In a bid to automate the drive to disinfect the city, Bengaluru has deployed 6 hexacopter drones to do the job. The hexacopters, developed by city start-ups Alpha drones and Multiplex drones are equipped with the 15-litre capacity and are manoeuvred through the city localities to disinfect it.&nbsp;

'The drones have a 5km range but we insist to fly them in the line of sight. We control it from a maximum of 100mt distance. The drone can fly for 25-30 minutes depending on the size of the payload. With a 15litre capacity, it can fly for the same period depending on the surroundings. It moves at a pre-set speed of 6mts per second.' says Neelsagar, Alpha Drones.&nbsp;

The drones are being used to cover highly crowded areas like railway stations, bus stops, markets and some of the major slums in the city. The drones use the cetrifuger automiser pump technology that enables it to disperse the disinfectant on land and air simultaneously. The disinfectant is provided by the local administration.&nbsp;

'We have done around 170 flights through which we have covered 45 localities like Brigade Road, Church Street, Commercial Street, Shivajinagar bus stop, Malleshwaram, Nandini Layout etc. The flight time of the drones is around 7 hours a day' says Neelsagar.&nbsp;

This hexacopter can fly for 25 minutes at a stretch depending on the localities and can cover an area of 10-15 metres depending on the altitude. The pilot usually follows the drone from a safe distance of 10-15 metres.&nbsp;

45 localities have so far been covered which includes some of the major commercial areas in the city and some bustling slums as well. The drones are being operated for 6-7 hours every day. The start-ups came onboard voluntarily and started the drive even before the purchase order was issued.&nbsp;

In a bid to automate the drive to disinfect the city, Bengaluru has deployed 6 hexacopter drones to do the job. The hexacopters, developed by city start-ups Alpha drones and Multiplex drones are equipped with the 15-litre capacity and are manoeuvred through the city localities to disinfect it.

In a bid to automate the drive to disinfect the city, Bengaluru has deployed 6 hexacopter drones to do the job. The hexacopters, developed by city start-ups Alpha drones and Multiplex drones are equipped with the 15-litre capacity and are manoeuvred through the city localities to disinfect it. 'The drones have a 5km range but we insist to fly them in the line of sight. We control it from a maximum of 100mt distance. The drone can fly for 25-30 minutes depending on the size of the payload. With a 15litre capacity, it can fly for the same period depending on the surroundings. It moves at a pre-set speed of 6mts per second.' says Neelsagar, Alpha Drones. The drones are being used to cover highly crowded areas like railway stations, bus stops, markets and some of the major slums in the city. The drones use the cetrifuger automiser pump technology that enables it to disperse the disinfectant on land and air simultaneously. The disinfectant is provided by the local administration. 'We have done around 170 flights through which we have covered 45 localities like Brigade Road, Church Street, Commercial Street, Shivajinagar bus stop, Malleshwaram, Nandini Layout etc. The flight time of the drones is around 7 hours a day' says Neelsagar. This hexacopter can fly for 25 minutes at a stretch depending on the localities and can cover an area of 10-15 metres depending on the altitude. The pilot usually follows the drone from a safe distance of 10-15 metres. 45 localities have so far been covered which includes some of the major commercial areas in the city and some bustling slums as well. The drones are being operated for 6-7 hours every day. The start-ups came onboard voluntarily and started the drive even before the purchase order was issued.

Bengaluru uses drones to disinfect the city

The former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah on Tuesday tweeted that people using hashtags like 'Tablighi virus' after the Tablighi Jammat organisation which hosted a congregation in Delhi's Nizammudin, was "more dangerous than any virus that nature could ever conjure". 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/24-people-present-at-markaz-building-in-nizamuddin-test-positive-for-covid-19-289600">Also Read: 24 people present at Markaz building in Nizamuddin test positive for COVID-19</a>

“People tweeting stuff with hashtags like Tablighi virus are more dangerous than any virus nature could ever conjure up because their minds are sick while their bodies may very well be healthy,” he said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-ministry-may-blacklist-at-least-800-foreigners-over-coronavirus-cases-in-delhis-nizamuddin-289622">Also read: Home ministry may blacklist at least 800 foreigners over coronavirus cases in Delhi's Nizamuddin</a>

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<div class="twitter-block">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
People tweeting stuff with hash tags like Tablighi virus are more dangerous than any virus nature could ever conjure up because their minds are sick while their bodies may very well be healthy.
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmarAbdullah/status/1244926968836968449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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“Now the #TablighiJamat will become a convenient excuse for some to vilify Muslims everywhere as if we created &amp; spread #COVID around the world,” Abdullah said in a series of tweets.

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Now the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TablighiJamat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TablighiJamat</a> will become a convenient excuse for some to vilify Muslims everywhere as if we created &amp; spread <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID</a> around the world.
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmarAbdullah/status/1244918305262956545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"At first glance it would appear the #TablighiJamat were nothing if not irresponsible in the way they went about things but that’s not unique to them. The majority of Muslims in India have heeded government guidelines and advice the same as anyone else,” he added.

<div class="ui-state-default">
<div class="twitter-block">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
At first glance it would appear the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TablighiJamat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TablighiJamat</a> were nothing if not irresponsible in the way they went about things but that’s not unique to them. The majority of Muslims in India have heeded government guidelines &amp; advice the same as anyone else.
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmarAbdullah/status/1244920255186497537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Many attendees from states across India have tested positive for coronavirus and some have succumbed to the infection.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Home ministry is likely to blacklist at least 800 foreigners who came from 16 countries, including Malaysia and Thailand on tourist visas but attended a religious function in Delhi's Markaz building in Nizamuddin on Monday leading to the spread of coronavirus in the national capital. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/six-from-telangana-who-attended-congregation-in-delhis-nizamuddin-die-due-to-coronavirus-289582">Also Read: Six from Telangana who attended the congregation in Delhi's Nizamuddin die due to coronavirus</a> 
 
Nizamuddin Markaz details by Delhi Government&nbsp; 
 
1542 evacuated&nbsp; 
1107 quarantined&nbsp; 
441 symptomatic of Covid-19 
24 positive cases

The Group of Ministers (GoM) also discussed the Nizamuddin Markaz issue on Tuesday in the meeting on coronavirus, and a detailed briefing was given to the ministers.

Over 2,000 delegates, including from Indonesia and Malaysia, attended the congregation from March 1-15.

Delhi Police had cordoned off the Nizamuddin West in Delhi after several people who had gathered for religious congregation showed symptoms of COVID-19.

Today at 4 pm, addressing concerns over the congregation that was held in Delhi's Nizammudin area of which several attendees have tested positive for coronavirus, the health ministry said that "fault-finding" should be avoided.

"With respect to the Nizamuddin area, we all need to understand and appreciate that this is not the time to do fault finding. What is important for us is to take action as per our containment process in whatever areas we find a case," said Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Health Ministry.

The former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah on Tuesday tweeted that people using hashtags like 'Tablighi virus' after the Tablighi Jammat organisation which hosted a congregation in Delhi's Nizammudin, was "more dangerous than any virus that nature could ever conjure".

The former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah on Tuesday tweeted that people using hashtags like 'Tablighi virus' after the Tablighi Jammat organisation which hosted a congregation in Delhi's Nizammudin, was "more dangerous than any virus that nature could ever conjure". Also Read: 24 people present at Markaz building in Nizamuddin test positive for COVID-19 “People tweeting stuff with hashtags like Tablighi virus are more dangerous than any virus nature could ever conjure up because their minds are sick while their bodies may very well be healthy,” he said. Also read: Home ministry may blacklist at least 800 foreigners over coronavirus cases in Delhi's Nizamuddin People tweeting stuff with hash tags like Tablighi virus are more dangerous than any virus nature could ever conjure up because their minds are sick while their bodies may very well be healthy. — Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) March 31, 2020 × “Now the #TablighiJamat will become a convenient excuse for some to vilify Muslims everywhere as if we created & spread #COVID around the world,” Abdullah said in a series of tweets. Now the #TablighiJamat will become a convenient excuse for some to vilify Muslims everywhere as if we created & spread #COVID around the world. — Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) March 31, 2020 × "At first glance it would appear the #TablighiJamat were nothing if not irresponsible in the way they went about things but that’s not unique to them. The majority of Muslims in India have heeded government guidelines and advice the same as anyone else,” he added. At first glance it would appear the #TablighiJamat were nothing if not irresponsible in the way they went about things but that’s not unique to them. The majority of Muslims in India have heeded government guidelines & advice the same as anyone else. — Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) March 31, 2020 × Many attendees from states across India have tested positive for coronavirus and some have succumbed to the infection. Meanwhile, Home ministry is likely to blacklist at least 800 foreigners who came from 16 countries, including Malaysia and Thailand on tourist visas but attended a religious function in Delhi's Markaz building in Nizamuddin on Monday leading to the spread of coronavirus in the national capital. Also Read: Six from Telangana who attended the congregation in Delhi's Nizamuddin die due to coronavirus Nizamuddin Markaz details by Delhi Government 1542 evacuated 1107 quarantined 441 symptomatic of Covid-19 24 positive cases The Group of Ministers (GoM) also discussed the Nizamuddin Markaz issue on Tuesday in the meeting on coronavirus, and a detailed briefing was given to the ministers. Over 2,000 delegates, including from Indonesia and Malaysia, attended the congregation from March 1-15. Delhi Police had cordoned off the Nizamuddin West in Delhi after several people who had gathered for religious congregation showed symptoms of COVID-19. Today at 4 pm, addressing concerns over the congregation that was held in Delhi's Nizammudin area of which several attendees have tested positive for coronavirus, the health ministry said that "fault-finding" should be avoided. "With respect to the Nizamuddin area, we all need to understand and appreciate that this is not the time to do fault finding. What is important for us is to take action as per our containment process in whatever areas we find a case," said Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Health Ministry.

People trolling Tabligh-e-Jamaat more dangerous than virus: Omar Abdullah

A day after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package for the poor of the country, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Friday said that Indian banking sector is safe and deposit of bank customers is safe. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-announces-coronavirus-stimulus-package-promises-cash-transfer-food-provision-288637">Also read: Centre announces coronavirus stimulus package; promises cash transfer, food provision</a> 
 
"Public should not worry about their deposit in private sector banks, they should not resort to panic withdrawal," said RBI governor.

Here are the top highlights of RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das's press conference

<ul>
	<li>RBI cuts repo rate by 75 bps to 4.4% from 5.15%. It cuts reverse repo rates by 90 basis points.</li>
	<li>Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) cut by 1% to 3%.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Minimum daily CRR maintenance will be 80%</li>
	<li>All Banks, HFCs, NBFCs allowed 3 months moratorium for EMI</li>
</ul>

On Thursday, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package under Garib Kalyan Yojana — in the wake of the lockdown imposed due to the spurt in coronavirus cases in the country. The tally now stands at&nbsp;735 — with 17 deaths.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a 21-day lockdown to stem the growth of coronavirus in the country.

Meanwhile, Moody's Investors Service on Friday slashed its estimate of India's GDP growth during the 2020 calendar year to 2.5 per cent from an earlier estimate of 5.3 per cent, on account of the rising economic cost of the coronavirus pandemic.

This compares to 5 per cent growth in 2019.

Moody's said, at the 2020 estimated growth rate, a sharp fall in incomes in India is likely, further weighing on domestic demand and the pace of recovery in 2021.

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package for the poor of the country, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Friday said that Indian banking sector is safe and deposit of bank customers is safe.

A day after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package for the poor of the country, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Friday said that Indian banking sector is safe and deposit of bank customers is safe. Also read: Centre announces coronavirus stimulus package; promises cash transfer, food provision "Public should not worry about their deposit in private sector banks, they should not resort to panic withdrawal," said RBI governor. Here are the top highlights of RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das's press conference RBI cuts repo rate by 75 bps to 4.4% from 5.15%. It cuts reverse repo rates by 90 basis points. Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) cut by 1% to 3%. Minimum daily CRR maintenance will be 80% All Banks, HFCs, NBFCs allowed 3 months moratorium for EMI On Thursday, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package under Garib Kalyan Yojana — in the wake of the lockdown imposed due to the spurt in coronavirus cases in the country. The tally now stands at 735 — with 17 deaths. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a 21-day lockdown to stem the growth of coronavirus in the country. Meanwhile, Moody's Investors Service on Friday slashed its estimate of India's GDP growth during the 2020 calendar year to 2.5 per cent from an earlier estimate of 5.3 per cent, on account of the rising economic cost of the coronavirus pandemic. This compares to 5 per cent growth in 2019. Moody's said, at the 2020 estimated growth rate, a sharp fall in incomes in India is likely, further weighing on domestic demand and the pace of recovery in 2021. (With inputs from agencies)

No need to panic, Indian banks are safe and stable, says RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 530,000 worldwide on Friday and global deaths rose past 24,000, as COVID-19 spreads across Europe and North America. 
 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-tops-world-in-virus-cases-overtaking-china-and-italy-288788">US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy</a> 
 
COVID-19 has now infected more than 350,536 people, according to Johns Hopkins University, and killed at least 15,328 people. Around 122,203 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-testing-kits-and-ventilators-are-they-the-difference-between-life-and-death-288763" hreflang="en">Coronavirus testing kits and ventilators, are they the difference between life and death?</a>

According to the news reports, The United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pandemic-will-cut-global-investment-flows-more-than-feared-un-288745">Pandemic will cut global investment flows more than feared, says&nbsp;UN</a>

In the United States, more than 83,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan. 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-bumps-china-with-most-number-of-cases-more-than-85000-covid-cases-288793/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Outside of China, where the virus emerged in December, Italy has the most number of deaths with nearly 8,215.

"We are waging war on this virus using every financial, scientific, medical, pharmaceutical and military resource, to halt its spread and protect our citizens," US President Donald Trump said.

Meanwhile, the G20 leaders pledged a "united front" against the novel coronavirus on Thursday after a video conference to discuss the action to combat the global crisis. The leaders also vowed to inject $5 trillion into the global economy to counter the impact of the crisis.

