The BJP on Wednesday rejected the allegation that starvation was behind the death of passengers on 'Shramik Special' trains and said the manner in which the issue was being "politicised" was unprecedented.

"None of the deaths in Shramik trains has been caused by hunger or starvation as per postmortem reports.

Natural deaths have occurred on trains earlier too but the manner in which unfortunate deaths of shramiks (labourers) have been politicised is unprecedented without (critics) waiting to know about the exact cause of deaths," the BJP said in a statement.

Its spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain cited details of postmortem reports and comments of some of the deceased's family members to claim that they suffered from pre-existing conditions.

Dashrath Prajapati (30) suffered from chronic kidney disease, the health of Ram Ratan Ground (63) had been deteriorating, Ibrar Ahmed's postmortem report found brain stroke as cause of death and not dehydration while Arbina Khatoon suffered from pre-existing mental ailment, Hussain said, referring to some of those who died during their journey.

"We are not here to do petty politics. Government believes in tackling the problems head-on, and addressing it," he said.

The BJP's statement came after Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi hit out at the central government, saying this has been "admitted" that at least 81 deaths have happened and there are allegations that more fatalities occurred but were not being declared by the railways.

The opposition party demanded the resignation of Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, accusing the government of distorting facts on payments for these train services.

The Congress said the central government has not spent a single penny on running special trains for migrant workers returning home as Solicitor General Tushar Mehta has made it clear before the Supreme Court that state governments receiving or sending migrants were to pay for them.

Hussain reiterated that the Railways bore 85 per cent of the total cost of getting the migrants back to their home states, while the remaining 15 per cent was charged from the states.

The solicitor general also said the same in the Supreme Court when asked who will pay the fare which is covered by the state, Hussain said.

'Shramik Special' trains are being supplied with multiple meals and adequate drinking water, with over 1. 5 crore meals and two crore packaged water bottles having been provided by the railways free of cost, he said.

As many as 4197 of these special trains have carried 58 lakh passengers to their home states between May 1 and June 3, the BJP leader said.

The BJP on Wednesday rejected the allegation that starvation was behind the death of passengers on 'Shramik Special' trains and said the manner in which the issue was being "politicised" was unprecedented.

The BJP on Wednesday rejected the allegation that starvation was behind the death of passengers on 'Shramik Special' trains and said the manner in which the issue was being "politicised" was unprecedented. "None of the deaths in Shramik trains has been caused by hunger or starvation as per postmortem reports. Natural deaths have occurred on trains earlier too but the manner in which unfortunate deaths of shramiks (labourers) have been politicised is unprecedented without (critics) waiting to know about the exact cause of deaths," the BJP said in a statement. Its spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain cited details of postmortem reports and comments of some of the deceased's family members to claim that they suffered from pre-existing conditions. Dashrath Prajapati (30) suffered from chronic kidney disease, the health of Ram Ratan Ground (63) had been deteriorating, Ibrar Ahmed's postmortem report found brain stroke as cause of death and not dehydration while Arbina Khatoon suffered from pre-existing mental ailment, Hussain said, referring to some of those who died during their journey. "We are not here to do petty politics. Government believes in tackling the problems head-on, and addressing it," he said. The BJP's statement came after Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi hit out at the central government, saying this has been "admitted" that at least 81 deaths have happened and there are allegations that more fatalities occurred but were not being declared by the railways. The opposition party demanded the resignation of Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, accusing the government of distorting facts on payments for these train services. The Congress said the central government has not spent a single penny on running special trains for migrant workers returning home as Solicitor General Tushar Mehta has made it clear before the Supreme Court that state governments receiving or sending migrants were to pay for them. Hussain reiterated that the Railways bore 85 per cent of the total cost of getting the migrants back to their home states, while the remaining 15 per cent was charged from the states. The solicitor general also said the same in the Supreme Court when asked who will pay the fare which is covered by the state, Hussain said. 'Shramik Special' trains are being supplied with multiple meals and adequate drinking water, with over 1. 5 crore meals and two crore packaged water bottles having been provided by the railways free of cost, he said. As many as 4197 of these special trains have carried 58 lakh passengers to their home states between May 1 and June 3, the BJP leader said.

'Issue being politicised': BJP says no death in Shramik trains due to starvation

COVID-19 fatalities in Maharashtra spiked by 122 on Wednesday, the highest in a single day, including 49 from worst-hit Mumbai, taking the death toll to 2,587, Health department said.

The number of cases shot up by 2,560 to 74,860, it said.

A total of 996 patients were discharged from hospitals in the day, taking the tally of the recovered cases to 32,329 so far, a statement said.

The number of active cases in the state now stands at 39,935, it said, adding that a total of 4,97,276 samples have been tested so far.

"Of the 122 deaths, 60 fatalities were reported from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), including 49 from Mumbai alone," the statement said.

Pune city, another major hotspot, reported 19 more deaths in a day, it added.

Mumbai on Wednesday reported 1,276 new COVID-19 cases and 49 deaths, taking the case count to 43,262 and the number of fatalities to 1,417, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said.

A total of 259 patients were discharged from hospitals in the last 24 hours from various COVID facilities, taking the tally of recovered cases to 17,472, it said.

The number of active cases now stands at 24,373.

"27 of the 49 deceased had pre-existing underlying health conditions," the BMC said in a release.

A total of 795 new suspected patients have been admitted in various hospitals.

Meanwhile, as rains lashed parts of Mumbai and suburbs earlier in the day, the civic body has issued an advisory fearing a rise in monsoon-related diseases in addition to the coronavirus infections.

"All citizens are requested not to ignore any fever and not to self-medicate," it said.

The civic body also asked citizens to visit nearby clinics or inform community health volunteers if they experience symptoms like fever with chills, joint pains, rashes, cough, breathlessness, diarrhea, vomiting, sore throat, and jaundice.

"All high-risk citizens having co-morbidities should continue to take their prescribed medicines and senior citizens take special care and not to go out of house," it said.

The civic body appealed to citizens to maintain premises of their residential buildings and surrounding areas clean to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes in any disposed articles.

It also asked people to void outside food and to follow personal hygiene.

The MMR accounts for 56,794 coronavirus cases and 1,742 deaths, it stated.

The total number of cases in Pune Municipal Corporation limits now stands at 7,390 with 343 deaths, while the Aurangabad city has reported 1,609 cases and 83 fatalities, it said.

The case count for Solapur city stood at 973 and fatalities at 80.

Malegaon, a hotspot in Nashik district, did not report any fresh case or death on Wednesday.

As of Tuesday, it had reported 762 cases and 58 deaths, it said.

The tally of cases in Nagpur city is 596 with 11 deaths.

601 cases with 27 fatalities have been recorded in Akola city till date.

The number of containment zones in Maharashtra now stands at 3,661.

The COVID 19 tally in Maharashtra: total cases 74,860, recoveries 32,329, deaths 2,587, active cases 39,935 and people tested 4,97,276.

COVID-19 fatalities in Maharashtra spiked by 122 on Wednesday, the highest in a single day, including 49 from worst-hit Mumbai, taking the death toll to 2,587, Health department said.

