with a population of nearly 330 million people, should test 3 million per week to get an accurate sense of the virus`s reach. States have tested only a third of that number in the past seven days, according to the Covid Tracking Project.

Even as states move ahead with plans to reopen, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned a second wave of the coronavirus could be worse if it coincides with the start of seasonal flu season.

“There’s a possibility that the assault of the virus on our nation next winter will actually be even more difficult than the one we just went through,” CDC Director Robert Redfield said in an interview with The Washington Post.

Georgia is among a half dozen states that will allow more business activity this week or next. 
Brian Kemp, Georgia`s Republican governor, will allow gyms, hair salons, bowling alleys, tattoo and massage parlors to reopen on Friday, followed by movie houses and restaurants next week.

Kemp said his plan balances public health with the need to reignite the state`s economy, saying social distancing rules would remain in place.

Georgia has reported 174 positive cases and six deaths per 100,000 people, both below the national average, according to a Reuters analysis of data collected by the Covid Tracking Project. But the state also has one of the lowest testing rates, giving health officials less data on the reach of the illness to base decisions on reopening, the data showed.

"Don`t go out," Savannah Mayor Van Johnson, a Democrat, told residents of the eastern Georgia city during a news conference. "People will not come here if they think our businesses are not safe."

CUOMO MEETS TRUMP

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo emerged from a meeting with Trump at the White House and said the president had agreed to help his state procure chemical reagents and other supplies needed to double testing capacity. 
Cuomo said it was up to his state to help labs boost their testing capacity and to organize the workers needed to take more samples.

"That is an intelligent division of labor," Cuomo said at a press briefing. "Let each level of government do what it does best."

The governor said New York would try to double the number of people it tests each day - including diagnostic and antibody tests - to 40,000, characterizing the task as an "enormous undertaking" that would take weeks.

Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom of California, the most populous U.S. state, said despite evidence the outbreak was slowing there, cases and deaths were still rising.

Over the seven-day period ending on Sunday night, the number of deaths in California nearly doubled, and the number of new cases increased by nearly 50%, state data showed.

Newsom promised to release a detailed plan for testing and reopening on Wednesday, but cautioned it was too soon to loosen public health restrictions.

In Washington, D.C., the U.S. Senate unanimously approved $484 billion in additional coronavirus relief for the U.S. economy and hospitals treating patients sickened by the pandemic, sending the measure to the House of Representatives for final passage later this week.

Governors of about half a dozen U.S. states pushed ahead on Tuesday with plans to partially reopen for business despite warnings by some health officials that doing so could trigger a new surge in coronavirus cases.

Governors of about half a dozen U.S. states pushed ahead on Tuesday with plans to partially reopen for business despite warnings by some health officials that doing so could trigger a new surge in coronavirus cases. The easing of sweeping restrictions in Georgia, South Carolina and other mostly Southern U.S. states follows protests against rules imposed during the pandemic that shut down businesses and largely confined residents to their homes. A Reuters/Ipsos opinion poll showed a majority of Americans believed stay-at-home orders should remain in place until public health officials determine lifting them is safe, despite the damage to the U.S. economy. "It`s a matter of concern, this whole idea of opening up. It`s based on non-science generated parameters," Dr. Boris Lushniak, dean of the University of Maryland School of Public Health, told Reuters in an interview. Deaths from COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by coronavirus, topped 45,150 nationwide as cases climbed to over 810,000, according to a Reuters tally. New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Michigan each reported their highest single-day coronavirus-related death tolls - over 800 between the three states. New York state, the epicentre of the U.S. outbreak, reported 481 new deaths. Governors are under pressure from businesses and some constituents to relax stay-at-home orders that have thrown over 20 million people out of work in the past month alone. In Wisconsin, Republican lawmakers who filed a lawsuit against Democratic Governor Tony Evers, challenging his stay-at-home order that runs until May 26. CDC WARNS OF FALL OUTBREAK Tensions between U.S. President Donald Trump, a Republican, and local officials have risen over the U.S. government`s role in ramping up testing, which infectious disease experts say is key to enable a safe reopening. Those experts say the United States, with a population of nearly 330 million people, should test 3 million per week to get an accurate sense of the virus`s reach. States have tested only a third of that number in the past seven days, according to the Covid Tracking Project. Even as states move ahead with plans to reopen, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned a second wave of the coronavirus could be worse if it coincides with the start of seasonal flu season. “There’s a possibility that the assault of the virus on our nation next winter will actually be even more difficult than the one we just went through,” CDC Director Robert Redfield said in an interview with The Washington Post. Georgia is among a half dozen states that will allow more business activity this week or next. Brian Kemp, Georgia`s Republican governor, will allow gyms, hair salons, bowling alleys, tattoo and massage parlors to reopen on Friday, followed by movie houses and restaurants next week. Kemp said his plan balances public health with the need to reignite the state`s economy, saying social distancing rules would remain in place. Georgia has reported 174 positive cases and six deaths per 100,000 people, both below the national average, according to a Reuters analysis of data collected by the Covid Tracking Project. But the state also has one of the lowest testing rates, giving health officials less data on the reach of the illness to base decisions on reopening, the data showed. "Don`t go out," Savannah Mayor Van Johnson, a Democrat, told residents of the eastern Georgia city during a news conference. "People will not come here if they think our businesses are not safe." CUOMO MEETS TRUMP New York Governor Andrew Cuomo emerged from a meeting with Trump at the White House and said the president had agreed to help his state procure chemical reagents and other supplies needed to double testing capacity. Cuomo said it was up to his state to help labs boost their testing capacity and to organize the workers needed to take more samples. "That is an intelligent division of labor," Cuomo said at a press briefing. "Let each level of government do what it does best." The governor said New York would try to double the number of people it tests each day - including diagnostic and antibody tests - to 40,000, characterizing the task as an "enormous undertaking" that would take weeks. Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom of California, the most populous U.S. state, said despite evidence the outbreak was slowing there, cases and deaths were still rising. Over the seven-day period ending on Sunday night, the number of deaths in California nearly doubled, and the number of new cases increased by nearly 50%, state data showed. Newsom promised to release a detailed plan for testing and reopening on Wednesday, but cautioned it was too soon to loosen public health restrictions. In Washington, D.C., the U.S. Senate unanimously approved $484 billion in additional coronavirus relief for the U.S. economy and hospitals treating patients sickened by the pandemic, sending the measure to the House of Representatives for final passage later this week.

