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;

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<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

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

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

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Friday said that India has reported 336 new cases of COVID-19 taking the national tally to 2547 with 62&nbsp;deaths.

Addressing the daily press meet on deadly COVID-19, Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry said that from yesterday till today 336 additional cases of COVID-19 have come before us.&nbsp; 
 
The union health ministry has placed the total number of cases at 2547 and the death toll at 62. The ministry said that 163 people have so far recovered from the infection.&nbsp;

"If we look at cases related to Tableeghi Jamaat, in last 2 days around 647 confirmed cases related to it found in 14 states-Andaman &amp; Nicobar, Assam, Delhi, Himachal, Haryana, J&amp;K, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttarakhand &amp; UP," he added.

"Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has appealed to patients &amp; their families not to create any obstacle in the path of doctors while they discharge their duties. He also expressed concerns over misbehaviour with doctors &amp; medical staff," he said.

Replying to a question on violence against health workers Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry said that Ministry of Home Affairs has written to state governments to take strict action in cases of attack on healthcare &amp; frontline workers &amp; ensure the security to the medical fraternity.

There were seven helpline numbers in the control room of the Union Home Ministry. Now, we have introduced two more helpline numbers - 1930 (all India tollfree number) &amp; 1944 (dedicated to Northeast)" Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry

Meanwhile, the number of COVID19 cases reaches 411 including seven discharged people in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

"1,580 COVID-19 infected &amp; possibly infected people are admitted to different hospitals in the state," said Tamil Nadu Health Minister C VIjayabaskar.

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Friday said that India has reported 336 new cases of COVID-19 taking the national tally to 2547 with 62 deaths. Addressing the daily press meet on deadly COVID-19, Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry said that from yesterday till today 336 additional cases of COVID-19 have come before us.

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Friday said that India has reported 336 new cases of COVID-19 taking the national tally to 2547 with 62 deaths. Addressing the daily press meet on deadly COVID-19, Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry said that from yesterday till today 336 additional cases of COVID-19 have come before us. The union health ministry has placed the total number of cases at 2547 and the death toll at 62. The ministry said that 163 people have so far recovered from the infection. "If we look at cases related to Tableeghi Jamaat, in last 2 days around 647 confirmed cases related to it found in 14 states-Andaman & Nicobar, Assam, Delhi, Himachal, Haryana, J&K, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttarakhand & UP," he added. "Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has appealed to patients & their families not to create any obstacle in the path of doctors while they discharge their duties. He also expressed concerns over misbehaviour with doctors & medical staff," he said. Replying to a question on violence against health workers Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry said that Ministry of Home Affairs has written to state governments to take strict action in cases of attack on healthcare & frontline workers & ensure the security to the medical fraternity. There were seven helpline numbers in the control room of the Union Home Ministry. Now, we have introduced two more helpline numbers - 1930 (all India tollfree number) & 1944 (dedicated to Northeast)" Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry Meanwhile, the number of COVID19 cases reaches 411 including seven discharged people in Tamil Nadu. "1,580 COVID-19 infected & possibly infected people are admitted to different hospitals in the state," said Tamil Nadu Health Minister C VIjayabaskar.

647 confirmed cases linked to Tablighi Jamaat in 14 states, says Health Ministry

The RBI has reduced the trading hours of debt as well as currency markets from Tuesday because of the lockdown following the outbreak of coronavirus.

The revised market timings will be effective during April 7-17, 2020, the central bank said in a circular on Friday.

The market will open at 10 am instead of the current 9 am and closing timings too have been revised to 2 pm for all segments.

The lockdown has adversely impacted the functioning of financial markets, the RBI said.

The market timings have been revised to "minimise these risks" and to ensure that market participants maintain adequate checks and supervisory controls while optimising thin resources and ensuring the safety of personnel, it said.

As per the circular, the timing of the Government Securities (Central Government Securities, State Development Loans and Treasury Bills) market has been revised to 10 am to 2 pm from the existing 9 am to 5 pm.

Foreign Currency (FCY)/Indian Rupee (INR) Trades including Forex Derivatives market as well as Rupee Interest Rate Derivatives market too have been changed to 10 am to 2 pm from the existing 9 am to 5 pm.

The RBI said the unprecedented situation created by the COVID-19 outbreak has necessitated lockdowns, social distancing, restrictions on the movement of people and non-essential activities, work from home arrangements and business continuity plans.

The resultant dislocations have adversely impacted the functioning of financial markets. Staff and IT resources have been severely affected, posing operational and logistics risks.

"The thinning out of activity is impacting market liquidity and increasing volatility of financial prices," the circular said.

However, all regular banking services for customers, including RTGS, NEFT, e-kuber and other retail payments systems will continue to be available as per extant timings, the RBI added.

The RBI has reduced the trading hours of debt as well as currency markets from Tuesday because of the lockdown following the outbreak of coronavirus. The revised market timings will be effective during April 7-17, 2020, the central bank said in a circular on Friday.

The RBI has reduced the trading hours of debt as well as currency markets from Tuesday because of the lockdown following the outbreak of coronavirus. The revised market timings will be effective during April 7-17, 2020, the central bank said in a circular on Friday. The market will open at 10 am instead of the current 9 am and closing timings too have been revised to 2 pm for all segments. The lockdown has adversely impacted the functioning of financial markets, the RBI said. The market timings have been revised to "minimise these risks" and to ensure that market participants maintain adequate checks and supervisory controls while optimising thin resources and ensuring the safety of personnel, it said. As per the circular, the timing of the Government Securities (Central Government Securities, State Development Loans and Treasury Bills) market has been revised to 10 am to 2 pm from the existing 9 am to 5 pm. Foreign Currency (FCY)/Indian Rupee (INR) Trades including Forex Derivatives market as well as Rupee Interest Rate Derivatives market too have been changed to 10 am to 2 pm from the existing 9 am to 5 pm. The RBI said the unprecedented situation created by the COVID-19 outbreak has necessitated lockdowns, social distancing, restrictions on the movement of people and non-essential activities, work from home arrangements and business continuity plans. The resultant dislocations have adversely impacted the functioning of financial markets. Staff and IT resources have been severely affected, posing operational and logistics risks. "The thinning out of activity is impacting market liquidity and increasing volatility of financial prices," the circular said. However, all regular banking services for customers, including RTGS, NEFT, e-kuber and other retail payments systems will continue to be available as per extant timings, the RBI added.

RBI reduces trading hours for debt, currency markets from April 7

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Friday urged governors and Lt governors to motivate spiritual and religious leaders to advise their followers against holding congregations and practice social distancing to prevent the transmission of coronavirus.

Addressing governors, LGs and administrators along with President Ram Nath Kovind via video, Naidu also asked them to focus on the arrangements made to ensure harvesting, storage and procurement of agriculture produce in their respective states and Union territories.

He urged them to contact spiritual and religious leaders in their respective regions and advise them to guide their followers to strictly adhere to the guidelines on social distancing and to observe personal hygiene, a statement from the Vice President Secretariat said.

Referring to a “recent avoidable action” which caused widespread adverse impact across the country, Naidu cautioned the governors and Lt governors to treat it as a “wake-up call”.

“No religious congregations should be allowed to take place in your respective states,” he said in an apparent reference to the Tablighi Jamat congregation in Delhi’s Nizamuddin.

On harvesting season, Naidu urged them to advise the state agencies to ensure smooth movement of farm machinery so that the farmers do not face any hardship.

He also asked them to ensure 100 per cent procurement of the produce. “That is the need of the hour,” the vice president said.

Expressing concern over the incidents of assault on doctors in some states, Naidu described them as unfortunate and condemnable.

He asked the governors to sensitise people on the crucial role being undertaken by doctors, nurses and other frontline warriors such as sanitary staff and police personnel in the battle against COVID-19.