COVID-19 fatalities in Maharashtra spiked by 122 on Wednesday, the highest in a single day, including 49 from worst-hit Mumbai, taking the death toll to 2,587, Health department said. The number of cases shot up by 2,560 to 74,860, it said. A total of 996 patients were discharged from hospitals in the day, taking the tally of the recovered cases to 32,329 so far, a statement said. The number of active cases in the state now stands at 39,935, it said, adding that a total of 4,97,276 samples have been tested so far. "Of the 122 deaths, 60 fatalities were reported from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), including 49 from Mumbai alone," the statement said. Pune city, another major hotspot, reported 19 more deaths in a day, it added. Mumbai on Wednesday reported 1,276 new COVID-19 cases and 49 deaths, taking the case count to 43,262 and the number of fatalities to 1,417, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said. A total of 259 patients were discharged from hospitals in the last 24 hours from various COVID facilities, taking the tally of recovered cases to 17,472, it said. The number of active cases now stands at 24,373. "27 of the 49 deceased had pre-existing underlying health conditions," the BMC said in a release. A total of 795 new suspected patients have been admitted in various hospitals. Meanwhile, as rains lashed parts of Mumbai and suburbs earlier in the day, the civic body has issued an advisory fearing a rise in monsoon-related diseases in addition to the coronavirus infections. "All citizens are requested not to ignore any fever and not to self-medicate," it said. The civic body also asked citizens to visit nearby clinics or inform community health volunteers if they experience symptoms like fever with chills, joint pains, rashes, cough, breathlessness, diarrhea, vomiting, sore throat, and jaundice. "All high-risk citizens having co-morbidities should continue to take their prescribed medicines and senior citizens take special care and not to go out of house," it said. The civic body appealed to citizens to maintain premises of their residential buildings and surrounding areas clean to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes in any disposed articles. It also asked people to void outside food and to follow personal hygiene. The MMR accounts for 56,794 coronavirus cases and 1,742 deaths, it stated. The total number of cases in Pune Municipal Corporation limits now stands at 7,390 with 343 deaths, while the Aurangabad city has reported 1,609 cases and 83 fatalities, it said. The case count for Solapur city stood at 973 and fatalities at 80. Malegaon, a hotspot in Nashik district, did not report any fresh case or death on Wednesday. As of Tuesday, it had reported 762 cases and 58 deaths, it said. The tally of cases in Nagpur city is 596 with 11 deaths. 601 cases with 27 fatalities have been recorded in Akola city till date. The number of containment zones in Maharashtra now stands at 3,661. The COVID 19 tally in Maharashtra: total cases 74,860, recoveries 32,329, deaths 2,587, active cases 39,935 and people tested 4,97,276.

Maharashtra COVID-19 cases up by 2,560 to 74,860; 122 die in one day

India reported 9,304 new COVID-19 cases and 260 deaths in the last 24 hours. As per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data released on Thursday, a total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 2,16,919 including 1,06,737 active cases.

As many as 1,04,107 people have been cured/discharged/migrated. The death toll has now reached 6,075.

The Coronavirus outbreak (officially known as Covid-19), which started in China, has so far killed over 382,479 people across the globe and infected 6,451,966 (as on June 3, 2020). The virus has spread to 187 countries. 
 
Of the total 42,42,718 COVID-19 samples tested so far, 1,39,485 samples have been tested in the past 24 hours, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

Of the total 2,16,919 &nbsp;COVID-19 cases across the nation as many as 1,04,107 patients were cured of the viral disease, said the health ministry on Thursday. This took India's COVID-19 recovery rate to 47.99 per cent.&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Health Ministry issues guidelines for ENT (ear, nose, and throat) &nbsp;practice during the pandemic and informed that COVID-19 patients having symptoms suggestive of either ENT or respiratory symptoms, should be seen in separate screening clinic and not in ENT OPD, the health ministry issued the guideline.

(With inputs from agencies)

India reported 9,304 new COVID-19 cases and 260 deaths in the last 24 hours. As per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data released on Thursday, a total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 2,16,919 including 1,06,737 active cases.

India reported 9,304 new COVID-19 cases and 260 deaths in the last 24 hours. As per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data released on Thursday, a total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 2,16,919 including 1,06,737 active cases. As many as 1,04,107 people have been cured/discharged/migrated. The death toll has now reached 6,075. The Coronavirus outbreak (officially known as Covid-19), which started in China, has so far killed over 382,479 people across the globe and infected 6,451,966 (as on June 3, 2020). The virus has spread to 187 countries. Of the total 42,42,718 COVID-19 samples tested so far, 1,39,485 samples have been tested in the past 24 hours, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Of the total 2,16,919 COVID-19 cases across the nation as many as 1,04,107 patients were cured of the viral disease, said the health ministry on Thursday. This took India's COVID-19 recovery rate to 47.99 per cent. Meanwhile, Health Ministry issues guidelines for ENT (ear, nose, and throat) practice during the pandemic and informed that COVID-19 patients having symptoms suggestive of either ENT or respiratory symptoms, should be seen in separate screening clinic and not in ENT OPD, the health ministry issued the guideline. (With inputs from agencies)

9,304 new COVID-19 cases and 260 deaths in the last 24 hours – highest ever spike

With the biggest single-day spike at 8,909 cases in the last 24 hours India now has the fourth-highest number of active cases in the world.

The country reported 8,908 cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of coronavirus infections in India crossed the 2 lakh-mark to reach 2,07,614 on Wednesday. This includes including 5,815 deaths and 1,00,302 cured/ discharged.

As many as 217 people have died in the last 24 hours across the country.

Authorities, however, said the recovery rate of COVID-19 patients was improving consistently in India and it was in a much better position in handling the pandemic, which has seen more than 63 lakh people testing positive for this virus since its emergence in China last December and over 3.7 lakh having lost their lives globally.

With the biggest single-day spike at 8,909 cases in the last 24 hours India now has the fourth-highest number of active cases in the world. The country reported 8,908 cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of coronavirus infections in India crossed the 2 lakh-mark to reach 2,07,614 on Wednesday.

With the biggest single-day spike at 8,909 cases in the last 24 hours India now has the fourth-highest number of active cases in the world. The country reported 8,908 cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of coronavirus infections in India crossed the 2 lakh-mark to reach 2,07,614 on Wednesday. This includes including 5,815 deaths and 1,00,302 cured/ discharged. As many as 217 people have died in the last 24 hours across the country. Authorities, however, said the recovery rate of COVID-19 patients was improving consistently in India and it was in a much better position in handling the pandemic, which has seen more than 63 lakh people testing positive for this virus since its emergence in China last December and over 3.7 lakh having lost their lives globally.

India COVID-19 tally crosses 2.07 lakh, death toll at 5,815

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-cases-cross-198-lakh-mark-in-india-death-toll-at-5598-302533">Also read: COVID-19 cases cross 1.98 lakh-mark in India; death toll at 5,598</a> 
 
“While it is true that coronavirus has slowed down our growth, India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1. So in a way, we have already started getting our growth back. I have confidence in India’s capabilities, crisis management,” PM Modi said.

