Afghan health authorities said that 56 six new cases of coronavirus were reported in the country, taking the total tally of positive cases to 423.

Citing the data compiled by the Ministry of Public Health over the past 24 hours, TOLOnews reported that Herat has registered 27 new cases, 12 in Kabul, 10 in Kandahar, five cases in Balkh and two in Nangarhar.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/planned-1-billion-us-aid-cut-would-hit-afghan-security-force-funds-report-290684" hreflang="en">Planned $1 billion US aid cut would hit Afghan security force funds: Report</a>

Out of 140 samples tested for COVID-19 in the past 24 hours, 27 were positive which included 21 men and six women, a spokesperson for the provincial health department was quoted as saying.

The total cases in Herat are 257 so far. At least 11 people are reported dead from coronavirus in Afghanistan and 18 others have recovered.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-allow-afghan-nationals-to-return-home-foreign-office-290572" hreflang="en">Pakistan to allow Afghan nationals to return home: Foreign Office</a>

According to US-based Johns Hopkins University, at least 74,808 people have succumbed to the lethal disease across the world so far.

The US-based varsity also noted that the number of confirmed cases across more than 180 countries has risen to 1,347,892, while 284,802 people have recovered so far.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Afghan health authorities said that 56 six new cases of coronavirus were reported in the country, taking the total tally of positive cases to 423. Citing the data compiled by the Ministry of Public Health over the past 24 hours, TOLOnews reported that Herat has registered 27 new cases, 12 in Kabul, 10 in Kandahar, five cases in Balkh and two in Nangarhar.

Afghan health authorities said that 56 six new cases of coronavirus were reported in the country, taking the total tally of positive cases to 423. Citing the data compiled by the Ministry of Public Health over the past 24 hours, TOLOnews reported that Herat has registered 27 new cases, 12 in Kabul, 10 in Kandahar, five cases in Balkh and two in Nangarhar. Also read: Planned $1 billion US aid cut would hit Afghan security force funds: Report Out of 140 samples tested for COVID-19 in the past 24 hours, 27 were positive which included 21 men and six women, a spokesperson for the provincial health department was quoted as saying. The total cases in Herat are 257 so far. At least 11 people are reported dead from coronavirus in Afghanistan and 18 others have recovered. Also read: Pakistan to allow Afghan nationals to return home: Foreign Office According to US-based Johns Hopkins University, at least 74,808 people have succumbed to the lethal disease across the world so far. The US-based varsity also noted that the number of confirmed cases across more than 180 countries has risen to 1,347,892, while 284,802 people have recovered so far.

Afghanistan registers 56 new COVID-19 cases, tally surges to 423

The coronavirus has claimed more than 74,000 live worldwide so far, but the total number of COVID-19 recovery cases has reached nearly 3 lakh mark on Tuesday. 
 
As many as 285,327 people have been recovered globally from the coronavirus disease.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-wouldnt-there-be-trump-hints-at-retaliation-if-india-doesnt-send-anti-malarial-drug-291003">Also&nbsp;read — 'Why wouldn't there be': Trump hints at retaliation if India doesn't send anti-malarial drug</a>

According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,350,523 people worldwide and 74,834 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modern-piracy-did-united-states-reroute-a-shipment-of-face-masks-headed-to-germany-291024">'Modern piracy': Did United States reroute a shipment of face masks headed to Germany?</a>

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.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-india-to-supply-hydroxychloroquine-paracetamol-to-other-badly-affected-nations-291076">Coronavirus outbreak: India to supply hydroxychloroquine, paracetamol to other badly-affected nations</a> 
 
A total of 368,449 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Spain and Italy, which has reported the most cases and deaths. 
 
Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 16,523 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/total-infected-cases-leap-to-4421-in-india-coronavirus-news-covid-19-291084/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In India, a total of 326 coronavirus patients have been recovered as of now and while 114 people have lost their lives. The total number of infected coronavirus patients in India is 4421.

The coronavirus has claimed more than 74,000 live worldwide so far, but the total number of COVID-19 recovery cases has reached nearly 3 lakh mark on Tuesday. As many as 285,327 people have been recovered globally from the coronavirus disease.

The coronavirus has claimed more than 74,000 live worldwide so far, but the total number of COVID-19 recovery cases has reached nearly 3 lakh mark on Tuesday. As many as 285,327 people have been recovered globally from the coronavirus disease. Also read — 'Why wouldn't there be': Trump hints at retaliation if India doesn't send anti-malarial drug According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,350,523 people worldwide and 74,834 people have been killed due to this pandemic. 'Modern piracy': Did United States reroute a shipment of face masks headed to Germany? 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. Coronavirus outbreak: India to supply hydroxychloroquine, paracetamol to other badly-affected nations A total of 368,449 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Spain and Italy, which has reported the most cases and deaths. Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 16,523 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died. In India, a total of 326 coronavirus patients have been recovered as of now and while 114 people have lost their lives. The total number of infected coronavirus patients in India is 4421.

Around 3 lakh coronavirus patients recovered worldwide; 326 cured in India

Messaging app WhatApp has introduced new restrictions and features to keep a check on the spread of misinformation during the coronavirus pandemic.

It announced on Tuesday that it has narrowed down&nbsp;the limit of forwarding messages to one chat at a time, down from five. WhatsApp users can also verify fake news on web using Search Message feature.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-5g-waves-do-not-transmit-coronavirus-290786" hreflang="en">No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus!</a>

The move is designed to reduce the speed with which information moves through extensively used application.

''We've seen a significant increase in the amount of forwarding which users have told us can feel overwhelming and can contribute to the spread of misinformation,''&nbsp;the company said in a press release.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-new-israeli-tech-can-diagnose-anomalies-with-your-vehicle-and-also-detect-covid-19-symptoms-291036" hreflang="en">This new Israeli tech can diagnose anomalies with your vehicle, and also detect COVID-19 symptoms!</a>

''We believe it’s important to slow the spread of these messages down to keep WhatsApp a place for personal conversation,'' it added.

The instant messaging platform has a&nbsp;user base of&nbsp;more than two billion users globally, with&nbsp;over 400 million users in India alone.

Aside from the forwarding limit, WhatsApp is also working with governments and charities to help bring its users accurate information.

&nbsp;

Messaging app WhatApp has introduced new restrictions and features to keep a check on the spread of misinformation during the coronavirus pandemic. It announced on Tuesday that it has narrowed down the limit of forwarding messages to one chat at a time, down from five.

Messaging app WhatApp has introduced new restrictions and features to keep a check on the spread of misinformation during the coronavirus pandemic. It announced on Tuesday that it has narrowed down the limit of forwarding messages to one chat at a time, down from five. WhatsApp users can also verify fake news on web using Search Message feature. Also read: No, 5G waves do not transmit coronavirus! The move is designed to reduce the speed with which information moves through extensively used application. ''We've seen a significant increase in the amount of forwarding which users have told us can feel overwhelming and can contribute to the spread of misinformation,'' the company said in a press release. Also read: This new Israeli tech can diagnose anomalies with your vehicle, and also detect COVID-19 symptoms! ''We believe it’s important to slow the spread of these messages down to keep WhatsApp a place for personal conversation,'' it added. The instant messaging platform has a user base of more than two billion users globally, with over 400 million users in India alone. Aside from the forwarding limit, WhatsApp is also working with governments and charities to help bring its users accurate information.

WhatsApp introduces new restrictions and features to curb misinformation

European Union has said that India has taken pandemic very seriously and New Delhi's measures to curb COVID spread is in line with global lessons learnt.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, EU Ambassador to India Ugo Astuto said, Unprecedented events call for unprecedented actions, and welcoming Indian PM Modi starting the "conversation" on COVID at G20.

WION: How do India and EU cooperating on COVID crisis? 
 
Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Thank u very much. The crisis has called for national cooperation and solidarity and I think India and EU start from the same proposition that we are all together in this and that we all need to work together to overcome the challenge. Unprecedented events call for unprecedented actions, fast and coordinated action. Coordination on macroeconomic policy to mitigate the downturn also needed. Initiative taken by PM Modi to start the conversation in G20 was particularly was timely and EU fully support, I think, we need to work together and we need to mobilize all the international mechanism to be it the UN, G20 or IMF and Indian leadership has been in touch with the European leadership EU and member state on the present state regularly. EAM and his counterpart spoke and we try to work hand in hand to offer our contribution to the global endeavour.

WION: How is the situation in Europe? 
Ambassador Ugo Astuto: It is a global pandemic and it is impacting the entire world. Europe has been hit, it has been hit hard, Italy, Spain, France and all over Europe. No country has been spared actually, now in Europe we have started to see some signal infection is slowing, hopefully, it will regress starting with countries it has hit first. But we need to remain vigilant and determined and it is not time to lower our guard, we need to continue to keep and take necessary measures to fight the virus, and EU has been mobilizing all the tools it has to foster a coordinated reaction to the challenge, just to give you an example, we have mobilized funds 140 million..ensuring provisions of medical equipment, coordinating the delivery of masks and respirators which are surely needed this time, set up a task force of scientists to develop guidelines and strategy, it is important whatever we do is evidence-based and based on best available scientific advice and we have been trying to help global endeavours, for instance, supporting WHO by setting aside euro 140 million to boost global containment.

WION: How do see Indian actions to curb COVID? 
Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Indian authorities have taken the issue of pandemic very seriously since the beginning and rightly so. I see measures adopted is in line with the lessons learnt in other countries. As I said, we need to act globally in a coordinated fashion to win this battle, so EU and India are on the same page, and initiatives taken by PM Modi to discuss it at G20, is something important. We need a global conversation and global cooperation on COVID and we need global coordinated actions and international action.

WION: European citizens in India, their evacuation..any update? 
Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Several EU member states have started to organise special flights to bring tourist home and EU delegation has tried to assist in their endeavours and u can imagine it is a complex operation logistically. EU members states are counting on the full support of Indian authorities and we are very grateful, it is a massive operation and not yet over and difficult to quote figures but I think we are looking at thousands of tourists. &nbsp;

WION: How do u see UN meet on COVID 
Ambassador Ugo Astuto: We have all been taken aback at the beginning of this crisis and magnitude of the challenge we facing and now we all stepping up the reaction. Globally, EU is a strong supporter of the UN and belives in the rules-based international system of governance and we can only welcome, discussion at UN for a coordinated global response.

European Union has said that India has taken pandemic very seriously and New Delhi's measures to curb COVID spread is in line with global lessons learnt. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, EU Ambassador to India Ugo Astuto said, Unprecedented events call for unprecedented actions, and welcoming Indian PM Modi starting the "conversation" on COVID at G20.