The vice president said such incidents would have a demoralising effect on doctors and others, according to the statement. This is the second time the president and the vice president have interacted with governors, LGs and administrators on coronavirus.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Friday urged governors and Lt governors to motivate spiritual and religious leaders to advise their followers against holding congregations and practice social distancing to prevent the transmission of coronavirus.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Friday urged governors and Lt governors to motivate spiritual and religious leaders to advise their followers against holding congregations and practice social distancing to prevent the transmission of coronavirus. Addressing governors, LGs and administrators along with President Ram Nath Kovind via video, Naidu also asked them to focus on the arrangements made to ensure harvesting, storage and procurement of agriculture produce in their respective states and Union territories. He urged them to contact spiritual and religious leaders in their respective regions and advise them to guide their followers to strictly adhere to the guidelines on social distancing and to observe personal hygiene, a statement from the Vice President Secretariat said. Referring to a “recent avoidable action” which caused widespread adverse impact across the country, Naidu cautioned the governors and Lt governors to treat it as a “wake-up call”. “No religious congregations should be allowed to take place in your respective states,” he said in an apparent reference to the Tablighi Jamat congregation in Delhi’s Nizamuddin. On harvesting season, Naidu urged them to advise the state agencies to ensure smooth movement of farm machinery so that the farmers do not face any hardship. He also asked them to ensure 100 per cent procurement of the produce. “That is the need of the hour,” the vice president said. Expressing concern over the incidents of assault on doctors in some states, Naidu described them as unfortunate and condemnable. He asked the governors to sensitise people on the crucial role being undertaken by doctors, nurses and other frontline warriors such as sanitary staff and police personnel in the battle against COVID-19. The vice president said such incidents would have a demoralising effect on doctors and others, according to the statement. This is the second time the president and the vice president have interacted with governors, LGs and administrators on coronavirus.

Motivate religious leaders to ask their followers not to hold congregations: Venkaiah Naidu tells Governors

Police in Pakistan will enforce a strict lockdown to prevent people from going to mosques to offer Friday prayers and fuel a rise in coronavirus infection, officials said, after failing to prevent large congregations last week.

Health experts have warned of an epidemic in South Asia, home to a fifth of the world's population, that could easily overwhelm its weak public health systems.

But authorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh, another Muslim majority nation, and even India have struggled to persuade conservative religious groups to maintain social distancing in order to curb the spread of the virus.

The government in Pakistan's southern province of Sindh, home to the country's largest city, Karachi, will enforce a "curfew-like" lockdown for three hours beginning 12 noon Friday to deter people from coming out of their homes for prayers, officials said.

“In the greater interest of saving lives, a decision to ban the prayer congregations at mosques has been taken following a meeting of clerics from all schools of thought. Islamic Sharia allows it,” said Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Sindh's minister for local bodies and information.

Pakistan has reported 2,386 people infected with coronavirus, the highest in South Asia, fuelled by a jump in cases related to members of Tablighi Jamaat, a Sunni Muslim group, which had planned a congregation in the city of Lahore last month.

The meeting was postponed but by then hundreds of people had already arrived at the premises and they stayed on.

In Bangladesh, some people were expected to go to mosques even though the government appealed to them to stay at home to reduce the risk of infections.

Bangladesh's top religious body, the Islamic Foundation, said elderly people and those with fever or cough, symptoms similar to those of COVID-19, should offer prayers at home.

Bangladesh, home to 160 million people is one of the world's most densely populated countries. So far it has had 56 cases, including six deaths.

PM MODI'S APPEAL

In India which is under a strict three-week lockdown, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought to rally people, many of whom have lost their jobs because of the shutdown.

"We are not alone. All 1.3 billion of us are in it together," he said in a video message.

The shutdown, which ends on April 14 has helped stem a big outbreak for now, but it has brought India's economy to a shuddering halt and left millions without work.

Many are struggling for food and water and fleeing cities for their villages in the hinterland, triggering criticism that the government rushed through the shutdown and has hurt the poorest the most.

"I request all of us 1.3 billion Indians to switch off lights in our homes for nine minutes on Sunday, April 5 and to light a lamp or candle or use your mobile flashlights to mark this fight against the coronavirus," Modi said.

India has had 2,069 confirmed infections, of whom 53 have died, low figures by comparison with the United States, China, Italy and Spain.

A fifth of the people who are infected with the coronavirus are either members of the Tablighi Jamaat, which held a gathering in a densely packed Delhi neighbourhood last month or those who came in contact with them later.

Modi said social distancing must be maintained throughout if India were to stop an epidemic which could overwhelm its public health system.

The World Bank on Thursday said it had approved an initial $1.9 billion in emergency funds for coronavirus response operations in 25 developing countries, with more than half the aid earmarked to help fight the fast-spreading disease in India.

"The poorest and most vulnerable countries will likely be hit the hardest," World Bank Group President David Malpas said in a statement.

Following is data on the spread of the coronavirus in South Asia, according to government figures:

* Pakistan has registered 2,386 cases, including 34 deaths.

* India has registered 2,069 cases, including 53 deaths.

* Sri Lanka has registered 151 cases, including three deaths.

* Afghanistan has registered 273 cases, including six deaths.

* Bangladesh has registered 56 cases, including six deaths.

* the Maldives has registered 31 cases and no deaths.

* Nepal has registered six cases and no deaths.

* Bhutan has registered five cases and no deaths

Police in Pakistan will enforce a strict lockdown to prevent people from going to mosques to offer Friday prayers and fuel a rise in coronavirus infection, officials said, after failing to prevent large congregations last week.

Police in Pakistan will enforce a strict lockdown to prevent people from going to mosques to offer Friday prayers and fuel a rise in coronavirus infection, officials said, after failing to prevent large congregations last week. Health experts have warned of an epidemic in South Asia, home to a fifth of the world's population, that could easily overwhelm its weak public health systems. But authorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh, another Muslim majority nation, and even India have struggled to persuade conservative religious groups to maintain social distancing in order to curb the spread of the virus. The government in Pakistan's southern province of Sindh, home to the country's largest city, Karachi, will enforce a "curfew-like" lockdown for three hours beginning 12 noon Friday to deter people from coming out of their homes for prayers, officials said. “In the greater interest of saving lives, a decision to ban the prayer congregations at mosques has been taken following a meeting of clerics from all schools of thought. Islamic Sharia allows it,” said Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Sindh's minister for local bodies and information. Pakistan has reported 2,386 people infected with coronavirus, the highest in South Asia, fuelled by a jump in cases related to members of Tablighi Jamaat, a Sunni Muslim group, which had planned a congregation in the city of Lahore last month. The meeting was postponed but by then hundreds of people had already arrived at the premises and they stayed on. In Bangladesh, some people were expected to go to mosques even though the government appealed to them to stay at home to reduce the risk of infections. Bangladesh's top religious body, the Islamic Foundation, said elderly people and those with fever or cough, symptoms similar to those of COVID-19, should offer prayers at home. Bangladesh, home to 160 million people is one of the world's most densely populated countries. So far it has had 56 cases, including six deaths. PM MODI'S APPEAL In India which is under a strict three-week lockdown, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought to rally people, many of whom have lost their jobs because of the shutdown. "We are not alone. All 1.3 billion of us are in it together," he said in a video message. The shutdown, which ends on April 14 has helped stem a big outbreak for now, but it has brought India's economy to a shuddering halt and left millions without work. Many are struggling for food and water and fleeing cities for their villages in the hinterland, triggering criticism that the government rushed through the shutdown and has hurt the poorest the most. "I request all of us 1.3 billion Indians to switch off lights in our homes for nine minutes on Sunday, April 5 and to light a lamp or candle or use your mobile flashlights to mark this fight against the coronavirus," Modi said. India has had 2,069 confirmed infections, of whom 53 have died, low figures by comparison with the United States, China, Italy and Spain. A fifth of the people who are infected with the coronavirus are either members of the Tablighi Jamaat, which held a gathering in a densely packed Delhi neighbourhood last month or those who came in contact with them later. Modi said social distancing must be maintained throughout if India were to stop an epidemic which could overwhelm its public health system. The World Bank on Thursday said it had approved an initial $1.9 billion in emergency funds for coronavirus response operations in 25 developing countries, with more than half the aid earmarked to help fight the fast-spreading disease in India. "The poorest and most vulnerable countries will likely be hit the hardest," World Bank Group President David Malpas said in a statement. Following is data on the spread of the coronavirus in South Asia, according to government figures: * Pakistan has registered 2,386 cases, including 34 deaths. * India has registered 2,069 cases, including 53 deaths. * Sri Lanka has registered 151 cases, including three deaths. * Afghanistan has registered 273 cases, including six deaths. * Bangladesh has registered 56 cases, including six deaths. * the Maldives has registered 31 cases and no deaths. * Nepal has registered six cases and no deaths. * Bhutan has registered five cases and no deaths