Political wrangling, controversy mark re-opening of US states

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recorded 21,797 coronavirus (Covid-19) cases in India by Thursday. A total of 500,542 samples from 485,172 individuals have been tested as on April 23, said ICMR.&nbsp;

The total number of Coronavirus positive cases presently stands at 21,797. There are 16,454 active cases, while 4258 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated. The death toll now stands at 681.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/1409-new-covid-19-cases-41-fatalities-in-last-24-hours-in-india-294151/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The disease has already spread in over 200 countries around the world, killing lakhs of people. The US, China, and Spain are the worst affected countries in terms of cases and the number of casualties.

Reports say that several new Coronavirus patients have been found to be asymptomatic. In Delhi-NCR, the Gautam Buddha Nagar administration has completely closed Delhi-Noida border. Only essential vehicles will be allowed.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recorded 21,797 coronavirus (Covid-19) cases in India by Thursday. A total of 500,542 samples from 485,172 individuals have been tested as on April 23, said ICMR.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recorded 21,797 coronavirus (Covid-19) cases in India by Thursday. A total of 500,542 samples from 485,172 individuals have been tested as on April 23, said ICMR. The total number of Coronavirus positive cases presently stands at 21,797. There are 16,454 active cases, while 4258 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated. The death toll now stands at 681. The disease has already spread in over 200 countries around the world, killing lakhs of people. The US, China, and Spain are the worst affected countries in terms of cases and the number of casualties. Reports say that several new Coronavirus patients have been found to be asymptomatic. In Delhi-NCR, the Gautam Buddha Nagar administration has completely closed Delhi-Noida border. Only essential vehicles will be allowed. (With inputs from agencies)

21,797 COVID-19 cases in India confirmed, says ICMR; 5 lakh samples tested

As a result of the deadly coronavirus pandemic, which has resulted in a global recession, remittances to India are likely to drop by 23 per cent from USD 83 billion last year to USD 64 billion this year, the World Bank has said.

"In India, remittances are projected to fall by about 23 per cent in 2020, to USD 64 billion - a striking contrast with the growth of 5.5 per cent and receipts of USD 83 billion seen in 2019," the World Bank said in a report on the impact of COVID-19 on migration and remittances released on Wednesday.

Globally remittances are projected to decline sharply by about 20 per cent this year due to the economic crisis induced by the COVID-19 pandemic and shutdown.

The projected fall, which would be the sharpest decline in recent history, is largely due to a fall in the wages and employment of migrant workers, who tend to be more vulnerable to loss of employment and wages during an economic crisis in a host country, the bank said.

"Remittances are a vital source of income for developing countries. The ongoing economic recession caused by COVID-19 is taking a severe toll on the ability to send money home and makes it all the more vital that we shorten the time to recovery for advanced economies," said World Bank Group President David Malpass.

"Remittances help families afford food, healthcare, and basic needs. As the World Bank Group implements fast, broad action to support countries, we are working to keep remittance channels open and safeguard the poorest communities'' access to these most basic needs," he added.

Remittance flows are expected to fall across all World Bank Group regions, most notably in Europe and Central Asia (27.5 per cent), followed by Sub-Saharan Africa (23.1 per cent), South Asia (22.1 per cent), the Middle East and North Africa (19.6 per cent), Latin America and the Caribbean (19.3 per cent), and East Asia and the Pacific (13 per cent).

In Pakistan, the projected decline is also about 23 per cent, totalling about USD 17 billion, compared with a total of USD 22.5 billion last year, when remittances grew by 6.2 per cent.

In Bangladesh, remittances are projected at USD 14 billion this year, a likely fall of about 22 per cent.

Remittances to Nepal and Sri Lanka are expected to decline by 14 percent and 19 percent, respectively this year.&nbsp;

As a result of the deadly coronavirus pandemic, which has resulted in a global recession, remittances to India are likely to drop by 23 per cent from USD 83 billion last year to USD 64 billion this year, the World Bank has said.

As a result of the deadly coronavirus pandemic, which has resulted in a global recession, remittances to India are likely to drop by 23 per cent from USD 83 billion last year to USD 64 billion this year, the World Bank has said. "In India, remittances are projected to fall by about 23 per cent in 2020, to USD 64 billion - a striking contrast with the growth of 5.5 per cent and receipts of USD 83 billion seen in 2019," the World Bank said in a report on the impact of COVID-19 on migration and remittances released on Wednesday. Globally remittances are projected to decline sharply by about 20 per cent this year due to the economic crisis induced by the COVID-19 pandemic and shutdown. The projected fall, which would be the sharpest decline in recent history, is largely due to a fall in the wages and employment of migrant workers, who tend to be more vulnerable to loss of employment and wages during an economic crisis in a host country, the bank said. "Remittances are a vital source of income for developing countries. The ongoing economic recession caused by COVID-19 is taking a severe toll on the ability to send money home and makes it all the more vital that we shorten the time to recovery for advanced economies," said World Bank Group President David Malpass. "Remittances help families afford food, healthcare, and basic needs. As the World Bank Group implements fast, broad action to support countries, we are working to keep remittance channels open and safeguard the poorest communities'' access to these most basic needs," he added. Remittance flows are expected to fall across all World Bank Group regions, most notably in Europe and Central Asia (27.5 per cent), followed by Sub-Saharan Africa (23.1 per cent), South Asia (22.1 per cent), the Middle East and North Africa (19.6 per cent), Latin America and the Caribbean (19.3 per cent), and East Asia and the Pacific (13 per cent). In Pakistan, the projected decline is also about 23 per cent, totalling about USD 17 billion, compared with a total of USD 22.5 billion last year, when remittances grew by 6.2 per cent. In Bangladesh, remittances are projected at USD 14 billion this year, a likely fall of about 22 per cent. Remittances to Nepal and Sri Lanka are expected to decline by 14 percent and 19 percent, respectively this year.