European Union has said that India has taken pandemic very seriously and New Delhi's measures to curb COVID spread is in line with global lessons learnt. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, EU Ambassador to India Ugo Astuto said, Unprecedented events call for unprecedented actions, and welcoming Indian PM Modi starting the "conversation" on COVID at G20. WION: How do India and EU cooperating on COVID crisis? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Thank u very much. The crisis has called for national cooperation and solidarity and I think India and EU start from the same proposition that we are all together in this and that we all need to work together to overcome the challenge. Unprecedented events call for unprecedented actions, fast and coordinated action. Coordination on macroeconomic policy to mitigate the downturn also needed. Initiative taken by PM Modi to start the conversation in G20 was particularly was timely and EU fully support, I think, we need to work together and we need to mobilize all the international mechanism to be it the UN, G20 or IMF and Indian leadership has been in touch with the European leadership EU and member state on the present state regularly. EAM and his counterpart spoke and we try to work hand in hand to offer our contribution to the global endeavour. WION: How is the situation in Europe? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: It is a global pandemic and it is impacting the entire world. Europe has been hit, it has been hit hard, Italy, Spain, France and all over Europe. No country has been spared actually, now in Europe we have started to see some signal infection is slowing, hopefully, it will regress starting with countries it has hit first. But we need to remain vigilant and determined and it is not time to lower our guard, we need to continue to keep and take necessary measures to fight the virus, and EU has been mobilizing all the tools it has to foster a coordinated reaction to the challenge, just to give you an example, we have mobilized funds 140 million..ensuring provisions of medical equipment, coordinating the delivery of masks and respirators which are surely needed this time, set up a task force of scientists to develop guidelines and strategy, it is important whatever we do is evidence-based and based on best available scientific advice and we have been trying to help global endeavours, for instance, supporting WHO by setting aside euro 140 million to boost global containment. WION: How do see Indian actions to curb COVID? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Indian authorities have taken the issue of pandemic very seriously since the beginning and rightly so. I see measures adopted is in line with the lessons learnt in other countries. As I said, we need to act globally in a coordinated fashion to win this battle, so EU and India are on the same page, and initiatives taken by PM Modi to discuss it at G20, is something important. We need a global conversation and global cooperation on COVID and we need global coordinated actions and international action. WION: European citizens in India, their evacuation..any update? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Several EU member states have started to organise special flights to bring tourist home and EU delegation has tried to assist in their endeavours and u can imagine it is a complex operation logistically. EU members states are counting on the full support of Indian authorities and we are very grateful, it is a massive operation and not yet over and difficult to quote figures but I think we are looking at thousands of tourists. WION: How do u see UN meet on COVID Ambassador Ugo Astuto: We have all been taken aback at the beginning of this crisis and magnitude of the challenge we facing and now we all stepping up the reaction. Globally, EU is a strong supporter of the UN and belives in the rules-based international system of governance and we can only welcome, discussion at UN for a coordinated global response.

Indian measures in line with global lessons says European Union; lauds PM Modi's initiative at G20

After Bollywood’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/timeline-kanika-kapoor-partied-3-4-times-with-300-people-since-she-came-from-london-with-coronavirus-287659">first coronavirus positive celebrity Kanika Kapoor</a>, ‘Chennai Express’ producer Karim Morani’s daughter Shaza has tested positive for the novel virus.&nbsp;

Shaza has been put under observation in a hospital in Mumbai while the rest of the family is in quarantine. They too will be tested for coronavirus.&nbsp;

Karim Morani confirmed the news to media as he told a news portal that she has been found positive but has no symptoms.&nbsp;

Karim Morani is known to be close to superstar Shah Rukh Khan. As for Shaza, she worked as an assistant director for films like, ‘Always Kabhi Kabhi’ and ‘Happy New Year’.

Karim Morani banked films like ‘Chennai Express’, ‘Dilwale’, ‘Happy New Year’ and ‘Ra.One’.

Yesterday, Bollywood and people en masse <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood-news-akshay-kumar-kartik-aaryan-anushka-sharma-and-others-light-up-diyas-at-9pm-for-9-minutes-290771">lit up diyas and candles in PM Modi’s call </a>to switch off lights and show solidarity for one another as the world fights against coronavirus.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/irrfan-khan-starrer-angrezi-medium-to-premiere-online-on-disney-plus-hotstar-vip-290776" hreflang="en">Irrfan Khan starrer 'Angrezi Medium' to premiere online on Disney Plus Hotstar VIP</a>

After Bollywood’s first coronavirus positive celebrity Kanika Kapoor, ‘Chennai Express’ producer Karim Morani’s daughter Shaza has tested positive for the novel virus.

After Bollywood’s first coronavirus positive celebrity Kanika Kapoor, ‘Chennai Express’ producer Karim Morani’s daughter Shaza has tested positive for the novel virus. Shaza has been put under observation in a hospital in Mumbai while the rest of the family is in quarantine. They too will be tested for coronavirus. Karim Morani confirmed the news to media as he told a news portal that she has been found positive but has no symptoms. Karim Morani is known to be close to superstar Shah Rukh Khan. As for Shaza, she worked as an assistant director for films like, ‘Always Kabhi Kabhi’ and ‘Happy New Year’. Karim Morani banked films like ‘Chennai Express’, ‘Dilwale’, ‘Happy New Year’ and ‘Ra.One’. Yesterday, Bollywood and people en masse lit up diyas and candles in PM Modi’s call to switch off lights and show solidarity for one another as the world fights against coronavirus. Irrfan Khan starrer 'Angrezi Medium' to premiere online on Disney Plus Hotstar VIP

‘Chennai Express’ producer Karim Morani’s daughter Shaza tests positive for COVID-19

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is urging governments around the world to include the protection of women in their response to the deadly novel coronavirus pandemic. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-rise-in-domestic-violence-cases-as-covid-19-lockdown-turns-into-captivity-for-many-women-290213">Also read: Global rise in domestic violence cases as Covid-19 lockdown turns into captivity for many women</a>

"Violence is not confined to the battlefield," said Guterres in a statement and a video released in multiple languages, reminiscent of his call for a ceasefire in conflicts worldwide to face the COVID-19 pandemic.

"For many women and girls, the threat looms largest where they should be safest. In their own homes," Guterres said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Peace is not just the absence of war. Many women under lockdown for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> face violence where they should be safest: in their own homes. 
 
Today I appeal for peace in homes around the world. 
 
I urge all governments to put women’s safety first as they respond to the pandemic. <a href="https://t.co/PjDUTrMb9v">pic.twitter.com/PjDUTrMb9v</a>
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres/status/1246973397759819776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Over the past weeks, as economic and social pressures and fear have grown, we have seen a horrifying global surge in domestic violence.&nbsp;

"I urge all governments to make the prevention and redress of violence against women a key part of their national response plans for COVID-19," he said.

Guterres called for setting up emergency warning systems in pharmacies and groceries, and for safe ways "for women to seek support, without alerting their abusers.

"Together, we can and must prevent violence everywhere, from war zones to people’s homes, as we work to beat COVID-19," he said, as he called "for peace at home — and in homes — around the world."

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is urging governments around the world to include the protection of women in their response to the deadly novel coronavirus pandemic.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is urging governments around the world to include the protection of women in their response to the deadly novel coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Global rise in domestic violence cases as Covid-19 lockdown turns into captivity for many women "Violence is not confined to the battlefield," said Guterres in a statement and a video released in multiple languages, reminiscent of his call for a ceasefire in conflicts worldwide to face the COVID-19 pandemic. "For many women and girls, the threat looms largest where they should be safest. In their own homes," Guterres said. Peace is not just the absence of war. Many women under lockdown for #COVID19 face violence where they should be safest: in their own homes. Today I appeal for peace in homes around the world. I urge all governments to put women’s safety first as they respond to the pandemic. pic.twitter.com/PjDUTrMb9v — António Guterres (@antonioguterres) April 6, 2020 × "Over the past weeks, as economic and social pressures and fear have grown, we have seen a horrifying global surge in domestic violence. "I urge all governments to make the prevention and redress of violence against women a key part of their national response plans for COVID-19," he said. Guterres called for setting up emergency warning systems in pharmacies and groceries, and for safe ways "for women to seek support, without alerting their abusers. "Together, we can and must prevent violence everywhere, from war zones to people’s homes, as we work to beat COVID-19," he said, as he called "for peace at home — and in homes — around the world."

UN chief urges govts to protect women as domestic violence soars due to lockdown

&nbsp;

A potential lawsuit by G7 nations against China for “patent breaches” of the International Health Regulations in its handling of COVID-19 could be worth $ 4 trillion, according to a newly released report.

The report which is the first comprehensive investigation into the global economic impact of the outbreak concludes that potential damages liable against China could run to $4 trillion from just the G7 nations. The US is said to have a claim worth a potential $1.1 trillion in damages based on announced government spending. The UK meanwhile could claim $430 billion, Canada can claim $58.7 billion, and Australia $36.7 billion from China as damages caused by the spread of Coronavirus.&nbsp;

The report claims that the Chinese Communist Party’s early handling of the disease and failure to adequately report information to the WHO breached Articles Six and Seven of the International Health Regulations [IHRs], a Treaty to which China is a signatory and legally obliged to uphold. These breaches - it is claimed - allowed the outbreak to rapidly spread outside Wuhan, its place of origin.&nbsp;

In particular, the report by the Henry Jackson Society holds that the CCP:

<ul>
	<li>Failed to disclose data that would have revealed evidence of human-to-human transmission for a period of up to three weeks from being aware of it, in breach of Articles six and seven of the IHRs.</li>
	<li>Provided the WHO with erroneous information about the number of infections between 2 January 2020 and 11 January 2020, in breach of Articles Six and Seven of the IHRs.</li>
	<li>Failed to proscribe avoidable vectors of lethal zoonotic (animal-originated) viral infection, instead actively promoting the massive proliferation of dangerous viral host species for human consumption in breach of Article 12 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights.</li>
	<li>Allowed 5 million people to leave Wuhan before imposing the lockdown on 23 January 2020 despite knowledge of human-to-human transmission.</li>
</ul>

There have been many allegations against China to have covered up the virus spread which led to a pandemic that has infected more than 1.2 million people till now and killed more than 66 thousand and counting. A University of Southampton study has previously found that — had strict quarantine measures have been introduced three weeks earlier — the diseases spread would have been reduced by some 95%.&nbsp;

The report by the Henry Jackson Society, a British foreign policy think-tank, says there is evidence that China directly breached international healthcare treaty responsibilities.&nbsp;

As a result of the breaches of international law, the report assesses that potential damages liable against China could run to $4 trillion from just the G7 nations.

The report further offers ten different potential legal avenues for action against China across international jurisdictional venues. The legal avenues include making use of the International Court of Justice; Permanent Court of Arbitration; Hong Kong Courts; dispute resolutions through Bilateral Investment Treaties; and actions at the World Trade Organisation.

As states earlier, several potential legal avenues are conceivably open to both states and individuals to seek compensation for damages wrought by wrongful acts in the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

At least 10 of such legal actions are as follows:

1. A dispute brought to the WHO that China has breached its obligations under the IHR.

2. Claims made at the International Court of Justice.

3. Disputes opened at the Permanent Court of Arbitration.

4. Actions brought under Bilateral Investment Treaties by individuals, corporations or States.

5. Actions are taken under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea to either arbitration or the International Tribunal.

6. Action taken under WTO rules.

7. Claims brought before the Hong Kong Courts that the actions of state bodies breached rights under the ICESCR.

8. Claims brought in the US Federal Courts against the Chinese State that fit an exemption within the FSIA.

9. Claims brought in the US Federal Courts against commercial entities linked to the Chinese State.

10. Claims brought in the English courts against commercial entities linked to the Chinese State.

In addition, should China be unwilling to submit to international justice and other avenues, both ICJ advisory opinions and PCA Commissions of Inquiry offer opportunities to determine facts and apportion blame.