The meeting was attended by various G20 leaders including, US President Donald Trump, Russia's Vladimir Putin, China's Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a joint statement, the leaders vowed "robust" support for developing nations.

Over 3 billion people have been asked to stay at home as governments across the world tackle the World Health Organisation recognised 'pandemic'.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 530,000 worldwide on Friday and global deaths rose past 24,000, as COVID-19 spreads across Europe and North America.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 530,000 worldwide on Friday and global deaths rose past 24,000, as COVID-19 spreads across Europe and North America. Also read: US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy COVID-19 has now infected more than 350,536 people, according to Johns Hopkins University, and killed at least 15,328 people. Around 122,203 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. Also read: Coronavirus testing kits and ventilators, are they the difference between life and death? According to the news reports, The United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. Also read: Pandemic will cut global investment flows more than feared, says UN In the United States, more than 83,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan. Outside of China, where the virus emerged in December, Italy has the most number of deaths with nearly 8,215. "We are waging war on this virus using every financial, scientific, medical, pharmaceutical and military resource, to halt its spread and protect our citizens," US President Donald Trump said. Meanwhile, the G20 leaders pledged a "united front" against the novel coronavirus on Thursday after a video conference to discuss the action to combat the global crisis. The leaders also vowed to inject $5 trillion into the global economy to counter the impact of the crisis. The meeting was attended by various G20 leaders including, US President Donald Trump, Russia's Vladimir Putin, China's Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a joint statement, the leaders vowed "robust" support for developing nations. Over 3 billion people have been asked to stay at home as governments across the world tackle the World Health Organisation recognised 'pandemic'. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 530,000; death toll rises to 24,070

Anyone caught breaking Singapore’s social distancing rules can land themselves in prison from Friday after the city-state made it an offence for a person to intentionally stand close to another person as part of its coronavirus defence. 
 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-emerges-as-virus-hotspot-as-infections-unemployment-soar-288755">US emerges as virus hotspot as infections, unemployment soar</a> 
 
Singapore has won international praise for its fastidious approach in tackling the virus, which has included using police investigators and security cameras to help track suspected carriers. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-roasts-jeff-bezos-after-he-asks-for-public-donations-in-amazon-relief-fund-288681">Twitter roasts Jeff Bezos after he asks for public donations in Amazon relief fund</a>

With some of the world’s highest population densities, the city-state this week announced more stringent social distancing measures such as shutting bars, limiting gatherings to up to 10 people outside work and school as well as a ban on large events. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pandemic-will-cut-global-investment-flows-more-than-feared-un-288745">Pandemic will cut global investment flows more than feared, says&nbsp;UN</a>

Under updates to its powerful infectious diseases law, anyone who intentionally sits less than 1 meter away from another person in a public place or on a fixed seat demarcated as not to be occupied, or who stands in a queue less than a meter away from another, will be guilty of an offence.

Offenders can be fined up to S$10,000 ($6,990), jailed for up to six months, or both.

The rules, in place until April 30, can be applied to individuals and businesses.

Singapore is well known for its strict rules: fines can be doled out for everything from feeding birds to forgetting to flush a public toilet.

Some countries including Italy, Britain and New Zealand have gone into complete lockdown, but Singapore has avoided the move. Authorities have said more drastic measures may be needed if locals do not take social distancing seriously.

Singapore’s number of coronavirus cases rose by 52 to 683 infections on Thursday, and two people have died.

Anyone caught breaking Singapore’s social distancing rules can land themselves in prison from Friday after the city-state made it an offence for a person to intentionally stand close to another person as part of its coronavirus defence.

Anyone caught breaking Singapore’s social distancing rules can land themselves in prison from Friday after the city-state made it an offence for a person to intentionally stand close to another person as part of its coronavirus defence. Also read: US emerges as virus hotspot as infections, unemployment soar Singapore has won international praise for its fastidious approach in tackling the virus, which has included using police investigators and security cameras to help track suspected carriers. Also read: Twitter roasts Jeff Bezos after he asks for public donations in Amazon relief fund With some of the world’s highest population densities, the city-state this week announced more stringent social distancing measures such as shutting bars, limiting gatherings to up to 10 people outside work and school as well as a ban on large events. Also read: Pandemic will cut global investment flows more than feared, says UN Under updates to its powerful infectious diseases law, anyone who intentionally sits less than 1 meter away from another person in a public place or on a fixed seat demarcated as not to be occupied, or who stands in a queue less than a meter away from another, will be guilty of an offence. Offenders can be fined up to S$10,000 ($6,990), jailed for up to six months, or both. The rules, in place until April 30, can be applied to individuals and businesses. Singapore is well known for its strict rules: fines can be doled out for everything from feeding birds to forgetting to flush a public toilet. Some countries including Italy, Britain and New Zealand have gone into complete lockdown, but Singapore has avoided the move. Authorities have said more drastic measures may be needed if locals do not take social distancing seriously. Singapore’s number of coronavirus cases rose by 52 to 683 infections on Thursday, and two people have died.

Fighting coronavirus: Singapore's social distancing rules could lead to prison

India has asked its citizens to stay put in Iran wherever they are as the situation remains precarious in the west Asian country. Iran along with Spain and Italy remains the epicentre of the corona crisis, which began in China.

Sources told WION, while the Indian mission is in touch with Indians in across Iran since sampling facility is not present in Tehran, swab samples cant be collected to check if they are COVID positive. The swab samples are tested for COVID-19 by ICMR in India, and only those Indian nationals who test negative finally board specially arranged flights to India.&nbsp;

Number of Indians are stranded in Kish island is affected by the virus but the situation in Tehran is far worse. While Indian government beliefs that keeping them at a specific location is not a solution but circumstances are completely adverse on the ground. &nbsp;

219 Indian students in Iran, primarily from Tehran and Shiraz, have already returned to India. India plans to evacuate another batch of more than 200 Indians from Iran on March 28.&nbsp;

New Delhi has evacuated more than 1700 of its citizens from China, Japan, Iran and Italy since the pandemic began. This includes 48 foreign citizens.

India has asked its citizens to stay put in Iran wherever they are as the situation remains precarious in the west Asian country. Iran along with Spain and Italy remains the epicentre of the corona crisis, which began in China.

India has asked its citizens to stay put in Iran wherever they are as the situation remains precarious in the west Asian country. Iran along with Spain and Italy remains the epicentre of the corona crisis, which began in China. Sources told WION, while the Indian mission is in touch with Indians in across Iran since sampling facility is not present in Tehran, swab samples cant be collected to check if they are COVID positive. The swab samples are tested for COVID-19 by ICMR in India, and only those Indian nationals who test negative finally board specially arranged flights to India. Number of Indians are stranded in Kish island is affected by the virus but the situation in Tehran is far worse. While Indian government beliefs that keeping them at a specific location is not a solution but circumstances are completely adverse on the ground. 219 Indian students in Iran, primarily from Tehran and Shiraz, have already returned to India. India plans to evacuate another batch of more than 200 Indians from Iran on March 28. New Delhi has evacuated more than 1700 of its citizens from China, Japan, Iran and Italy since the pandemic began. This includes 48 foreign citizens.

Situation in Iran remains precarious, India asks citizens to stay put

Speaking at the virtual G20 summit on Thursday, Indian PM Modi has said that the world has taken time to respond to the Coronavirus crisis even as he has called on a new concept of globalisation in which collective well-being of humankind is the focus.&nbsp;

"Even 3 months after the crisis, we are trying to find a coordinated response," PM Said, saying "G20 meeting shows international community has come together" but it has "taken some time to respond to the crisis with this magnitude and dimension".

Sources said PM's focus was the need to "look at the collective interest of all humankind" and "human aspects of our global collective conscious has been subsumed by economic and financial focus".

Calling COVID crisis "challenge and an opportunity for the grouping to look at a new concept of globalisation which looks at humanity and collective interest of all humankind".

PM noted the "alarming social and economic costs of the pandemic". 90% of the COVID-19 cases and 88% of deaths are from G20 countries.

India also called for reform of the world health organisation (WHO) at the G20 virtual summit that took place on Thursday evening.&nbsp;

Sources said, "PM highlighted that International Organizations like WHO need to be strengthened and reformed. WHO initially did not have the mandate to deal with the pandemic of this sort, which is why empowering of WHO is necessary be it in terms of its capacity of early warning or development of effective vaccines, or capacity building." 
&nbsp; 
New Delhi also called for the need to "freely and openly share" the benefits of medical research and development and "develop adaptive, responsive and humane health care systems".

Sources said "the fact that leaders met is significant" and the "inspiration for the global collective response to the COVID crisis came from India and PM Modi in particular"

This is for the first time G20 summit took place on issues which are not economic but humanitarian. &nbsp;G20, formed after the 2008 financial crisis, has 20 of the world's largest economies and contributed 80% of the world's GDP and 60% of the world population.&nbsp;

Speaking at the virtual G20 summit on Thursday, Indian PM Modi has said that the world has taken time to respond to the Coronavirus crisis even as he has called on a new concept of globalisation in which collective well-being of humankind is the focus.

Speaking at the virtual G20 summit on Thursday, Indian PM Modi has said that the world has taken time to respond to the Coronavirus crisis even as he has called on a new concept of globalisation in which collective well-being of humankind is the focus. "Even 3 months after the crisis, we are trying to find a coordinated response," PM Said, saying "G20 meeting shows international community has come together" but it has "taken some time to respond to the crisis with this magnitude and dimension". Sources said PM's focus was the need to "look at the collective interest of all humankind" and "human aspects of our global collective conscious has been subsumed by economic and financial focus". Calling COVID crisis "challenge and an opportunity for the grouping to look at a new concept of globalisation which looks at humanity and collective interest of all humankind". PM noted the "alarming social and economic costs of the pandemic". 90% of the COVID-19 cases and 88% of deaths are from G20 countries. India also called for reform of the world health organisation (WHO) at the G20 virtual summit that took place on Thursday evening. Sources said, "PM highlighted that International Organizations like WHO need to be strengthened and reformed. WHO initially did not have the mandate to deal with the pandemic of this sort, which is why empowering of WHO is necessary be it in terms of its capacity of early warning or development of effective vaccines, or capacity building." New Delhi also called for the need to "freely and openly share" the benefits of medical research and development and "develop adaptive, responsive and humane health care systems". Sources said "the fact that leaders met is significant" and the "inspiration for the global collective response to the COVID crisis came from India and PM Modi in particular" This is for the first time G20 summit took place on issues which are not economic but humanitarian. G20, formed after the 2008 financial crisis, has 20 of the world's largest economies and contributed 80% of the world's GDP and 60% of the world population.

World took time to respond to corona crisis, says PM Modi

China's role, when it comes Coronavirus crisis was not discussed at the G20 virtual summit that took place on Thursday evening.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/g20-nations-to-inject-5-trillion-into-global-economy-as-they-pledge-united-front-against-coronavirus-threat-288725">Also read: G20 nations to inject $5 trillion into global economy as they pledge 'united front' against coronavirus threat</a> 
 
A source who was present at the meet, when asked if G20 countries, questioned China said, "spirit of the meet was cooperative, did not see reference to origin or crisis and who was responsible, but on mitigating the hardship due to crisis."

The first case of the coronavirus was reported in Wuhan, the capital of China's Hubei province. In a matter of 3 months, more than 5 lac people globally have got the coronavirus infection.

The source said, " No effort to blame" anyone but to "deal with the issue". Adding, "individual leaders spoke but spoke in one voice."

China is being criticised for cover-ups initially that led things to go out of control. China has been miffed over the use of the word "Chinese virus", made more popular by US President who has been using the term in his twitter posts.&nbsp; 
 
The G20 countries met on Thursday evening for the first time via video conference to come up with a joint action plan to deal with the coronavirus issue. During the emergency meeting, it was decided that G20 countries will inject $5 trillion into the global economy to deal with the social, economic and financial impacts of the crisis.

China's role, when it comes Coronavirus crisis was not discussed at the G20 virtual summit that took place on Thursday evening. Also read: G20 nations to inject $5 trillion into global economy as they pledge 'united front' against coronavirus threat A source who was present at the meet, when asked if G20 countries, questioned China said, "spirit of the meet was cooperative, did not see reference to origin or crisis and who was responsible, but on mitigating the hardship due to crisis.

China's role, when it comes Coronavirus crisis was not discussed at the G20 virtual summit that took place on Thursday evening. Also read: G20 nations to inject $5 trillion into global economy as they pledge 'united front' against coronavirus threat A source who was present at the meet, when asked if G20 countries, questioned China said, "spirit of the meet was cooperative, did not see reference to origin or crisis and who was responsible, but on mitigating the hardship due to crisis." The first case of the coronavirus was reported in Wuhan, the capital of China's Hubei province. In a matter of 3 months, more than 5 lac people globally have got the coronavirus infection. The source said, " No effort to blame" anyone but to "deal with the issue". Adding, "individual leaders spoke but spoke in one voice." China is being criticised for cover-ups initially that led things to go out of control. China has been miffed over the use of the word "Chinese virus", made more popular by US President who has been using the term in his twitter posts. The G20 countries met on Thursday evening for the first time via video conference to come up with a joint action plan to deal with the coronavirus issue. During the emergency meeting, it was decided that G20 countries will inject $5 trillion into the global economy to deal with the social, economic and financial impacts of the crisis.

Coronavirus crisis: China's role at G20 emergency summit not raised

Speaking about Delhi State's preparation to fight the coronavirus outbreak, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said that the government will test all medical officials and health workers involved in the treatment of coronavirus patients.&nbsp;

The decision was taken by the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Lieutenant-Governor Anil Baijal on Thursday after a mohalla clinic worker tested positive for coronavirus.

"We will continue to conduct the test on doctors, paramedical staff who are engaged in treating COVID-19 patients," the chief minister said.