PM Modi was attending the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Annual Session 2020- “Getting Growth Back” where he addressed the issue of economic slowdown due to coronavirus and how to revive it as alarm bells ring for Indian economy.

Here are the highlights of PM Modi's speech:&nbsp;

1: Coronavirus is an unprecedented crisis where we have several priorities as we handle the situation — we have to revive the economy while keeping the welfare of the poor in mind. 
&nbsp; 
2: Getting growth back is what we also have our motto as we reopen the economy. I have full faith in India's crisis management, talent, technology, innovation, and intellect. 
&nbsp; 
3: I have faith in India's farmers, entrepreneurs, industry leaders. Therefore, yes, we will get our growth back. India will get its growth back. Friends, coronavirus may have impeded our speed, but the reality today is that we have left the lockdown phase behind and now we are in the Unlock 1.0 phase. 
&nbsp; 
4: A large part of the economy has reopened. The rest will reopen on June 8.&nbsp;

5: We were able to do all this because even as the rest of the world was struggling in the grips of coronavirus, we took the right steps at the right time. 
 
6:&nbsp;To bring India back on track for fast-paced growth five things are very important: Intent, Inclusion, Investment, Infrastructure, Innovation. 
 
7: Under PM Gareeb Kalyan Yojana, Rs 53,000 crore worth of financial assistance has already been provided to the poor. 
&nbsp; 
8: During the lockdown, the govt provided 80 million LPG cylinders right at the doorstep of the poor.

9: We have made decisions to make our economy and sectors future-ready. Our reforms are not scattered; rather, our reforms are planned, futuristic. For us, reforms mean taking it to the logical conclusion.

10: The private sector's participation across sectors of the economy are now truly a reality.

11: If a country like ours, which is the biggest storehouse of coal, had to import coal for its requirements, there were policy bottlenecks that needed reform.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1. Also read: COVID-19 cases cross 1.98 lakh-mark in India; death toll at 5,598 “While it is true that coronavirus has slowed down our growth, India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1. Also read: COVID-19 cases cross 1.98 lakh-mark in India; death toll at 5,598 “While it is true that coronavirus has slowed down our growth, India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1. So in a way, we have already started getting our growth back. I have confidence in India’s capabilities, crisis management,” PM Modi said. PM Modi was attending the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Annual Session 2020- “Getting Growth Back” where he addressed the issue of economic slowdown due to coronavirus and how to revive it as alarm bells ring for Indian economy. Here are the highlights of PM Modi's speech: 1: Coronavirus is an unprecedented crisis where we have several priorities as we handle the situation — we have to revive the economy while keeping the welfare of the poor in mind. 2: Getting growth back is what we also have our motto as we reopen the economy. I have full faith in India's crisis management, talent, technology, innovation, and intellect. 3: I have faith in India's farmers, entrepreneurs, industry leaders. Therefore, yes, we will get our growth back. India will get its growth back. Friends, coronavirus may have impeded our speed, but the reality today is that we have left the lockdown phase behind and now we are in the Unlock 1.0 phase. 4: A large part of the economy has reopened. The rest will reopen on June 8. 5: We were able to do all this because even as the rest of the world was struggling in the grips of coronavirus, we took the right steps at the right time. 6: To bring India back on track for fast-paced growth five things are very important: Intent, Inclusion, Investment, Infrastructure, Innovation. 7: Under PM Gareeb Kalyan Yojana, Rs 53,000 crore worth of financial assistance has already been provided to the poor. 8: During the lockdown, the govt provided 80 million LPG cylinders right at the doorstep of the poor. 9: We have made decisions to make our economy and sectors future-ready. Our reforms are not scattered; rather, our reforms are planned, futuristic. For us, reforms mean taking it to the logical conclusion. 10: The private sector's participation across sectors of the economy are now truly a reality. 11: If a country like ours, which is the biggest storehouse of coal, had to import coal for its requirements, there were policy bottlenecks that needed reform.

India has left lockdown behind, will get our growth back, says PM Modi

Coronavirus cases in India inched closer to the 2 lakh mark on Tuesday and country reported 8,171 new COVID-19 cases and 204 deaths in the last 24 hours.

The total number of cases in the country now at 1,98,706 including 97,581 active cases, 95,526 cured/discharged/migrated and 5,598 deaths, as per the latest government data. 
 
<img alt="Coronavirus cases in India" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e0bc3248-e395-4d89-bcb5-5175bc1cf057" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/0206_UPDATED_LINE_GRAPH_INDIA_COVID.jpg" />

<img alt="Coronavirus cases in India" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="697b4fbf-1399-4be1-bd64-d1a4e4e8619d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/0206_UPDATED_MAP_GFX.jpg" /> 
 
As per the latest government guidelines, religious places and places of worship for the public; hotels, restaurants and other hospitality services; and shopping malls; will be opened from June 8 across the country.

Coronavirus cases in India inched closer to the 2 lakh mark on Tuesday and country reported 8,171 new COVID-19 cases and 204 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in the country now at 1,98,706 including 97,581 active cases, 95,526 cured/discharged/migrated and 5,598 deaths, as per the latest government data.

Coronavirus cases in India inched closer to the 2 lakh mark on Tuesday and country reported 8,171 new COVID-19 cases and 204 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in the country now at 1,98,706 including 97,581 active cases, 95,526 cured/discharged/migrated and 5,598 deaths, as per the latest government data. As per the latest government guidelines, religious places and places of worship for the public; hotels, restaurants and other hospitality services; and shopping malls; will be opened from June 8 across the country.

COVID-19 cases cross 1.98 lakh-mark in India; death toll at 5,598

The Indian Ambassador to North Korea (DPRK) Atul Malhari Gotsurve speaking on the COVID situation in the country has said life has been normal in the country's capital Pyongyang. North Korea's official name is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Pyongyang, Ambassador Gotsurve describing the situation in the country said "shops, services, universities, schools, factories and offices" are open in the country and few Indians left the country on 9th March to Vladivostok on a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK. This is the first time any Indian Ambassador to DPRK has spoken to any India based channel in past few years.

WION: How has been the ground situation in DPRK? How are Indian diplomats faring?

Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: According to the local authorities, there is no Covid- 19 case in DPRK. As per the local office of WHO, the country has carried out hundreds of tests for Covid-19 and none of them has been found to be positive. I find that life in Pyongyang is normal. Shops and services are open and so are the universities, schools, factories and offices. Public transport for locals too is functioning smoothly. Despite some difficulties created by the extraordinary Covid-19 pandemic around the world as also in DPRK, the morale of all of us at the Embassy is high.

WION: Anything about the measures taken by the DPRK Government to contain the spread?

Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: DPRK had moved very early to combat Covid-19 with several anti-pandemic measures which continue till date. The Government here took the first step of snapping all international air links with the outside world as early as 1 st February 2020. Similarly, the international land borders with China and Russia were also sealed with no one allowed to either enter or exit the country. Everyone, including diplomats who went to China in January 2020, was quarantined for a month. Any person, if allowed at all, to enter DPRK, has to undergo a 30-day quarantine at a special place designated by the local authorities. Use of face mask is compulsory for everyone, including diplomats, at all public places. Shops, restaurants, offices, factories, hospitals, etc. have the protocol to go through thermal screening and to use hand-sanitizers before entering the building. These steps seem to have shown good results in combating Covid-19.