Co-author of the report, Matthew Henderson said that the Chinese Communist Part learned no lessons from their failure in the SARS epidemic. He also blamed the repeated lies and disinformation campaign by the Chinese Govt to have far more deadly consequences.&nbsp;

"By computing the cost of damage caused to advanced economies and assembling a series of possible legal processes to which the rules-based order can have recourse, we offer a sense of how the free world might seek recompense for the appalling harm the CCP has done,” he said.

A potential lawsuit by G7 nations against China for “patent breaches” of the International Health Regulations in its handling of COVID-19 could be worth $ 4 trillion, according to a newly released report.

A potential lawsuit by G7 nations against China for “patent breaches” of the International Health Regulations in its handling of COVID-19 could be worth $ 4 trillion, according to a newly released report. The report which is the first comprehensive investigation into the global economic impact of the outbreak concludes that potential damages liable against China could run to $4 trillion from just the G7 nations. The US is said to have a claim worth a potential $1.1 trillion in damages based on announced government spending. The UK meanwhile could claim $430 billion, Canada can claim $58.7 billion, and Australia $36.7 billion from China as damages caused by the spread of Coronavirus. The report claims that the Chinese Communist Party’s early handling of the disease and failure to adequately report information to the WHO breached Articles Six and Seven of the International Health Regulations [IHRs], a Treaty to which China is a signatory and legally obliged to uphold. These breaches - it is claimed - allowed the outbreak to rapidly spread outside Wuhan, its place of origin. In particular, the report by the Henry Jackson Society holds that the CCP: Failed to disclose data that would have revealed evidence of human-to-human transmission for a period of up to three weeks from being aware of it, in breach of Articles six and seven of the IHRs. Provided the WHO with erroneous information about the number of infections between 2 January 2020 and 11 January 2020, in breach of Articles Six and Seven of the IHRs. Failed to proscribe avoidable vectors of lethal zoonotic (animal-originated) viral infection, instead actively promoting the massive proliferation of dangerous viral host species for human consumption in breach of Article 12 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights. Allowed 5 million people to leave Wuhan before imposing the lockdown on 23 January 2020 despite knowledge of human-to-human transmission. There have been many allegations against China to have covered up the virus spread which led to a pandemic that has infected more than 1.2 million people till now and killed more than 66 thousand and counting. A University of Southampton study has previously found that — had strict quarantine measures have been introduced three weeks earlier — the diseases spread would have been reduced by some 95%. The report by the Henry Jackson Society, a British foreign policy think-tank, says there is evidence that China directly breached international healthcare treaty responsibilities. As a result of the breaches of international law, the report assesses that potential damages liable against China could run to $4 trillion from just the G7 nations. The report further offers ten different potential legal avenues for action against China across international jurisdictional venues. The legal avenues include making use of the International Court of Justice; Permanent Court of Arbitration; Hong Kong Courts; dispute resolutions through Bilateral Investment Treaties; and actions at the World Trade Organisation. As states earlier, several potential legal avenues are conceivably open to both states and individuals to seek compensation for damages wrought by wrongful acts in the spread of COVID-19. At least 10 of such legal actions are as follows: 1. A dispute brought to the WHO that China has breached its obligations under the IHR. 2. Claims made at the International Court of Justice. 3. Disputes opened at the Permanent Court of Arbitration. 4. Actions brought under Bilateral Investment Treaties by individuals, corporations or States. 5. Actions are taken under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea to either arbitration or the International Tribunal. 6. Action taken under WTO rules. 7. Claims brought before the Hong Kong Courts that the actions of state bodies breached rights under the ICESCR. 8. Claims brought in the US Federal Courts against the Chinese State that fit an exemption within the FSIA. 9. Claims brought in the US Federal Courts against commercial entities linked to the Chinese State. 10. Claims brought in the English courts against commercial entities linked to the Chinese State. In addition, should China be unwilling to submit to international justice and other avenues, both ICJ advisory opinions and PCA Commissions of Inquiry offer opportunities to determine facts and apportion blame. Co-author of the report, Matthew Henderson said that the Chinese Communist Part learned no lessons from their failure in the SARS epidemic. He also blamed the repeated lies and disinformation campaign by the Chinese Govt to have far more deadly consequences. "By computing the cost of damage caused to advanced economies and assembling a series of possible legal processes to which the rules-based order can have recourse, we offer a sense of how the free world might seek recompense for the appalling harm the CCP has done,” he said.

Coronavirus compensation? A potential lawsuit against China worth $4 trillion

Italy on Sunday recorded its lowest daily death toll from the novel coronavirus in over two weeks and saw the number of critical care patients decline for the second day.

The 525 official COVID-19 fatalities reported by the civil protection service were the lowest since 427 registered on March 19.

"This is good news but we should not let our guard down," civil protection service chief Angelo Borrelli told reporters.

Officials also reported the first decline in the number of non-critical COVID-19 patients receiving hospital care.

That number fell from 29,010 on Saturday to 28,949 on Sunday. 
The number of critical patients edged down from 3,994 on Saturday to 3,977 on Sunday -- the second successive decline.

Italy's official death toll, the highest in the world, now stands at 15,887.

Italy on Sunday recorded its lowest daily death toll from the novel coronavirus in over two weeks and saw the number of critical care patients decline for the second day.

Italy on Sunday recorded its lowest daily death toll from the novel coronavirus in over two weeks and saw the number of critical care patients decline for the second day. The 525 official COVID-19 fatalities reported by the civil protection service were the lowest since 427 registered on March 19. "This is good news but we should not let our guard down," civil protection service chief Angelo Borrelli told reporters. Officials also reported the first decline in the number of non-critical COVID-19 patients receiving hospital care. That number fell from 29,010 on Saturday to 28,949 on Sunday. The number of critical patients edged down from 3,994 on Saturday to 3,977 on Sunday -- the second successive decline. Italy's official death toll, the highest in the world, now stands at 15,887.

Italy records lowest coronavirus death toll in over two weeks

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 8 lacs worldwide on Tuesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-urges-govts-to-protect-women-as-domestic-violence-soars-due-to-lockdown-290738">Also read: UN chief urges govts to protect women as domestic abuse soars due to lockdown</a>

According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,273,990 people worldwide and 69,444 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-johnson-hospitalised-for-tests-after-persistent-coronavirus-symptoms-290737">Also read: UK PM Johnson hospitalised for tests after persistent coronavirus symptoms</a>

Around 260,247 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins.

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.

A total of 337,310 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Spain and Italy, which has reported the most cases and deaths.

Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 15,887 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 8 lacs worldwide on Tuesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: UN chief urges govts to protect women as domestic abuse soars due to lockdown According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,273,990 people worldwide and 69,444 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 8 lacs worldwide on Tuesday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: UN chief urges govts to protect women as domestic abuse soars due to lockdown According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,273,990 people worldwide and 69,444 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Also read: UK PM Johnson hospitalised for tests after persistent coronavirus symptoms Around 260,247 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. 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. A total of 337,310 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Spain and Italy, which has reported the most cases and deaths. Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 15,887 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died.

Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 1,200,000; death toll rises to 69,444

The National Commission for Women has written to Gujarat police to conduct a thorough probe into the alleged harassment of a woman doctor in Surat for being in close proximity to coronavirus patients, according to news agency ANI.

The matter came to the light after a video showing the doctor working in Surat Civil Hospital being physically assaulted by her neighbours, went viral.

Considering the gravity of the matter, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has written to Shivanand Jha, IPS, Director General of Police, Gujarat to probe the matter.

"NCW directs for a thorough investigation on the matter of the incident to be taken up immediately and also provide protection to the woman. A detailed action taken and report&nbsp;be sent to NCW,''&nbsp;the women's rights body said in a statement.

"The Commission is disturbed by the reported incident, and is concerned about the safety of doctors who are the frontline workers in the period of distress prevailing worldwide due to coronavirus pandemic," it said.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The National Commission for Women has written to Gujarat police to conduct a thorough probe into the alleged harassment of a woman doctor in Surat for being in close proximity to coronavirus patients, according to news agency ANI.

The National Commission for Women has written to Gujarat police to conduct a thorough probe into the alleged harassment of a woman doctor in Surat for being in close proximity to coronavirus patients, according to news agency ANI. The matter came to the light after a video showing the doctor working in Surat Civil Hospital being physically assaulted by her neighbours, went viral. Considering the gravity of the matter, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has written to Shivanand Jha, IPS, Director General of Police, Gujarat to probe the matter. "NCW directs for a thorough investigation on the matter of the incident to be taken up immediately and also provide protection to the woman. A detailed action taken and report be sent to NCW,'' the women's rights body said in a statement. "The Commission is disturbed by the reported incident, and is concerned about the safety of doctors who are the frontline workers in the period of distress prevailing worldwide due to coronavirus pandemic," it said. (With inputs from ANI)

NCW writes to Gujarat DGP after Surat doctor assaulted by neighbours for treating COVID-19 patients 

The number of COVID-19 cases in Pakistan reached 3,520 on Monday as health authorities in the country scramble to contain the spread of the lethal disease by appealing to the public to remain inside their homes, after many of them were seen flouting government orders and roaming on the streets.

The health ministry, showing a break-up of the figures of each province, posted on its dedicated website and showed that Punjab registered a maximum of 1,684 cases, followed by Sindh with 932, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with 405.

Balochistan reported 192 cases, Gilgit-Baltistan 210 cases, capital Islamabad 82 cases and 15 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, respectively.

So far, 52 people died due to the disease.

Despite reiterating emergency measures, there was little impact on the masses.&nbsp;

In several cities, people were seen roaming out while security officials were trying to convince them to go back to their homes.

In many places, Islamic religious clerics were also seen addressing a gathering irrespective of the fact that religious congregation has been restricted by the government because of the rapidly spreading contagion.&nbsp;

The number of COVID-19 cases in Pakistan reached 3,520 on Monday as health authorities in the country scramble to contain the spread of the lethal disease by appealing to the public to remain inside their homes, after many of them were seen flouting government orders and roaming on the streets.

The number of COVID-19 cases in Pakistan reached 3,520 on Monday as health authorities in the country scramble to contain the spread of the lethal disease by appealing to the public to remain inside their homes, after many of them were seen flouting government orders and roaming on the streets. The health ministry, showing a break-up of the figures of each province, posted on its dedicated website and showed that Punjab registered a maximum of 1,684 cases, followed by Sindh with 932, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with 405. Balochistan reported 192 cases, Gilgit-Baltistan 210 cases, capital Islamabad 82 cases and 15 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, respectively. So far, 52 people died due to the disease. Despite reiterating emergency measures, there was little impact on the masses. In several cities, people were seen roaming out while security officials were trying to convince them to go back to their homes. In many places, Islamic religious clerics were also seen addressing a gathering irrespective of the fact that religious congregation has been restricted by the government because of the rapidly spreading contagion.

Coronavirus cases climb to 3,520 in Pakistan as authorities scramble to contain spread

Afghanistan's health ministry on Monday said that the total coronavirus positive cases in the country stood at 367 after 30 new cases were registered in the within the past 24 hours.

Herat confirmed 16 new cases, followed by Kabul (6), Nimruz (3), Kunduz (2), Faryab (2) and Daikundi (1) provinces, as per the Health Ministry data cited by TOLOnews.

Meanwhile, seven people are reported dead from the contagious disease in Afghanistan and 12 others have recovered.

Herat has the highest number of cases — with 239 —, while Kabul is in second place with 57 cases.

Coronavirus has infected more than 1.2 million worldwide and killed close to 70,000, according to the data compiled by the US-based John Hopkins University.