He said despite a Mohalla Clinic doctor and his family testing positive for coronavirus, the centres will not be closed and all precautions are being taken.

The Delhi government authorities have quarantined the worker and 800 others who came in contact with him.

The Delhi government has also arranged to serve lunch and dinner to the needy in 325 schools in Delhi, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Friday amid reports of people going hungry without access to food during the ongoing nationwide lockdown.

From Saturday, arrangements will be put in place to feed about four lakh people daily at different centres across Delhi, he said addressing the media.

(With inputs from agencies)

Speaking about Delhi State's preparation to fight the coronavirus outbreak, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said that the government will test all medical officials and health workers involved in the treatment of coronavirus patients.

Speaking about Delhi State's preparation to fight the coronavirus outbreak, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said that the government will test all medical officials and health workers involved in the treatment of coronavirus patients. The decision was taken by the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Lieutenant-Governor Anil Baijal on Thursday after a mohalla clinic worker tested positive for coronavirus. "We will continue to conduct the test on doctors, paramedical staff who are engaged in treating COVID-19 patients," the chief minister said. He said despite a Mohalla Clinic doctor and his family testing positive for coronavirus, the centres will not be closed and all precautions are being taken. The Delhi government authorities have quarantined the worker and 800 others who came in contact with him. The Delhi government has also arranged to serve lunch and dinner to the needy in 325 schools in Delhi, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Friday amid reports of people going hungry without access to food during the ongoing nationwide lockdown. From Saturday, arrangements will be put in place to feed about four lakh people daily at different centres across Delhi, he said addressing the media. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi government to test all medic for coronavirus: Arvind Kejriwal

A day after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package for the poor of the country, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Friday asked all lending institutions to allow a three-month moratorium on EMI payments to infuse liquidity into the system as the economy grapples with COVID-19 challenges.

The RBI Governor in a press conference announced that all non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and housing finance companies (HFCs) have been permitted to allow a moratorium of 3 months on repayment of term loans outstanding on March 1, 2020.

It has also allowed banks for deferment of interest on working capital loans for the next three months - until June 2020.

"These are extraordinary circumstances, and unprecedented measures are required to support the sagging economy as all the economic activities have come to a halt," Governor Shaktikanta Das said in the press conference.

The liquidity measures announced by the RBI will make available a total Rs 3,74,000 crore to the country's financial system.

&nbsp;Das said that the deferment on loan and interest repayments will not be classified as defaults and will not impact the credit history of borrowers.

(with inputs from agencies)

A day after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package for the poor of the country, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Friday asked all lending institutions to allow a three-month moratorium on EMI payments to infuse liquidity into the system as the economy grapples with COVID-19 challenges.

A day after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package for the poor of the country, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Friday asked all lending institutions to allow a three-month moratorium on EMI payments to infuse liquidity into the system as the economy grapples with COVID-19 challenges. The RBI Governor in a press conference announced that all non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and housing finance companies (HFCs) have been permitted to allow a moratorium of 3 months on repayment of term loans outstanding on March 1, 2020. It has also allowed banks for deferment of interest on working capital loans for the next three months - until June 2020. "These are extraordinary circumstances, and unprecedented measures are required to support the sagging economy as all the economic activities have come to a halt," Governor Shaktikanta Das said in the press conference. The liquidity measures announced by the RBI will make available a total Rs 3,74,000 crore to the country's financial system. Das said that the deferment on loan and interest repayments will not be classified as defaults and will not impact the credit history of borrowers. (with inputs from agencies)

Reserve Bank of India asks lending firms to allow 3-month moratorium on EMI payments to offset coronavirus impact

Indian army's field hospitals have been instructed by the Army Chief to be ready to set up a 45-bed isolation facility and create 10 bed ICU facility exclusively forCOVID patients at six hours notice.&nbsp;

About 30% of Field Hospitals have been put on standby for constructing COVID-19 hospitals in coronavirus hotspots. These are part of the Indian army's measures to deal with the crisis, which is a global pandemic.&nbsp;

Speaking in response to several media questions via emails, Army chief Gen Manoj Mukund Naravane &nbsp;said, "Next few weeks will be crucial to prevent negative effects of this deadly mutant virus."

He said that the Covid crisis in a preparatory stage in India and the Indian army has the "inherent capability to rise to various emergency situations by virtue of organizational structure and training."

Army's QuickReaction Medical Teams (QRMTs) will be ready to mobilize at six hours notice to meet the requirements of the hospitals/ civil administration.&nbsp;

COAS also said, "There is likely to be an increase in demand for medical services for both infected/ suspected cases within the Indian Army as also requisition from civil administration in the coming days. Necessary instructions have been passed to Command Headquarters to augment medical facilities"

Army has established quarantine facilities at Manesar, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur for the evacuees from China, Italy and Iran and additional four locations have been earmarked for setting up of wellness/ quarantine facilities. Till now 372 evacuees have been treated at Manesar and currently, 82 are under quarantine. At Jaisalmer 484 citizens who were evacuated from Iran are under quarantine and another 277 at Jodhpur.

Indian army's field hospitals have been instructed by the Army Chief to be ready to set up a 45-bed isolation facility and create 10 bed ICU facility exclusively forCOVID patients at six hours notice.

Indian army's field hospitals have been instructed by the Army Chief to be ready to set up a 45-bed isolation facility and create 10 bed ICU facility exclusively forCOVID patients at six hours notice. About 30% of Field Hospitals have been put on standby for constructing COVID-19 hospitals in coronavirus hotspots. These are part of the Indian army's measures to deal with the crisis, which is a global pandemic. Speaking in response to several media questions via emails, Army chief Gen Manoj Mukund Naravane said, "Next few weeks will be crucial to prevent negative effects of this deadly mutant virus." He said that the Covid crisis in a preparatory stage in India and the Indian army has the "inherent capability to rise to various emergency situations by virtue of organizational structure and training." Army's QuickReaction Medical Teams (QRMTs) will be ready to mobilize at six hours notice to meet the requirements of the hospitals/ civil administration. COAS also said, "There is likely to be an increase in demand for medical services for both infected/ suspected cases within the Indian Army as also requisition from civil administration in the coming days. Necessary instructions have been passed to Command Headquarters to augment medical facilities" Army has established quarantine facilities at Manesar, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur for the evacuees from China, Italy and Iran and additional four locations have been earmarked for setting up of wellness/ quarantine facilities. Till now 372 evacuees have been treated at Manesar and currently, 82 are under quarantine. At Jaisalmer 484 citizens who were evacuated from Iran are under quarantine and another 277 at Jodhpur.

Field hospitals can create 10 bed ICU facility in 6-hour notice: Indian Army chief

The coronavirus pandemic killed over 21,000 people worldwide with most of the deaths reported from Europe with early a third of the world’s population living under coronavirus-related movement restrictions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-coronavirus-cases-near-70000-more-than-1000-dead-288573">Also read: US coronavirus cases near 70,000, more than 1,000 dead</a> 
 
Over 471,000 people have been infected by the coronavirus, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-second-consecutive-day-of-no-new-local-coronavirus-transmissions-imported-cases-rise-288566">Also read: China reports second consecutive day of no new local coronavirus transmissions, imported cases rise</a>

Most of the countries concerned, including Argentina, Britain, France, India and Italy as well as many US states, have imposed mandatory lockdown measures. Others have introduced curfews, quarantines and other social distancing recommendations. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-original-epicentre-of-coronavirus-wuhan-really-recovered-288306&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1585275689446000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGjuBE1M1VDLfsLMOltHuMMvzHfEg" 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;

In the United States, the number of deaths caused by the novel coronavirus rose to 1,031 &nbsp;on Wednesday, with 68,572 confirmed cases nationwide, a tracker run by the Johns Hopkins University showed. 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-lists-six-steps-to-combat-coronavirus-pandemic-lauds-india-for-taking-early-steps-288582/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The new coronavirus (Covid-19) has spread to nearly every country in the world since it first emerged in China at the beginning of the year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The coronavirus pandemic killed over 21,000 people worldwide with most of the deaths reported from Europe with early a third of the world’s population living under coronavirus-related movement restrictions.

The coronavirus pandemic killed over 21,000 people worldwide with most of the deaths reported from Europe with early a third of the world’s population living under coronavirus-related movement restrictions. Also read: US coronavirus cases near 70,000, more than 1,000 dead Over 471,000 people have been infected by the coronavirus, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. Also read: China reports second consecutive day of no new local coronavirus transmissions, imported cases rise Most of the countries concerned, including Argentina, Britain, France, India and Italy as well as many US states, have imposed mandatory lockdown measures. Others have introduced curfews, quarantines and other social distancing recommendations. Also read: Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered? In the United States, the number of deaths caused by the novel coronavirus rose to 1,031 on Wednesday, with 68,572 confirmed cases nationwide, a tracker run by the Johns Hopkins University showed. The new coronavirus (Covid-19) has spread to nearly every country in the world since it first emerged in China at the beginning of the year. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus death toll tops 21,000 globally

The number of deaths caused by the novel coronavirus rose to 1,031 in the United States on Wednesday, with 68,572 confirmed cases nationwide, a tracker run by the Johns Hopkins University showed. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-second-consecutive-day-of-no-new-local-coronavirus-transmissions-imported-cases-rise-288566">Also read: China reports second consecutive day of no new local coronavirus transmissions, imported cases rise</a> 
 
The tracker had shown 827 just a few hours earlier. The United States has the third-highest number of confirmed cases behind China and Italy, and the US death rate is now 1.5 per cent, based on reported cases. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-global-death-toll-tops-20000-more-than-3-billion-people-under-lockdown-288555">Also read: Global death toll tops 20,000; more than 3 billion people under lockdown</a>

The true number of infected people is believed to be far higher, meaning the real death rate would be lower.

New York is one of the hardest-hit states in the country, with 280 deaths in New York City since the start of the pandemic, according to the tracker. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-original-epicentre-of-coronavirus-wuhan-really-recovered-288306&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1585275689446000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGjuBE1M1VDLfsLMOltHuMMvzHfEg" 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;

The virus has killed more than 21,000 people around the world after it was first identified in central China in late December.

A projection shared with Congress earlier this month said that between 70 to 150 million people could eventually be infected in the United States.

If the real mortality rate is one per cent, this would result in 700,000 to 1.5 million deaths.

Heart disease was the leading cause of death for Americans in 2018, the latest year for which official figures are available, with just over 650,000 deaths.

The flu and pneumonia caused around 60,000 deaths.

The number of deaths caused by the novel coronavirus rose to 1,031 in the United States on Wednesday, with 68,572 confirmed cases nationwide, a tracker run by the Johns Hopkins University showed.

The number of deaths caused by the novel coronavirus rose to 1,031 in the United States on Wednesday, with 68,572 confirmed cases nationwide, a tracker run by the Johns Hopkins University showed. Also read: China reports second consecutive day of no new local coronavirus transmissions, imported cases rise The tracker had shown 827 just a few hours earlier. The United States has the third-highest number of confirmed cases behind China and Italy, and the US death rate is now 1.5 per cent, based on reported cases. Also read: Global death toll tops 20,000; more than 3 billion people under lockdown The true number of infected people is believed to be far higher, meaning the real death rate would be lower. New York is one of the hardest-hit states in the country, with 280 deaths in New York City since the start of the pandemic, according to the tracker. Also read: Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered? The virus has killed more than 21,000 people around the world after it was first identified in central China in late December. A projection shared with Congress earlier this month said that between 70 to 150 million people could eventually be infected in the United States. If the real mortality rate is one per cent, this would result in 700,000 to 1.5 million deaths. Heart disease was the leading cause of death for Americans in 2018, the latest year for which official figures are available, with just over 650,000 deaths. The flu and pneumonia caused around 60,000 deaths.

US coronavirus cases near 70,000, more than 1,000 dead

Pakistan establishment, in a mala fide move, is establishing facilities in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) to quarantine and treat suspected COVID-19 cases. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-global-death-toll-tops-20000-more-than-3-billion-people-under-lockdown-288555">Also read: Global death toll tops 20,000; more than 3 billion people under lockdown</a>

Covid-19 patients from other areas of Pakistan are being moved to POK despite unrest in this region due to this move. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-original-epicentre-of-coronavirus-wuhan-really-recovered-288306&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1585275689446000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGjuBE1M1VDLfsLMOltHuMMvzHfEg" 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;

This is being resisted by the people of Mirpur, who have now urged the central leadership of the&nbsp;United Kashmir People's National Party&nbsp;to take up this issue with international agencies like the UN and WHO.

It has been revealed that people in Mirpur are protesting and keeping a tight vigil to not allow any quarantine centre for Covid-19 patients from other parts of Pakistan. 
 
PoK lacks humane quarantine and treatment policy with regard to COVID-19.

Reports regarding the lack of adequate health screening procedures and squalid living conditions within the quarantine camps at the Taftan border crossing with Iran have further raised concerns for the surge in the number of infections, much to the angst and agony of the people, some of whom have also taken to streets to protest against the government's failure.

The PoK residents protesting in Mirpur and blocking the Mangla Bridge. They are demanding that no one from Pakistan should be allowed to come to PoK.

There have been eight Covid-19 deaths in Pakistan and the number of confirmed Coronavirus positive cases has gone up to 1078. Sindh is the worst-hit province with 413 cases.

Over 3 billion people have been asked to stay at home as governments across the world tackle the World Health Organisation recognised 'pandemic'.&nbsp;

The deadly coronavirus has claimed 21,283 lives and infected 471,035 people globally.

(With inputs from ANI)

Pakistan establishment, in a mala fide move, is establishing facilities in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) to quarantine and treat suspected COVID-19 cases. Also read: Global death toll tops 20,000; more than 3 billion people under lockdown Covid-19 patients from other areas of Pakistan are being moved to POK despite unrest in this region due to this move.