Pakistan, Bangladesh try to stop Friday prayers to avert coronavirus spike

The number of COVID-19 infection cases worldwide has crossed 1 million mark around the world on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America, Africa and Asia. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-has-enough-ventilators-for-only-six-more-days-290333">Also read: New York has enough ventilators for only six more days</a> 
 
According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,018,948 people worldwide and 53,211 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 217,433 people of that tally have recovered.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/confirmed-coronavirus-cases-in-india-rise-to-2069-death-toll-at-53-290248">Also read:&nbsp;Confirmed coronavirus cases in India rise to 2,069, death toll at 53</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 total of 245,573 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US. 
 
The total death count due to the virus now stands at 6,058 with 30,000 new cases, according to Johns Hopkins coronavirus resource centre. 
 
New York has been hit the hardest in the United States with more than 1,500 deaths and nearing 50,000 positive cases. 
 
As the death toll mounted in the United States, President Trump said health authorities were conducting "100,000 coronavirus tests per day", while adding that it was "more than any other country in the world, both in terms of the raw number and on a per capita basis."

(With inputs from agencies)

The number of COVID-19 infection cases worldwide has crossed 1 million mark around the world on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America, Africa and Asia.

The number of COVID-19 infection cases worldwide has crossed 1 million mark around the world on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America, Africa and Asia. Also read: New York has enough ventilators for only six more days According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,018,948 people worldwide and 53,211 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 217,433 people of that tally have recovered. Also read: Confirmed coronavirus cases in India rise to 2,069, death toll at 53 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 total of 245,573 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US. The total death count due to the virus now stands at 6,058 with 30,000 new cases, according to Johns Hopkins coronavirus resource centre. New York has been hit the hardest in the United States with more than 1,500 deaths and nearing 50,000 positive cases. As the death toll mounted in the United States, President Trump said health authorities were conducting "100,000 coronavirus tests per day", while adding that it was "more than any other country in the world, both in terms of the raw number and on a per capita basis." (With inputs from agencies)

53,000 dead, over 1 million infected with deadly coronavirus globally

The economic crisis spawned by the coronavirus pandemic has produced a wave of grim US data, with likely more to come as millions lose jobs, businesses shutter and spending stops. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-records-highest-one-day-covid-19-death-toll-with-1169-fatalities-290246">Also read: United States records highest one-day COVID-19 death toll with 1,169 fatalities</a> 
 
But at some point, the bottom will be reached.

Given how fast the situation has developed, judging when that happens in real-time will prove challenging for economists who usually depend on monthly, quarterly or yearly trends in data to judge the state of the business cycle.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-bank-allocates-funds-to-fight-coronavirus-290316/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The coronavirus outbreak is not a business cycle event but perhaps a once-in-a-century health crisis where normal choices about where to go and what to spend are influenced by a combination of fear and government edict.

To gauge what is happening using more frequently available information, economists are innovating.

Goldman Sachs economist David Mericle said this week that unemployment claims were still a great guide.

"Jobless claims will be the timeliest hard data point for assessing the depth of the recession and catching the start of the recovery," Mericle wrote, noting that when initial claims start to fall, GDP will likely have stopped shrinking. When ongoing claims, by contrast, have fallen by perhaps a third, it will be evidence the economy is growing again.

This week, initial claims jumped a record 6 million.

Goldman analysts have also combined granular data on things like movie ticket sales and hotel occupancy rates into a bespoke coronavirus tracker. It has been falling fast.

Researchers at the New York Fed, working with Harvard economics professor James Stock, recently released a Weekly Economic Index that provides another view. It combines seven indicators, including unemployment claims but also raw steel production and weekly retail sales information, into an indicator they found closely tracks growth in gross domestic product.

With Thursday's record filings for unemployment insurance, the index is currently pointing to a 6% annual drop in GDP.&nbsp;

The Atlanta Fed's GDPNow "nowcast" of gross domestic growth can be volatile even in normal times. But it is a way to show how government data releases are progressively influencing the estimated growth path of the economy.

For 2020, the "nowcast" had fallen to 1.2% as of Thursday from 3% in mid-February.

The economic crisis spawned by the coronavirus pandemic has produced a wave of grim US data, with likely more to come as millions lose jobs, businesses shutter and spending stops.

The economic crisis spawned by the coronavirus pandemic has produced a wave of grim US data, with likely more to come as millions lose jobs, businesses shutter and spending stops. Also read: United States records highest one-day COVID-19 death toll with 1,169 fatalities But at some point, the bottom will be reached. Given how fast the situation has developed, judging when that happens in real-time will prove challenging for economists who usually depend on monthly, quarterly or yearly trends in data to judge the state of the business cycle. The coronavirus outbreak is not a business cycle event but perhaps a once-in-a-century health crisis where normal choices about where to go and what to spend are influenced by a combination of fear and government edict. To gauge what is happening using more frequently available information, economists are innovating. Goldman Sachs economist David Mericle said this week that unemployment claims were still a great guide. "Jobless claims will be the timeliest hard data point for assessing the depth of the recession and catching the start of the recovery," Mericle wrote, noting that when initial claims start to fall, GDP will likely have stopped shrinking. When ongoing claims, by contrast, have fallen by perhaps a third, it will be evidence the economy is growing again. This week, initial claims jumped a record 6 million. Goldman analysts have also combined granular data on things like movie ticket sales and hotel occupancy rates into a bespoke coronavirus tracker. It has been falling fast. Researchers at the New York Fed, working with Harvard economics professor James Stock, recently released a Weekly Economic Index that provides another view. It combines seven indicators, including unemployment claims but also raw steel production and weekly retail sales information, into an indicator they found closely tracks growth in gross domestic product. With Thursday's record filings for unemployment insurance, the index is currently pointing to a 6% annual drop in GDP. The Atlanta Fed's GDPNow "nowcast" of gross domestic growth can be volatile even in normal times. But it is a way to show how government data releases are progressively influencing the estimated growth path of the economy. For 2020, the "nowcast" had fallen to 1.2% as of Thursday from 3% in mid-February.