Afghanistan's health ministry on Monday said that the total coronavirus positive cases in the country stood at 367 after 30 new cases were registered in the within the past 24 hours.

Afghanistan's health ministry on Monday said that the total coronavirus positive cases in the country stood at 367 after 30 new cases were registered in the within the past 24 hours. Herat confirmed 16 new cases, followed by Kabul (6), Nimruz (3), Kunduz (2), Faryab (2) and Daikundi (1) provinces, as per the Health Ministry data cited by TOLOnews. Meanwhile, seven people are reported dead from the contagious disease in Afghanistan and 12 others have recovered. Herat has the highest number of cases — with 239 —, while Kabul is in second place with 57 cases. Coronavirus has infected more than 1.2 million worldwide and killed close to 70,000, according to the data compiled by the US-based John Hopkins University.

COVID-19 cases rise to 349 in Afghanistan

The number of coronavirus cases in India saw a dramatic increase as death toll so far crossed the 100-mark, registering 32 fatalities in the last 24 hours alone.&nbsp;

The country has reported 693 fresh cases, which is also the highest single-day jump so far, taking the total number of infections above 4000.

The govt authorities are mulling over an action plan based on 'Bhilwara model' to counter the pandemic.&nbsp;

Rajasthan's Bhilwara has reported no new case of coronavirus for last 4-5 days.&nbsp;

The administration in this Rajasthan town became aggressive in tackling the pandemic after six people were found coronavirus positive in Bhilwara (Rajasthan) on March 19.

The health administration officials of the Rajasthan government had set up a medical war room to fight deadly coronavirus pandemic.

They divided the area into three circles. According to the plan, Bhilwara town was&nbsp;divided into 1 Km, 3 Km and 5 Km radius.&nbsp;

Intense surveillance was conducted in 1 Km radius and every home was tested for coronavirus.&nbsp;

Around 6000 teams of doctors were placed for the task. Around 24 lakh people were screened by these teams in a mere 9 days.&nbsp;

Around 18000 people were found to be having cough and cold, they had&nbsp;been moved to the second phase of testing.

The people who came in contact with the doctor who was tested positive for the virus were also tested.

Borders were sealed completely except for essential services. Several hospitals were prepared for emergency cases. Bhilwara and nearby areas were screened for coronavirus. Disinfectants were sprinkled all across the city to kill the virus.&nbsp;

With the recent success of the Bhilwara model of disinfection drive, it is expected that this may get implemented in all of India during or after the lockdown.

The number of coronavirus cases in India saw a dramatic increase as death toll so far crossed the 100-mark, registering 32 fatalities in the last 24 hours alone.

The number of coronavirus cases in India saw a dramatic increase as death toll so far crossed the 100-mark, registering 32 fatalities in the last 24 hours alone. The country has reported 693 fresh cases, which is also the highest single-day jump so far, taking the total number of infections above 4000. The govt authorities are mulling over an action plan based on 'Bhilwara model' to counter the pandemic. Rajasthan's Bhilwara has reported no new case of coronavirus for last 4-5 days. The administration in this Rajasthan town became aggressive in tackling the pandemic after six people were found coronavirus positive in Bhilwara (Rajasthan) on March 19. The health administration officials of the Rajasthan government had set up a medical war room to fight deadly coronavirus pandemic. They divided the area into three circles. According to the plan, Bhilwara town was divided into 1 Km, 3 Km and 5 Km radius. Intense surveillance was conducted in 1 Km radius and every home was tested for coronavirus. Around 6000 teams of doctors were placed for the task. Around 24 lakh people were screened by these teams in a mere 9 days. Around 18000 people were found to be having cough and cold, they had been moved to the second phase of testing. The people who came in contact with the doctor who was tested positive for the virus were also tested. Borders were sealed completely except for essential services. Several hospitals were prepared for emergency cases. Bhilwara and nearby areas were screened for coronavirus. Disinfectants were sprinkled all across the city to kill the virus. With the recent success of the Bhilwara model of disinfection drive, it is expected that this may get implemented in all of India during or after the lockdown.

Fighting a pandemic: Bhilwara shows the way!

The number of coronavirus cases in India saw a dramatic increase as death toll so far crossed the 100-mark, registering 32 fatalities in the last 24 hours alone.&nbsp;

The country has reported 693 fresh cases, which is also the highest single-day jump so far, taking the total number of infections above 4000.

<img alt="COVID-19" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="87e5b72c-0575-413d-af12-390d8dbf352f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/covid-19_0.JPG" />

Total cases: &nbsp; &nbsp;4067 
Active: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3666 
Deaths: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;109 
Discharged: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 291

Of the total infections, 3,666 are active cases and 292 have been cured/discharged/migrated people.

The global COVID-19 death toll is inching towards 70,000. Close to 13,00,000 positive cases have wreaked havoc on the health care systems across the world with no clear breakthrough yet on the treatment of the deadly disease.

The number of coronavirus cases in India saw a dramatic increase as death toll so far crossed the 100-mark, registering 32 fatalities in the last 24 hours alone. The country has reported 693 fresh cases, which is also the highest single-day jump so far, taking the total number of infections above 4000. Total cases: 4067 Active: 3666 Deaths: 109 Discharged: 291 Of the total infections, 3,666 are active cases and 292 have been cured/discharged/migrated people. The global COVID-19 death toll is inching towards 70,000. Close to 13,00,000 positive cases have wreaked havoc on the health care systems across the world with no clear breakthrough yet on the treatment of the deadly disease.

COVID-19 death toll reaches 109 in India, infections top 4000 as Govt draws aggressive containment plan

Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar has rejoined the medical register to help the health service during the coronavirus crisis, a government spokesman said Sunday.

Dr Varadkar "has offered his services to the Health Service Executive for one session a week in areas that are within his scope of practice", a government spokesman said in a statement.

The Irish Times reported Varadkar — who graduated with a medical degree from Dublin's Trinity University in 2003 — is to work assessing patients over the phone.

The son of a doctor and nurse, Varadkar's partner and his two sisters are also practising health workers.

"Many of his family and friends are working in the health service," the spokesman explained. "He wanted to help out even in a small way." As COVID-19 took hold in Ireland last month the HSE made a call for qualified healthcare workers not currently working in the sector to return.

Over 60,000 responded to the recruitment drive, which included a request for medically skilled and general volunteers to aid the health service.

According to the most recent department of health figures released Sunday, there have been 158 coronavirus-related deaths in Ireland. There have been a total of 4,994 confirmed cases across the Republic, the department said.

Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar has rejoined the medical register to help the health service during the coronavirus crisis, a government spokesman said Sunday.

Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar has rejoined the medical register to help the health service during the coronavirus crisis, a government spokesman said Sunday. Dr Varadkar "has offered his services to the Health Service Executive for one session a week in areas that are within his scope of practice", a government spokesman said in a statement. The Irish Times reported Varadkar — who graduated with a medical degree from Dublin's Trinity University in 2003 — is to work assessing patients over the phone. The son of a doctor and nurse, Varadkar's partner and his two sisters are also practising health workers. "Many of his family and friends are working in the health service," the spokesman explained. "He wanted to help out even in a small way." As COVID-19 took hold in Ireland last month the HSE made a call for qualified healthcare workers not currently working in the sector to return. Over 60,000 responded to the recruitment drive, which included a request for medically skilled and general volunteers to aid the health service. According to the most recent department of health figures released Sunday, there have been 158 coronavirus-related deaths in Ireland. There have been a total of 4,994 confirmed cases across the Republic, the department said.

Indian-origin Irish PM Leo Varadkar to work as a doctor during coronavirus crisis

The number of people killed by the coronavirus in Canada has jumped by just over 20% to 258 in a day, officials said on Sunday, while Ottawa offered full-time jobs to reservists in the armed forces.

By 11:05 eastern time (1505 GMT), the number of those diagnosed with the coronavirus had risen by almost 12% to 14,426, the public health agency said. The respective figures on Saturday were 214 deaths and 12,924 positive diagnoses.

The outbreak looks set to tip the economy into recession and the Liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has already announced stimulus measures totalling C$105 billion ($74 billion) in direct spending, or 5% of gross domestic product.

Trudeau said officials were contacting reservists to offer them full-time jobs for the coming months.

"Bolstering the military's ranks will help offset some of the economic consequences of COVID-19 and ensure our communities are well supported," he told a daily briefing.

Canada has around 31,000 reservists, most of whom serve one evening a week and one weekend a month. There are just over 67,000 full-time members of the armed forces.

Trudeau said on Friday that members of the Canadian Rangers, a group of reservists based in remote regions, would be deployed to northern Quebec to help provide healthcare to the isolated aboriginal population.

Late last month, U.S. President Donald Trump authorized the secretaries of homeland security and defence to call up military and Coast Guard reservists to active duty.

Trudeau said he had yet to speak to Trump about his demand that exports of respirator masks to Canada be blocked. Trudeau said on Saturday he would not retaliate while noting some Canadian health professionals living along with the US border work in hospitals south of the border.

"We're continuing to engage constructively with the entire American administration to highlight how important it is that goods ... continue to flow both ways," he said.

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro told Fox News on Saturday that "some exports" of masks to Canada would continue.

Almost half the cases in Canada are in the province of Quebec, where premier Francois Legault said on Sunday he hoped to see new diagnoses peak in several weeks. He also told reporters he was extending a shutdown of non-essential businesses for another three weeks to May 4.

The number of people killed by the coronavirus in Canada has jumped by just over 20% to 258 in a day, officials said on Sunday, while Ottawa offered full-time jobs to reservists in the armed forces.

The number of people killed by the coronavirus in Canada has jumped by just over 20% to 258 in a day, officials said on Sunday, while Ottawa offered full-time jobs to reservists in the armed forces. By 11:05 eastern time (1505 GMT), the number of those diagnosed with the coronavirus had risen by almost 12% to 14,426, the public health agency said. The respective figures on Saturday were 214 deaths and 12,924 positive diagnoses. The outbreak looks set to tip the economy into recession and the Liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has already announced stimulus measures totalling C$105 billion ($74 billion) in direct spending, or 5% of gross domestic product. Trudeau said officials were contacting reservists to offer them full-time jobs for the coming months. "Bolstering the military's ranks will help offset some of the economic consequences of COVID-19 and ensure our communities are well supported," he told a daily briefing. Canada has around 31,000 reservists, most of whom serve one evening a week and one weekend a month. There are just over 67,000 full-time members of the armed forces. Trudeau said on Friday that members of the Canadian Rangers, a group of reservists based in remote regions, would be deployed to northern Quebec to help provide healthcare to the isolated aboriginal population. Late last month, U.S. President Donald Trump authorized the secretaries of homeland security and defence to call up military and Coast Guard reservists to active duty. Trudeau said he had yet to speak to Trump about his demand that exports of respirator masks to Canada be blocked. Trudeau said on Saturday he would not retaliate while noting some Canadian health professionals living along with the US border work in hospitals south of the border. "We're continuing to engage constructively with the entire American administration to highlight how important it is that goods ... continue to flow both ways," he said. White House trade adviser Peter Navarro told Fox News on Saturday that "some exports" of masks to Canada would continue. Almost half the cases in Canada are in the province of Quebec, where premier Francois Legault said on Sunday he hoped to see new diagnoses peak in several weeks. He also told reporters he was extending a shutdown of non-essential businesses for another three weeks to May 4.