Pakistan establishment, in a mala fide move, is establishing facilities in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) to quarantine and treat suspected COVID-19 cases. Also read: Global death toll tops 20,000; more than 3 billion people under lockdown Covid-19 patients from other areas of Pakistan are being moved to POK despite unrest in this region due to this move. Also read: Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered? This is being resisted by the people of Mirpur, who have now urged the central leadership of the United Kashmir People's National Party to take up this issue with international agencies like the UN and WHO. It has been revealed that people in Mirpur are protesting and keeping a tight vigil to not allow any quarantine centre for Covid-19 patients from other parts of Pakistan. PoK lacks humane quarantine and treatment policy with regard to COVID-19. Reports regarding the lack of adequate health screening procedures and squalid living conditions within the quarantine camps at the Taftan border crossing with Iran have further raised concerns for the surge in the number of infections, much to the angst and agony of the people, some of whom have also taken to streets to protest against the government's failure. The PoK residents protesting in Mirpur and blocking the Mangla Bridge. They are demanding that no one from Pakistan should be allowed to come to PoK. There have been eight Covid-19 deaths in Pakistan and the number of confirmed Coronavirus positive cases has gone up to 1078. Sindh is the worst-hit province with 413 cases. Over 3 billion people have been asked to stay at home as governments across the world tackle the World Health Organisation recognised 'pandemic'. The deadly coronavirus has claimed 21,283 lives and infected 471,035 people globally. (With inputs from ANI)

Pakistan Occupied Kashmir turning into Pak's quarantine centre: Intel inputs

Mainland China reported a second consecutive day of no new local coronavirus infections as the epicentre of the epidemic Hubei province opened its borders, but imported cases rose as Beijing ramped up controls to prevent a resurgence of infections. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-global-death-toll-tops-20000-more-than-3-billion-people-under-lockdown-288555">Also read: Global death toll tops 20,000; more than 3 billion people under lockdown</a>

A total of 67 new cases were reported as of end-Wednesday, up from 47 a day earlier, all of which were imported, China's National Health Commission said in a statement on Thursday. 
 
Also read: <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-original-epicentre-of-coronavirus-wuhan-really-recovered-288306&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1585275689446000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGjuBE1M1VDLfsLMOltHuMMvzHfEg" 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;

The total number of cases now stands at 81,285.

The commission reported a total of 3,287 deaths at the end of Wednesday, up to six from the previous day.

All of the new patients were travellers who came to China from overseas, with the mainland reporting no locally transmitted infections on Wednesday.

Shanghai reported the most cases with 18 followed by the Inner Mongolia region at 12 and Guangdong province at 11.

The number of new daily cases remains down sharply from the height of the outbreak in the country in February, allowing Beijing to push for restarting economic activity in the world's second-biggest economy.

Hubei province, home to some 60 million people, reported no new cases on Wednesday and opened its borders. Public transport restarted and residents in the city of Xianning strolled the streets wearing masks.

The lockdown of Hubei's capital Wuhan, where the virus first appeared late last year, will be lifted on April 8, a milestone in China's war against the epidemic as Beijing shifts its focus towards stemming imported cases and rebooting the economy.

Fearing a new wave of infections from imported cases, authorities have ramped up quarantine and screening measures in other major cities including Beijing, where any travellers arriving from overseas must submit to centralised quarantine.

Mainland China reported a second consecutive day of no new local coronavirus infections as the epicentre of the epidemic Hubei province opened its borders, but imported cases rose as Beijing ramped up controls to prevent a resurgence of infections.

Mainland China reported a second consecutive day of no new local coronavirus infections as the epicentre of the epidemic Hubei province opened its borders, but imported cases rose as Beijing ramped up controls to prevent a resurgence of infections. Also read: Global death toll tops 20,000; more than 3 billion people under lockdown A total of 67 new cases were reported as of end-Wednesday, up from 47 a day earlier, all of which were imported, China's National Health Commission said in a statement on Thursday. Also read: Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered? The total number of cases now stands at 81,285. The commission reported a total of 3,287 deaths at the end of Wednesday, up to six from the previous day. All of the new patients were travellers who came to China from overseas, with the mainland reporting no locally transmitted infections on Wednesday. Shanghai reported the most cases with 18 followed by the Inner Mongolia region at 12 and Guangdong province at 11. The number of new daily cases remains down sharply from the height of the outbreak in the country in February, allowing Beijing to push for restarting economic activity in the world's second-biggest economy. Hubei province, home to some 60 million people, reported no new cases on Wednesday and opened its borders. Public transport restarted and residents in the city of Xianning strolled the streets wearing masks. The lockdown of Hubei's capital Wuhan, where the virus first appeared late last year, will be lifted on April 8, a milestone in China's war against the epidemic as Beijing shifts its focus towards stemming imported cases and rebooting the economy. Fearing a new wave of infections from imported cases, authorities have ramped up quarantine and screening measures in other major cities including Beijing, where any travellers arriving from overseas must submit to centralised quarantine.

China reports second consecutive day of no new local coronavirus transmissions, imported cases rise

Equity benchmark Sensex was trading over 1,000 points higher in afternoon session on Thursday after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a stimulus package worth Rs 1.70 lakh crore to cushion the impact of the lockdown in wake of COVID-19 pandemic.

Paring early gains, the 30-share BSE barometer was up 1,055.11 points or 3.70 per cent at 29,590.89. It rallied over 1,500 points in morning session.

Similarly, the NSE Nifty stood 284.20 points, or 3.42 per cent, higher at 8,602.05 at 1430 hours.

&nbsp;IndusInd Bank was the top gainer in the Sensex pack, rallying up to 34 per cent, followed by Axis Bank, Bharti Airtel, L&amp;T, Bajaj Finance and HDFC.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Maruti, Reliance Industries, NTPC and Sun Pharma were among the top laggards.

&nbsp;To cushion the economic blow of the 21-day lockdown to contain the Covid-19 pandemic, Finance Minister Sitharaman announced a slew of measures to help the citizens survive the crisis. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
The Rs 1.70 lakh crore economic package will be implemented with immediate effect. 
&nbsp; 
The Pradhan Mantri Gareeb Kalyan scheme includes distribution of 5 kg of wheat or rice and one kg of preferred pulses free-of-cost every month over the next three months to 80 crore poor across the country and Rs 500 per month for next three months to as many of 20.5 crore women Jan Dhan Account holders. 
&nbsp; 
The government will front-load Rs 2,000 paid to farmers in first week of April under existing PM Kisan Yojana to benefit 8.69 crore farmers. 
&nbsp; 
The Finance Minister also said a Rs 50 lakh insurance cover will be given to healthcare workers who are at the forefront of dealing with the pandemic. 
&nbsp; 
The Indian rupee appreciated further by 84 paise to 75.10 against the US dollar in intra-day trade after the announcement.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The number of COVID-19 cases climbed to 649 in India and the death toll rose to 13, with one death reported each from Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh, according to the Health Ministry.

Equity benchmark Sensex was trading over 1,000 points higher in afternoon session on Thursday after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a stimulus package worth Rs 1.

Equity benchmark Sensex was trading over 1,000 points higher in afternoon session on Thursday after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a stimulus package worth Rs 1.70 lakh crore to cushion the impact of the lockdown in wake of COVID-19 pandemic. Paring early gains, the 30-share BSE barometer was up 1,055.11 points or 3.70 per cent at 29,590.89. It rallied over 1,500 points in morning session. Similarly, the NSE Nifty stood 284.20 points, or 3.42 per cent, higher at 8,602.05 at 1430 hours. IndusInd Bank was the top gainer in the Sensex pack, rallying up to 34 per cent, followed by Axis Bank, Bharti Airtel, L&T, Bajaj Finance and HDFC. On the other hand, Maruti, Reliance Industries, NTPC and Sun Pharma were among the top laggards. To cushion the economic blow of the 21-day lockdown to contain the Covid-19 pandemic, Finance Minister Sitharaman announced a slew of measures to help the citizens survive the crisis. The Rs 1.70 lakh crore economic package will be implemented with immediate effect. The Pradhan Mantri Gareeb Kalyan scheme includes distribution of 5 kg of wheat or rice and one kg of preferred pulses free-of-cost every month over the next three months to 80 crore poor across the country and Rs 500 per month for next three months to as many of 20.5 crore women Jan Dhan Account holders. The government will front-load Rs 2,000 paid to farmers in first week of April under existing PM Kisan Yojana to benefit 8.69 crore farmers. The Finance Minister also said a Rs 50 lakh insurance cover will be given to healthcare workers who are at the forefront of dealing with the pandemic. The Indian rupee appreciated further by 84 paise to 75.10 against the US dollar in intra-day trade after the announcement. The number of COVID-19 cases climbed to 649 in India and the death toll rose to 13, with one death reported each from Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh, according to the Health Ministry.

Sensex trades 1,000 points higher after Finance Minister announces Rs 1.70 lakh cr-stimulus package

In the backdrop of coronavirus outbreak and subsequent lockdown, the Centre has&nbsp;come up with a Rs 1.70 lakh crore relief package for the daily wage earners, women workers and migrant workers as the country remains in a 21-day lockdown period.

"A package is ready for the poor who need immediate help like migrant workers and urban and rural poor. No one will go hungry. The package is worth Rs 1.70 lakh crore," &nbsp;said Union minister. 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid19</a> Relief Package | ₹1.70 lakh crore package announced by <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nsitharaman</a> 
+ State govt’s advised to use State Mineral funds 
+ 5 crore MNREGA families to get additional ₹2000 
+ New NRLM loans to be collateral free 
+ PF Scheme to be amended
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1243098268684476416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The finance minister had already announced some measures on Tuesday that included an extension of tax deadlines, easing minimum balance norms for the savings account, and increasing threshold of insolvency filing to Rs 1&nbsp;crore from Rs 1 lakh. 
 
Here are the highlights of the stimulus package announced by the government:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Govt's economic package includes relief for daily wage workers. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Govt announces medical insurance cover of Rs 50 lakh medical cover per person for the government's sanitation workers, ASHA workers, doctors, paramedics, others if they need it. The scheme is to benefit 20 lakh, such workers. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>5 kg of rice or wheat will be given for free for the next three months under the Pradhanmantri Garib Kalyan Yojana besides, 1 kg pulse available regionally will also be given for free to 80 crore people.&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Provident Fund(EPF) contribution, both employer and employee, put together it will be 24%, this will be for the next 3 months. This is for those establishments which have up to 100 employees and 90% of them earn less than 15,000. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>For women: 20.5 crore women account holder of Jan Dhan Yojana to get Rs. 500/month for next 3 months | For next 3 months under Ujjwala Yojana, beneficiaries to get gas cylinders 4 free | 60 lakh, women, under self-help group (SHG) to get a collateral-free loan up to Rs 20 lakh. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Centre asks states to utilise Rs 31,000 crore fund to benefit construction workers to benefit 3.5 crores, such workers. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>On a question related to fiscal deficit and market borrowings, FM Sitharaman said that at this stage, we are more concerned about reaching out to people who need help. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Government asks state governments to utilise the district mineral fund healthcare facility amid coronavirus scare.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

India has entered Day 2 of the 21-day nationwide lockdown over the highly contagious Covid-19, which has infected over 650 in the country. Today, leaders of G20 nations will hold a summit via video conference to discuss measures to protect the global economy amid the coronavirus pandemic, which has so far claimed 21,200 lives globally and infected 471,363.

In the backdrop of coronavirus outbreak and subsequent lockdown, the Centre has come up with a Rs 1.70 lakh crore relief package for the daily wage earners, women workers and migrant workers as the country remains in a 21-day lockdown period.

In the backdrop of coronavirus outbreak and subsequent lockdown, the Centre has come up with a Rs 1.70 lakh crore relief package for the daily wage earners, women workers and migrant workers as the country remains in a 21-day lockdown period. "A package is ready for the poor who need immediate help like migrant workers and urban and rural poor. No one will go hungry. The package is worth Rs 1.70 lakh crore," said Union minister. India’s #Covid19 Relief Package | ₹1.70 lakh crore package announced by @nsitharaman + State govt’s advised to use State Mineral funds + 5 crore MNREGA families to get additional ₹2000 + New NRLM loans to be collateral free + PF Scheme to be amended — WION (@WIONews) March 26, 2020 × The finance minister had already announced some measures on Tuesday that included an extension of tax deadlines, easing minimum balance norms for the savings account, and increasing threshold of insolvency filing to Rs 1 crore from Rs 1 lakh. Here are the highlights of the stimulus package announced by the government: Govt's economic package includes relief for daily wage workers. Govt announces medical insurance cover of Rs 50 lakh medical cover per person for the government's sanitation workers, ASHA workers, doctors, paramedics, others if they need it. The scheme is to benefit 20 lakh, such workers. 5 kg of rice or wheat will be given for free for the next three months under the Pradhanmantri Garib Kalyan Yojana besides, 1 kg pulse available regionally will also be given for free to 80 crore people. Provident Fund(EPF) contribution, both employer and employee, put together it will be 24%, this will be for the next 3 months. This is for those establishments which have up to 100 employees and 90% of them earn less than 15,000. For women: 20.5 crore women account holder of Jan Dhan Yojana to get Rs. 500/month for next 3 months | For next 3 months under Ujjwala Yojana, beneficiaries to get gas cylinders 4 free | 60 lakh, women, under self-help group (SHG) to get a collateral-free loan up to Rs 20 lakh. Centre asks states to utilise Rs 31,000 crore fund to benefit construction workers to benefit 3.5 crores, such workers. On a question related to fiscal deficit and market borrowings, FM Sitharaman said that at this stage, we are more concerned about reaching out to people who need help. Government asks state governments to utilise the district mineral fund healthcare facility amid coronavirus scare. India has entered Day 2 of the 21-day nationwide lockdown over the highly contagious Covid-19, which has infected over 650 in the country. Today, leaders of G20 nations will hold a summit via video conference to discuss measures to protect the global economy amid the coronavirus pandemic, which has so far claimed 21,200 lives globally and infected 471,363.