WION: How is the Indian Mission reaching to stranded Indians, if there are any?

Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: There are no stranded Indians in DPRK. The number of the Indian diasporas is small and most of them work for UN Agencies and International Aid Organisations. The Mission is in constant touch with them at a personal level and also through social media platform on a regular basis. A few Indians left Pyongyang by a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK to Vladivostok on 9 March 2020 and have reached India safely.

WION: Any plans for repatriation? 
 
Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: As of now, there is no request for repatriation from any Indian. If required, we will assist the Indian community suitably in co-ordination with the local authorities and MEA, New Delhi.

The Indian Ambassador to North Korea (DPRK) Atul Malhari Gotsurve speaking on the COVID situation in the country has said life has been normal in the country's capital Pyongyang.

The Indian Ambassador to North Korea (DPRK) Atul Malhari Gotsurve speaking on the COVID situation in the country has said life has been normal in the country's capital Pyongyang. North Korea's official name is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Pyongyang, Ambassador Gotsurve describing the situation in the country said "shops, services, universities, schools, factories and offices" are open in the country and few Indians left the country on 9th March to Vladivostok on a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK. This is the first time any Indian Ambassador to DPRK has spoken to any India based channel in past few years. WION: How has been the ground situation in DPRK? How are Indian diplomats faring? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: According to the local authorities, there is no Covid- 19 case in DPRK. As per the local office of WHO, the country has carried out hundreds of tests for Covid-19 and none of them has been found to be positive. I find that life in Pyongyang is normal. Shops and services are open and so are the universities, schools, factories and offices. Public transport for locals too is functioning smoothly. Despite some difficulties created by the extraordinary Covid-19 pandemic around the world as also in DPRK, the morale of all of us at the Embassy is high. WION: Anything about the measures taken by the DPRK Government to contain the spread? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: DPRK had moved very early to combat Covid-19 with several anti-pandemic measures which continue till date. The Government here took the first step of snapping all international air links with the outside world as early as 1 st February 2020. Similarly, the international land borders with China and Russia were also sealed with no one allowed to either enter or exit the country. Everyone, including diplomats who went to China in January 2020, was quarantined for a month. Any person, if allowed at all, to enter DPRK, has to undergo a 30-day quarantine at a special place designated by the local authorities. Use of face mask is compulsory for everyone, including diplomats, at all public places. Shops, restaurants, offices, factories, hospitals, etc. have the protocol to go through thermal screening and to use hand-sanitizers before entering the building. These steps seem to have shown good results in combating Covid-19. WION: How is the Indian Mission reaching to stranded Indians, if there are any? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: There are no stranded Indians in DPRK. The number of the Indian diasporas is small and most of them work for UN Agencies and International Aid Organisations. The Mission is in constant touch with them at a personal level and also through social media platform on a regular basis. A few Indians left Pyongyang by a flight specially arranged for foreigners by DPRK to Vladivostok on 9 March 2020 and have reached India safely. WION: Any plans for repatriation? Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve: As of now, there is no request for repatriation from any Indian. If required, we will assist the Indian community suitably in co-ordination with the local authorities and MEA, New Delhi.

Amid Covid- 19 crisis, life in Pyongyang normal says India's envoy to North Korea

Data by America’s Johns Hopkins University showed that India has overtaken China in terms of deaths related to Coronavirus and is now placed ninth in the world in the list of the most-affected nations.

Highest spike of 7,466 new COVID-19 cases and 175 deaths in the last 24 hours have been reported in the country.&nbsp;

Total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 1,65,799 including 89,987 active cases, 71,105 cured/discharged/migrated.&nbsp;

The total death toll has now reached 4,706 deaths, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said in its latest update on Friday.&nbsp;

Of the total 4,167 fatalities, Maharashtra tops the tally with 1,982 deaths followed by Gujarat with 960 deaths, Madhya Pradesh with 321, Delhi with 316, West Bengal with 295, Rajasthan with 180, Uttar Pradesh with 197, Tamil Nadu with 145, Telangana with 67 deaths and Andhra Pradesh 59.

India's count of recoveries is the tenth-largest now after the US, Brazil, Germany, Russia, Spain, Italy, Turkey, Iran and China.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs agencies)

Data by America’s Johns Hopkins University showed that India has overtaken China in terms of deaths related to Coronavirus and is now placed ninth in the world in the list of the most-affected nations.

Data by America’s Johns Hopkins University showed that India has overtaken China in terms of deaths related to Coronavirus and is now placed ninth in the world in the list of the most-affected nations. Highest spike of 7,466 new COVID-19 cases and 175 deaths in the last 24 hours have been reported in the country. Total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 1,65,799 including 89,987 active cases, 71,105 cured/discharged/migrated. The total death toll has now reached 4,706 deaths, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said in its latest update on Friday. Of the total 4,167 fatalities, Maharashtra tops the tally with 1,982 deaths followed by Gujarat with 960 deaths, Madhya Pradesh with 321, Delhi with 316, West Bengal with 295, Rajasthan with 180, Uttar Pradesh with 197, Tamil Nadu with 145, Telangana with 67 deaths and Andhra Pradesh 59. India's count of recoveries is the tenth-largest now after the US, Brazil, Germany, Russia, Spain, Italy, Turkey, Iran and China. (With inputs agencies)

India stands 9th on Covid-19 worst-hit nations' list, surpassing China

Around 5.8 million cases of the new coronavirus have been officially declared in the world, more than two-thirds of them in Europe and the United States, according to a tally compiled by Johns Hopkins University.

On Friday, the cases stood at &nbsp;5,814,885, according to Johns Hopkins University. So far, the virus has killed 360,412 people worldwide. Coronavirus cases, first reported in China in December last year, peaked in mid-March. The virus is currently affecting more than 200 countries around the world.

United States, Spain, Russia, UK, Germany, Brazil, Italy, France are among the worst-hit countries having maximum cases of coronavirus and the numbers are increasing every day.

The US currently leads the world in both confirmed coronavirus cases and deaths. The United States of America recorded 1,297 coronavirus deaths on Thursday, bringing its total to 101,573 since the global pandemic began.

It’s important to point out that the actual death toll is believed to be far higher than the tally compiled from government figures.

The number of declared cases in the world has doubled in a month, and more than one million new cases of COVID-19 have been registered in the last 10 days.

The number of diagnosed cases, however, reflects only a fraction of the actual number of infections as many countries test only serious cases or lack testing capacity.

(With inputs from agencies)

Around 5.8 million cases of the new coronavirus have been officially declared in the world, more than two-thirds of them in Europe and the United States, according to a tally compiled by Johns Hopkins University.