India remittances may fall to $64 billion from $83 billion amid covid-19

Kerala Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, on Wednesday, announced a 30 per cent cut in the salaries and honorarium of all elected representatives in the state to overcome the COVID-19-induced financial crisis.

While briefing the press, Vijayan said that the government will deduct the salary of state employees -- ministers, MLAs, members of different boards under the government and members of local self-government bodies for six days every month for the next five months. While those earning less than Rs 20,000 per month would be exempted from the scheme.&nbsp;

"The state is going through a fiscal crisis as the tax collection revenue has fallen drastically and remittances from expatriates have also stopped,” said Vijayan. “Expenses for healthcare services and food safety are unavoidable," he added.

Vijayan also said that the government needs to mop up additional resources within the state and it is a matter of relief that people across different sections of the society have contributed to the Chief Minister`s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF).

Kerala Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, on Wednesday, announced a 30 per cent cut in the salaries and honorarium of all elected representatives in the state to overcome the COVID-19-induced financial crisis.

Kerala Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, on Wednesday, announced a 30 per cent cut in the salaries and honorarium of all elected representatives in the state to overcome the COVID-19-induced financial crisis. While briefing the press, Vijayan said that the government will deduct the salary of state employees -- ministers, MLAs, members of different boards under the government and members of local self-government bodies for six days every month for the next five months. While those earning less than Rs 20,000 per month would be exempted from the scheme. "The state is going through a fiscal crisis as the tax collection revenue has fallen drastically and remittances from expatriates have also stopped,” said Vijayan. “Expenses for healthcare services and food safety are unavoidable," he added. Vijayan also said that the government needs to mop up additional resources within the state and it is a matter of relief that people across different sections of the society have contributed to the Chief Minister`s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF).

Kerala government takes 30 per cent cut in salary to overcome COVID-19-induced financial crisis

The deadly coronavirus pandemic has not only generated a health emergency but a great economic crisis globally. Many countries around the world are in the infancy stage of the fight against it.

The World Health Organization has warned that the coronavirus crisis will not end any time soon.

"Make no mistake: we have a long way to go. This virus will be with us for a long time," Tedros told a virtual press conference.

"Most countries are still in the early stages of their epidemics. And some that were affected early in the pandemic are now starting to see a resurgence in cases."

From Globalisation to economic activities the current crisis could upturn everything we take for granted.&nbsp;

More than 183,120 people around the world have died after contracting COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. The infection has spread to 2,626,929 people in more than 100 countries and shows no signs of slowing down. The intensity of its impact signals fundamental shifts in the way humans will live and work.&nbsp;

Nations around the world have been scrambling to fight the pandemic while desperately seeking ways to limit the devastating economic fallout. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The deadly coronavirus pandemic has not only generated a health emergency but a great economic crisis globally. Many countries around the world are in the infancy stage of the fight against it.

The deadly coronavirus pandemic has not only generated a health emergency but a great economic crisis globally. Many countries around the world are in the infancy stage of the fight against it. The World Health Organization has warned that the coronavirus crisis will not end any time soon. "Make no mistake: we have a long way to go. This virus will be with us for a long time," Tedros told a virtual press conference. "Most countries are still in the early stages of their epidemics. And some that were affected early in the pandemic are now starting to see a resurgence in cases." From Globalisation to economic activities the current crisis could upturn everything we take for granted. More than 183,120 people around the world have died after contracting COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. The infection has spread to 2,626,929 people in more than 100 countries and shows no signs of slowing down. The intensity of its impact signals fundamental shifts in the way humans will live and work. Nations around the world have been scrambling to fight the pandemic while desperately seeking ways to limit the devastating economic fallout. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus crisis is not going away anytime soon: WHO

A Pakistani television journalist has claimed that China has developed a vaccine for covid-19 and Pakistan will be among the first few countries to receive it.

Even as the scientists across the globe are working overtime to find a cure and vaccine for the covid-19 pandemic,

Saadia Afzal, the journalist who broke the story claims that one Chinese company has written to Pakistan's national institute of health, or the NIH, &nbsp;informing them about the launch of the vaccine program

In one of her videos shared on twitter, Afzal also speaks to the NIH chairperson on television.

In her program, a letter claiming that this so-called vaccine program would take 3 months minimum to start its trials.

The letter states that the company has offered to do clinical trials on patients in Pakistan first.

It also mentions that China's request for clinical trials and recruitment of test-patients for phase 1 and 2 tests.

According to the claims, if clinical trials are conducted in Pakistan and it turns out successful, then it will be the first nation to get the vaccine on a high-priority basis.

We would like to inform our viewers that nowhere in the world has a vaccine for the coronavirus been developed yet.

It takes several phases of clinical trials before scientific communities declare &nbsp;a vaccine safe for human use

Saadia Afzal is a prominent Pakistani journalist and wife of Faisal, federal minister for water resources.

A Pakistani television journalist has claimed that China has developed a vaccine for covid-19 and Pakistan will be among the first few countries to receive it. Even as the scientists across the globe are working overtime to find a cure and vaccine for the covid-19 pandemic, Saadia Afzal, the journalist who broke the story claims that one Chinese company has written to Pakistan's national institute of health, or the NIH, informing them about the launch of the vaccine program In one of her videos shared on twitter, Afzal also speaks to the NIH chairperson on television.