Centre announces coronavirus stimulus package; promises cash transfer, food provision

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told New Zealanders on Wednesday to behave as if they had the coronavirus and cut all physical contact outside their household when the country heads into a one-month lockdown at midnight. 
 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-original-epicentre-of-coronavirus-wuhan-really-recovered-288306">Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered?</a>&nbsp;

Ardern declared a national state of emergency as the number of cases of COVID-19, the disease associated with the coronavirus, surged by a record 50 cases to take the national tally to 205. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cure-cant-be-worse-than-problem-announces-trump-as-he-vows-to-reopen-us-economy-amid-covid-19-crisis-288294" hreflang="en">'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy amid COVID-19 crisis</a>

The government has imposed self-isolation for everyone, with all non-essential services, schools and offices to be shut for a month from midnight (1100 GMT). 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-united-states-become-the-next-epicentre-of-covid-19-288258" hreflang="en">Could the United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19?</a>&nbsp;

"From midnight tonight, we bunker down for four weeks to try and stop the virus in its tracks, to break the chain," Ardern told parliament.

"Make no mistake this will get worse before it gets better. We will have a lag and cases will increase for the next week or so. Then we’ll begin to know how successful we have been."

Ardern told parliament the lockdown was triggered by early evidence of community transmission of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.

At a news conference later in the day, Ardern said modelling suggested New Zealand could have several thousands of cases of COVID-19 before the numbers start coming down.

"If you have any questions about what you can or can’t do, apply a simple principle: Act like you have COVID-19," Ardern said.

"Every move you then make is a risk to someone else. That is how we must all collectively think. That’s why the joy of physically visiting other family, children, grandchildren, friends, neighbours is on hold. Because we’re all now putting each other first. And that is what we as a nation do so well."

DESERTED TOWNS

New Zealand, with about 5 million people, has fewer infections than many other countries, but Ardern's government wants to move fast to halt the spread. It was one of the first to force all arriving travellers into self-isolation and to ban large gatherings.

All non-essential services, bars, restaurants, cafes, gyms, cinemas, pools, museums, libraries, playgrounds and any other place where the public congregate will be closed during the lockdown.

Supermarkets, doctors, pharmacies, service stations and access to essential banking services will all be available.

Major cities like Auckland and Wellington wore a deserted look on Wednesday as businesses shut down, cafes closed and all offices locked their doors.

The disruptions are expected to have a deep impact on businesses and lead to thousands of job losses. Some firms have already announced job cuts.

The government has announced billions of dollars in support for small businesses, workers and families, and promised more in the coming days.

On Wednesday, it announced a six-month freeze on residential rent increases and increased protection from having tenancies terminated.

Ardern said it was ok to go for a walk with your children, a run near your house, or drive to get groceries during the lockdown. But everyone had to keep 2 metres (6 feet) distance, and people may be stopped and questioned by the police.

This is only the second time in New Zealand’s history that a national emergency has been declared, with the first one on 23 February 2011, after a 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck the South Island city of Christchurch, killing almost 200.

Cases in neighbouring Australia have soared past 2,250 and officials have warned infections could overwhelm medical services.

India's 1.3 billion population also went into complete lockdown for 21 days to protect the world's second-most populous country from coronavirus.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told New Zealanders on Wednesday to behave as if they had the coronavirus and cut all physical contact outside their household when the country heads into a one-month lockdown at midnight.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told New Zealanders on Wednesday to behave as if they had the coronavirus and cut all physical contact outside their household when the country heads into a one-month lockdown at midnight. Also read: Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered? Ardern declared a national state of emergency as the number of cases of COVID-19, the disease associated with the coronavirus, surged by a record 50 cases to take the national tally to 205. Also read: 'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy amid COVID-19 crisis The government has imposed self-isolation for everyone, with all non-essential services, schools and offices to be shut for a month from midnight (1100 GMT). Also read: Could the United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19? "From midnight tonight, we bunker down for four weeks to try and stop the virus in its tracks, to break the chain," Ardern told parliament. "Make no mistake this will get worse before it gets better. We will have a lag and cases will increase for the next week or so. Then we’ll begin to know how successful we have been." Ardern told parliament the lockdown was triggered by early evidence of community transmission of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus. At a news conference later in the day, Ardern said modelling suggested New Zealand could have several thousands of cases of COVID-19 before the numbers start coming down. "If you have any questions about what you can or can’t do, apply a simple principle: Act like you have COVID-19," Ardern said. "Every move you then make is a risk to someone else. That is how we must all collectively think. That’s why the joy of physically visiting other family, children, grandchildren, friends, neighbours is on hold. Because we’re all now putting each other first. And that is what we as a nation do so well." DESERTED TOWNS New Zealand, with about 5 million people, has fewer infections than many other countries, but Ardern's government wants to move fast to halt the spread. It was one of the first to force all arriving travellers into self-isolation and to ban large gatherings. All non-essential services, bars, restaurants, cafes, gyms, cinemas, pools, museums, libraries, playgrounds and any other place where the public congregate will be closed during the lockdown. Supermarkets, doctors, pharmacies, service stations and access to essential banking services will all be available. Major cities like Auckland and Wellington wore a deserted look on Wednesday as businesses shut down, cafes closed and all offices locked their doors. The disruptions are expected to have a deep impact on businesses and lead to thousands of job losses. Some firms have already announced job cuts. The government has announced billions of dollars in support for small businesses, workers and families, and promised more in the coming days. On Wednesday, it announced a six-month freeze on residential rent increases and increased protection from having tenancies terminated. Ardern said it was ok to go for a walk with your children, a run near your house, or drive to get groceries during the lockdown. But everyone had to keep 2 metres (6 feet) distance, and people may be stopped and questioned by the police. This is only the second time in New Zealand’s history that a national emergency has been declared, with the first one on 23 February 2011, after a 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck the South Island city of Christchurch, killing almost 200. Cases in neighbouring Australia have soared past 2,250 and officials have warned infections could overwhelm medical services. India's 1.3 billion population also went into complete lockdown for 21 days to protect the world's second-most populous country from coronavirus.

'Act like you have COVID-19': PM Ardern says as New Zealand heads into lockdown

United Nations is still to discuss Covid crisis, several diplomatic sources have confirmed. Both the 15 member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and 193 strong United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) haven't taken the matter up formally.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cure-cant-be-worse-than-problem-announces-trump-as-he-vows-to-reopen-us-economy-amid-covid-19-crisis-288294" hreflang="en">'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy amid COVID-19 crisis</a>

The epidemic that began in China has killed 17000 people globally and infected 4,00000&nbsp;people according to data by John Hopkins University.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-original-epicentre-of-coronavirus-wuhan-really-recovered-288306">Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered?</a> 
 
The world body, based out of New York has moved its operations virtually and is meeting through video conference now due to the COVID crisis.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-united-states-become-the-next-epicentre-of-covid-19-288258" hreflang="en">Could United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19?</a>

It is interesting to know that Chair for UNSC for March is China. The monthly chair of the UNSC decides what is on the agenda and guides the body. Earlier this month, when asked about will UNSC discuss COVID Zhang Jun, China's envoy to UN said, "Council members generally feel there is no reason to panic at the moment and plan to monitor the situation....(with) COVID-19 currently not on the organ’s agenda."

Explaining, "The virus falls under the umbrella of global public health and security, rather than the Council’s geopolitical scope", which is the mandate of the body.&nbsp;

The body is also divided over a resolution on the crisis, with China particularly having issues with the phrasing of the documents on COVID.

United Nations' health body--world health organisation (WHO) has itself come under much criticism in the delay to declare it a pandemic. The pandemic has accelerated fast and according to WHO's estimates, it took 67 days from the first reported case to reach the first 100,000 cases, 11 days for the second 100,000 cases and just 4 days for the third 100,000 cases.

The UNSC last met on 12 March &amp; before that discussed "peace and security in Africa: countering terrorism and extremism in Africa" and the situation in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the President of the General Assembly Tijjani Muhammad-Bande has presented a proposal on how General assembly can take essential decisions related to the organisation in the current situation.&nbsp;

Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General said, "He submitted a draft decision that would enable the General Assembly to adopt essential decisions under a silence procedure. If a plenary meeting of the General Assembly is not practicable due to the pandemic, the proposal would authorize the President of the GA to circulate, after consultation with the General Committee, draft decisions of the Assembly to all Member States under a silence procedure of at least 72 hours. If the silence is not broken, the decision shall be considered adopted. "

Meanwhile, G20 has moved fast with G20 video meet all set to happen on Thursday. This is for the first time G20 leaders will be meeting via video conference. The group., that emerged after the 2008 global financial crisis has emerged as a major political-economic forum to discuss global issues and crisis in last one decade.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has written to G20 leaders urging them to take concerted and decisive action on the current global health crisis. Calling for a “war-time” plan, Guterres urged G20 leaders to step forward with a "strong response package" to address the various threats posed by COVID.

UN will on Wednesday launch the COVID-19 Global Humanitarian Response Plan, which will assist people in vulnerable countries. 
 
The Estonian Mission to the UN was preparing a Security Council statement on Covid-19 but sources told, it had to put in on hold as not all Council members agreed to do a statement.&nbsp;

But sources were optimistic that "as things progress quite fast, let’s wait and see how we will go from here."

United Nations is still to discuss Covid crisis, several diplomatic sources have confirmed. Both the 15 member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and 193 strong United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) haven't taken the matter up formally.

United Nations is still to discuss Covid crisis, several diplomatic sources have confirmed. Both the 15 member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and 193 strong United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) haven't taken the matter up formally. Also read: 'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy amid COVID-19 crisis The epidemic that began in China has killed 17000 people globally and infected 4,00000 people according to data by John Hopkins University. Also read: Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered? The world body, based out of New York has moved its operations virtually and is meeting through video conference now due to the COVID crisis. Also read: Could United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19? It is interesting to know that Chair for UNSC for March is China. The monthly chair of the UNSC decides what is on the agenda and guides the body. Earlier this month, when asked about will UNSC discuss COVID Zhang Jun, China's envoy to UN said, "Council members generally feel there is no reason to panic at the moment and plan to monitor the situation....(with) COVID-19 currently not on the organ’s agenda." Explaining, "The virus falls under the umbrella of global public health and security, rather than the Council’s geopolitical scope", which is the mandate of the body. The body is also divided over a resolution on the crisis, with China particularly having issues with the phrasing of the documents on COVID. United Nations' health body--world health organisation (WHO) has itself come under much criticism in the delay to declare it a pandemic. The pandemic has accelerated fast and according to WHO's estimates, it took 67 days from the first reported case to reach the first 100,000 cases, 11 days for the second 100,000 cases and just 4 days for the third 100,000 cases. The UNSC last met on 12 March & before that discussed "peace and security in Africa: countering terrorism and extremism in Africa" and the situation in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, the President of the General Assembly Tijjani Muhammad-Bande has presented a proposal on how General assembly can take essential decisions related to the organisation in the current situation. Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General said, "He submitted a draft decision that would enable the General Assembly to adopt essential decisions under a silence procedure. If a plenary meeting of the General Assembly is not practicable due to the pandemic, the proposal would authorize the President of the GA to circulate, after consultation with the General Committee, draft decisions of the Assembly to all Member States under a silence procedure of at least 72 hours. If the silence is not broken, the decision shall be considered adopted. " Meanwhile, G20 has moved fast with G20 video meet all set to happen on Thursday. This is for the first time G20 leaders will be meeting via video conference. The group., that emerged after the 2008 global financial crisis has emerged as a major political-economic forum to discuss global issues and crisis in last one decade. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has written to G20 leaders urging them to take concerted and decisive action on the current global health crisis. Calling for a “war-time” plan, Guterres urged G20 leaders to step forward with a "strong response package" to address the various threats posed by COVID. UN will on Wednesday launch the COVID-19 Global Humanitarian Response Plan, which will assist people in vulnerable countries. The Estonian Mission to the UN was preparing a Security Council statement on Covid-19 but sources told, it had to put in on hold as not all Council members agreed to do a statement. But sources were optimistic that "as things progress quite fast, let’s wait and see how we will go from here."

United Nations still to discuss Covid-19 crisis formally

China lifted tough restrictions on the province at the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak on Wednesday after a months-long lockdown as the country reported no new domestic cases.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-original-epicentre-of-coronavirus-wuhan-really-recovered-288306">Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered?</a>&nbsp;

But there were another 47 imported infections from overseas, the National Health Commission said, as the number of cases brought into the country continued to swell.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cure-cant-be-worse-than-problem-announces-trump-as-he-vows-to-reopen-us-economy-amid-covid-19-crisis-288294" hreflang="en">'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy amid COVID-19 crisis</a>

In total, 474 imported infections have been diagnosed in China -- mostly Chinese nationals returning home according to the foreign ministry.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-united-states-become-the-next-epicentre-of-covid-19-288258" hreflang="en">Could United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19?</a>&nbsp;

Four more people died, health officials said Wednesday, three in central Hubei province where the virus first emerged late last year.

China announced Tuesday that the lockdown would be lifted on more than 50 million people in Hubei, with residents now allowed to leave if healthy, with some airports and train stations, opening.

The city of Wuhan -- the initial epicentre of the outbreak -- will allow residents to leave from April 8.

Hubei ordered the shutdown in January but had been gradually easing rules and permitting people to move about within the province and return to work over recent days.

Schools remain closed, however, There have been more than 81,200 cases of COVID-19 in China and 3,281 deaths from the virus.

New cases have slowed dramatically over the last month.

But as nations globally struggle to contain the pandemic, surging numbers of imported cases in China are fuelling anxiety about a possible second wave of infections just as the country seems to be bringing its outbreak under control.

Many cities have brought in tough rules to quarantine arrivals, and all Beijing-bound international flights are being diverted to other urban centres where passengers are screened for the virus.

China lifted tough restrictions on the province at the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak on Wednesday after a months-long lockdown as the country reported no new domestic cases.