Canada coronavirus deaths jump 20%, Ottawa offers reservists full-time jobs

Healthcare professionals have increased scientific sampling and testing of coronavirus suspects across Kashmir region which has seen a surge in cases of the virus.

A total of 14 new cases of COVID-19 positive were detected in Kashmir on Sunday, raising the total number of positive cases in the union territory to 106.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-experienced-strength-of-togetherness-of-130-crore-indians-yesterday-pm-modi-290829" hreflang="en">We experienced strength of togetherness of 130 crore Indians yesterday: PM Modi</a>

While two patients have died, four have recovered while another seven have tested negative after undergoing treatment. These patients will undergo another test before they will be discharged from the hospital.

Health authorities&nbsp;said the Jammu and Kashmir Government has established COVID-19 hospitals which are working round-the-clock and performing sample testing swiftly.

Director, Health Services Kashmir, Dr Samir Mattoo said the Government established eight hospitals in Kashmir and three in Jammu, exclusively for COVID-19 cases.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-death-toll-reaches-109-in-india-infections-top-4000-as-govt-draws-aggressive-containment-plan-290788" hreflang="en">COVID-19 death toll reaches 109 in India, infections top 4000 as Govt draws aggressive containment plan</a>

All our eight COVID-19 hospitals are performing well and we have been able to reach out to the people with some sort of relief amid this healthcare crisis,&nbsp;Dr Mattoo said, adding we have also directed our staff to remain on 24X7 shifts for any exigency.

He said the Government has taken a slew of measures in terms of screening of people particularly inbound travellers, surveillance and quarantine, isolation of suspects and is continuously monitoring the situation on a minute-to-minute basis.

He said the healthcare professionals have been able to increase the scientific sampling and testing of suspects across Kashmir region.

Earlier, we were able to collect 70 samples, now we go for up to 150 a day. We are also waiting for some equipment and important reagents from ICMR. We have so far got seven sophisticated machines for testing and we will be again procuring few more,&nbsp;he said.

Meanwhile, strict restrictions on the movement of people in Kashmir to contain the spread of coronavirus remained in force on Monday.

Security forces sealed off the main roads in the valley and erected barriers at several places to check the unwanted movement of the people and to enforce the lockdown, the officials said.

The markets across the valley were shut and public transport was off the roads with only pharmacies and groceries allowed to open, they added.

Educational institutions across Kashmir have been closed, while all public places including gymnasiums, parks, clubs and restaurants have been shut down more than a week before the nationwide lock down announced by the Prime Minister.

While the Prime Minister announced the country-wide lockdown on the evening of March 24, the union territory administration here had on March 22 announced a lockdown across Jammu and Kashmir till 31 March as part of its efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

The administration said essential services including healthcare personnel have been exempted from the restrictions.

Restrictions were first imposed in many parts of the valley on March 19 to contain the spread of the virus infection.

The measures were taken after a 67-year-old woman from Khanyar area of the city, who had returned on 16 March from Saudi Arabia after performing Umrah, tested positive for COVID-19 infection.

Healthcare professionals have increased scientific sampling and testing of coronavirus suspects across Kashmir region which has seen a surge in cases of the virus.

Healthcare professionals have increased scientific sampling and testing of coronavirus suspects across Kashmir region which has seen a surge in cases of the virus. A total of 14 new cases of COVID-19 positive were detected in Kashmir on Sunday, raising the total number of positive cases in the union territory to 106. Also read: We experienced strength of togetherness of 130 crore Indians yesterday: PM Modi While two patients have died, four have recovered while another seven have tested negative after undergoing treatment. These patients will undergo another test before they will be discharged from the hospital. Health authorities said the Jammu and Kashmir Government has established COVID-19 hospitals which are working round-the-clock and performing sample testing swiftly. Director, Health Services Kashmir, Dr Samir Mattoo said the Government established eight hospitals in Kashmir and three in Jammu, exclusively for COVID-19 cases. Also read: COVID-19 death toll reaches 109 in India, infections top 4000 as Govt draws aggressive containment plan All our eight COVID-19 hospitals are performing well and we have been able to reach out to the people with some sort of relief amid this healthcare crisis, Dr Mattoo said, adding we have also directed our staff to remain on 24X7 shifts for any exigency. He said the Government has taken a slew of measures in terms of screening of people particularly inbound travellers, surveillance and quarantine, isolation of suspects and is continuously monitoring the situation on a minute-to-minute basis. He said the healthcare professionals have been able to increase the scientific sampling and testing of suspects across Kashmir region. Earlier, we were able to collect 70 samples, now we go for up to 150 a day. We are also waiting for some equipment and important reagents from ICMR. We have so far got seven sophisticated machines for testing and we will be again procuring few more, he said. Meanwhile, strict restrictions on the movement of people in Kashmir to contain the spread of coronavirus remained in force on Monday. Security forces sealed off the main roads in the valley and erected barriers at several places to check the unwanted movement of the people and to enforce the lockdown, the officials said. The markets across the valley were shut and public transport was off the roads with only pharmacies and groceries allowed to open, they added. Educational institutions across Kashmir have been closed, while all public places including gymnasiums, parks, clubs and restaurants have been shut down more than a week before the nationwide lock down announced by the Prime Minister. While the Prime Minister announced the country-wide lockdown on the evening of March 24, the union territory administration here had on March 22 announced a lockdown across Jammu and Kashmir till 31 March as part of its efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus. The administration said essential services including healthcare personnel have been exempted from the restrictions. Restrictions were first imposed in many parts of the valley on March 19 to contain the spread of the virus infection. The measures were taken after a 67-year-old woman from Khanyar area of the city, who had returned on 16 March from Saudi Arabia after performing Umrah, tested positive for COVID-19 infection.

Restrictions remain in force in Kashmir, sampling of coronavirus suspects increased

On Saturday, singer Kanika Kapoor finally tested negative for COVID-19, after four times being tested positive.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-salman-khan-to-priyanka-chopra-indian-celebs-help-daily-wage-earners-amid-lockdown-289290" hreflang="en">From Salman Khan to Priyanka Chopra, Indian celebs help daily wage earners amid lockdown</a> 
 
The 'Baby Doll' singer will stay at PGI Hospital Lucknow until one more test result comes as negative, says&nbsp;Sanjay Gandhi PGIMS said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood-news-after-kanika-kapoor-tests-covid-19-positive-fourth-time-pens-an-emotional-post-289410">Kanika Kapoor pens emotional post after testing COVID-19 positive for the fourth time</a> 
 
The singer, who was hospitalised on March 20 after she <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/baby-doll-singer-kanika-kapoor-tests-positive-for-covid-19-had-allegedly-attended-a-party-of-100-people-a-few-days-back-287533">tested positive</a> for the coronavirus, herself confirmed the news from in an Instagram post, which she deleted later.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/high-profile-people-who-are-now-in-self-quarantine-post-coming-in-contact-with-singer-kanika-kapoor-287677" hreflang="en">High profile people who are in self-quarantine post coming in contact with singer Kanika Kapoor</a> 
 
Kapoor had returned form London on March 9 and then travelled to her home town Lucknow and also attended parties which was also attended by the big political personalities, as none of those who came into contact with her tested positive so far.&nbsp;

'Baby Doll' singer is the only Bollywood celebrity who has been tested positive for the virus.

On Saturday, singer Kanika Kapoor finally tested negative for COVID-19, after four times being tested positive. In pics: From Salman Khan to Priyanka Chopra, Indian celebs help daily wage earners amid lockdown The 'Baby Doll' singer will stay at PGI Hospital Lucknow until one more test result comes as negative, says Sanjay Gandhi PGIMS said.

On Saturday, singer Kanika Kapoor finally tested negative for COVID-19, after four times being tested positive. In pics: From Salman Khan to Priyanka Chopra, Indian celebs help daily wage earners amid lockdown The 'Baby Doll' singer will stay at PGI Hospital Lucknow until one more test result comes as negative, says Sanjay Gandhi PGIMS said. Also read: Kanika Kapoor pens emotional post after testing COVID-19 positive for the fourth time The singer, who was hospitalised on March 20 after she tested positive for the coronavirus, herself confirmed the news from in an Instagram post, which she deleted later. In pics: High profile people who are in self-quarantine post coming in contact with singer Kanika Kapoor Kapoor had returned form London on March 9 and then travelled to her home town Lucknow and also attended parties which was also attended by the big political personalities, as none of those who came into contact with her tested positive so far. 'Baby Doll' singer is the only Bollywood celebrity who has been tested positive for the virus.

Singer Kanika Kapoor tests negative for COVID-19 on fifth attempt

The number of COVID-19 cases in Pakistan reached 3,278 on Monday as Imran Khan's govt scramble to contain the spread of the lethal disease.

Over 300 Tablighi Jamaat members and total 20, 000 people related to the event have been quarantined till Sunday in Pakistan’s Punjab province, amid efforts by authorities to track down and quarantine thousands of people who attended a massive congregation of the group last month.&nbsp;

A large number of preachers of Pakitan's Tablighi Jamaat who had attended a major congregation in early March in its headquarters in Lahore have been tracked down across the country and placed in quarantine centres.

According to Pakistani media, "more than 100,000 people” attended the Tablighi Jamaat event in Lahore.

The event was organised in Lahore between March 10 and 12, had been described as being a "super-spreader" of coronavirus.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, The biggest COVID-19 hotspot in India has been the Tablighi Jamaat Markaz in Nizamuddin, New Delhi where a congregation of thousands of people took place between 1-15 March.

On Sunday, during the daily press briefing Lav Agarwal, a senior official in the Union ministry of health and family welfare, said that due to the Tablighi Jamaat event, coronavirus cases were rising in India every four days. Agarwal said that “had the incident not happened, the case doubling rate in the country would have been 7.4 days". 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The number of COVID-19 cases in Pakistan reached 3,278 on Monday as Imran Khan's govt scramble to contain the spread of the lethal disease. Over 300 Tablighi Jamaat members and total 20, 000 people related to the event have been quarantined till Sunday in Pakistan’s Punjab province, amid efforts by authorities to track down and quarantine thousands of people who attended a massive congregation of the group last month.

The number of COVID-19 cases in Pakistan reached 3,278 on Monday as Imran Khan's govt scramble to contain the spread of the lethal disease. Over 300 Tablighi Jamaat members and total 20, 000 people related to the event have been quarantined till Sunday in Pakistan’s Punjab province, amid efforts by authorities to track down and quarantine thousands of people who attended a massive congregation of the group last month. A large number of preachers of Pakitan's Tablighi Jamaat who had attended a major congregation in early March in its headquarters in Lahore have been tracked down across the country and placed in quarantine centres. According to Pakistani media, "more than 100,000 people” attended the Tablighi Jamaat event in Lahore. The event was organised in Lahore between March 10 and 12, had been described as being a "super-spreader" of coronavirus. Meanwhile, The biggest COVID-19 hotspot in India has been the Tablighi Jamaat Markaz in Nizamuddin, New Delhi where a congregation of thousands of people took place between 1-15 March. On Sunday, during the daily press briefing Lav Agarwal, a senior official in the Union ministry of health and family welfare, said that due to the Tablighi Jamaat event, coronavirus cases were rising in India every four days. Agarwal said that “had the incident not happened, the case doubling rate in the country would have been 7.4 days". (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus in Pakistan: 20,000 quarantined as 300 Tablighi Jamaat members test positive

A 36-year-old man was arrested in Chunabhatti in Mumbai in the early hours of Sunday for allegedly uploading a post on Facebook claiming the novel coronavirus outbreak was a government conspiracy and that people should not reveal information to authorities. An official identified him as Shamim Iftekhar Khan, a resident of Qureshi Nagar in Kurla East.