A Pakistani television journalist has claimed that China has developed a vaccine for covid-19 and Pakistan will be among the first few countries to receive it. Even as the scientists across the globe are working overtime to find a cure and vaccine for the covid-19 pandemic, Saadia Afzal, the journalist who broke the story claims that one Chinese company has written to Pakistan's national institute of health, or the NIH, informing them about the launch of the vaccine program In one of her videos shared on twitter, Afzal also speaks to the NIH chairperson on television. In her program, a letter claiming that this so-called vaccine program would take 3 months minimum to start its trials. The letter states that the company has offered to do clinical trials on patients in Pakistan first. It also mentions that China's request for clinical trials and recruitment of test-patients for phase 1 and 2 tests. According to the claims, if clinical trials are conducted in Pakistan and it turns out successful, then it will be the first nation to get the vaccine on a high-priority basis. We would like to inform our viewers that nowhere in the world has a vaccine for the coronavirus been developed yet. It takes several phases of clinical trials before scientific communities declare a vaccine safe for human use Saadia Afzal is a prominent Pakistani journalist and wife of Faisal, federal minister for water resources.

China to conduct clinical trials on Pakistani patients for COVID-19 vaccine

Indian envoy to Australia Gitesh Sarma has said that New Delhi is sympathetic to the country's requirement for medicine in the backdrop of COVID crisis and "India and Australia are part of such global efforts" are part of global efforts against the crisis. &nbsp;

Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Gitesh Sarma spoke at length on the situation of the Indian community with both sides "working closely" for the "welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia".

WION: How is India and Australia cooperating on Covid crisis? Especially on Hydroxychloroquine.

Gitesh Sarma: As close friends and partners, India and Australia are closely engaged with each other and also other partners in responding to this global COVID19 pandemic crisis. During their telephone call earlier this month, our Prime Ministers had extensive discussions on the pandemic and the domestic response strategies being adopted on both the sides. We have also agreed on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in the context of this health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. Another area of focus, where both the sides are working closely, is the welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia who has been impacted by this crisis. &nbsp;I can inform you that India, taking into account our strong ties, looks with sympathy at Australia’s drug requirements. There have been frequent contacts at high levels and senior officials where issues of mutual concern are discussed, including in the pandemic context.

WION: Have u shared any covid containment models with Australia? 
 
Gitesh Sarma: It needs to be underlined that both our countries fully agree on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in this unprecedented health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. &nbsp;We share a special relationship, which provides the backdrop against which we discuss issues of concern freely and frankly. Institutions on both sides are in touch with each other to take this forward. Globally, there are opportunities for sharing experiences in the fight against the pandemic. &nbsp;India and Australia are part of such global efforts.

WION: Are you involving local Indian communities to help stranded Indians? 
 
Gitesh Sarma: &nbsp;The 700,000 strong Indian diaspora in Australia, is a very important component of our relations with Australia and a tremendous asset in times like this. &nbsp;Ever since the outbreak of the pandemic, the High Commission and all our Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth have been working very closely with local Indian diaspora associations to provide emergency relief assistance to Indian nationals in need across the country.

It would not be amiss to say that the local diaspora community plays a lead role in our efforts to ensure the welfare of the stranded Indians. Whether it is an entity representing the entire country or a state or a language or a religion or even a profession, I am happy to share that every section of the diaspora has risen to the occasion and contributed its might to the common cause.

A few months back, large parts of Australia were ravaged by bushfires. &nbsp;

The Indian diaspora was active in providing relief to those affected. &nbsp;And the same spirit has come to the fore in the current situation. We are deeply encouraged by the sense of service shown by the Indian community in Australia in this hour of need. I would like to convey my appreciation and gratitude for their selfless service to the needy.

WION: How is the Indian mission taking care of Indians stranded in Australia?&nbsp;

Gitesh Sarma: There are more than 2.5 lakh Indian nationals in Australia, including 90,000 students. We have a multi-pronged strategy to review and respond to the needs of the Indian community in the evolving situation. &nbsp;To start, a robust system to ensure proper information, guidance and the effective response have been put in place to inform, guide and respond to the needs of our nationals. The system includes a 24x7 Emergency Helpline in the Mission and our 3 Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, leveraging our Social media presence where we have a combined following of more than 200,000. &nbsp;Our social media outreach to the Indian community has been made more responsive keeping the pandemic situation in mind. &nbsp;We have conducted video conferences with stranded students and Indian nationals. &nbsp;Overall, our sense is that they have shown immense courage in dealing with this situation and we are proud of them.

To take care of the immediate and urgent needs of the affected Indian nationals, especially the Indian students facing financial hardship, a nationwide system has been set up with partner diaspora organisations, with assistance from the Mission to provide take away meals and basic provisions. Till now, around 30,000 meal packs/grocery kits have been distributed to needy persons. &nbsp;We are happy to say that the Indian diaspora has taken, in many instances, its own initiatives to provide relief to stranded Indians.

Mission has also worked with the Indian Medical Association of Australia and other Indian diasporas in the health sector to set up “Virtual Clinic” for enabling basic access to healthcare in difficult situations. &nbsp;Mission and our Consulates have also attended to requests for accommodation assistance from those in acute distress, in partnership with diaspora partner organisations &amp; individuals although there are challenges here.

We are aware that a number of stranded Indians would like to return home. &nbsp;Right now, the message is to stay where they are until things change. We look forward to being able to provide credible information on resumption of flights as and when available. On the external front, Mission is closely engaged with key Australian authorities including the Dept of Foreign Affairs &amp; Trade, Dept of Health, Dept of Education and Universities at various levels to provide practical relief to the affected Indian nationals.

There are also individual cases where the High Commission has had to find creative solutions in very challenging conditions to provide relief keeping in mind humanitarian aspects. Recently a number of Australian Universities have announced their own plans to support international students impacted by the pandemic. &nbsp;The sense we get is that the pandemic situation is seen as a short-term challenge. &nbsp;Australian Universities are interested in attracting international students by offering high-quality education. &nbsp;Australian educational institutions greatly value the presence of Indian students.