When will US economy bottom? Economists hunt for the right view

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus approached one million around the world on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-deaths-top-10000-infections-cross-110000-mark-290118">Also read: Spain deaths top 10,000, infections cross 110,000 mark</a>

According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 981,221 people worldwide and 50,230 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 204,605 people of that tally have recovered.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-death-toll-surpasses-1000-in-belgium-290085">Also read: Coronavirus death toll surpasses 1,000 in Belgium</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 total of 226,374 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/already-in-icu-europe-awaits-major-crisis-once-coronavirus-ends-289020">Also read: Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends</a>

Belgium has also reported a sharp rise in the number of coronavirus fatalities on Thursday as health officials confirmed the death toll surpassing 1,000. So far, 1001 people died and 15,348 infected in the country of 11.4 million, as told by officials in a press conference.&nbsp;

Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 10,003 lives although the rate of new infections and deaths continued its downward trend, the health ministry figures showed.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus approached one million around the world on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus approached one million around the world on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: Spain deaths top 10,000, infections cross 110,000 mark According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 981,221 people worldwide and 50,230 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 204,605 people of that tally have recovered. Also read: Coronavirus death toll surpasses 1,000 in Belgium 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 total of 226,374 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US. Also read: Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends Belgium has also reported a sharp rise in the number of coronavirus fatalities on Thursday as health officials confirmed the death toll surpassing 1,000. So far, 1001 people died and 15,348 infected in the country of 11.4 million, as told by officials in a press conference. Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 10,003 lives although the rate of new infections and deaths continued its downward trend, the health ministry figures showed.

Global coronavirus cases near a million; death toll rises to 50,230

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Thursday reaffirmed that the government has taken several steps to ensure the availability of personal protection equipment (PPE) that is necessary to fight the coronavirus crisis in the country.&nbsp;

<img alt="COVID-19" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f5f1a212-7c9d-435d-8cc8-469c7bb45d3c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/covid-19.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-quarantines-275-foreign-nationals-who-attended-tablighi-jamaat-congregation-289983">Also Read: Delhi Police quarantines 275 foreign nationals who attended Tablighi Jamaat meet</a>

Joint Secretary Lav Agrawal addressed a press conference to brief about the current situation of fight against coronavirus in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/already-in-icu-europe-awaits-major-crisis-once-coronavirus-ends-289020">Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends</a>

Talking about the coronavirus case of Mumbai's Dharavi slum he said in the particular colony, the building has been sealed and sample collection of all residents of the building is underway. As per protocol, contact tracing is underway.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-812-new-fatalities-in-spain-belgium-death-toll-over-500-289460">Coronavirus: 812 new fatalities in Spain; Belgium death toll over 500</a>

Meanwhile, nine more cases of COVID-19 were reported in Rajasthan with seven in Ramganj, and one each from Jodhpur and Jhunjhunu. There are now 129 coronavirus positive cases in the state.

In Madhya Pradesh, twelve new COVID-19 cases were reported in Indore, taking the total number of cases to 75 in the city. The confirmed total number of cases in the state has risen to 98.

COVID-19 has now infected &nbsp;941,949 people worldwide and &nbsp;47,522 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Around 202,342 people of that tally have recovered.

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Thursday reaffirmed that the government has taken several steps to ensure the availability of personal protection equipment (PPE) that is necessary to fight the coronavirus crisis in the country.

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Thursday reaffirmed that the government has taken several steps to ensure the availability of personal protection equipment (PPE) that is necessary to fight the coronavirus crisis in the country. Also Read: Delhi Police quarantines 275 foreign nationals who attended Tablighi Jamaat meet Joint Secretary Lav Agrawal addressed a press conference to brief about the current situation of fight against coronavirus in the country. Also read: Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends Talking about the coronavirus case of Mumbai's Dharavi slum he said in the particular colony, the building has been sealed and sample collection of all residents of the building is underway. As per protocol, contact tracing is underway. Also read: Coronavirus: 812 new fatalities in Spain; Belgium death toll over 500 Meanwhile, nine more cases of COVID-19 were reported in Rajasthan with seven in Ramganj, and one each from Jodhpur and Jhunjhunu. There are now 129 coronavirus positive cases in the state. In Madhya Pradesh, twelve new COVID-19 cases were reported in Indore, taking the total number of cases to 75 in the city. The confirmed total number of cases in the state has risen to 98. COVID-19 has now infected 941,949 people worldwide and 47,522 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 202,342 people of that tally have recovered.

Coronavirus in India: Total number of cases climb to 2,069; 53 deaths, says Health Ministry

The government on Thursday launched a mobile app to help people assess themselves the risk of catching coronavirus infection and alert authorities if they have come in close contact with a person infected with the deadly virus.

According to a ministry official, the app will detect only fresh cases and will send out alerts to only those who have been nearby the infected person.

"The App, called 'AarogyaSetu' joins Digital India for the health and well-being of every Indian. It will enable people to assess themselves the risk of catching the coronavirus infection. It will calculate this based on their interaction with others, using cutting edge Bluetooth technology, algorithms and artificial intelligence," an official statement said.

If a person is clinically tested positive with coronavirus infection, the mobile number of the infected person is included in the register maintained by the health ministry and will be updated on the app as well, an IT ministry official explained.

"Once installed in a smartphone through an easy and user-friendly process, the app detects other devices with AarogyaSetu installed that come in the proximity of that phone. The app can then calculate the risk of infection based on sophisticated parameters if any of these contacts are tested positive," the statement said.

The government has announced a 21 lockdown starting March 24 and appealed to everyone to maintain social distancing to avoid the risk of getting infected with the deadly virus which has killed over 40,000 people globally and 50 in India.

As on date, 2,116 people in the country have been diagnosed with the coronavirus infection out of which there are 150 have been cured or discharged and 1,764 cases remain active.

"The App will help the government take necessary timely steps for assessing the risk of spread of COVID-19 infection, and ensuring isolation where required," the statement said.

The government said that privacy is a priority for the app users and the personal data collected by the app is encrypted and will stay secure on the phone until it is needed for facilitating medical intervention.

"Available in 11 languages, the App is ready for pan-India use from day-1 and has a highly scalable architecture," the statement said.

The mobile app has been developed in a public-private partnership to bring the people of India together in a resolute fight against COVID-19, the IT ministry said.

The government on Thursday launched a mobile app to help people assess themselves the risk of catching coronavirus infection and alert authorities if they have come in close contact with a person infected with the deadly virus.

The government on Thursday launched a mobile app to help people assess themselves the risk of catching coronavirus infection and alert authorities if they have come in close contact with a person infected with the deadly virus. According to a ministry official, the app will detect only fresh cases and will send out alerts to only those who have been nearby the infected person. "The App, called 'AarogyaSetu' joins Digital India for the health and well-being of every Indian. It will enable people to assess themselves the risk of catching the coronavirus infection. It will calculate this based on their interaction with others, using cutting edge Bluetooth technology, algorithms and artificial intelligence," an official statement said. If a person is clinically tested positive with coronavirus infection, the mobile number of the infected person is included in the register maintained by the health ministry and will be updated on the app as well, an IT ministry official explained. "Once installed in a smartphone through an easy and user-friendly process, the app detects other devices with AarogyaSetu installed that come in the proximity of that phone. The app can then calculate the risk of infection based on sophisticated parameters if any of these contacts are tested positive," the statement said. The government has announced a 21 lockdown starting March 24 and appealed to everyone to maintain social distancing to avoid the risk of getting infected with the deadly virus which has killed over 40,000 people globally and 50 in India. As on date, 2,116 people in the country have been diagnosed with the coronavirus infection out of which there are 150 have been cured or discharged and 1,764 cases remain active. "The App will help the government take necessary timely steps for assessing the risk of spread of COVID-19 infection, and ensuring isolation where required," the statement said. The government said that privacy is a priority for the app users and the personal data collected by the app is encrypted and will stay secure on the phone until it is needed for facilitating medical intervention. "Available in 11 languages, the App is ready for pan-India use from day-1 and has a highly scalable architecture," the statement said. The mobile app has been developed in a public-private partnership to bring the people of India together in a resolute fight against COVID-19, the IT ministry said.