Around 5.8 million cases of the new coronavirus have been officially declared in the world, more than two-thirds of them in Europe and the United States, according to a tally compiled by Johns Hopkins University. On Friday, the cases stood at 5,814,885, according to Johns Hopkins University. So far, the virus has killed 360,412 people worldwide. Coronavirus cases, first reported in China in December last year, peaked in mid-March. The virus is currently affecting more than 200 countries around the world. United States, Spain, Russia, UK, Germany, Brazil, Italy, France are among the worst-hit countries having maximum cases of coronavirus and the numbers are increasing every day. The US currently leads the world in both confirmed coronavirus cases and deaths. The United States of America recorded 1,297 coronavirus deaths on Thursday, bringing its total to 101,573 since the global pandemic began. It’s important to point out that the actual death toll is believed to be far higher than the tally compiled from government figures. The number of declared cases in the world has doubled in a month, and more than one million new cases of COVID-19 have been registered in the last 10 days. The number of diagnosed cases, however, reflects only a fraction of the actual number of infections as many countries test only serious cases or lack testing capacity. (With inputs from agencies)

Global coronavirus cases near 5.8 million, death toll rises to  360,412

India on Thursday morning reported a spike of 6,566 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the number of COVID-19 cases in the country rose to 1,58,333. India also reported 194 deaths since Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

Currently, there are 86,110 active coronavirus cases in the country, while 67,691 have recovered from the disease so far. One patient migrated to another country.&nbsp;

States like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Delhi and Rajasthan have reported the maximum number of coronavirus infection cases.

Meanwhile, the government is reportedly reviewing the 60-day lockdown period to chalk out strategy after May 310 – the day when the lockdown 4.0 is scheduled to end.

According to reports, the Prime Minister’s Office is concerned about the rapidly increasing coronavirus cases as well as the number of people under quarantine. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced a complete lockdown on March 25 which has been extended thrice so far.

(With inputs from agencies)

India on Thursday morning reported a spike of 6,566 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the number of COVID-19 cases in the country rose to 1,58,333.

India on Thursday morning reported a spike of 6,566 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the number of COVID-19 cases in the country rose to 1,58,333. India also reported 194 deaths since Wednesday morning. Currently, there are 86,110 active coronavirus cases in the country, while 67,691 have recovered from the disease so far. One patient migrated to another country. States like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Delhi and Rajasthan have reported the maximum number of coronavirus infection cases. Meanwhile, the government is reportedly reviewing the 60-day lockdown period to chalk out strategy after May 310 – the day when the lockdown 4.0 is scheduled to end. According to reports, the Prime Minister’s Office is concerned about the rapidly increasing coronavirus cases as well as the number of people under quarantine. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced a complete lockdown on March 25 which has been extended thrice so far. (With inputs from agencies)

6,566 new cases, 194 deaths in last 24 hours; India COVID-19 tally reaches 1,58,333

India witnessed a spike of 6,387 new COVID-19 cases and 170 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in the country now stands at 1,51,767 including 83,004 active cases. As many as 64,425 people have been cured/discharged. The death toll stands at 4,337, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said in its latest update on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Maharashtra continued to be the worst-affected state by coronavirus with &nbsp;2,091 new COVID-19 cases and 97 fatalities reported in the state. The total tally of cases in the state now stands at 54,758, &nbsp;while 1,168 patients were discharged from hospital, taking the number of recovered patients to 16,954, state health officials informed. In Pune alone, the COVID-19 death toll mounted to 289 with 9 more fatalities and till Tuesday. A total of 327 new COVID-19 cases were reported in the district taking the total tally to 6,480.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the Health Ministry said that the recovery rate in coronavirus cases in the country has improved considerably while the fatality rate has also been observed as declining.

India witnessed a spike of 6,387 new COVID-19 cases and 170 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in the country now stands at 1,51,767 including 83,004 active cases.

India witnessed a spike of 6,387 new COVID-19 cases and 170 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in the country now stands at 1,51,767 including 83,004 active cases. As many as 64,425 people have been cured/discharged. The death toll stands at 4,337, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said in its latest update on Wednesday. Maharashtra continued to be the worst-affected state by coronavirus with 2,091 new COVID-19 cases and 97 fatalities reported in the state. The total tally of cases in the state now stands at 54,758, while 1,168 patients were discharged from hospital, taking the number of recovered patients to 16,954, state health officials informed. In Pune alone, the COVID-19 death toll mounted to 289 with 9 more fatalities and till Tuesday. A total of 327 new COVID-19 cases were reported in the district taking the total tally to 6,480. On Tuesday, the Health Ministry said that the recovery rate in coronavirus cases in the country has improved considerably while the fatality rate has also been observed as declining.

Covid-19 tally in India cross 1.5 lakh-mark with 6,387 new cases in past 24 hours

India on Tuesday maintained its higher daily spikes in COVID-19 cases as it recorded 6,535 new positive cases and 146 deaths in the last 24 hours.

As per the latest Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data The total number of cases in the country now at 1,45,380 including 80,722 active cases, 60,490 cured/discharged and 4167 deaths.

Maharashtra has emerged as the worst affected state with over 50,000 patients. Delhi, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and others are also registering hundreds of COVID-19 cases on a daily basis.

Meanwhile, domestic air travel has resumed in the country despite some of the states opposing the idea amid the rising numbers of coronavirus cases. However, several flights had to be cancelled on the first day of resumption of services – May 25 – after the Centre announced that there would no flights to cyclone Amphan-hit West Bengal and also to Andhra Pradesh. Major airports such as Mumbai, Hyderabad and Chennai resumed limited operations which resulted in a limited number of flights being operated.

India on Tuesday maintained its higher daily spikes in COVID-19 cases as it recorded 6,535 new positive cases and 146 deaths in the last 24 hours. As per the latest Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data The total number of cases in the country now at 1,45,380 including 80,722 active cases, 60,490 cured/discharged and 4167 deaths.

India on Tuesday maintained its higher daily spikes in COVID-19 cases as it recorded 6,535 new positive cases and 146 deaths in the last 24 hours. As per the latest Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data The total number of cases in the country now at 1,45,380 including 80,722 active cases, 60,490 cured/discharged and 4167 deaths. Maharashtra has emerged as the worst affected state with over 50,000 patients. Delhi, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and others are also registering hundreds of COVID-19 cases on a daily basis. Meanwhile, domestic air travel has resumed in the country despite some of the states opposing the idea amid the rising numbers of coronavirus cases. However, several flights had to be cancelled on the first day of resumption of services – May 25 – after the Centre announced that there would no flights to cyclone Amphan-hit West Bengal and also to Andhra Pradesh. Major airports such as Mumbai, Hyderabad and Chennai resumed limited operations which resulted in a limited number of flights being operated.

6,535 new positive cases, 146 deaths in the last 24 hours: India continues its high daily spikes

India's health ministry said that the country's fatality rate due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-tamil-nadu-reports-805-cases-punjab-records-21-cases-300989">coronavirus</a> is 2.87 per cent which is among the lowest in the world.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/6535-new-positive-cases-146-deaths-in-the-last-24-hours-india-continues-its-high-daily-spikes-301062">Also Read:&nbsp;6,535 new positive cases, 146 deaths in the last 24 hours:</a>&nbsp;

The ministry said that the recovery rate from COVID-19 continues to improve and presently stands at 41.61 per cent.