China lifted tough restrictions on the province at the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak on Wednesday after a months-long lockdown as the country reported no new domestic cases. Also read: Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered? But there were another 47 imported infections from overseas, the National Health Commission said, as the number of cases brought into the country continued to swell. Also read: 'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy amid COVID-19 crisis In total, 474 imported infections have been diagnosed in China -- mostly Chinese nationals returning home according to the foreign ministry. Also read: Could United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19? Four more people died, health officials said Wednesday, three in central Hubei province where the virus first emerged late last year. China announced Tuesday that the lockdown would be lifted on more than 50 million people in Hubei, with residents now allowed to leave if healthy, with some airports and train stations, opening. The city of Wuhan -- the initial epicentre of the outbreak -- will allow residents to leave from April 8. Hubei ordered the shutdown in January but had been gradually easing rules and permitting people to move about within the province and return to work over recent days. Schools remain closed, however, There have been more than 81,200 cases of COVID-19 in China and 3,281 deaths from the virus. New cases have slowed dramatically over the last month. But as nations globally struggle to contain the pandemic, surging numbers of imported cases in China are fuelling anxiety about a possible second wave of infections just as the country seems to be bringing its outbreak under control. Many cities have brought in tough rules to quarantine arrivals, and all Beijing-bound international flights are being diverted to other urban centres where passengers are screened for the virus.

China lifts travel restrictions in Hubei province after months of coronavirus lockdown

The number of confirmed coronavirus infection cases in Pakistan has risen to 1037, including seven deaths, authorities said on Wednesday.

The total number of coronavirus positive case has touched 1,037 in Pakistan with 413 cases in Sindh; 115 in Balochistan; 296 in Punjab; 117 in K-P; 80 in Gilgit-Baltistan; 15 in Islamabad; and one in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, The Express Tribune reported.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Kahn on Sunday had rejected the proposal for the complete lockdown to combat the coronavirus outbreak, saying that state-imposed curfew is not possible in the country as one-fourth of its population is under the below the poverty line and survives on daily wages.

"A complete lockdown means imposing a curfew administered by state and army, forcing people to stay indoors. Our country`s 25 per cent population lives below the poverty line and survives on daily wages. We are taking steps, keeping our on-ground status in mind," Pakistan Prime Minister's Office wrote on Twitter.

Earlier, In an interview, Khan had said that he fears Pakistan won't be able to cope with a major outbreak, saying the country's health facilities would be overwhelmed and would lack resources.

The country had reported its seventh death on Tuesday, involving a 57-year-old patient who was undergoing treatment at Mayo Hospital in Lahore.&nbsp;

Over 2.3 billion people have been asked to stay at home as governments across the world tackle the World Health Organisation recognised 'pandemic'.&nbsp;

The deadly coronavirus has claimed 18,957 lives and infected 425,902 people globally. Total 109,241 people have been recovered from this deadly virus. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The number of confirmed coronavirus infection cases in Pakistan has risen to 1037, including seven deaths, authorities said on Wednesday. The total number of coronavirus positive case has touched 1,037 in Pakistan with 413 cases in Sindh; 115 in Balochistan; 296 in Punjab; 117 in K-P; 80 in Gilgit-Baltistan; 15 in Islamabad; and one in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, The Express Tribune reported.

The number of confirmed coronavirus infection cases in Pakistan has risen to 1037, including seven deaths, authorities said on Wednesday. The total number of coronavirus positive case has touched 1,037 in Pakistan with 413 cases in Sindh; 115 in Balochistan; 296 in Punjab; 117 in K-P; 80 in Gilgit-Baltistan; 15 in Islamabad; and one in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, The Express Tribune reported. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Kahn on Sunday had rejected the proposal for the complete lockdown to combat the coronavirus outbreak, saying that state-imposed curfew is not possible in the country as one-fourth of its population is under the below the poverty line and survives on daily wages. "A complete lockdown means imposing a curfew administered by state and army, forcing people to stay indoors. Our country`s 25 per cent population lives below the poverty line and survives on daily wages. We are taking steps, keeping our on-ground status in mind," Pakistan Prime Minister's Office wrote on Twitter. Earlier, In an interview, Khan had said that he fears Pakistan won't be able to cope with a major outbreak, saying the country's health facilities would be overwhelmed and would lack resources. The country had reported its seventh death on Tuesday, involving a 57-year-old patient who was undergoing treatment at Mayo Hospital in Lahore. Over 2.3 billion people have been asked to stay at home as governments across the world tackle the World Health Organisation recognised 'pandemic'. The deadly coronavirus has claimed 18,957 lives and infected 425,902 people globally. Total 109,241 people have been recovered from this deadly virus. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus in Pakistan: Number of case cross 1000, 7 dead

In an Instagram post on Tuesday, Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg said that she likely contracted the coronavirus 
 
The teen climate activist said that she had recovered after isolating herself for the last two weeks.&nbsp;

Despite having symptoms, the 17-year-old said she was not tested for Covid-19.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-original-epicentre-of-coronavirus-wuhan-really-recovered-288306">Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered?</a>&nbsp;

Thunberg urged her followers to heed warnings by health officials to stay at home to slow the spread of the virus, especially in high-risk groups.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cure-cant-be-worse-than-problem-announces-trump-as-he-vows-to-reopen-us-economy-amid-covid-19-crisis-288294" hreflang="en">'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy amid COVID-19 crisis</a>

"Around ten days ago I started feeling some symptoms... I was feeling tired, had shivers, a sore throat and coughed," she said in the post.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-HwpQkJqrc/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">The last two weeks I’ve stayed inside. When I returned from my trip around Central Europe I isolated myself (in a borrowed apartment away from my mother and sister) since the number of cases of COVID-19 (in Germany for instance) were similar to Italy in the beginning. Around ten days ago I started feeling some symptoms, exactly the same time as my father - who traveled with me from Brussels. I was feeling tired, had shivers, a sore throat and coughed. My dad experienced the same symptoms, but much more intense and with a fever. In Sweden you can not test yourself for COVID-19 unless you’re in need of emergent medical treatment. Everyone feeling ill are told to stay at home and isolate themselves. I have therefore not been tested for COVID-19, but it’s extremely likely that I’ve had it, given the combined symptoms and circumstances. Now I’ve basically recovered, but - AND THIS IS THE BOTTOM LINE: I almost didn’t feel ill. My last cold was much worse than this! Had it not been for someone else having the virus simultainously I might not even have suspected anything. Then I would just have thought I was feeling unusually tired with a bit of a cough. And this it what makes it so much more dangerous. Many (especially young people) might not notice any symptoms at all, or very mild symptoms. Then they don’t know they have the virus and can pass it on to people in risk groups. We who don’t belong to a risk group have an enormous responsibility, our actions can be the difference between life and death for many others. Please keep that in mind, follow the advice from experts and your local authorities and #StayAtHome to slow the spread of the virus. And remember to always take care of each other and help those in need. #COVID #flattenthecurve</a>

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In early March, Thunberg, who spearheaded the "school strike for climate" movement, called for a digital protest so as to avoid large gatherings that could exacerbate the spread of the new coronavirus.

She had invited activists to post photos of themselves with the word #ClimateStrikeOnline every Friday instead of attending demonstrations in the streets.

(With inputs from agencies)

In an Instagram post on Tuesday, Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg said that she likely contracted the coronavirus The teen climate activist said that she had recovered after isolating herself for the last two weeks.

In an Instagram post on Tuesday, Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg said that she likely contracted the coronavirus The teen climate activist said that she had recovered after isolating herself for the last two weeks. Despite having symptoms, the 17-year-old said she was not tested for Covid-19. Also read: Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered? Thunberg urged her followers to heed warnings by health officials to stay at home to slow the spread of the virus, especially in high-risk groups. Also read: 'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy amid COVID-19 crisis "Around ten days ago I started feeling some symptoms... I was feeling tired, had shivers, a sore throat and coughed," she said in the post. View this post on Instagram The last two weeks I’ve stayed inside. When I returned from my trip around Central Europe I isolated myself (in a borrowed apartment away from my mother and sister) since the number of cases of COVID-19 (in Germany for instance) were similar to Italy in the beginning. Around ten days ago I started feeling some symptoms, exactly the same time as my father - who traveled with me from Brussels. I was feeling tired, had shivers, a sore throat and coughed. My dad experienced the same symptoms, but much more intense and with a fever. In Sweden you can not test yourself for COVID-19 unless you’re in need of emergent medical treatment. Everyone feeling ill are told to stay at home and isolate themselves. I have therefore not been tested for COVID-19, but it’s extremely likely that I’ve had it, given the combined symptoms and circumstances. Now I’ve basically recovered, but - AND THIS IS THE BOTTOM LINE: I almost didn’t feel ill. My last cold was much worse than this! Had it not been for someone else having the virus simultainously I might not even have suspected anything. Then I would just have thought I was feeling unusually tired with a bit of a cough. And this it what makes it so much more dangerous. Many (especially young people) might not notice any symptoms at all, or very mild symptoms. Then they don’t know they have the virus and can pass it on to people in risk groups. We who don’t belong to a risk group have an enormous responsibility, our actions can be the difference between life and death for many others. Please keep that in mind, follow the advice from experts and your local authorities and #StayAtHome to slow the spread of the virus. And remember to always take care of each other and help those in need. #COVID #flattenthecurve A post shared by Greta Thunberg (@gretathunberg) on Mar 24, 2020 at 8:22am PDT × In early March, Thunberg, who spearheaded the "school strike for climate" movement, called for a digital protest so as to avoid large gatherings that could exacerbate the spread of the new coronavirus. She had invited activists to post photos of themselves with the word #ClimateStrikeOnline every Friday instead of attending demonstrations in the streets. (With inputs from agencies)

Greta Thunberg says she 'likely' had Covid-19 infection; urges young people to stay home

As the coronavirus spreads across the United States, Chinese students from wealthy families are persuading their parents to pay tens of thousands of dollars for seats on private jets to get home.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/has-the-original-epicentre-of-coronavirus-wuhan-really-recovered-288306">Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered?</a>&nbsp;

The alternative, in a world of locked borders and grounded commercial planes, is 60-hour flights with multiple transits hops over the Pacific. Jeff Gong, a lawyer in Shanghai, asked his daughter, a high school student in Wisconsin if she wanted 180,000 yuan ($25,460) as pocket money or a ticket on a private flight home."My daughter begged me to get her back home. She said 'No papa, I don't want the money, I want to go home'," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-united-states-become-the-next-epicentre-of-covid-19-288258" hreflang="en">Could United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19?</a>&nbsp;

US-based Chinese students are scrambling to get home as U.S infections top 50,000 while new cases in China - where the flu-like virus emerged in humans late last year - have fallen to zero.The sense of urgency is further heightened by the dramatic cutback in flight capacity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cure-cant-be-worse-than-problem-announces-trump-as-he-vows-to-reopen-us-economy-amid-covid-19-crisis-288294" hreflang="en">'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy amid COVID-19 crisis</a>

On Tuesday, 3,102 out of 3,800 planned commercial flights to and from China were cancelled, according to aviation data provider VariFlight."(Education) agents and schools are the ones making contact on behalf of the Chinese families looking to group to arrange a private charter, given the lack of airline flights," said Annelies Garcia, commercial director for Private Fly, a global booking service for charter flights.

But even the window for chartered flights is closing fast, further elevating prices. Beijing has banned all chartered flights from overseas and Shanghai is expected to follow suit soon

Hong Kong and Macau have blocked transit flights

US-based Air Charter Service can fly passengers from Los Angeles to Shanghai on a 14-seat Bombardier 6000 for 2.3 million yuan ($325,300), or about $23,000 for a spot

"We have arranged several private jets travelling from the US to China repatriating Chinese nationals with routes including New York and Boston to Shanghai, San Jose to Hong Kong and Los Angeles to Guangzhou," said Glenn Phillips, a PR and advertising manager at Air Charter Service

"The prices range greatly depending on the positioning of the aircraft on the dates and time requested, and the exact route."But even the well-heeled have to wrestle with logistics.Air charter providers have been notified informally that private jets registered in China are not allowed to land in the United States, and those registered in the United States cannot land in China, two sources at such firms told Reuters

"The Chinese government is reluctant to let people abroad to come back, though they cannot make it too obvious. We have received a lot of verbal guidance to restrict chartered flights these days and the door is closing rapidly," one of them said.Jet operators circumvent the restrictions by either getting planes from other countries to run the U.S.-China routes or arranging transfers in Tokyo, they said.

"Operators of U.S or Chinese-registered aircraft are not permitted to land in each other's countries at the moment, so for U.S.-China route inquiries, we are working with operators of long-range jets based elsewhere," said Private Fly's Garcia

The Civil Aviation Administration of China did not respond to a Reuters request for comment.

As the coronavirus spreads across the United States, Chinese students from wealthy families are persuading their parents to pay tens of thousands of dollars for seats on private jets to get home.