“His Facebook post claimed the virus does not exist and it was a conspiracy to target certain communities by the government. He also asked people not to give information to authorities during surveys in connection with the outbreak,” he said.

He was arrested under sections 188 (disobedience of an order promulgated by a public servant) and 505 (statements conducing to public mischief) of IPC, and provisions of Disaster Management Act, the Chunabatti police station official said.

A 36-year-old man was arrested in Chunabhatti in Mumbai in the early hours of Sunday for allegedly uploading a post on Facebook claiming the novel coronavirus outbreak was a government conspiracy and that people should not reveal information to authorities.

A 36-year-old man was arrested in Chunabhatti in Mumbai in the early hours of Sunday for allegedly uploading a post on Facebook claiming the novel coronavirus outbreak was a government conspiracy and that people should not reveal information to authorities. An official identified him as Shamim Iftekhar Khan, a resident of Qureshi Nagar in Kurla East. “His Facebook post claimed the virus does not exist and it was a conspiracy to target certain communities by the government. He also asked people not to give information to authorities during surveys in connection with the outbreak,” he said. He was arrested under sections 188 (disobedience of an order promulgated by a public servant) and 505 (statements conducing to public mischief) of IPC, and provisions of Disaster Management Act, the Chunabatti police station official said.

Mumbai man claims coronavirus a govt conspiracy in Facebook post, arrested

Amid a nationwide lockdown to tackle the coronavirus outbreak, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that India has set an example for the world by effectively battling coronavirus.&nbsp;

"India's efforts have set an example before the world in tackling Coronavisus Pandemic. India is one of the countries which understood the seriousness of this disease&amp;waged a timely war against it. India took several decisions&amp;tried its best to implement them on the ground. India has worked rapidly with a holistic approach that is being appreciated by not only Indians but also WHO. All countries should come together and fight this, so India had active participation in the meeting of the SAARC countries and the G20 meeting," he said.

PM Modi was speaking on the occasion of Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) 40th Foundation Day.&nbsp;

"This foundation day of BJP has come at a time when not only the country but also the world is going through a difficult time. Humanity is facing a crisis, our devotion to service of the country creates our path during this challenging time," &nbsp;he said.

Amid a nationwide lockdown to tackle the coronavirus outbreak, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that India has set an example for the world by effectively battling coronavirus.

Amid a nationwide lockdown to tackle the coronavirus outbreak, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that India has set an example for the world by effectively battling coronavirus. "India's efforts have set an example before the world in tackling Coronavisus Pandemic. India is one of the countries which understood the seriousness of this disease&waged a timely war against it. India took several decisions&tried its best to implement them on the ground. India has worked rapidly with a holistic approach that is being appreciated by not only Indians but also WHO. All countries should come together and fight this, so India had active participation in the meeting of the SAARC countries and the G20 meeting," he said. PM Modi was speaking on the occasion of Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) 40th Foundation Day. "This foundation day of BJP has come at a time when not only the country but also the world is going through a difficult time. Humanity is facing a crisis, our devotion to service of the country creates our path during this challenging time," he said.

India's fight against coronavirus sets distinct example for world: PM Modi

Using famous 'Friends'&nbsp;character Chandler Bing`s expression of hiding pain through sarcasm, actor Matthew Perry on Saturday used the reference to talk about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/child-aged-five-among-new-uk-coronavirus-victims-290634">coronavirus pandemic.</a>

In pics:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/photos/then-and-now-your-favourite-stars-from-friends-after-25-years-of-the-hit-show-250875" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/then-and-now-your-favourite-stars-from-friends-after-25-years-of-the-hit-show-250875&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjA7IOVx9DoAhWtyjgGHcrWA5cQFjAFegQICRAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw1I4urj4J5pBi9suPmUHgMC" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/then-and-now-your-favourite-stars-from-friends-after-25-years-of-the-hit-show-250875" target="_blank">Then and Now: Your Favourite Stars From 'Friends'&nbsp;</a> 
 
Taking to Instagram, Perry re-created one of his iconic dialogues from the show and posted a picture that said, "Could we BE in any more of a pandemic?"Perry portrayed the character of Chandler Bing in the beloved 90`s show which celebrated its 25th-anniversary last year.

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Chandler Bing, the IT procurements manager with a specialization in 'Statistical analysis and data reconfiguration', had a habit of using sarcasm as a defence mechanism to cover his misery. 
 
"Could this BE... any more .....?" is one of his famous reference that he used several times throughout the 10-season-long show.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cooking-washing-doing-dishes-how-celebrities-have-become-more-relatable-in-times-of-self-isolation-290376">Cooking, washing, doing dishes: How celebrities have become more relatable in times of self-isolation</a>

As the world is at the largest of its misery amid the coronavirus crisis, Perry once again used the reference in real life. 
 
`Friends` featured Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, David Schwimmer, and Matt LeBlanc, besides Perry. 
 
A much-awaited<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/its-happening-friends-cast-confirm-reunion-episode-for-hbo-max-282117"> reunion special episode</a> of the sitcom which was scheduled to be shot and telecasted this year on HBO Max has also been shelved until May due to the outbreak of the virus. 
 
According to WHO, COVID-19 has affected over 10 lakh people across the globe and has claimed the lives of more than 50,000.&nbsp;

Using famous 'Friends' character Chandler Bing`s expression of hiding pain through sarcasm, actor Matthew Perry on Saturday used the reference to talk about coronavirus pandemic.

Using famous 'Friends' character Chandler Bing`s expression of hiding pain through sarcasm, actor Matthew Perry on Saturday used the reference to talk about coronavirus pandemic. In pics: Then and Now: Your Favourite Stars From 'Friends' Taking to Instagram, Perry re-created one of his iconic dialogues from the show and posted a picture that said, "Could we BE in any more of a pandemic?"Perry portrayed the character of Chandler Bing in the beloved 90`s show which celebrated its 25th-anniversary last year. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Matthew Perry (@mattyperry4) on Apr 4, 2020 at 12:14pm PDT × Chandler Bing, the IT procurements manager with a specialization in 'Statistical analysis and data reconfiguration', had a habit of using sarcasm as a defence mechanism to cover his misery. "Could this BE... any more .....?" is one of his famous reference that he used several times throughout the 10-season-long show. In pics: Cooking, washing, doing dishes: How celebrities have become more relatable in times of self-isolation As the world is at the largest of its misery amid the coronavirus crisis, Perry once again used the reference in real life. `Friends` featured Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, David Schwimmer, and Matt LeBlanc, besides Perry. A much-awaited reunion special episode of the sitcom which was scheduled to be shot and telecasted this year on HBO Max has also been shelved until May due to the outbreak of the virus. According to WHO, COVID-19 has affected over 10 lakh people across the globe and has claimed the lives of more than 50,000.

Chandler Bing's sarcasm is yet again on point amid coronavirus pandemic

Veteran actor and author Patricia Bosworth passed away at an age of 86 on Thursday due to pneumonia caused by COVID-19, reported news agency. 
 
The senior actor's&nbsp;demise was confirmed by her step-daughter Fia Hatsav on Facebook."This terrible virus has taken my Vibrant, talented, and loving Step-Mother, Patricia Bosworth. You may read about her in all the news articles... But to us she was Patti, and Grandma Patti," read a post by Hatsav. 
 
"She was a humble, caring and compassionate person. She adopted us and we in return adopted her. She was part of our family, in every way. She loved my children and treasured being their grandma, it meant everything to her," the post further read. 
 
Some of the major acting works of the 86-year-old star include 'The Patty Duke Show'&nbsp;and 'Kraft Theatre'. 
 
Some of her known works as an author include her biographies of Hollywood celebrities including Marlon Brando, Montgomery Clift, and others.&nbsp;

Veteran actor and author Patricia Bosworth passed away at an age of 86 on Thursday due to pneumonia caused by COVID-19, reported news agency. The senior actor's demise was confirmed by her step-daughter Fia Hatsav on Facebook.

Veteran actor and author Patricia Bosworth passed away at an age of 86 on Thursday due to pneumonia caused by COVID-19, reported news agency. The senior actor's demise was confirmed by her step-daughter Fia Hatsav on Facebook."This terrible virus has taken my Vibrant, talented, and loving Step-Mother, Patricia Bosworth. You may read about her in all the news articles... But to us she was Patti, and Grandma Patti," read a post by Hatsav. "She was a humble, caring and compassionate person. She adopted us and we in return adopted her. She was part of our family, in every way. She loved my children and treasured being their grandma, it meant everything to her," the post further read. Some of the major acting works of the 86-year-old star include 'The Patty Duke Show' and 'Kraft Theatre'. Some of her known works as an author include her biographies of Hollywood celebrities including Marlon Brando, Montgomery Clift, and others.

COVID-19 claims life of actor and author Patricia Bosworth

The United Nations security council UNSC could discuss the global COVID pandemic this week, the body in its release on the this week's agenda has said. The agenda release said, "A meeting this week on this issue is possible.

The United Nations security council UNSC could discuss the global COVID pandemic this week, the body in its release on the this week's agenda has said. The agenda release said, "A meeting this week on this issue is possible." Nine elected members of the UNSC have written to the president of the Security Council requesting a meeting on the "peace and security impacts of COVID-19", said the agenda. Currently, two draft resolutions on COVID-19 are under discussion among different groups of Council members – one among the permanent members and another among the elected members. The meet could not happen in the month of March with the President of the body that month China not very enthusiastic about it. The President of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the month of April, Dominican Republic has said that a session on Covid crisis can happen soon. Special Envoy from the Dominican Republic to the United Nations Security Council Ambassador Jose Singer in a presser last week while listing out the council's agenda for the month said special meet on COVID is being "negotiated" & "it has been brought up by few (UNSC) envoy..it is taking shape" Ambassador Jose Singer said, "UNSC session could happen for sure next week or before" and when asked if a resolution can be expected on COVID crisis, he said, "Have not discussed the issue of resolution (on COVID)" and "We expect to hold the meet and see how events play out" United Nations, especially the core body--United Nations Security Council is found missing during the COVID crisis. It was G20 that took the responsibility for a global strategy to deal with the crisis and leaders the grouping in the month of the march did a video conference to chalk out an action plan to deal with the challenge. The idea of the meet was discussed by Indian PM Modi with his G20 counterparts including the chair of G20 Saudi Arabia. PM Modi had in the month of March taken the global lead in calling for a video conference of SAARC countries for a common approach to deal with the crisis.

9 UNSC members call for meet on COVID-19

Several foreign missions took part in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's solidarity call of switching off lights of the missions and residence of diplomats and lighting up diyas, candles and touches tonight.&nbsp;

More than 10 foreign mission confirmed participation.

The Iconic Nepal embassy at Mandi House in Delhi switched off the light over PM Modi's solidarity call. Nepal Envoy Nilamber Acharya along with other Nepali diplomats light up diyas and candles.