A total of 60,490 patients have recovered so far from coronavirus, the ministry informed.

The health ministry said there have been 4.4 deaths due to coronavirus per lakh population have been reported for the world, while India has reported about 0.3 deaths per lakh population which is amongst the lowest in the world.

"It's been due to lockdown, timely identification, and management of coronavirus cases," the ministry said.

Meanwhile, ICMR Director General Dr. Balram Bhargava said that testings have gone up in the last few months with 1.1 lakh samples being tested daily.

As the virus contiuned to spread, the Uttarakhand health department reported 51 more coronavirus cases taking the total number of cases to 400, of which 329 are active cases. Four people have died due to the virus in the state.

Rajasthan reported &nbsp;176 new coronavirus cases and one death in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases in the state to 7,476. The death toll in the state due to the virus has risen to 168.

India's health ministry said that the country's fatality rate due to coronavirus is 2.87 per cent which is among the lowest in the world. Also Read: 6,535 new positive cases, 146 deaths in the last 24 hours: The ministry said that the recovery rate from COVID-19 continues to improve and presently stands at 41.

India's health ministry said that the country's fatality rate due to coronavirus is 2.87 per cent which is among the lowest in the world. Also Read: 6,535 new positive cases, 146 deaths in the last 24 hours: The ministry said that the recovery rate from COVID-19 continues to improve and presently stands at 41.61 per cent. A total of 60,490 patients have recovered so far from coronavirus, the ministry informed. The health ministry said there have been 4.4 deaths due to coronavirus per lakh population have been reported for the world, while India has reported about 0.3 deaths per lakh population which is amongst the lowest in the world. "It's been due to lockdown, timely identification, and management of coronavirus cases," the ministry said. Meanwhile, ICMR Director General Dr. Balram Bhargava said that testings have gone up in the last few months with 1.1 lakh samples being tested daily. As the virus contiuned to spread, the Uttarakhand health department reported 51 more coronavirus cases taking the total number of cases to 400, of which 329 are active cases. Four people have died due to the virus in the state. Rajasthan reported 176 new coronavirus cases and one death in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases in the state to 7,476. The death toll in the state due to the virus has risen to 168.

Coronavirus fatality rate at 2.87% among lowest in the world: Health ministry

India on Monday reported another highest single-day spike with 6977 new cases of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) in the last 24 hours, taking the infection tally to 1,38,845, according to data released by the Union health ministry.

A total of 154 deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours. 
 
<img alt="Covid-19 cases" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7ce8a560-0e6f-4a04-9340-84a6a1007fd3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/covid-19_2.JPG" />

The total number of cases in the country now at 1,38,845 including 77103 active cases, 57720 cured/discharged and 4021 deaths. 
 
Meanwhile, Indian skies opened up for domestic passenger services from today after a gap of two months, with Delhi-Pune and Mumbai-Patna flights being among the first to take off, aviation industry sources said.

All scheduled commercial passenger flights have been suspended since March 25 when the government imposed a nationwide lockdown to curb the coronavirus pandemic.

India on Monday reported another highest single-day spike with 6977 new cases of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) in the last 24 hours, taking the infection tally to 1,38,845, according to data released by the Union health ministry.

India on Monday reported another highest single-day spike with 6977 new cases of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) in the last 24 hours, taking the infection tally to 1,38,845, according to data released by the Union health ministry. A total of 154 deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in the country now at 1,38,845 including 77103 active cases, 57720 cured/discharged and 4021 deaths. Meanwhile, Indian skies opened up for domestic passenger services from today after a gap of two months, with Delhi-Pune and Mumbai-Patna flights being among the first to take off, aviation industry sources said. All scheduled commercial passenger flights have been suspended since March 25 when the government imposed a nationwide lockdown to curb the coronavirus pandemic.

India records highest-ever spike of 6977 covid-19 cases in past 24 hours; death toll crosses 4,000

The Supreme Court on Monday allowed Air India to keep the middle seats occupied while operating its non-scheduled flights to bring back Indians stranded abroad up to June 6 while observing that the government should be more worried about the health of citizens rather than the health of commercial airlines.

The Apex court has said that the national carrier will have to follow the Bombay High Court’s order directing it to follow the Directorate General of Civil Aviation’s 23 March circular that said the middle-row seats will have to be kept vacant. The top court’s direction came on the Centre and Air India’s appeal against the 22 May order of the Bombay High Court.

"The Centre should seek to maintain social distancing. This shoulder to shoulder sitting is dangerous," it said.&nbsp;

A bench of Chief Justice S A Bobde told the Centre and the Air India represented by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta that they should be more worried about the health of the citizens rather than that of the Airline.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court on Monday allowed Air India to keep the middle seats occupied while operating its non-scheduled flights to bring back Indians stranded abroad up to June 6 while observing that the government should be more worried about the health of citizens rather than the health of commercial airlines.

The Supreme Court on Monday allowed Air India to keep the middle seats occupied while operating its non-scheduled flights to bring back Indians stranded abroad up to June 6 while observing that the government should be more worried about the health of citizens rather than the health of commercial airlines. The Apex court has said that the national carrier will have to follow the Bombay High Court’s order directing it to follow the Directorate General of Civil Aviation’s 23 March circular that said the middle-row seats will have to be kept vacant. The top court’s direction came on the Centre and Air India’s appeal against the 22 May order of the Bombay High Court. "The Centre should seek to maintain social distancing. This shoulder to shoulder sitting is dangerous," it said. A bench of Chief Justice S A Bobde told the Centre and the Air India represented by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta that they should be more worried about the health of the citizens rather than that of the Airline. (With inputs from agencies)

Supreme Court allows Air India to fly till June 6 with middle seats occupied in non-scheduled flights

India has recorded the highest single-day spike in the number of Covid-19 cases, registering over 6,000 new infections in the last 24 hours. The death toll went up by 148 in the same period.&nbsp;

The total number of COVID-19 cases increased to 1,18,447 and the death toll, on the other hand, mounted to 3,583 on Friday morning.&nbsp;

The total number of active cases have increased to 6,6330 in the country so far. 48,533 people have been cured and one person has migrated from the country, according to the numbers released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Maharashtra continues to be one of the worst-hit states in the pandemic. The total number of cases in the state increased to 41,642 cases, and 1,454 people have died so far in the state.&nbsp;

Gujarat also has 12,905 coronavirus cases in the country, and 773 people have died in the state. The national capital has recorded 11659 cases and the death toll numbers have shot to 194. Tamil Nadu is also one of the worst affected states with a total of 13,967cases.

India has recorded the highest single-day spike in the number of Covid-19 cases, registering over 6,000 new infections in the last 24 hours. The death toll went up by 148 in the same period.