As the coronavirus spreads across the United States, Chinese students from wealthy families are persuading their parents to pay tens of thousands of dollars for seats on private jets to get home. Also read: Has the original epicentre of coronavirus - Wuhan really recovered? The alternative, in a world of locked borders and grounded commercial planes, is 60-hour flights with multiple transits hops over the Pacific. Jeff Gong, a lawyer in Shanghai, asked his daughter, a high school student in Wisconsin if she wanted 180,000 yuan ($25,460) as pocket money or a ticket on a private flight home."My daughter begged me to get her back home. She said 'No papa, I don't want the money, I want to go home'," he said. Also read: Could United States become the next epicentre of COVID-19? US-based Chinese students are scrambling to get home as U.S infections top 50,000 while new cases in China - where the flu-like virus emerged in humans late last year - have fallen to zero.The sense of urgency is further heightened by the dramatic cutback in flight capacity. Also read: 'Cure can't be worse than problem', announces Trump as he vows to reopen US economy amid COVID-19 crisis On Tuesday, 3,102 out of 3,800 planned commercial flights to and from China were cancelled, according to aviation data provider VariFlight."(Education) agents and schools are the ones making contact on behalf of the Chinese families looking to group to arrange a private charter, given the lack of airline flights," said Annelies Garcia, commercial director for Private Fly, a global booking service for charter flights. But even the window for chartered flights is closing fast, further elevating prices. Beijing has banned all chartered flights from overseas and Shanghai is expected to follow suit soon Hong Kong and Macau have blocked transit flights US-based Air Charter Service can fly passengers from Los Angeles to Shanghai on a 14-seat Bombardier 6000 for 2.3 million yuan ($325,300), or about $23,000 for a spot "We have arranged several private jets travelling from the US to China repatriating Chinese nationals with routes including New York and Boston to Shanghai, San Jose to Hong Kong and Los Angeles to Guangzhou," said Glenn Phillips, a PR and advertising manager at Air Charter Service "The prices range greatly depending on the positioning of the aircraft on the dates and time requested, and the exact route."But even the well-heeled have to wrestle with logistics.Air charter providers have been notified informally that private jets registered in China are not allowed to land in the United States, and those registered in the United States cannot land in China, two sources at such firms told Reuters "The Chinese government is reluctant to let people abroad to come back, though they cannot make it too obvious. We have received a lot of verbal guidance to restrict chartered flights these days and the door is closing rapidly," one of them said.Jet operators circumvent the restrictions by either getting planes from other countries to run the U.S.-China routes or arranging transfers in Tokyo, they said. "Operators of U.S or Chinese-registered aircraft are not permitted to land in each other's countries at the moment, so for U.S.-China route inquiries, we are working with operators of long-range jets based elsewhere," said Private Fly's Garcia The Civil Aviation Administration of China did not respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Chinese students fleeing virus-hit US pay $20,000 for seats on private jets

The IT city of Bengaluru got its first integrated war room to combat the Covid-19 outbreak. The state of Karnataka has so far detected 38 cases, most of which are in the capital city Bengaluru. The war room was built by the BBMP in just 24 hours and will bring all relevant departments under one roof to tackle the virus problem in a more streamlined manner. &nbsp;

'This war room is a tool to track the location of the Covid-19 positive patients, monitor those home quarantined and those who have returned from various foreign countries. The war room will also monitor the primary and secondary contacts of all the positive cases' said Anil Kumar, BBMP Commissioner. &nbsp;

The war room will run 24/7 and will serve as a virtual training centre for health professionals and government officials. The technologies in the war room will enable the integration of the health department with police, hospitals, surveillance teams, Asha workers and Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board. Interactive screens in the war room allow for mapping of each Covid-19 case, positive and suspected, using Geographical Information System. Bengaluru-based pro-digital labs that have set up the war room might also set up one nationally.

'Till today we have been tracking patients manually through excel sheets. But going forward if the data builds up we need to be equipped with the right technologies and infrastructure to tackle the situation. At the command centre, we also have GPS tracking system to track the movement of our health workers and service vehicles. We have plans of purchasing disinfection vehicles to spray disinfectants across the city. The movement of each of these vehicles will be monitored from our command centre. This allows transparency in the administration.' said Upendra Kumar, Director, Pro Digital Labs&nbsp;

The system can also draw up containment plans using Heat Mapping Technologies. The home quarantined cases are tracked using GPS and if they are found to be leaving their homes. 'All the zones are mapped. From Jt Commissioners to Asha workers, everyone will be given the information. Those who are home quarantined and attempt to violate it, we can track it when their phones leave the house. We inform the local police and the local health department. That is how we are managing it.' said Upendra Kumar.&nbsp;

Apart from using the GPS mechanism to restrict home quarantined persons, officials are also employing the physical method where neighbours and RWAs are asked to keep a watch on the person(s). The home quarantined patients are stamped and notice is served to ask them to follow the home quarantine rules prescribed by the GOI. The primary and secondary contacts of confirmed cases are also being stamped to ensure they stay in-home quarantine.&nbsp;

'Once the stamping has been done, as a follow-up measure, every 2-3 days there will be a phone call which will go from the war room to ascertain whether the person has started developing symptoms like cough, cold, fever, sneezing etc. If he/she has developed symptoms we immediately take them for testing. Secondly, we check if any of their family members are showing symptoms and the same protocol is followed. We will do this 3-4 times over 14 days to keep a track if the suspected cases are turning into positive cases. This monitoring is happening from the war room.' said Anil Kumar. &nbsp;

The war room also provides facilities where doctors and healthcare professionals can be apprised of Covid-19 protocols using video conferencing. Most importantly, the war room will be handling the growingly cumbersome data of contact tracing. 'So if a person has been identified as a positive case, the person is shifted to the isolation hospital. Then a 3km radius around the patient's home will be identified as the containment zone. Another 5km radius beyond that is the buffer zone. All houses in this 8km radius will be visited by our teams from the BBMP and Health dept and awareness given to them about coronavirus and what precautionary measures they have to take. These activities are tracked and initiated from the war room' said the BBMP Commissioner.&nbsp;

A team of 40-50 professionals have been working round the clock to build the war room and develop software applications on a war footing. The war room will soon be used for self-reporting and an application is being developed for the same. 27 cases in BBMP limits, 22,600 persons with a travel history and 3000 persons in the primary and secondary contact list are currently being tracked through the war room. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The IT city of Bengaluru got its first integrated war room to combat the Covid-19 outbreak. The state of Karnataka has so far detected 38 cases, most of which are in the capital city Bengaluru.

The IT city of Bengaluru got its first integrated war room to combat the Covid-19 outbreak. The state of Karnataka has so far detected 38 cases, most of which are in the capital city Bengaluru. The war room was built by the BBMP in just 24 hours and will bring all relevant departments under one roof to tackle the virus problem in a more streamlined manner. 'This war room is a tool to track the location of the Covid-19 positive patients, monitor those home quarantined and those who have returned from various foreign countries. The war room will also monitor the primary and secondary contacts of all the positive cases' said Anil Kumar, BBMP Commissioner. The war room will run 24/7 and will serve as a virtual training centre for health professionals and government officials. The technologies in the war room will enable the integration of the health department with police, hospitals, surveillance teams, Asha workers and Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board. Interactive screens in the war room allow for mapping of each Covid-19 case, positive and suspected, using Geographical Information System. Bengaluru-based pro-digital labs that have set up the war room might also set up one nationally. 'Till today we have been tracking patients manually through excel sheets. But going forward if the data builds up we need to be equipped with the right technologies and infrastructure to tackle the situation. At the command centre, we also have GPS tracking system to track the movement of our health workers and service vehicles. We have plans of purchasing disinfection vehicles to spray disinfectants across the city. The movement of each of these vehicles will be monitored from our command centre. This allows transparency in the administration.' said Upendra Kumar, Director, Pro Digital Labs The system can also draw up containment plans using Heat Mapping Technologies. The home quarantined cases are tracked using GPS and if they are found to be leaving their homes. 'All the zones are mapped. From Jt Commissioners to Asha workers, everyone will be given the information. Those who are home quarantined and attempt to violate it, we can track it when their phones leave the house. We inform the local police and the local health department. That is how we are managing it.' said Upendra Kumar. Apart from using the GPS mechanism to restrict home quarantined persons, officials are also employing the physical method where neighbours and RWAs are asked to keep a watch on the person(s). The home quarantined patients are stamped and notice is served to ask them to follow the home quarantine rules prescribed by the GOI. The primary and secondary contacts of confirmed cases are also being stamped to ensure they stay in-home quarantine. 'Once the stamping has been done, as a follow-up measure, every 2-3 days there will be a phone call which will go from the war room to ascertain whether the person has started developing symptoms like cough, cold, fever, sneezing etc. If he/she has developed symptoms we immediately take them for testing. Secondly, we check if any of their family members are showing symptoms and the same protocol is followed. We will do this 3-4 times over 14 days to keep a track if the suspected cases are turning into positive cases. This monitoring is happening from the war room.' said Anil Kumar. The war room also provides facilities where doctors and healthcare professionals can be apprised of Covid-19 protocols using video conferencing. Most importantly, the war room will be handling the growingly cumbersome data of contact tracing. 'So if a person has been identified as a positive case, the person is shifted to the isolation hospital. Then a 3km radius around the patient's home will be identified as the containment zone. Another 5km radius beyond that is the buffer zone. All houses in this 8km radius will be visited by our teams from the BBMP and Health dept and awareness given to them about coronavirus and what precautionary measures they have to take. These activities are tracked and initiated from the war room' said the BBMP Commissioner. A team of 40-50 professionals have been working round the clock to build the war room and develop software applications on a war footing. The war room will soon be used for self-reporting and an application is being developed for the same. 27 cases in BBMP limits, 22,600 persons with a travel history and 3000 persons in the primary and secondary contact list are currently being tracked through the war room.

Bengaluru's war room uses technology to contain covid-19

G20 leaders will meet via video conference on Thursday to discuss the coronavirus crisis. The idea of the summit was discussed by Indian PM Modi with other G20 leaders like Australian PM Scott Morrison &amp; Chair of G20 Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman Al Saud.&nbsp;

The meet will happen from 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Arabian Standard Time (AST) and before that on Wednesday G20 Sherpas will meet.&nbsp;

The Sherpa meet that will take place from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM, AST. India will be represented by its G20 Sherpa Suresh Prabhu.

Speaking to WION last week, Suresh Prabhu said, "Our honourable Prime Minister has always taken a lead in dealing with global issues.&nbsp;

G20, the grouping, representing 86% of the global GDP is a forum that can play a leadership role. Coronavirus has become one of the most destabilising factors, economically, socially, politically all over the world. A situation like this must have prevailed during the 2nd-second world war, businesses are shutting down, people are apprehensive."

Other G20 member countries have lauded India's role at the grouping regarding the need for a summit via video conference on coronavirus outbreak.

French envoy Emmanuel Lenain asked about the initiative had said, "We expect a lot from India, India is going to be the chair of G20 in 2022. In the run-up to this big year, we expect India to be very dynamic in raising the issue within G20."

PM Modi had also called for a SAARC video conference on the crisis which took place earlier this month. New Delhi announced a COVID emergency fund and said its rapid response teams are at the disposal of all SAARC countries.

All SAARC countries, barring Pakistan have announced contribution for SAARC COVID Fund. Total contribution by COVID SAARC Fund by India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Afghanistan, Maldives &amp; Bhutan stands at $18.3 million.

G20 leaders will meet via video conference on Thursday to discuss the coronavirus crisis. The idea of the summit was discussed by Indian PM Modi with other G20 leaders like Australian PM Scott Morrison & Chair of G20 Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman Al Saud.

G20 leaders will meet via video conference on Thursday to discuss the coronavirus crisis. The idea of the summit was discussed by Indian PM Modi with other G20 leaders like Australian PM Scott Morrison & Chair of G20 Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman Al Saud. The meet will happen from 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Arabian Standard Time (AST) and before that on Wednesday G20 Sherpas will meet. The Sherpa meet that will take place from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM, AST. India will be represented by its G20 Sherpa Suresh Prabhu. Speaking to WION last week, Suresh Prabhu said, "Our honourable Prime Minister has always taken a lead in dealing with global issues. G20, the grouping, representing 86% of the global GDP is a forum that can play a leadership role. Coronavirus has become one of the most destabilising factors, economically, socially, politically all over the world. A situation like this must have prevailed during the 2nd-second world war, businesses are shutting down, people are apprehensive." Other G20 member countries have lauded India's role at the grouping regarding the need for a summit via video conference on coronavirus outbreak. French envoy Emmanuel Lenain asked about the initiative had said, "We expect a lot from India, India is going to be the chair of G20 in 2022. In the run-up to this big year, we expect India to be very dynamic in raising the issue within G20." PM Modi had also called for a SAARC video conference on the crisis which took place earlier this month. New Delhi announced a COVID emergency fund and said its rapid response teams are at the disposal of all SAARC countries. All SAARC countries, barring Pakistan have announced contribution for SAARC COVID Fund. Total contribution by COVID SAARC Fund by India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Afghanistan, Maldives & Bhutan stands at $18.3 million.

Emergency G20 summit on Covid-19 on Thursday via video conference

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah’s eight-month detention ended on Tuesday after the administration revoked the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) against him.

The National Conference leader, who turned 50 on March 10, has been under detention since August 5, when the Centre announced the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status under Article 370 and its bifurcation into the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The order revoking the PSA against him was issued by Home Secretary Shaleen Kabra. Abdullah was booked under the stringent act on February 5, hours before his six-month custody under preventive detention was to end.

The government has revoked his detention with immediate effect, the order stated.

Abdullah’s mother was the first to arrive at the makeshift detention centre after news came in that her son was about to be released. He was kept at the state guesthouse Hari Nivas, just a few hundred metres from his official residence.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Had lunch with my mum &amp; dad for the first time in almost 8 months. I can’t remember a better meal even though I’ve been in a bit of a daze &amp; don’t remember what I ate ☺️ <a href="https://t.co/W4duuhCVjI">pic.twitter.com/W4duuhCVjI</a>
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmarAbdullah/status/1242372950692528129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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His father, former chief minister Farooq Abdullah, was also charged under the PSA and released on March 13 after 221 days in detention. PDP leader and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti continues to be under detention.

On February 5, Omar Abdullah, who was junior foreign minister and commerce minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led Cabinet in 2000, was served with a three-page dossier that was challenged in the Supreme Court by his sister Sara Abdullah Pilot.

The Supreme Court last week asked the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir administration to inform by this week if it was releasing him.

A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and M R Shah told the counsel appearing for the Centre that Abdullah’s sister’s plea against his detention would be heard on merit if he was not released soon.