Indian envoy to Australia Gitesh Sarma has said that New Delhi is sympathetic to the country's requirement for medicine in the backdrop of COVID crisis and "India and Australia are part of such global efforts" are part of global efforts against the crisis.

Indian envoy to Australia Gitesh Sarma has said that New Delhi is sympathetic to the country's requirement for medicine in the backdrop of COVID crisis and "India and Australia are part of such global efforts" are part of global efforts against the crisis. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Gitesh Sarma spoke at length on the situation of the Indian community with both sides "working closely" for the "welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia". WION: How is India and Australia cooperating on Covid crisis? Especially on Hydroxychloroquine. Gitesh Sarma: As close friends and partners, India and Australia are closely engaged with each other and also other partners in responding to this global COVID19 pandemic crisis. During their telephone call earlier this month, our Prime Ministers had extensive discussions on the pandemic and the domestic response strategies being adopted on both the sides. We have also agreed on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in the context of this health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. Another area of focus, where both the sides are working closely, is the welfare of the large number of Indian nationals residing in Australia who has been impacted by this crisis. I can inform you that India, taking into account our strong ties, looks with sympathy at Australia’s drug requirements. There have been frequent contacts at high levels and senior officials where issues of mutual concern are discussed, including in the pandemic context. WION: Have u shared any covid containment models with Australia? Gitesh Sarma: It needs to be underlined that both our countries fully agree on the importance of bilateral experience-sharing in this unprecedented health crisis, including through collaborative research efforts. We share a special relationship, which provides the backdrop against which we discuss issues of concern freely and frankly. Institutions on both sides are in touch with each other to take this forward. Globally, there are opportunities for sharing experiences in the fight against the pandemic. India and Australia are part of such global efforts. WION: Are you involving local Indian communities to help stranded Indians? Gitesh Sarma: The 700,000 strong Indian diaspora in Australia, is a very important component of our relations with Australia and a tremendous asset in times like this. Ever since the outbreak of the pandemic, the High Commission and all our Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth have been working very closely with local Indian diaspora associations to provide emergency relief assistance to Indian nationals in need across the country. It would not be amiss to say that the local diaspora community plays a lead role in our efforts to ensure the welfare of the stranded Indians. Whether it is an entity representing the entire country or a state or a language or a religion or even a profession, I am happy to share that every section of the diaspora has risen to the occasion and contributed its might to the common cause. A few months back, large parts of Australia were ravaged by bushfires. The Indian diaspora was active in providing relief to those affected. And the same spirit has come to the fore in the current situation. We are deeply encouraged by the sense of service shown by the Indian community in Australia in this hour of need. I would like to convey my appreciation and gratitude for their selfless service to the needy. WION: How is the Indian mission taking care of Indians stranded in Australia? Gitesh Sarma: There are more than 2.5 lakh Indian nationals in Australia, including 90,000 students. We have a multi-pronged strategy to review and respond to the needs of the Indian community in the evolving situation. To start, a robust system to ensure proper information, guidance and the effective response have been put in place to inform, guide and respond to the needs of our nationals. The system includes a 24x7 Emergency Helpline in the Mission and our 3 Consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, leveraging our Social media presence where we have a combined following of more than 200,000. Our social media outreach to the Indian community has been made more responsive keeping the pandemic situation in mind. We have conducted video conferences with stranded students and Indian nationals. Overall, our sense is that they have shown immense courage in dealing with this situation and we are proud of them. To take care of the immediate and urgent needs of the affected Indian nationals, especially the Indian students facing financial hardship, a nationwide system has been set up with partner diaspora organisations, with assistance from the Mission to provide take away meals and basic provisions. Till now, around 30,000 meal packs/grocery kits have been distributed to needy persons. We are happy to say that the Indian diaspora has taken, in many instances, its own initiatives to provide relief to stranded Indians. Mission has also worked with the Indian Medical Association of Australia and other Indian diasporas in the health sector to set up “Virtual Clinic” for enabling basic access to healthcare in difficult situations. Mission and our Consulates have also attended to requests for accommodation assistance from those in acute distress, in partnership with diaspora partner organisations & individuals although there are challenges here. We are aware that a number of stranded Indians would like to return home. Right now, the message is to stay where they are until things change. We look forward to being able to provide credible information on resumption of flights as and when available. On the external front, Mission is closely engaged with key Australian authorities including the Dept of Foreign Affairs & Trade, Dept of Health, Dept of Education and Universities at various levels to provide practical relief to the affected Indian nationals. There are also individual cases where the High Commission has had to find creative solutions in very challenging conditions to provide relief keeping in mind humanitarian aspects. Recently a number of Australian Universities have announced their own plans to support international students impacted by the pandemic. The sense we get is that the pandemic situation is seen as a short-term challenge. Australian Universities are interested in attracting international students by offering high-quality education. Australian educational institutions greatly value the presence of Indian students.

Sympathetic to Australia's requirement on medicines, says Indian envoy to Australia

Air pollution over northern India has plummeted to a 20-year-low for this time of the year, according to satellite data published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

The US space agency's satellite sensors observed aerosol levels at a 20-year low post the countrywide lockdown, implemented to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

"We knew we would see changes in atmospheric composition in many places during the lockdown," said Pawan Gupta, a Universities Space Research Association (USRA) scientist at NASA''s Marshall Space Flight Center. "But I have never seen aerosol values so low in the Indo-Gangetic Plain at this time of year," added Mr Gupta.

Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Alice G Wells tweeted, "These images from NASA were taken each spring starting in 2016 and show a 20-year low in airborne particle levels over India. When India and the world are ready to work and travel again, let's not forget that collaborative action can result in cleaner air."

The data published with maps show aerosol optical depth (AOD) in 2020 compared to the average for 2016-2019. Aerosol optical depth is a measure of how light is absorbed or reflected by airborne particles as it travels through the atmosphere.

If aerosols are concentrated near the surface, an optical depth of 1 or above indicates very hazy conditions. An optical depth, or thickness, of less than 0.1 over the entire atmospheric vertical column is considered "clean." The data were retrieved by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Terra satellite.