Bangladesh Envoy Mohammad Imran joined in the call and the mission turned off its light to light up diyas.&nbsp;

Afghan envoy Tahir Qadiry, who has been very busy leading the evacuation of Afghan nations also enthusiastically supported the call. He said, "This is the right time to remember all those great souls and heroes, nurses and the doctors, who are fighting in the front line. Let us all pledge to regard the social distancing and take all right precautions"

Aminath Shabeena Maldivian Acting High Commissioner who took part in a message she said, "Maldives is fighting COVID-19 alongside our many close friends, such as India."

Outside the mission of neighbouring countries, missions of several countries participated. Vietnam's Ambassador to India Pham Sanh Chau was part of the solidarity call at the mission along with 30 diplomatic residences and offices of Vietnam who joined Prime Minister Modi’s call to show solidarity in the fight against Coronavirus by lightning up candles at 9:00 pm sunday night.

Polish Envoy Adam Burakowski had a message of Poland and India friendship. He said,"This is the sign of polish Indian friendship. Poland stand united with India in the fight against coronavirus"

A small polish community of Delhi also joined the call by lighting up diyas.&nbsp;

The solidarity call was celebrated at the Indonesian mission by envoy Sidharto Suryodipuro, by the mexican envoy Federico Salas and Kyrgystan's envoy Asein Isaev.

At UK mission, acting high commissioner Jan Thompson along with other British diplomats took part while at the Australian High Commission families joined India in its efforts to come together for 9 mins at 9pm at their respective households.

Chinese Envoy Sun Weidong posted on twitter page a picture of diya he lit up. in a tweet he said, "Light a Diya to stand in solidarity with people of #India in the fight against #COVID19. Pay tribute to all medical workers. At this difficult time, #Chinese &amp; Indian people are standing together through thick &amp; thin. Wish India an early victory against the epidemic. #9pm9minute"

Indian missions globally also marked it. In Bhutan and Bangladesh, Indian missions switched off lights with Indian envoys Ruchira Kamboj and Riva Ganguly Das led the solidarity call. Members of the Indian High Commission in Pakistan and their families also joined "in demonstrating collective resolve and positivity by lighting diyas and candles.", a tweet by the mission said.

Several foreign missions took part in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's solidarity call of switching off lights of the missions and residence of diplomats and lighting up diyas, candles and touches tonight.

Several foreign missions took part in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's solidarity call of switching off lights of the missions and residence of diplomats and lighting up diyas, candles and touches tonight. More than 10 foreign mission confirmed participation. The Iconic Nepal embassy at Mandi House in Delhi switched off the light over PM Modi's solidarity call. Nepal Envoy Nilamber Acharya along with other Nepali diplomats light up diyas and candles. Bangladesh Envoy Mohammad Imran joined in the call and the mission turned off its light to light up diyas. Afghan envoy Tahir Qadiry, who has been very busy leading the evacuation of Afghan nations also enthusiastically supported the call. He said, "This is the right time to remember all those great souls and heroes, nurses and the doctors, who are fighting in the front line. Let us all pledge to regard the social distancing and take all right precautions" Aminath Shabeena Maldivian Acting High Commissioner who took part in a message she said, "Maldives is fighting COVID-19 alongside our many close friends, such as India." Outside the mission of neighbouring countries, missions of several countries participated. Vietnam's Ambassador to India Pham Sanh Chau was part of the solidarity call at the mission along with 30 diplomatic residences and offices of Vietnam who joined Prime Minister Modi’s call to show solidarity in the fight against Coronavirus by lightning up candles at 9:00 pm sunday night. Polish Envoy Adam Burakowski had a message of Poland and India friendship. He said,"This is the sign of polish Indian friendship. Poland stand united with India in the fight against coronavirus" A small polish community of Delhi also joined the call by lighting up diyas. The solidarity call was celebrated at the Indonesian mission by envoy Sidharto Suryodipuro, by the mexican envoy Federico Salas and Kyrgystan's envoy Asein Isaev. At UK mission, acting high commissioner Jan Thompson along with other British diplomats took part while at the Australian High Commission families joined India in its efforts to come together for 9 mins at 9pm at their respective households. Chinese Envoy Sun Weidong posted on twitter page a picture of diya he lit up. in a tweet he said, "Light a Diya to stand in solidarity with people of #India in the fight against #COVID19. Pay tribute to all medical workers. At this difficult time, #Chinese & Indian people are standing together through thick & thin. Wish India an early victory against the epidemic. #9pm9minute" Indian missions globally also marked it. In Bhutan and Bangladesh, Indian missions switched off lights with Indian envoys Ruchira Kamboj and Riva Ganguly Das led the solidarity call. Members of the Indian High Commission in Pakistan and their families also joined "in demonstrating collective resolve and positivity by lighting diyas and candles.", a tweet by the mission said.

COVID-19: Foreign missions enthusiastically take part in PM Modi's solidarity call 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation by lighting a lamp after turning off all lights at his residence as people across the country switched off all the lights for 9 minutes at 9 PM on Sunday and lit a candle, 'diya', or flashlight, to mark India's fight against coronavirus.

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शुभं करोति कल्याणमारोग्यं धनसंपदा । 
शत्रुबुद्धिविनाशाय दीपज्योतिर्नमोऽस्तुते ॥ <a href="https://t.co/4DeiMsCN11">pic.twitter.com/4DeiMsCN11</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1246830985288642560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Millions of people across the country dutifully obeyed to PM Modi's call and turned off lights.&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind also joined the citizens of the country by demonstrating collective solidarity and positivity by lighting candles at 9 pm and expressed his gratitude towards every Indian for showing resolve in the fight against COVID19.

People across the country lit earthen lamps and candles in the balcony of their houses in the national capital and across the country.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother Heeraben, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat lights up earthen lamps as thousands of others across the country turned off lights as per Modi's appeal&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation by lighting a lamp after turning off all lights at his residence as people across the country switched off all the lights for 9 minutes at 9 PM on Sunday and lit a candle, 'diya', or flashlight, to mark India's fight against coronavirus.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation by lighting a lamp after turning off all lights at his residence as people across the country switched off all the lights for 9 minutes at 9 PM on Sunday and lit a candle, 'diya', or flashlight, to mark India's fight against coronavirus. शुभं करोति कल्याणमारोग्यं धनसंपदा । शत्रुबुद्धिविनाशाय दीपज्योतिर्नमोऽस्तुते ॥ pic.twitter.com/4DeiMsCN11 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 5, 2020 × Millions of people across the country dutifully obeyed to PM Modi's call and turned off lights. President Ram Nath Kovind also joined the citizens of the country by demonstrating collective solidarity and positivity by lighting candles at 9 pm and expressed his gratitude towards every Indian for showing resolve in the fight against COVID19. People across the country lit earthen lamps and candles in the balcony of their houses in the national capital and across the country. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother Heeraben, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat lights up earthen lamps as thousands of others across the country turned off lights as per Modi's appeal

Millions across country heed to PM Modi's blackout call, light diyas  

Megastar Shah Rukh Khan on Sunday unveiled his thoughtful side and said he feels that lockdown days will be a memory of when people had all the time along with the loved ones close.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-salman-khan-to-priyanka-chopra-indian-celebs-help-daily-wage-earners-amid-lockdown-289290" hreflang="en">From Salman Khan to Priyanka Chopra, Indian celebs help daily wage earners amid lockdown</a> 
 
The 54-year-old actor took to Instagram and shared the thought with a selfie which he said: "has nothing to do with the message, but he thought that he looked good in it, and so he sneaked it in." 
 
The 'Raees'&nbsp;actor, on the photo-sharing platform, shared that he believes, this lockdown situation when people are advised to stay at home, is going to be a memory, and we will remember the time of "when we had all the time on our hands and our loved ones in our arms." Shah Rukh also advised staying safe, distant and healthy amid the coronavirus outbreak.

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I believe this moment in our lives will finally b a memory of when v had all the time on our hands &amp; our loved ones in our arms. Here’s wishing this for every1. Stay Safe.Stay Distant.Stay Healthy. PS:The selfie has nothing to do with the msg, thot I look good, so I sneaked it in <a href="https://t.co/2KjJnAMFTS">pic.twitter.com/2KjJnAMFTS</a>
— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsrk/status/1246730600876134401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Shah Rukh captioned the post as, "I believe this moment in our lives will finally be a memory of when we had all the time on our hands &amp; our loved ones in our arms. Here's wishing this for every1. Stay Safe. Stay Distant. Stay Healthy. PS: The selfie has nothing to do with the msg, thought I look good, so I sneaked it in." 
 
The thoughtful note by Shah Rukh garnered more than 3 Lakh likes within 40 minutes of being posted. 
 
Meanwhile, SRK along with his wife Gauri has extended a helping hand to curb the spread of coronavirus as they have offered their<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/shah-rukh-khan-gauri-offer-mumbai-office-for-quarantine-facility-290604"> personal office space</a> in Mumbai for quarantine purpose for children, elderly and women. 
 
Moreover, Shah Rukh Khan and his group companies have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood-news-shah-rukh-khan-pledges-support-to-pm-cares-fund-and-six-other-organisations-to-battle-coronavirus-290262">pledged to donate</a> to a number of relief funds, including the Prime Minister`s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations (PM-CARES) fund and the Maharashtra Chief Minister`s Relief Fund to combat the coronavirus.&nbsp;

Megastar Shah Rukh Khan on Sunday unveiled his thoughtful side and said he feels that lockdown days will be a memory of when people had all the time along with the loved ones close.

Megastar Shah Rukh Khan on Sunday unveiled his thoughtful side and said he feels that lockdown days will be a memory of when people had all the time along with the loved ones close. In pics: From Salman Khan to Priyanka Chopra, Indian celebs help daily wage earners amid lockdown The 54-year-old actor took to Instagram and shared the thought with a selfie which he said: "has nothing to do with the message, but he thought that he looked good in it, and so he sneaked it in." The 'Raees' actor, on the photo-sharing platform, shared that he believes, this lockdown situation when people are advised to stay at home, is going to be a memory, and we will remember the time of "when we had all the time on our hands and our loved ones in our arms." Shah Rukh also advised staying safe, distant and healthy amid the coronavirus outbreak. I believe this moment in our lives will finally b a memory of when v had all the time on our hands & our loved ones in our arms. Here’s wishing this for every1. Stay Safe.Stay Distant.Stay Healthy. PS:The selfie has nothing to do with the msg, thot I look good, so I sneaked it in pic.twitter.com/2KjJnAMFTS — Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) April 5, 2020 × Shah Rukh captioned the post as, "I believe this moment in our lives will finally be a memory of when we had all the time on our hands & our loved ones in our arms. Here's wishing this for every1. Stay Safe. Stay Distant. Stay Healthy. PS: The selfie has nothing to do with the msg, thought I look good, so I sneaked it in." The thoughtful note by Shah Rukh garnered more than 3 Lakh likes within 40 minutes of being posted. Meanwhile, SRK along with his wife Gauri has extended a helping hand to curb the spread of coronavirus as they have offered their personal office space in Mumbai for quarantine purpose for children, elderly and women. Moreover, Shah Rukh Khan and his group companies have pledged to donate to a number of relief funds, including the Prime Minister`s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations (PM-CARES) fund and the Maharashtra Chief Minister`s Relief Fund to combat the coronavirus.