The petition, which may now become infructuous, could have come up for hearing on Wednesday or later this week.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah’s eight-month detention ended on Tuesday after the administration revoked the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) against him.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah’s eight-month detention ended on Tuesday after the administration revoked the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) against him. The National Conference leader, who turned 50 on March 10, has been under detention since August 5, when the Centre announced the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status under Article 370 and its bifurcation into the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The order revoking the PSA against him was issued by Home Secretary Shaleen Kabra. Abdullah was booked under the stringent act on February 5, hours before his six-month custody under preventive detention was to end. The government has revoked his detention with immediate effect, the order stated. Abdullah’s mother was the first to arrive at the makeshift detention centre after news came in that her son was about to be released. He was kept at the state guesthouse Hari Nivas, just a few hundred metres from his official residence. Had lunch with my mum & dad for the first time in almost 8 months. I can’t remember a better meal even though I’ve been in a bit of a daze & don’t remember what I ate ☺️ pic.twitter.com/W4duuhCVjI — Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) March 24, 2020 × His father, former chief minister Farooq Abdullah, was also charged under the PSA and released on March 13 after 221 days in detention. PDP leader and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti continues to be under detention. On February 5, Omar Abdullah, who was junior foreign minister and commerce minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led Cabinet in 2000, was served with a three-page dossier that was challenged in the Supreme Court by his sister Sara Abdullah Pilot. The Supreme Court last week asked the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir administration to inform by this week if it was releasing him. A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and M R Shah told the counsel appearing for the Centre that Abdullah’s sister’s plea against his detention would be heard on merit if he was not released soon. The petition, which may now become infructuous, could have come up for hearing on Wednesday or later this week.

Omar Abdullah released after 8 months in detention, PSA charges revoked

The government of India on Tuesday has asked states to impose curfew wherever necessary as people continue to venture out despite coronavirus lockdown order.

Multiple new positive cases have been reported from various parts of the country. As Maharashtra remains the worst-affected in India, section 144 has been imposed in the state from Monday.

The number of positive cases in India jumps to 509 and the death toll stands at 10, the lockdown comes into effect in 32 states and Union Territories in the country.&nbsp;

Over 1.5 billion people have been asked to stay at home as governments across the world tackle the World Health Organisation recognised 'pandemic'.&nbsp;

The deadly coronavirus has claimed 16,524 lives and infected 379,080 people globally. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, as many as 30 states/UTs have been placed under complete lockdown.

The Centre has also decided to restrict all domestic transport services—railways, flights and interstate buses—across the country on a massive scale that has never been witnessed by the country.

All domestic flights from midnight on March 24 have been cancelled. However, these restrictions will not apply to cargo flights.

The government of India on Tuesday has asked states to impose curfew wherever necessary as people continue to venture out despite coronavirus lockdown order. Multiple new positive cases have been reported from various parts of the country.

The government of India on Tuesday has asked states to impose curfew wherever necessary as people continue to venture out despite coronavirus lockdown order. Multiple new positive cases have been reported from various parts of the country. As Maharashtra remains the worst-affected in India, section 144 has been imposed in the state from Monday. The number of positive cases in India jumps to 509 and the death toll stands at 10, the lockdown comes into effect in 32 states and Union Territories in the country. Over 1.5 billion people have been asked to stay at home as governments across the world tackle the World Health Organisation recognised 'pandemic'. The deadly coronavirus has claimed 16,524 lives and infected 379,080 people globally. Meanwhile, as many as 30 states/UTs have been placed under complete lockdown. The Centre has also decided to restrict all domestic transport services—railways, flights and interstate buses—across the country on a massive scale that has never been witnessed by the country. All domestic flights from midnight on March 24 have been cancelled. However, these restrictions will not apply to cargo flights.

Impose curfew wherever necessary: Centre tells states

The government of India has decided to cover Covid-19 treatment of in private hospitals under Ayushman Bharat — the central government’s health insurance scheme for the deprived.

According to the National Health Authority (NHA) all Ayushman Bharat beneficiaries will be included in the scheme.

According to health ministry data, there are 492 confirmed cases in the country at present; this number has been rising continuously.

Currently, the Ayushman-PMJAY scheme, which does not deal with preventive healthcare cover, offers hospitalisation packages for intensive care units, high-dependency units and normal wards.&nbsp;

There’s no provision for isolation wards under the universal health assurance scheme, which caters to underprivileged citizens with an annual cover of Rs 5 lakh per family.&nbsp;

Since isolation wards, a necessity for patients infected with the virus will be like private wards, the cost, to be borne by PMJAY, will be significantly higher.

Over 1.5 billion people have been asked to stay at home as governments across the world tackle the World Health Organisation recognised 'pandemic'.&nbsp;

The deadly coronavirus has claimed 16,524 lives and infected 379,080 people globally.&nbsp;

The government of India has decided to cover Covid-19 treatment of in private hospitals under Ayushman Bharat — the central government’s health insurance scheme for the deprived.

The government of India has decided to cover Covid-19 treatment of in private hospitals under Ayushman Bharat — the central government’s health insurance scheme for the deprived. According to the National Health Authority (NHA) all Ayushman Bharat beneficiaries will be included in the scheme. According to health ministry data, there are 492 confirmed cases in the country at present; this number has been rising continuously. Currently, the Ayushman-PMJAY scheme, which does not deal with preventive healthcare cover, offers hospitalisation packages for intensive care units, high-dependency units and normal wards. There’s no provision for isolation wards under the universal health assurance scheme, which caters to underprivileged citizens with an annual cover of Rs 5 lakh per family. Since isolation wards, a necessity for patients infected with the virus will be like private wards, the cost, to be borne by PMJAY, will be significantly higher. Over 1.5 billion people have been asked to stay at home as governments across the world tackle the World Health Organisation recognised 'pandemic'. The deadly coronavirus has claimed 16,524 lives and infected 379,080 people globally.

Ayushman Bharat to cover coronavirus treatment as number of cases rise in India

The government has decided to restrict domestic transport services—railways, flights and interstate buses—across the country on a massive scale that has never been witnessed by the country.

All domestic flights from midnight on March 24 have been cancelled. However, these restrictions will not apply to cargo flights.

"Airlines have to plan operations so as to land at their destination before 2359 hours on 24/3/2020," the Ministry said in a statement.

The deadly coronavirus has claimed 15,303 lives and infected 349,676 people globally.&nbsp;

“Our biggest challenge is how do we break this chain of transmission,” Lav Agarwal, a senior health ministry official, said at a briefing in New Delhi on Sunday.

The Centre and state governments have decided to completely lock down 19 states and 6 Union Territories across the country where coronavirus cases have been reported till March 31.

Earlier on Sunday, the Indian Railways decided to cancel all train services till March 31.

The Railways said that movement of goods trains will continue to ensure the essential supplies in various parts of the country.

Meanwhile, the government of India has asked state governments to strictly enforce lockdown and take legal action against violators, according to an official statement issued on Monday.

The government has decided to restrict domestic transport services—railways, flights and interstate buses—across the country on a massive scale that has never been witnessed by the country.

The government has decided to restrict domestic transport services—railways, flights and interstate buses—across the country on a massive scale that has never been witnessed by the country. All domestic flights from midnight on March 24 have been cancelled. However, these restrictions will not apply to cargo flights. "Airlines have to plan operations so as to land at their destination before 2359 hours on 24/3/2020," the Ministry said in a statement. The deadly coronavirus has claimed 15,303 lives and infected 349,676 people globally. “Our biggest challenge is how do we break this chain of transmission,” Lav Agarwal, a senior health ministry official, said at a briefing in New Delhi on Sunday. The Centre and state governments have decided to completely lock down 19 states and 6 Union Territories across the country where coronavirus cases have been reported till March 31. Earlier on Sunday, the Indian Railways decided to cancel all train services till March 31. The Railways said that movement of goods trains will continue to ensure the essential supplies in various parts of the country. Meanwhile, the government of India has asked state governments to strictly enforce lockdown and take legal action against violators, according to an official statement issued on Monday.

No flights, no trains and no buses: India halts its transport network to contain coronavirus

The Nepal government has closed its borders with India and China for a week starting Monday, in a bid to prevent a possible outbreak of the novel coronavirus in the Himalayan nation.

Although the cross-border human movement is halted till midnight of March 29, the supply of goods from the countries will continue as usual, Finance Minister Yuba Raj Khatiwada told a press conference on Sunday night.

"The government decided to seal both the southern and the northern borders as entire South Asia and South East Asia are heavily affected by the coronavirus pandemic. There is a greater risk of the disease spreading into Nepal due to cross-border human movement," Khatiwada said.

Nepal, which shares an 1,800-km open border with India, has total 37 motorable land entry points with it, while with China it has four such entry points.

The government's decision to seal the border with India and China came following its decision to suspend all international flights to and from Nepal effective from March 22 to March 31 as a precautionary measure to control the spread of COVID-19.

Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa on Sunday held a discussion with Indian Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra on closing the border, officials said, adding that the two sides agreed to cooperate with each other to contain the coronavirus spread.

The Nepal government will develop the Armed Police Force (APF) hospital in Kathmandu as a dedicated medical centre for COVID-19 patients, Khatiwada said.

The government will deploy medics from the Nepal Army, Nepal Police and the paramilitary forces to treat COVID-19 cases, if any, he said.

The government has also decided to set up quarantine facilities at provincial and local levels as a precautionary measure to provide quick treatment to people infected with the deadly virus.

Khatiwada said the government will contribute Rs 500 million to the Coronavirus fund it has created to purchase logistics to be used for the treatment of COVID-19 patients in case of an outbreak.

All Cabinet ministers will donate their one-month salary to the fund, he said. Meanwhile, a prominent industrialist and Norvic International Hospital chairman Basanta Kumar Chaudhary has announced to donate NPR 100 million to fund.&nbsp;

The Nepal government has closed its borders with India and China for a week starting Monday, in a bid to prevent a possible outbreak of the novel coronavirus in the Himalayan nation.

The Nepal government has closed its borders with India and China for a week starting Monday, in a bid to prevent a possible outbreak of the novel coronavirus in the Himalayan nation. Although the cross-border human movement is halted till midnight of March 29, the supply of goods from the countries will continue as usual, Finance Minister Yuba Raj Khatiwada told a press conference on Sunday night. "The government decided to seal both the southern and the northern borders as entire South Asia and South East Asia are heavily affected by the coronavirus pandemic. There is a greater risk of the disease spreading into Nepal due to cross-border human movement," Khatiwada said. Nepal, which shares an 1,800-km open border with India, has total 37 motorable land entry points with it, while with China it has four such entry points. The government's decision to seal the border with India and China came following its decision to suspend all international flights to and from Nepal effective from March 22 to March 31 as a precautionary measure to control the spread of COVID-19. Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa on Sunday held a discussion with Indian Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra on closing the border, officials said, adding that the two sides agreed to cooperate with each other to contain the coronavirus spread. The Nepal government will develop the Armed Police Force (APF) hospital in Kathmandu as a dedicated medical centre for COVID-19 patients, Khatiwada said. The government will deploy medics from the Nepal Army, Nepal Police and the paramilitary forces to treat COVID-19 cases, if any, he said. The government has also decided to set up quarantine facilities at provincial and local levels as a precautionary measure to provide quick treatment to people infected with the deadly virus. Khatiwada said the government will contribute Rs 500 million to the Coronavirus fund it has created to purchase logistics to be used for the treatment of COVID-19 patients in case of an outbreak. All Cabinet ministers will donate their one-month salary to the fund, he said. Meanwhile, a prominent industrialist and Norvic International Hospital chairman Basanta Kumar Chaudhary has announced to donate NPR 100 million to fund.

Coronavirus outbreak: Nepal seals borders with India, China

NASA said it has suspended work on building and testing the rocket and capsule for its Artemis manned mission to the Moon due to the rising number of coronavirus cases in the community.&nbsp;

The space agency is shutting down its Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans, where the Space Launch System rocket is being built, and the nearby Stennis Space Center, administrator Jim Bridenstine said late Thursday.

“The change at Stennis was made due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the community around the centre, the number of self-isolation cases within our workforce there, and one confirmed case among our Stennis team,” he said. “NASA will temporarily suspend production and testing of Space Launch System and Orion hardware. The NASA and contractors teams will complete an orderly shutdown that puts all hardware in a safe condition until work can resume.” The Space Launch System is a powerful deep-space rocket to transport astronauts to the Moon and beyond while Orion is the crew module.

The virus outbreak could hit the US plans to return to the Moon by 2024. “We realize there will be impacts to NASA missions, but as our teams work to analyze the full picture and reduce risks we understand that our top priority is the health and safety of the NASA workforce,” Bridenstine said.

A manned return to the Moon is the first part of the Artemis program to set up a long-term colony and test technologies for a crewed mission to Mars in the 2030s.

NASA said it has suspended work on building and testing the rocket and capsule for its Artemis manned mission to the Moon due to the rising number of coronavirus cases in the community.

NASA said it has suspended work on building and testing the rocket and capsule for its Artemis manned mission to the Moon due to the rising number of coronavirus cases in the community. The space agency is shutting down its Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans, where the Space Launch System rocket is being built, and the nearby Stennis Space Center, administrator Jim Bridenstine said late Thursday. “The change at Stennis was made due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the community around the centre, the number of self-isolation cases within our workforce there, and one confirmed case among our Stennis team,” he said. “NASA will temporarily suspend production and testing of Space Launch System and Orion hardware. The NASA and contractors teams will complete an orderly shutdown that puts all hardware in a safe condition until work can resume.” The Space Launch System is a powerful deep-space rocket to transport astronauts to the Moon and beyond while Orion is the crew module. The virus outbreak could hit the US plans to return to the Moon by 2024. “We realize there will be impacts to NASA missions, but as our teams work to analyze the full picture and reduce risks we understand that our top priority is the health and safety of the NASA workforce,” Bridenstine said. A manned return to the Moon is the first part of the Artemis program to set up a long-term colony and test technologies for a crewed mission to Mars in the 2030s.

Coronavirus pandemic: NASA suspends work on Moon rocket

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