In the first few days of the lockdown, it was difficult to observe a change in the pollution signature. "We saw an aerosol decrease in the first week of the shutdown, but that was due to a combination of rain and the lockdown," said Mr Gupta.

Around March 27, heavy rain poured over vast areas of northern India and helped clear the air of aerosols. Aerosol concentrations usually increase again after such heavy precipitation.

"After the rainfall, I was really impressed that aerosol levels did not go up and return to normal. We saw a gradual decrease and things have been staying at the level we might expect without anthropogenic emissions," Mr Gupta said.

On March 25, the Indian government placed its 1.3 billion citizens under a strict lockdown to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The countrywide mandate decreased activity at factories and severely reduced car, bus, truck and aeroplane traffic. Every year, aerosols from anthropogenic (human-made) sources contribute to unhealthy levels of air pollution in many Indian cities.

Aerosols are tiny solid and liquid particles suspended in the air that reduce visibility and can damage the human lungs and heart.

In southern India though, the story is a little hazier. Satellite data show aerosol levels have not yet decreased to the same extent. In fact, levels seem to be slightly higher than in the past four years. The reasons are unclear but could be related to recent weather patterns, agricultural fires, winds or other factors.

"This a model scientific experiment," Robert Levy, program leader for NASA's MODIS aerosol products, said about the lockdown and its effects on pollution.

"We have a unique opportunity to learn how the atmosphere reacts to sharp and sudden reductions in emissions from certain sectors. This can help us separate how natural and human sources of aerosols affect the atmosphere," Mr Levy added.

Air pollution over northern India has plummeted to a 20-year-low for this time of the year, according to satellite data published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

Air pollution over northern India has plummeted to a 20-year-low for this time of the year, according to satellite data published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The US space agency's satellite sensors observed aerosol levels at a 20-year low post the countrywide lockdown, implemented to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. "We knew we would see changes in atmospheric composition in many places during the lockdown," said Pawan Gupta, a Universities Space Research Association (USRA) scientist at NASA''s Marshall Space Flight Center. "But I have never seen aerosol values so low in the Indo-Gangetic Plain at this time of year," added Mr Gupta. Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Alice G Wells tweeted, "These images from NASA were taken each spring starting in 2016 and show a 20-year low in airborne particle levels over India. When India and the world are ready to work and travel again, let's not forget that collaborative action can result in cleaner air." The data published with maps show aerosol optical depth (AOD) in 2020 compared to the average for 2016-2019. Aerosol optical depth is a measure of how light is absorbed or reflected by airborne particles as it travels through the atmosphere. If aerosols are concentrated near the surface, an optical depth of 1 or above indicates very hazy conditions. An optical depth, or thickness, of less than 0.1 over the entire atmospheric vertical column is considered "clean." The data were retrieved by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Terra satellite. In the first few days of the lockdown, it was difficult to observe a change in the pollution signature. "We saw an aerosol decrease in the first week of the shutdown, but that was due to a combination of rain and the lockdown," said Mr Gupta. Around March 27, heavy rain poured over vast areas of northern India and helped clear the air of aerosols. Aerosol concentrations usually increase again after such heavy precipitation. "After the rainfall, I was really impressed that aerosol levels did not go up and return to normal. We saw a gradual decrease and things have been staying at the level we might expect without anthropogenic emissions," Mr Gupta said. On March 25, the Indian government placed its 1.3 billion citizens under a strict lockdown to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The countrywide mandate decreased activity at factories and severely reduced car, bus, truck and aeroplane traffic. Every year, aerosols from anthropogenic (human-made) sources contribute to unhealthy levels of air pollution in many Indian cities. Aerosols are tiny solid and liquid particles suspended in the air that reduce visibility and can damage the human lungs and heart. In southern India though, the story is a little hazier. Satellite data show aerosol levels have not yet decreased to the same extent. In fact, levels seem to be slightly higher than in the past four years. The reasons are unclear but could be related to recent weather patterns, agricultural fires, winds or other factors. "This a model scientific experiment," Robert Levy, program leader for NASA's MODIS aerosol products, said about the lockdown and its effects on pollution. "We have a unique opportunity to learn how the atmosphere reacts to sharp and sudden reductions in emissions from certain sectors. This can help us separate how natural and human sources of aerosols affect the atmosphere," Mr Levy added.

Air pollution over North India plummets to 20-year-low amid lockdown, says NASA

The capital city of North Korea this week witnessed consumers “panic buying” food products which have led to stores run out of stock for the others, according to media reports from the country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-agents-fuelled-panic-in-us-by-spreading-fake-warnings-says-report-294154">Also read: Chinese agents fuelled panic in US by spreading fake warnings, says report</a> 
 
This came after stringent measures were announced for Pyongyang revealed by media filings. There was a shortage mainly for imported fruits and vegetables initially but now it spread to other goods as well.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-coronavirus-timeline-shifts-three-weeks-earlier-in-wake-of-new-disclosure-294142" hreflang="en">US coronavirus timeline shifts three weeks earlier in wake of new disclosure</a>

Media houses also reported that the price of staple food items was rising after the capital witnessed a steep rise in demand and people indulging in panic buying.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-asymptomatic-cases-increase-to-over-980-294139" hreflang="en">China's asymptomatic cases increase to over 980</a>

North Korea had sealed its border in January when it saw a steep rise in COVID-19 cases in China. Kim’s government claims that the country has no confirmed cases but U.S. is fairly confident that North Korea has cases, seeing a lack in military activities, according to General Robert Abrams, commander of U.S. Forces Korea, told to reporters in March.

Shortage of food in North Korea is not new, a famine in the 1990s had killed 10 per cent of the population, according to data.

The United Nation World Food Program warned earlier this week that the pandemic might make things worse leading to starvation in the developing countries. The WFP said that 40 per cent of North Korea is undernourished.&nbsp;

Apart from coronavirus fears, one more reason appears related to this panic buying and that is rumours about leader Kim Jong Un's health.