India launches 'AarogyaSetu' app to assess, alert people about coronavirus patient

The coronavirus death toll in Spain surged past 10,000 on Thursday after a record 950 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 110,000 marks, the government said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-death-toll-surpasses-1000-in-belgium-290085">Also read: Coronavirus death toll surpasses 1,000 in Belgium</a> 
 
Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 10,003 lives although the rate of new infections and deaths continued its downward trend, the health ministry figures showed. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/already-in-icu-europe-awaits-major-crisis-once-coronavirus-ends-289020">Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends</a>

The number of new infections increased by 7.9 per cent, compared with 8.2 per cent on Wednesday and more than 25 per cent at the start of last week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-812-new-fatalities-in-spain-belgium-death-toll-over-500-289460">Coronavirus: 812 new fatalities in Spain; Belgium death toll over 500</a>

The daily rise in deaths also slowed to 10.5 per cent on Thursday, virtually unchanged from 10.6 per cent on Wednesday and down from 27 per cent a week ago.

"The data show the curve has stabilised" and the epidemic has entered a "slowdown" phase, Health Minister Salvador Illa said.

Officials have warned that even if the epidemic is peaking, the pressure on the intensive care system would be subject to a lag of a week or longer, with hospitals likely to reach crisis point by the end of this week or early next.

Madrid remains the worst-hit region, with 4,175 deaths and more than 32,000 cases, leaving hospitals and mortuaries overwhelmed.

The coronavirus death toll in Spain surged past 10,000 on Thursday after a record 950 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 110,000 marks, the government said.

The coronavirus death toll in Spain surged past 10,000 on Thursday after a record 950 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 110,000 marks, the government said. Also read: Coronavirus death toll surpasses 1,000 in Belgium Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 10,003 lives although the rate of new infections and deaths continued its downward trend, the health ministry figures showed. Also read | Already in ICU, Europe awaits major crisis once coronavirus ends The number of new infections increased by 7.9 per cent, compared with 8.2 per cent on Wednesday and more than 25 per cent at the start of last week. Also read | Coronavirus: 812 new fatalities in Spain; Belgium death toll over 500 The daily rise in deaths also slowed to 10.5 per cent on Thursday, virtually unchanged from 10.6 per cent on Wednesday and down from 27 per cent a week ago. "The data show the curve has stabilised" and the epidemic has entered a "slowdown" phase, Health Minister Salvador Illa said. Officials have warned that even if the epidemic is peaking, the pressure on the intensive care system would be subject to a lag of a week or longer, with hospitals likely to reach crisis point by the end of this week or early next. Madrid remains the worst-hit region, with 4,175 deaths and more than 32,000 cases, leaving hospitals and mortuaries overwhelmed.

Spain deaths top 10,000, infections cross 110,000 mark

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, seeking financial assistance of Rs 25,000 crore to fulfil the state government’s commitments of providing free ration to the people and continuing other welfare schemes amid a dip in the revenue at a time when all businesses are shut due to the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown.

In the letter, Banerjee stated that the West Bengal government needs assistance from the Centre to cope with the unprecedented “impasse to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic”. “Our state finances like that of many other states is in a dire situation with practically no revenue flows after the closure of all businesses.

Despite this, we have somehow been able to pay the salaries, wages and pensions of government employees this month though some major states of the country could not do that on full. And even with the massive debt trap left behind by the previous government, we were able to service the debt so far, but future remains uncertain,” Banerjee said in the letter to the prime minister.

“Furthermore, we are required to meet our commitments towards girl child, students, farmers, unorganised workers, weaker sections, minorities, SC, ST and OBCs. We are also having to honour our commitments of providing free ration to almost 9 crore people, who need this so crucially to survive in this perilous time,” she wrote.

Banerjee said the Centre should sanction Rs 25,000 crore to West Bengal and also release the other funds due to the state. “The Centre has already reduced their devolution to our state by over Rs 11,000 crore and were yet to pay Rs 36,000 crore owed by the GoI (Government of India) to our state, she said in the letter.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, seeking financial assistance of Rs 25,000 crore to fulfil the state government’s commitments of providing free ration to the people and continuing other welfare schemes amid a dip in the revenue at a time when all businesses are shut due to the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, seeking financial assistance of Rs 25,000 crore to fulfil the state government’s commitments of providing free ration to the people and continuing other welfare schemes amid a dip in the revenue at a time when all businesses are shut due to the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown. In the letter, Banerjee stated that the West Bengal government needs assistance from the Centre to cope with the unprecedented “impasse to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic”. “Our state finances like that of many other states is in a dire situation with practically no revenue flows after the closure of all businesses. Despite this, we have somehow been able to pay the salaries, wages and pensions of government employees this month though some major states of the country could not do that on full. And even with the massive debt trap left behind by the previous government, we were able to service the debt so far, but future remains uncertain,” Banerjee said in the letter to the prime minister. “Furthermore, we are required to meet our commitments towards girl child, students, farmers, unorganised workers, weaker sections, minorities, SC, ST and OBCs. We are also having to honour our commitments of providing free ration to almost 9 crore people, who need this so crucially to survive in this perilous time,” she wrote. Banerjee said the Centre should sanction Rs 25,000 crore to West Bengal and also release the other funds due to the state. “The Centre has already reduced their devolution to our state by over Rs 11,000 crore and were yet to pay Rs 36,000 crore owed by the GoI (Government of India) to our state, she said in the letter.

Mamata writes to Modi, seeks Rs 25,000 cr financial assistance

Lockdowns alone cannot defeat the Wuhan coronavirus. They may prove effective in slowing the virus from spreading. But they cannot stop the disease from making a comeback.&nbsp;

Some nations are already staring at a second wave. What the world needs right now is an infallible remedy. A guaranteed cure.&nbsp;

China claims to have developed one. Chinese scientists say they have found a 'novel way' to combat the novel coronavirus. 
&nbsp; 
And no — it's not a drug or a compound. This new weapon is a nano-material. According to the Chinese state media — nano-materials have proved useful in absorbing and deactivating the coronavirus. 
&nbsp; 
The efficiency they say ranges from 96.5 to 99.9%.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
But any news from China is notoriously difficult to verify. But given the dire straits we are in — for once, let's take the risk of believing what Beijing is telling us. 
&nbsp; 
Because when it comes to scientific development &amp; research — there is no doubt that China is among the front-runners. 
&nbsp; 
The country has a lab with 1500 strains of viruses. It's another thing that we don't know what they use this expertise for. But globally — there is some evidence of nano-materials proving useful in curing deadly diseases.

According to the US National Institute of Health, Nanomaterials are created out of nano-sized particles that exist in nature. They are extracted from carbon or minerals like silver. They are measured in nanometer and cannot be seen with the naked eye. 
&nbsp; 
This technological army is 100,000 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair. So what exactly can these nanomaterials do? 
&nbsp; 
Nanomaterials that are scientifically engineered are used to design pharmaceuticals. They help enhance the effectiveness of therapy. They can target specific dysfunctional organs or decaying body cells. 
&nbsp; 
In China — scientists say that nanomaterials are being used to bind the coronavirus and interrupt its structure through infrared light emissions. 
&nbsp; 
It sounds complicated but this is what it does — the virus is absorbed or deactivated by nanomaterials. 
&nbsp; 
With the effectiveness of almost 100 per cent. This should be great news. But like all things Chinese, it comes with a catch. China hasn't conducted human trials yet. 
&nbsp; 
And haven't even set a date for such trials. Also, the US National Institute of health has attached certain conditions. 
&nbsp; 
The body says 'even well-known nanomaterials may pose a hazard when engineered to nano-size. We know very little about the potential effects on human health and the environment.' 
&nbsp; 
So there are too many question marks. When will the human-trials begin? Will nanomaterials prove useful in defeating the virus in humans? 
&nbsp; 
And more importantly, will China share this cure with the world? 
&nbsp;Or will it try to sell it? The world has suffered enough with substandard and defective Chinese test-kits. 
&nbsp; 
Beijing needs to be certain about what it's telling — and selling the world.