'Will be a memory': Shah Rukh Khan highlights bright side of COVID-19 lockdown

The total number of COVID-19 cases across India has risen to 3,113 and the death toll is nearing 100-mark, according to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)

ICMR further said that it tested 11,182 samples, of these, 324 were found positive for COVID-19

Meanwhile, in a bid to see whether the coronavirus is getting transmitted in the hotspot areas, ICMR has set a fresh protocol for healthcare workers to start with rapid antibody-based blood test for COVID-19.

The top medical research body has framed a newer strategy for areas reporting in clusters (containment zone), in large migration gatherings and evacuee`s centres, where large number of COVID-19 cases are arising.ICMR stated that cases of Influenza-like Illness (ILI) are to be monitored in health facilities.&nbsp;

Any surge in cases are to be monitored and brought to the notice of surveillance officer or chief medical officer for additional investigation.

"We have identified several hotspot areas where large numbers of COVID-19 cases are cropping up and rapid anti-body test is most suitable to detect whether the disease is spreading in the area or not... Also, rapid antibody test give quick results. Once a person is positive for rapid anti-body test, he or she should be quarantined for 14 days and a RT-PCR test should be done as a confirmatory test," Dr R Ganga Khedkar of ICMR told.

"We have issued fresh guidelines for healthcare workers which say that all healthcare workers who are doing the rapid antibody test should use gloves, mask and headcovers. Healthcare workers collecting throat or nasal swab should follow standard national infection control guidelines," he said.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The total number of COVID-19 cases across India has risen to 3,113 and the death toll is nearing 100-mark, according to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) ICMR further said that it tested 11,182 samples, of these, 324 were found positive for COVID-19 Meanwhile, in a bid to see whether the coronavirus is getting transmitted in the hotspot areas, ICMR has set a fresh protocol for healthcare workers to start with rapid antibody-based blood test for COVID-19.

The total number of COVID-19 cases across India has risen to 3,113 and the death toll is nearing 100-mark, according to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) ICMR further said that it tested 11,182 samples, of these, 324 were found positive for COVID-19 Meanwhile, in a bid to see whether the coronavirus is getting transmitted in the hotspot areas, ICMR has set a fresh protocol for healthcare workers to start with rapid antibody-based blood test for COVID-19. The top medical research body has framed a newer strategy for areas reporting in clusters (containment zone), in large migration gatherings and evacuee`s centres, where large number of COVID-19 cases are arising.ICMR stated that cases of Influenza-like Illness (ILI) are to be monitored in health facilities. Any surge in cases are to be monitored and brought to the notice of surveillance officer or chief medical officer for additional investigation. "We have identified several hotspot areas where large numbers of COVID-19 cases are cropping up and rapid anti-body test is most suitable to detect whether the disease is spreading in the area or not... Also, rapid antibody test give quick results. Once a person is positive for rapid anti-body test, he or she should be quarantined for 14 days and a RT-PCR test should be done as a confirmatory test," Dr R Ganga Khedkar of ICMR told. "We have issued fresh guidelines for healthcare workers which say that all healthcare workers who are doing the rapid antibody test should use gloves, mask and headcovers. Healthcare workers collecting throat or nasal swab should follow standard national infection control guidelines," he said. (With inputs from ANI)

COVID-19 cases in India rise to 3,113,  death toll nears 100-mark

A total of 3374 confirmed COVID-19 cases reported in India till now; an additional 472 new cases reported since yesterday. Total 79 deaths reported; 11 additional deaths have been reported since yesterday. 267 persons have recovered, said Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Health Ministry

Aggarwal was addressing the media on behalf of the Union Health Ministry on COVID-19 situation in the country.&nbsp;

India's doubling rate at present is 4.1 days but if additional cases reported due to the Tablighi Jamaat event, had not taken place, then the doubling rate would have been 7.4 days, Aggarwal said.

On Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), he said they are imported so there was a shortage initially in the country but govt started taking action in this regard from January.

''We've discussed this with all Health secretaries, chief secretaries and DMs as this is one of the major issues. We've explained to them that PPEs available with us have been already immediately dispatched to the states based on the case-load basis,'' Aggarwal said.&nbsp;

Domestic manufacturers have started the production, India has also started procuring PPEs from the countries where it is available, he added.

According to Aggarwal, 274 districts across the country have been affected due to coronavirus to date.

A total of 3374 confirmed COVID-19 cases reported in India till now; an additional 472 new cases reported since yesterday. Total 79 deaths reported; 11 additional deaths have been reported since yesterday.

A total of 3374 confirmed COVID-19 cases reported in India till now; an additional 472 new cases reported since yesterday. Total 79 deaths reported; 11 additional deaths have been reported since yesterday. 267 persons have recovered, said Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Health Ministry Aggarwal was addressing the media on behalf of the Union Health Ministry on COVID-19 situation in the country. India's doubling rate at present is 4.1 days but if additional cases reported due to the Tablighi Jamaat event, had not taken place, then the doubling rate would have been 7.4 days, Aggarwal said. On Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), he said they are imported so there was a shortage initially in the country but govt started taking action in this regard from January. ''We've discussed this with all Health secretaries, chief secretaries and DMs as this is one of the major issues. We've explained to them that PPEs available with us have been already immediately dispatched to the states based on the case-load basis,'' Aggarwal said. Domestic manufacturers have started the production, India has also started procuring PPEs from the countries where it is available, he added. According to Aggarwal, 274 districts across the country have been affected due to coronavirus to date.

India's COVID-19 doubling rate now 4.1 days from 7.4 earlier: Health Ministry  

Several foreign missions will be taking part in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's solidarity call of switching off lights of the missions and residence of diplomats and lighting up diyas, candles and touches tonight.&nbsp;

Indian PM Modi has called for switching off lights for nine minutes at nine pm today as a mark of solidarity as the world fights the challenge of COVID-19.

In the of the South Asian region--Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Maldives missions have confirmed that they will be part of the nationwide solidarity call against COVID-19.

Nepal's envoy Nilamber Acharya told WION, "We, Nepal and India, are all in full solidarity in this fight against COVID-19 pandemic".

"We will participate in the nationwide collective resolve to defeat coronavirus", echoed the sentiment Bangladesh Envoy Mohammad Imran

Afghan envoy Tahir Qadiry, who has been very busy leading the evacuation of Afghan nations also enthusiastically supported the call. He said, "I will be switching off lights and lighting a candle at 9 pm tonight for 9 minutes to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to showcase our solidarity and our concerted efforts in a battle against the Corona Virus pandemic."

Adding, "Let’s all pledge to diligently maintain social distancing and take right precautions."

Outside the south Asian region, missions and diplomats from Vietnam, Japan, Australia, Israel, German, Tunisia, Mexico have confirmed participation.&nbsp;

German envoy Walter J. Lindner in response to WION question on the mission's participation said, "Will do! Underlining our common effort to get through this together!!&nbsp;

British acting high commissioner Jan Thompson also confirmed to WION that she will take part in PM's solidarity call.

Meanwhile, Polish envoy Adam Burakowski told wion,"Poland stands united with India and with all the World to fight the coronavirus. I am sure that if we all take preventive measures, the threat will be much lower and that we would recover soon. Long live Polish-Indian friendship!"

The Polish community in Delhi will also participate in the event.

Vietnam's Ambassador to India, Pham Sanh Chau said, "All our 30 diplomatic residences and offices will join in Prime Minister Modi’s call to show solidarity in the fight against Coronavirus by lightning up candles at 9:00 pm tonight."

In a tweet, Israeli deputy chief of mission Maya Kadosh said," I gathered all my candle holders and places them out of my windows #9pm9minutes"

Earlier in March, when Indian Prime Minister called for Janta curfew and everyone coming out at 5 pm and ringing bells, missions and foreign diplomats had participated in that too.&nbsp; 
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Several foreign missions will be taking part in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's solidarity call of switching off lights of the missions and residence of diplomats and lighting up diyas, candles and touches tonight.

Several foreign missions will be taking part in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's solidarity call of switching off lights of the missions and residence of diplomats and lighting up diyas, candles and touches tonight. Indian PM Modi has called for switching off lights for nine minutes at nine pm today as a mark of solidarity as the world fights the challenge of COVID-19. In the of the South Asian region--Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Maldives missions have confirmed that they will be part of the nationwide solidarity call against COVID-19. Nepal's envoy Nilamber Acharya told WION, "We, Nepal and India, are all in full solidarity in this fight against COVID-19 pandemic". "We will participate in the nationwide collective resolve to defeat coronavirus", echoed the sentiment Bangladesh Envoy Mohammad Imran Afghan envoy Tahir Qadiry, who has been very busy leading the evacuation of Afghan nations also enthusiastically supported the call. He said, "I will be switching off lights and lighting a candle at 9 pm tonight for 9 minutes to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to showcase our solidarity and our concerted efforts in a battle against the Corona Virus pandemic." Adding, "Let’s all pledge to diligently maintain social distancing and take right precautions." Outside the south Asian region, missions and diplomats from Vietnam, Japan, Australia, Israel, German, Tunisia, Mexico have confirmed participation. German envoy Walter J. Lindner in response to WION question on the mission's participation said, "Will do! Underlining our common effort to get through this together!! British acting high commissioner Jan Thompson also confirmed to WION that she will take part in PM's solidarity call. Meanwhile, Polish envoy Adam Burakowski told wion,"Poland stands united with India and with all the World to fight the coronavirus. I am sure that if we all take preventive measures, the threat will be much lower and that we would recover soon. Long live Polish-Indian friendship!" The Polish community in Delhi will also participate in the event. Vietnam's Ambassador to India, Pham Sanh Chau said, "All our 30 diplomatic residences and offices will join in Prime Minister Modi’s call to show solidarity in the fight against Coronavirus by lightning up candles at 9:00 pm tonight." In a tweet, Israeli deputy chief of mission Maya Kadosh said," I gathered all my candle holders and places them out of my windows #9pm9minutes" Earlier in March, when Indian Prime Minister called for Janta curfew and everyone coming out at 5 pm and ringing bells, missions and foreign diplomats had participated in that too. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

COVID-19: Foreign missions to participate in PM Modi's solidarity call; to turn off lights, light up candles 

Amid reports that Japan capital could witness second wave of coronavirus cases, Tokyo governor on Sunday said that the city has reported 143 new cases, the highest daily jump bringing the number of cases in the Japanese capital to more than 1,000.

Amid reports that Japan capital could witness second wave of coronavirus cases, Tokyo governor on Sunday said that the city has reported 143 new cases, the highest daily jump bringing the number of cases in the Japanese capital to more than 1,000. Tokyo's metropolitan government has asked the people to stay at home as the city of nearly 14 million has seen a surge in the number of cases in recent days, reported news agency Reuters. The number of cases with untraceable transmission routes had increased in recent days, Governor Yuriko Koike said in a livecast YouTube video, adding it was worrying that several people were infected at hospitals. The majority of confirmed COVID-19 cases over the weekend in Tokyo were of people under the age of 50, a member of Japan's health ministry taskforce for the virus said in the same livecast, adding that many of them were in their 20s and 30s. Tokyo's metropolitan government has repeatedly called on residents in the densely populated city to avoid all unnecessary outings. Koike said in an earlier TV appearance that "lives were at stake". Global cases of the new coronavirus have shot past 1 million with more than 64,000 deaths. Japan, with some 3,000 cases and 73 deaths as of Friday, has so far been spared the kind of explosive surge seen in Europe, the United States and elsewhere. (With inputs from Reuters)

Tokyo reports 143 new COVID-19 cases, highest jump in one day

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