North Korean state media made no mention of new appearances by leader Kim Jong Un, amid continued international speculation over his health following reports he underwent surgery.&nbsp;

Kim was not present for his grandfather’s and state founder, Kim IL Sung’s birthday celebrations. He has not been since there is rising conjecture of his ill health.

News agency in Korea reported that the North Korean President had written a letter to the Syrian president, Bashar-al-Assad.

US officials were told on Monday that Kim was critical after undergoing the cardiovascular surgery last week and was not sure about his current condition. Whereas the South Korean President’s office said that Kim is doing his regular work in the rural parts of the country.

The health conditions of the North Korean President is a protected secret, known only to a few close people. Donald Trump said that he is not aware of Kim’s heath currently but he will reach out to him.&nbsp;

“I assume that Kim Jong-un is still in full control of the Korean nuclear forces and the Korean military forces. I have no reason not to assume that,” said General John Hyten, vice chairman, U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The capital city of North Korea this week witnessed consumers “panic buying” food products which have led to stores run out of stock for the others, according to media reports from the country.

The capital city of North Korea this week witnessed consumers “panic buying” food products which have led to stores run out of stock for the others, according to media reports from the country. Also read: Chinese agents fuelled panic in US by spreading fake warnings, says report This came after stringent measures were announced for Pyongyang revealed by media filings. There was a shortage mainly for imported fruits and vegetables initially but now it spread to other goods as well. Also read: US coronavirus timeline shifts three weeks earlier in wake of new disclosure Media houses also reported that the price of staple food items was rising after the capital witnessed a steep rise in demand and people indulging in panic buying. Also read: China's asymptomatic cases increase to over 980 North Korea had sealed its border in January when it saw a steep rise in COVID-19 cases in China. Kim’s government claims that the country has no confirmed cases but U.S. is fairly confident that North Korea has cases, seeing a lack in military activities, according to General Robert Abrams, commander of U.S. Forces Korea, told to reporters in March. Shortage of food in North Korea is not new, a famine in the 1990s had killed 10 per cent of the population, according to data. The United Nation World Food Program warned earlier this week that the pandemic might make things worse leading to starvation in the developing countries. The WFP said that 40 per cent of North Korea is undernourished. Apart from coronavirus fears, one more reason appears related to this panic buying and that is rumours about leader Kim Jong Un's health. North Korean state media made no mention of new appearances by leader Kim Jong Un, amid continued international speculation over his health following reports he underwent surgery. Kim was not present for his grandfather’s and state founder, Kim IL Sung’s birthday celebrations. He has not been since there is rising conjecture of his ill health. News agency in Korea reported that the North Korean President had written a letter to the Syrian president, Bashar-al-Assad. US officials were told on Monday that Kim was critical after undergoing the cardiovascular surgery last week and was not sure about his current condition. Whereas the South Korean President’s office said that Kim is doing his regular work in the rural parts of the country. The health conditions of the North Korean President is a protected secret, known only to a few close people. Donald Trump said that he is not aware of Kim’s heath currently but he will reach out to him. “I assume that Kim Jong-un is still in full control of the Korean nuclear forces and the Korean military forces. I have no reason not to assume that,” said General John Hyten, vice chairman, U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff.

North Korean capital witness panic buying of food after strict covid-19 norms announced

As the US sees a constant rise in the number of positive coronavirus cases,&nbsp;doctors believe had they known the severity of this virus, they would have equipped themselves in a better way.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-sees-1738-new-coronavirus-deaths-in-24-hours-toll-nears-50000-294112">With 47,973 deaths out of 8,55,255, USA has the highest number of cases in the world.&nbsp;</a>However, there are several reports indicating that the curve might start to flatten.

As the doctors spend hours in trying to convert the positive cases to negative, they&nbsp;wish they had known about few things before things got worse. Dr. Jolion McGreevy, Director, Mount Sinai Hospital Emergency Department, New York said doctors had learned that some patients benefitted from not being immediately intubated, even if their oxygen levels were low. However, some responded&nbsp;well to changing their position every half an hour.

"What I did not recognise was the severity of illness that would be seen in patients who are older and the rapidity with which this illness would spread through elderly populations," said Dr. Anju Goel,&nbsp;an internal medicine specialist in California. She also believes that more could have been done to protect the elderly, especially, from exposure to the virus&nbsp;if the practitioners had understood how severely the respiratory disease would affect the elderly.

Dr&nbsp;Jennifer Haythe, an internist and critical care cardiologist at Columbia University Medical Center, who believes that hat ventilators were essential, agreed that for some patients&nbsp;flipping patients onto their front allowed the lungs to open and expand and give better oxygenation.

"If you want to give them a shot at survival, you put a breathing tube in."

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-coronavirus-timeline-shifts-three-weeks-earlier-in-wake-of-new-disclosure-294142">Health experts&nbsp;believe that the country could have been better prepared</a> and could have avoided the mass number of cases if they would have realized what was coming earlier.

As the US sees a constant rise in the number of positive coronavirus cases, doctors believe had they known the severity of this virus, they would have equipped themselves in a better way.

As the US sees a constant rise in the number of positive coronavirus cases, doctors believe had they known the severity of this virus, they would have equipped themselves in a better way. With 47,973 deaths out of 8,55,255, USA has the highest number of cases in the world. However, there are several reports indicating that the curve might start to flatten. As the doctors spend hours in trying to convert the positive cases to negative, they wish they had known about few things before things got worse. Dr. Jolion McGreevy, Director, Mount Sinai Hospital Emergency Department, New York said doctors had learned that some patients benefitted from not being immediately intubated, even if their oxygen levels were low. However, some responded well to changing their position every half an hour. "What I did not recognise was the severity of illness that would be seen in patients who are older and the rapidity with which this illness would spread through elderly populations," said Dr. Anju Goel, an internal medicine specialist in California. She also believes that more could have been done to protect the elderly, especially, from exposure to the virus if the practitioners had understood how severely the respiratory disease would affect the elderly. Dr Jennifer Haythe, an internist and critical care cardiologist at Columbia University Medical Center, who believes that hat ventilators were essential, agreed that for some patients flipping patients onto their front allowed the lungs to open and expand and give better oxygenation. "If you want to give them a shot at survival, you put a breathing tube in." Health experts believe that the country could have been better prepared and could have avoided the mass number of cases if they would have realized what was coming earlier.