Lockdowns alone cannot defeat the Wuhan coronavirus. They may prove effective in slowing the virus from spreading. But they cannot stop the disease from making a comeback.

Lockdowns alone cannot defeat the Wuhan coronavirus. They may prove effective in slowing the virus from spreading. But they cannot stop the disease from making a comeback. Some nations are already staring at a second wave. What the world needs right now is an infallible remedy. A guaranteed cure. China claims to have developed one. Chinese scientists say they have found a 'novel way' to combat the novel coronavirus. And no — it's not a drug or a compound. This new weapon is a nano-material. According to the Chinese state media — nano-materials have proved useful in absorbing and deactivating the coronavirus. The efficiency they say ranges from 96.5 to 99.9%. But any news from China is notoriously difficult to verify. But given the dire straits we are in — for once, let's take the risk of believing what Beijing is telling us. Because when it comes to scientific development & research — there is no doubt that China is among the front-runners. The country has a lab with 1500 strains of viruses. It's another thing that we don't know what they use this expertise for. But globally — there is some evidence of nano-materials proving useful in curing deadly diseases. According to the US National Institute of Health, Nanomaterials are created out of nano-sized particles that exist in nature. They are extracted from carbon or minerals like silver. They are measured in nanometer and cannot be seen with the naked eye. This technological army is 100,000 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair. So what exactly can these nanomaterials do? Nanomaterials that are scientifically engineered are used to design pharmaceuticals. They help enhance the effectiveness of therapy. They can target specific dysfunctional organs or decaying body cells. In China — scientists say that nanomaterials are being used to bind the coronavirus and interrupt its structure through infrared light emissions. It sounds complicated but this is what it does — the virus is absorbed or deactivated by nanomaterials. With the effectiveness of almost 100 per cent. This should be great news. But like all things Chinese, it comes with a catch. China hasn't conducted human trials yet. And haven't even set a date for such trials. Also, the US National Institute of health has attached certain conditions. The body says 'even well-known nanomaterials may pose a hazard when engineered to nano-size. We know very little about the potential effects on human health and the environment.' So there are too many question marks. When will the human-trials begin? Will nanomaterials prove useful in defeating the virus in humans? And more importantly, will China share this cure with the world? Or will it try to sell it? The world has suffered enough with substandard and defective Chinese test-kits. Beijing needs to be certain about what it's telling — and selling the world.

Coronavirus outbreak: Will China share novel way to combat Covid-19 with the world?

The coronavirus outbreak has remained one step ahead of world governments but a new study from the Netherlands could very well tilt the scales in our favour.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-death-toll-hits-9053-as-virus-cases-pass-100000-289896">Also read: Spain death toll hits 9,053 as virus cases pass 100,000</a>

On March 5, scientists found traces of the novel coronavirus at a wastewater facility in the city of Amersfoort.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-us-records-highest-single-day-death-toll-as-trump-says-painful-two-weeks-ahead-289801">Also Read:&nbsp;US records highest single-day death toll as Trump says painful two weeks ahead</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

This discovery was made before the first cases were reported in the city. So, virus traces in wastewater could serve as an early warning system for governments across the city.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-warns-of-global-instability-and-conflict-as-death-toll-rises-to-43291-289909">Also read: UN warns of global instability and conflict as death toll rises to 43,291</a> 
 
Sewage surveillance is by no means a new practice. Authorities have been using this technique to monitor the usage of illegal drugs among its citizens.&nbsp;

In some cases, sewage surveillance can also help discover the emergence of new viruses, like in Amersfoort.&nbsp;

This technique can also tell us more about the severity of the impending outbreak. The presence of more virus traces indicates that the infection has spread to a large portion of the population.&nbsp;

Scientists who were part of this study, feel that countries like China and South Korea would do well to start sewage surveillance.&nbsp;

These are countries bracing for a possible second wave of infections. In the Netherlands, sewage surveillance gave the government a couple of weeks to prepare for the outbreak.&nbsp;

For an infection that is growing exponentially, a couple of weeks could very well be the difference between life and death.

The coronavirus outbreak has remained one step ahead of world governments but a new study from the Netherlands could very well tilt the scales in our favour. Also read: Spain death toll hits 9,053 as virus cases pass 100,000 On March 5, scientists found traces of the novel coronavirus at a wastewater facility in the city of Amersfoort.

The coronavirus outbreak has remained one step ahead of world governments but a new study from the Netherlands could very well tilt the scales in our favour. Also read: Spain death toll hits 9,053 as virus cases pass 100,000 On March 5, scientists found traces of the novel coronavirus at a wastewater facility in the city of Amersfoort. Also Read: US records highest single-day death toll as Trump says painful two weeks ahead This discovery was made before the first cases were reported in the city. So, virus traces in wastewater could serve as an early warning system for governments across the city. Also read: UN warns of global instability and conflict as death toll rises to 43,291 Sewage surveillance is by no means a new practice. Authorities have been using this technique to monitor the usage of illegal drugs among its citizens. In some cases, sewage surveillance can also help discover the emergence of new viruses, like in Amersfoort. This technique can also tell us more about the severity of the impending outbreak. The presence of more virus traces indicates that the infection has spread to a large portion of the population. Scientists who were part of this study, feel that countries like China and South Korea would do well to start sewage surveillance. These are countries bracing for a possible second wave of infections. In the Netherlands, sewage surveillance gave the government a couple of weeks to prepare for the outbreak. For an infection that is growing exponentially, a couple of weeks could very well be the difference between life and death.

Sewage water may give an early warning signal about Covid-19 circulation: Study

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that coronavirus pandemic is the worst global crisis since World War II and it could trigger conflicts around the world.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-death-toll-hits-9053-as-virus-cases-pass-100000-289896">Also read: Spain death toll hits 9,053 as virus cases pass 100,000</a> 
 
"The combination of the two facts and the risk that it contributes to enhanced instability, enhanced unrest, and enhanced conflict are things that make us believe that this is the most challenging crisis we have faced since the Second World War," he said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-us-records-highest-single-day-death-toll-as-trump-says-painful-two-weeks-ahead-289801">Also Read:&nbsp;US records highest single-day death toll as Trump says painful two weeks ahead</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus have surpassed 8 lacs worldwide as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-fears-second-wave-of-coronavirus-infections-reports-on-asymptomatic-cases-289838">Also read:&nbsp;China fears second wave of coronavirus infections, reports on asymptomatic cases</a>

According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 823,479 people worldwide and 40,636 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Around 185,194 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 infection cases and reported a record surge in unemployment.

A total of 189,633 &nbsp;people are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, Spain and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan.

Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 12,428 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died.

In Spain, the coronavirus death toll surged over 9,000 on Wednesday after a record 864 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 100,000 marks, the government said.&nbsp;

Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 9,053 lives and the number of confirmed cases reaching 102,136.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that coronavirus pandemic is the worst global crisis since World War II and it could trigger conflicts around the world.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that coronavirus pandemic is the worst global crisis since World War II and it could trigger conflicts around the world. Also read: Spain death toll hits 9,053 as virus cases pass 100,000 "The combination of the two facts and the risk that it contributes to enhanced instability, enhanced unrest, and enhanced conflict are things that make us believe that this is the most challenging crisis we have faced since the Second World War," he said. Also Read: US records highest single-day death toll as Trump says painful two weeks ahead Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus have surpassed 8 lacs worldwide as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. Also read: China fears second wave of coronavirus infections, reports on asymptomatic cases According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 823,479 people worldwide and 40,636 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 185,194 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 infection cases and reported a record surge in unemployment. A total of 189,633 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, Spain and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan. Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 12,428 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died. In Spain, the coronavirus death toll surged over 9,000 on Wednesday after a record 864 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 100,000 marks, the government said. Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 9,053 lives and the number of confirmed cases reaching 102,136.