India has recorded the highest single-day spike in the number of Covid-19 cases, registering over 6,000 new infections in the last 24 hours. The death toll went up by 148 in the same period. The total number of COVID-19 cases increased to 1,18,447 and the death toll, on the other hand, mounted to 3,583 on Friday morning. The total number of active cases have increased to 6,6330 in the country so far. 48,533 people have been cured and one person has migrated from the country, according to the numbers released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Maharashtra continues to be one of the worst-hit states in the pandemic. The total number of cases in the state increased to 41,642 cases, and 1,454 people have died so far in the state. Gujarat also has 12,905 coronavirus cases in the country, and 773 people have died in the state. The national capital has recorded 11659 cases and the death toll numbers have shot to 194. Tamil Nadu is also one of the worst affected states with a total of 13,967cases.

India records highest single-day spike, 6,088 new Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours

In India, there are 63,624 active Coronavirus positive cases. So far 45,299 COVID 19 positive patients have recovered. As many as 3435 people have died due to the deadly virus and one has been migrated. The recovery rate in India is now over 39 per cent, as per details shared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.&nbsp;

In the last 24 hours, as many as 5609 COVID 19 cases have been reported and 132 coronavirus positive patients have died.

With 39,297 confirmed novel coronavirus cases, Maharashtra remains the worst-affected state in the country. According to the latest data from the Union Health Ministry, the state has reported 1,390 COVID-19 deaths so far. As many as 10,318 patients have recovered.

With 13,191 confirmed novel coronavirus cases, Tamil Nadu remains the second most-affected state in the country. The state has reported 87 COVID-19 deaths so far. As many as 5,882 patients have recovered.

With 12,537 confirmed novel coronavirus cases, Gujarat remains the third most-affected state in the country. The state has reported 749 COVID-19 deaths so far. As many as 5,219 patients have recovered.

The recovery rate in India is now over 38 per cent, as per details shared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.&nbsp;

Several other states have also ordered the reopening of markets, local transport and even salons in areas that are considered safe from coronavirus.

(With inputs from agencies)

In India, there are 63,624 active Coronavirus positive cases. So far 45,299 COVID 19 positive patients have recovered. As many as 3435 people have died due to the deadly virus and one has been migrated.

In India, there are 63,624 active Coronavirus positive cases. So far 45,299 COVID 19 positive patients have recovered. As many as 3435 people have died due to the deadly virus and one has been migrated. The recovery rate in India is now over 39 per cent, as per details shared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. In the last 24 hours, as many as 5609 COVID 19 cases have been reported and 132 coronavirus positive patients have died. With 39,297 confirmed novel coronavirus cases, Maharashtra remains the worst-affected state in the country. According to the latest data from the Union Health Ministry, the state has reported 1,390 COVID-19 deaths so far. As many as 10,318 patients have recovered. With 13,191 confirmed novel coronavirus cases, Tamil Nadu remains the second most-affected state in the country. The state has reported 87 COVID-19 deaths so far. As many as 5,882 patients have recovered. With 12,537 confirmed novel coronavirus cases, Gujarat remains the third most-affected state in the country. The state has reported 749 COVID-19 deaths so far. As many as 5,219 patients have recovered. The recovery rate in India is now over 38 per cent, as per details shared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Several other states have also ordered the reopening of markets, local transport and even salons in areas that are considered safe from coronavirus. (With inputs from agencies)

Known COVID-19 cases cross 1.12 lakh; death toll at 3,435

India registered the highest single-day spike in COVID-19 cases with 5,611 in the past 24 hours, according to the latest data released by Union Health Ministry on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The COVID-19 toll climbed to 3,303 after 140 more patients succumbed to the viral infection as of Wednesday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-trying-to-shirk-responsibility-smearing-our-anti-virus-effort-china-on-trumps-attack-on-who-299644">Also Read: US trying to shirk responsibility, smearing our anti-virus effort, says China on Trump's attack</a>

In India, there are 61,149 coronavirus positive cases. So far 42,297 &nbsp;COVID 19 positive patients have recovered. As many as 3303 people have died due to the deadly virus and one has been migrated. The recovery rate in India is now over 38 per cent, as per details shared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.&nbsp;

The recovery rate in India is now over 38 per cent, as per details shared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.&nbsp;

Maharashtra, the most affected state, reported 2,100 fresh cases, taking its overall tally to 37,158. The tally of Delhi rose to 10,554, with 500 more cases being recorded. The national capital has allowed DTC buses to hit the road and all offices are permitted to resume work as usual.

Several other states have also ordered the reopening of markets, local transport and even salons in areas that are considered safe from coronavirus. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

India registered the highest single-day spike in COVID-19 cases with 5,611 in the past 24 hours, according to the latest data released by Union Health Ministry on Wednesday.

India registered the highest single-day spike in COVID-19 cases with 5,611 in the past 24 hours, according to the latest data released by Union Health Ministry on Wednesday. The COVID-19 toll climbed to 3,303 after 140 more patients succumbed to the viral infection as of Wednesday. Also Read: US trying to shirk responsibility, smearing our anti-virus effort, says China on Trump's attack In India, there are 61,149 coronavirus positive cases. So far 42,297 COVID 19 positive patients have recovered. As many as 3303 people have died due to the deadly virus and one has been migrated. The recovery rate in India is now over 38 per cent, as per details shared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The recovery rate in India is now over 38 per cent, as per details shared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Maharashtra, the most affected state, reported 2,100 fresh cases, taking its overall tally to 37,158. The tally of Delhi rose to 10,554, with 500 more cases being recorded. The national capital has allowed DTC buses to hit the road and all offices are permitted to resume work as usual. Several other states have also ordered the reopening of markets, local transport and even salons in areas that are considered safe from coronavirus. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: India records highest single-day spike with 5,611 new Covid-19 cases

The number of officially confirmed coronavirus cases is getting closer to five million. On Tuesday, the cases stood at 4,911,902, according to Johns Hopkins University.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-will-push-60-million-into-extreme-poverty-world-bank-299794">Also read: Coronavirus pandemic will push 60 million into 'extreme poverty': World Bank</a> 
 
So far, the virus has killed 323,413 people worldwide. Coronavirus cases, first reported in China in December last year, peaked in mid-March.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/research-says-covid-19-is-most-adaptable-for-human-body-than-bats-299871/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The virus is currently affecting 213 countries and territories around the world and two international conveyances.

The United States has recorded the most deaths at 91,179. It is followed by Britain with 35,341, Italy with 32,169, France with 28,022 and Spain with 27,778.

Britain's official coronavirus death toll is at least 41,000 with almost 10,000 dead in care homes in England and Wales alone, according to a statistical update released on Tuesday. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The number of officially confirmed coronavirus cases is getting closer to five million. On Tuesday, the cases stood at 4,911,902, according to Johns Hopkins University.

The number of officially confirmed coronavirus cases is getting closer to five million. On Tuesday, the cases stood at 4,911,902, according to Johns Hopkins University. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic will push 60 million into 'extreme poverty': World Bank So far, the virus has killed 323,413 people worldwide. Coronavirus cases, first reported in China in December last year, peaked in mid-March. The virus is currently affecting 213 countries and territories around the world and two international conveyances. The United States has recorded the most deaths at 91,179. It is followed by Britain with 35,341, Italy with 32,169, France with 28,022 and Spain with 27,778. Britain's official coronavirus death toll is at least 41,000 with almost 10,000 dead in care homes in England and Wales alone, according to a statistical update released on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Global coronavirus cases near 5 million, death toll rises to 323,413

The nationwide tally of COVID-19 cases crossed one lakh on Tuesday with more people testing positive for the deadly virus in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and other states.