What US doctors wish they had known before the coronavirus outbreak

The Maharashtra government has decided to aggressively evacuate suspected coronavirus patients from Dharavi and other hotspots and put them in institutional quarantine, Health Minister Rajesh Tope said on Wednesday.

The densely populated Dharavi slum area here has reported close to 190 cases of coronavirus infection so far. "Houses in Dharavi are very small and 10-12 people live in a house. Even if we advise home quarantine, the shortage of space defeats the purpose," he said.

The people who were in close contact with a COVID-19 patient would be evacuated so that further spread of the infection is stopped, Mr Tope said.

"We have discussed the issue with Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and Mumbai municipal commissioner Pravin Pardeshi. We have agreed that home quarantine would not be helpful in Dharavi area where space shortage is a major challenge," he said.

Grounds of schools can be used for institutional quarantine shelters and authorities have already started working on arranging artificial oxygen supply in such places, Mr Tope said.

"We can easily quarantine as many as 73,000 people. The total capacity of the state for isolation is around 1.55 lakh beds," the health minister said.

The "death percentage" among COVID-19 patients has now come down from seven to five which was a good sign, he added. "Daily 13 per cent of people are getting better in Maharashtra alone. The state has so far carried out more than 90,000 tests to detect coronavirus infection. Today we performed as many as 7,112 tests.

"Still, we have decided to increase testing further for early detection," he said.

"Photo booths" for sample collection are operational in Kasturba Hospital and similar booths will be set up in other places, he said. With these booths, the person collecting swab samples does not need to wear PPE kit, he said.

The Maharashtra government has decided to aggressively evacuate suspected coronavirus patients from Dharavi and other hotspots and put them in institutional quarantine, Health Minister Rajesh Tope said on Wednesday.

The Maharashtra government has decided to aggressively evacuate suspected coronavirus patients from Dharavi and other hotspots and put them in institutional quarantine, Health Minister Rajesh Tope said on Wednesday. The densely populated Dharavi slum area here has reported close to 190 cases of coronavirus infection so far. "Houses in Dharavi are very small and 10-12 people live in a house. Even if we advise home quarantine, the shortage of space defeats the purpose," he said. The people who were in close contact with a COVID-19 patient would be evacuated so that further spread of the infection is stopped, Mr Tope said. "We have discussed the issue with Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and Mumbai municipal commissioner Pravin Pardeshi. We have agreed that home quarantine would not be helpful in Dharavi area where space shortage is a major challenge," he said. Grounds of schools can be used for institutional quarantine shelters and authorities have already started working on arranging artificial oxygen supply in such places, Mr Tope said. "We can easily quarantine as many as 73,000 people. The total capacity of the state for isolation is around 1.55 lakh beds," the health minister said. The "death percentage" among COVID-19 patients has now come down from seven to five which was a good sign, he added. "Daily 13 per cent of people are getting better in Maharashtra alone. The state has so far carried out more than 90,000 tests to detect coronavirus infection. Today we performed as many as 7,112 tests. "Still, we have decided to increase testing further for early detection," he said. "Photo booths" for sample collection are operational in Kasturba Hospital and similar booths will be set up in other places, he said. With these booths, the person collecting swab samples does not need to wear PPE kit, he said.

Aggressive evacuation of suspected patients in Dharavi planned: Maharashtra Minister

As the country awaits the end of lockdown 2.0, reports are coming in about COVID-19 peaking in the next month.

According to media reports, the pandemic could peak in summers especially between May-June. As per the estimations and calculations by experts, cases are expected to be at least thrice the present number.&nbsp;

The estimations have been made by studying the rise of cases using different basis, i.e. time, percentage and reproduction of cases. These models observe and calculate how the outbreak can unfold in different scenarios. This, in turn, helps the government in deciding their next steps and being prepared.&nbsp;

The cases due to this virus may peak between May-June with the reproduction rate being 0.8.

If the reports are to be believed, the cases can drop down to zero by Mid-June only if the lockdown is extended till the end of May. Whereas, the process of eliminating the positive cases will continue till September 15 if the lockdown is extended till May 15 and is followed by social distancing.

Meanwhile, as per the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry, the total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and the death toll is 640. The tally of those cured, discharged from hospital stands at 3870.

In the last 24 hours, the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients jumped to 1383 and fatalities to 50.

As the country awaits the end of lockdown 2.0, reports are coming in about COVID-19 peaking in the next month. According to media reports, the pandemic could peak in summers especially between May-June.

As the country awaits the end of lockdown 2.0, reports are coming in about COVID-19 peaking in the next month. According to media reports, the pandemic could peak in summers especially between May-June. As per the estimations and calculations by experts, cases are expected to be at least thrice the present number. The estimations have been made by studying the rise of cases using different basis, i.e. time, percentage and reproduction of cases. These models observe and calculate how the outbreak can unfold in different scenarios. This, in turn, helps the government in deciding their next steps and being prepared. The cases due to this virus may peak between May-June with the reproduction rate being 0.8. If the reports are to be believed, the cases can drop down to zero by Mid-June only if the lockdown is extended till the end of May. Whereas, the process of eliminating the positive cases will continue till September 15 if the lockdown is extended till May 15 and is followed by social distancing. Meanwhile, as per the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry, the total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and the death toll is 640. The tally of those cured, discharged from hospital stands at 3870. In the last 24 hours, the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients jumped to 1383 and fatalities to 50.

'Worst is yet to come': Pandemic could peak in India during May-June

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