UN warns of global instability and conflict as death toll rises to 43,291

The coronavirus death toll in Spain surged over 9,000 on Wednesday after a record 864 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 100,000 marks, the government said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/follow-covid-19-guidelines-for-next-30-days-its-a-matter-of-life-and-death-trump-tells-americans-289801">Also read: Follow COVID-19 guidelines for next 30 days, it's a matter of life and death: Trump tells Americans</a>

Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 9,053 lives and the number of confirmed cases reaching 102,136.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-fears-second-wave-of-coronavirus-infections-reports-on-asymptomatic-cases-289838">Also read:&nbsp;China fears second wave of coronavirus infections, reports on asymptomatic cases</a>

But on a day-to-day basis, the rate of new infections continued its downward trend, showing an increase of just over 8.0 per cent, compared with nearly 11 per cent on Tuesday, health ministry figures showed.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-original-epicentre-of-coronavirus-wuhan-really-recovered-288306" target="_blank">Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered?</a>&nbsp;

And the death rate has also slowed, from 27 per cent a week ago to 10.5 per cent on Wednesday, with officials saying the data appear to show the epidemic is reaching its peak.&nbsp;

But officials have warned that even if the epidemic is peaking, the pressure on the intensive care system would be subject to a lag of at least a week or longer, with hospitals likely to reach crisis point by the end of this week or early next.

Madrid remains the worst-hit region, with 3,865 deaths and nearly 30,000 cases, leaving hospitals and mortuaries overwhelmed.

The coronavirus death toll in Spain surged over 9,000 on Wednesday after a record 864 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 100,000 marks, the government said.

The coronavirus death toll in Spain surged over 9,000 on Wednesday after a record 864 deaths in 24 hours, with the number of confirmed cases passing the 100,000 marks, the government said. Also read: Follow COVID-19 guidelines for next 30 days, it's a matter of life and death: Trump tells Americans Spain has the world's second-highest death toll after Italy, with the virus so far claiming 9,053 lives and the number of confirmed cases reaching 102,136. Also read: China fears second wave of coronavirus infections, reports on asymptomatic cases But on a day-to-day basis, the rate of new infections continued its downward trend, showing an increase of just over 8.0 per cent, compared with nearly 11 per cent on Tuesday, health ministry figures showed. Also read: Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered? And the death rate has also slowed, from 27 per cent a week ago to 10.5 per cent on Wednesday, with officials saying the data appear to show the epidemic is reaching its peak. But officials have warned that even if the epidemic is peaking, the pressure on the intensive care system would be subject to a lag of at least a week or longer, with hospitals likely to reach crisis point by the end of this week or early next. Madrid remains the worst-hit region, with 3,865 deaths and nearly 30,000 cases, leaving hospitals and mortuaries overwhelmed.

Spain death toll hits 9,053 as virus cases pass 100,000

The government authorities in Turkmenistan have banned the use of the word "coronavirus" and have excluded it from being used by media or medical bulletins while denying the presence of coronavirus in the country. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-global-cases-cross-800000-death-toll-rises-to-40636-289725">Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 800000; death toll rises to 40,636</a>

According to media reports, the government is also arresting people for wearing face masks or talking about the pandemic in public.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worldwide-lockdown-hardens-as-spain-sees-deadliest-day-289699">Also read: Worldwide lockdown hardens as Spain sees deadliest day</a>

Media houses are calling it a radical move by Central Asian country to suppress all information about the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-infection-rate-slows-down-in-australia-289581">Coronavirus infection rate slows down in Australia</a>

The official brochure of Turkmenistan's Ministry of Health has dropped any mention of the coronavirus in the information section about the prevention of viral diseases.

At a time when governments around the world are working to curb the growing coronavirus pandemic, Turkmenistan's leaders have taken extraordinary steps to suppress information about the virus.

"The Turkmen authorities have lived up to their reputation by adopting this extreme method for eradicating all information about the coronavirus," Jeanne Cavelier, the head of Reporters Without Borders' Eastern Europe and Central Asia desk, said in a Tuesday statement.

Meanwhile, COVID-19 has now infected 823,479 people worldwide and 40,636 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 174,019 people of that tally have recovered.

The government authorities in Turkmenistan have banned the use of the word "coronavirus" and have excluded it from being used by media or medical bulletins while denying the presence of coronavirus in the country.

The government authorities in Turkmenistan have banned the use of the word "coronavirus" and have excluded it from being used by media or medical bulletins while denying the presence of coronavirus in the country. Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 800000; death toll rises to 40,636 According to media reports, the government is also arresting people for wearing face masks or talking about the pandemic in public. Also read: Worldwide lockdown hardens as Spain sees deadliest day Media houses are calling it a radical move by Central Asian country to suppress all information about the pandemic. Also read: Coronavirus infection rate slows down in Australia The official brochure of Turkmenistan's Ministry of Health has dropped any mention of the coronavirus in the information section about the prevention of viral diseases. At a time when governments around the world are working to curb the growing coronavirus pandemic, Turkmenistan's leaders have taken extraordinary steps to suppress information about the virus. "The Turkmen authorities have lived up to their reputation by adopting this extreme method for eradicating all information about the coronavirus," Jeanne Cavelier, the head of Reporters Without Borders' Eastern Europe and Central Asia desk, said in a Tuesday statement. Meanwhile, COVID-19 has now infected 823,479 people worldwide and 40,636 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 174,019 people of that tally have recovered.

This Central Asian country banned the word 'coronavirus' to suppress information about the 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. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worldwide-lockdown-hardens-as-spain-sees-deadliest-day-289699">Also read: Worldwide lockdown hardens as Spain sees deadliest day</a> 
 
According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 823,479 people worldwide and 40,636 people have been killed due to this pandemic. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-infection-rate-slows-down-in-australia-289581">Coronavirus infection rate slows down in Australia</a> 
&nbsp; 
Around 174,019 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. 
 
Watch: Coronavirus brought world's most powerful countries to their knees!

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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 164,610 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, Spain and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan.

Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 11,591 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died.

Spain, whose outbreak is the world's second-deadliest after Italy, broke another national record of 849 deaths in one day Tuesday bringing the total number of fatalities in the country to 8,189, dampening hopes it could have passed the peak of the crisis that has debilitated the country for 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. Also read: Worldwide lockdown hardens as Spain sees deadliest day According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 823,479 people worldwide and 40,636 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: Worldwide lockdown hardens as Spain sees deadliest day According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 823,479 people worldwide and 40,636 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Also read: Coronavirus infection rate slows down in Australia Around 174,019 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. Watch: Coronavirus brought world's most powerful countries to their knees! × 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 164,610 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, Spain and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan. Italy currently has the highest death toll of any country, reporting that 11,591 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died. Spain, whose outbreak is the world's second-deadliest after Italy, broke another national record of 849 deaths in one day Tuesday bringing the total number of fatalities in the country to 8,189, dampening hopes it could have passed the peak of the crisis that has debilitated the country for weeks.

Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 800000; death toll rises to 40,636

As India proactively battles coronavirus, flattening the curve of cases seems to be getting difficult with each passing day.

The total number of cases in India has climbed up to 1397 with 35 people reported dead due to COVID-19. At present, there are over 1238 active cases in the country with 123 recovered patients.&nbsp;

However, India's trajectory is flatter than that of the United States.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3542cf3-c6cd-42dd-929f-1448b76ddf75" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/India-health-ministry.JPG" />

Yet, given the volatility in India's daily data, it is too early to say whether the current trajectory will sustain, rise or flatten in the coming days. 
&nbsp; 
Take a look at India's curve, the growth in cases has neither been exponential nor has it flattened out. The curve lies somewhere in the middle.

The US shows an exponential increase in the number of cases, whereas, India remains uniquely placed.

The US is now leading the world in coronavirus cases and several experts feel that Trump’s administration was late in taking the decision.

Although India has conducted a limited number of tests and at the same time, it has a very low percentage of positive cases among those tested with a population of more than one billion, India has not yet seen infections on the scale that the United States is experiencing.&nbsp;

Let’s take a look at the number of cases of both India and the US on specific dates.

On January 30, India had reported its first case where the US had its 7th virus case by March 10, the confirmed cases in India rose to 50 while the US had 937 coronavirus cases.

On March 25, 606 people were reported to have been infected in India whereas, more than 68,000 have already been infected by the deadly virus in the US.

And over the next five days, the number of cases in the US surged to make it the new epicentre of the coronavirus with India's confirmed cases standing at over 1,000.

According to a study by a Washington University, as many as 2,300 patients could be dying in the US every day by April.

With the death toll in the US is soaring, president trump has sealed the nation for an extended shutdown through April. The US Now has more than 140,000 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus and accounts for nearly one if five cases reported worldwide.

As India proactively battles coronavirus, flattening the curve of cases seems to be getting difficult with each passing day. The total number of cases in India has climbed up to 1397 with 35 people reported dead due to COVID-19.

As India proactively battles coronavirus, flattening the curve of cases seems to be getting difficult with each passing day. The total number of cases in India has climbed up to 1397 with 35 people reported dead due to COVID-19. At present, there are over 1238 active cases in the country with 123 recovered patients. However, India's trajectory is flatter than that of the United States. Yet, given the volatility in India's daily data, it is too early to say whether the current trajectory will sustain, rise or flatten in the coming days. Take a look at India's curve, the growth in cases has neither been exponential nor has it flattened out. The curve lies somewhere in the middle. The US shows an exponential increase in the number of cases, whereas, India remains uniquely placed. The US is now leading the world in coronavirus cases and several experts feel that Trump’s administration was late in taking the decision. Although India has conducted a limited number of tests and at the same time, it has a very low percentage of positive cases among those tested with a population of more than one billion, India has not yet seen infections on the scale that the United States is experiencing. Let’s take a look at the number of cases of both India and the US on specific dates. On January 30, India had reported its first case where the US had its 7th virus case by March 10, the confirmed cases in India rose to 50 while the US had 937 coronavirus cases. On March 25, 606 people were reported to have been infected in India whereas, more than 68,000 have already been infected by the deadly virus in the US. And over the next five days, the number of cases in the US surged to make it the new epicentre of the coronavirus with India's confirmed cases standing at over 1,000. According to a study by a Washington University, as many as 2,300 patients could be dying in the US every day by April. With the death toll in the US is soaring, president trump has sealed the nation for an extended shutdown through April. The US Now has more than 140,000 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus and accounts for nearly one if five cases reported worldwide.

Confirmed coronavirus cases growing faster in the United States than India

The Wuhan coronavirus has exposed a leadership crisis in many parts of the world. Nowhere is this crisis more apparent than Pakistan.&nbsp;

The country has 1900 active cases and has recorded 25 deaths — it is among the worst-affected nations in South Asia. But Pakistan is not under a lockdown. 
&nbsp; 
Because their prime minister still hasn't figured out the meaning of one. First, he kept arguing on the difference between a lockdown and a curfew. 
&nbsp; 
Now Imran Khan is indulging in petty politics. The Pakistani prime minister is citing India's example to say why a lockdown won't work.

The Prime Minister’s Office also put this out on Twitter.&nbsp;

“We can see the consequences of India's hasty decision of imposing a complete lockdown. Their government had to apologise for their unplanned decision. We must learn and fight this pandemic with wisdom and not in haste,” Pakistan PMO wrote the micro-blogging site. 
&nbsp; 
In India, there's no debate on whether or not we needed a lockdown. The questions are over implementation. And in some cases, they're fair questions. 
&nbsp; 
Having said that, imperfect implementation is any day better than being told. Use faith to fight the virus. That's what the Pakistani PM is telling his people. 
&nbsp; 
That's his strategy fight with your faith but it's hard to have faith when the govt deputes a scam-accused minister to lead the fight. One who was accused of smuggling 20 million masks. Given the record, faith may be too much to ask for.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
As for India, the prime minister did apologise — not for the lockdown, but the inconvenience, it may have caused to the citizens of India. 
&nbsp; 
Imran Khan got WION banned in Pakistan. But he may want to watch local channels once in a while to understand what is going on. 
&nbsp; 
Geo-news — Pakistan's biggest tv network called out Imran khan's false claims about PM Modi's apology.&nbsp;

And since we're discussing apologies. The Pakistani prime minister owes one to the minority communities in his country. The Hindus and Christians. 
&nbsp; 
There are hundreds of Hindu &amp; Christian families who are being refused medical aid amid the coronavirus crisis. 
&nbsp; 
Due to travel restrictions — many minority-workers have lost their only source of livelihood. Multiple reports of Pakistani NGOs denying food to these workers have emerged. Welfare organisations are giving ration-cards reportedly only to Muslim citizens.

The Wuhan coronavirus has exposed a leadership crisis in many parts of the world. Nowhere is this crisis more apparent than Pakistan. The country has 1900 active cases and has recorded 25 deaths — it is among the worst-affected nations in South Asia.

The Wuhan coronavirus has exposed a leadership crisis in many parts of the world. Nowhere is this crisis more apparent than Pakistan. The country has 1900 active cases and has recorded 25 deaths — it is among the worst-affected nations in South Asia. But Pakistan is not under a lockdown. Because their prime minister still hasn't figured out the meaning of one. First, he kept arguing on the difference between a lockdown and a curfew. Now Imran Khan is indulging in petty politics. The Pakistani prime minister is citing India's example to say why a lockdown won't work. The Prime Minister’s Office also put this out on Twitter. “We can see the consequences of India's hasty decision of imposing a complete lockdown. Their government had to apologise for their unplanned decision. We must learn and fight this pandemic with wisdom and not in haste,” Pakistan PMO wrote the micro-blogging site. In India, there's no debate on whether or not we needed a lockdown. The questions are over implementation. And in some cases, they're fair questions. Having said that, imperfect implementation is any day better than being told. Use faith to fight the virus. That's what the Pakistani PM is telling his people. That's his strategy fight with your faith but it's hard to have faith when the govt deputes a scam-accused minister to lead the fight. One who was accused of smuggling 20 million masks. Given the record, faith may be too much to ask for. As for India, the prime minister did apologise — not for the lockdown, but the inconvenience, it may have caused to the citizens of India. Imran Khan got WION banned in Pakistan. But he may want to watch local channels once in a while to understand what is going on. Geo-news — Pakistan's biggest tv network called out Imran khan's false claims about PM Modi's apology. And since we're discussing apologies. The Pakistani prime minister owes one to the minority communities in his country. The Hindus and Christians. There are hundreds of Hindu & Christian families who are being refused medical aid amid the coronavirus crisis. Due to travel restrictions — many minority-workers have lost their only source of livelihood. Multiple reports of Pakistani NGOs denying food to these workers have emerged. Welfare organisations are giving ration-cards reportedly only to Muslim citizens.

Coronavirus outbreak exposes leadership crisis in Pakistan

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