There are 56,316 active coronavirus cases, 36,823 have been cured, 3029 COVID 19 positive patients have died and one has been migrated, as per data shared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Lockdown 4.0 guidelines have been announced by the central government.

The Centre on Sunday extended the great coronavirus lockdown by two more weeks until May 31, but as promised with several relaxations.

The new guidelines have allowed salons, barbershops, shopping complexes and markets to open from May 18. However, domestic flights, schools, colleges and hotels will continue to remain closed throughout the country.&nbsp;

Except for the containment zones, there are no zone-wise restrictions from the government and the states are given the liberty to decide on the colour coded zones (red, orange and green), concerning the parameters laid down by the Health Ministry. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The nationwide tally of COVID-19 cases crossed one lakh on Tuesday with more people testing positive for the deadly virus in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and other states.

The nationwide tally of COVID-19 cases crossed one lakh on Tuesday with more people testing positive for the deadly virus in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and other states. There are 56,316 active coronavirus cases, 36,823 have been cured, 3029 COVID 19 positive patients have died and one has been migrated, as per data shared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Lockdown 4.0 guidelines have been announced by the central government. The Centre on Sunday extended the great coronavirus lockdown by two more weeks until May 31, but as promised with several relaxations. The new guidelines have allowed salons, barbershops, shopping complexes and markets to open from May 18. However, domestic flights, schools, colleges and hotels will continue to remain closed throughout the country. Except for the containment zones, there are no zone-wise restrictions from the government and the states are given the liberty to decide on the colour coded zones (red, orange and green), concerning the parameters laid down by the Health Ministry. (With inputs from agencies)

Total COVID-19 cases in India near 1,00,000; over 36,000 cured

World Bank on Friday announced $1 billion social protection package for India linked to Govt of India programmes. The package was announced in the wake of the rising coronavirus cases across the country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/world-bank-approves-1-billion-emergency-fund-for-india-to-fight-coronavirus-290252">Also read: World Bank approves $1 billion emergency fund for India to fight coronavirus</a>

This takes the total commitment of the World Bank for India's COVID-19 response to $2 billion. A $1 billion support was announced last month towards immediate support to India’s health sector.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-covid-19-death-toll-rises-to-2649-as-total-cases-reach-81970-298779">Also read: India COVID-19 death toll rises to 2,649 as total cases reach 81,970</a> 
 
This new support will be funded in two phases –&nbsp;an immediate allocation of $750 million for the fiscal year 2020 and a $250 million second tranche that will be made available for the fiscal year 2021.

The&nbsp;first phase&nbsp;of the operation will be implemented countrywide through the&nbsp;Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana&nbsp;(PMGKY).

In the&nbsp;second phase, the program will deepen the social protection package, whereby additional cash and in-kind benefits based on local needs will be extended through state governments and portable social protection delivery systems.

World Bank said that the billion-dollar social protection package was in addition to the previous package of $1 billion allocated to India for COVID-19 emergency response and health systems.

"The World Bank's billion-dollar support for social protection will help India leverage it's PM Garib Kalyan Yojana," said World Bank Country Director (India) Junaid Kamal Ahmad.

In April, the World Bank approved a plan to roll out $160 billion in emergency aid over 15 months to help countries deal with the impact of the global coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Earlier on April 3, The World Bank had approved $1 billion emergency funding for India to help it tackle the coronavirus pandemic. 
 
(With inputs from ANI)

World Bank on Friday announced $1 billion social protection package for India linked to Govt of India programmes. The package was announced in the wake of the rising coronavirus cases across the country.

World Bank on Friday announced $1 billion social protection package for India linked to Govt of India programmes. The package was announced in the wake of the rising coronavirus cases across the country. Also read: World Bank approves $1 billion emergency fund for India to fight coronavirus This takes the total commitment of the World Bank for India's COVID-19 response to $2 billion. A $1 billion support was announced last month towards immediate support to India’s health sector. Also read: India COVID-19 death toll rises to 2,649 as total cases reach 81,970 This new support will be funded in two phases – an immediate allocation of $750 million for the fiscal year 2020 and a $250 million second tranche that will be made available for the fiscal year 2021. The first phase of the operation will be implemented countrywide through the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY). In the second phase, the program will deepen the social protection package, whereby additional cash and in-kind benefits based on local needs will be extended through state governments and portable social protection delivery systems. World Bank said that the billion-dollar social protection package was in addition to the previous package of $1 billion allocated to India for COVID-19 emergency response and health systems. "The World Bank's billion-dollar support for social protection will help India leverage it's PM Garib Kalyan Yojana," said World Bank Country Director (India) Junaid Kamal Ahmad. In April, the World Bank approved a plan to roll out $160 billion in emergency aid over 15 months to help countries deal with the impact of the global coronavirus pandemic. Earlier on April 3, The World Bank had approved $1 billion emergency funding for India to help it tackle the coronavirus pandemic. (With inputs from ANI)

World Bank approves another $1 billion aid to India as social security fund amid covid-19 pandemic

A part of a floor of the Army headquarters building Sena Bhawan in the national capital has been closed for fumigation and sanitisation after one suspect and one confirmed case of COVID-19 was detected, Army sources said on Friday.&nbsp;

The building was closed after one suspect and one confirmed case of coronavirus was detected. Actions as per protocol, such as contact tracing and quarantine are in progress.

"Affected area of Sena Bhawan closed for sanitation and disinfection. Actions as per protocol such as contact tracing and quarantine are in progress," the Indian Army said in a statement.

India's coronavirus count on Friday crossed 81,000 cases. According to data released by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 3,967 new COVID-19 patients and 100 fatalities were reported in the past 24 hours. The total cases in the country have reached 81,970, with 2,649 deaths.

A part of a floor of the Army headquarters building Sena Bhawan in the national capital has been closed for fumigation and sanitisation after one suspect and one confirmed case of COVID-19 was detected, Army sources said on Friday.

A part of a floor of the Army headquarters building Sena Bhawan in the national capital has been closed for fumigation and sanitisation after one suspect and one confirmed case of COVID-19 was detected, Army sources said on Friday. The building was closed after one suspect and one confirmed case of coronavirus was detected. Actions as per protocol, such as contact tracing and quarantine are in progress. "Affected area of Sena Bhawan closed for sanitation and disinfection. Actions as per protocol such as contact tracing and quarantine are in progress," the Indian Army said in a statement. India's coronavirus count on Friday crossed 81,000 cases. According to data released by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 3,967 new COVID-19 patients and 100 fatalities were reported in the past 24 hours. The total cases in the country have reached 81,970, with 2,649 deaths.

Indian Army headquarters partly closed after soldier tests COVID-19 positive

The Supreme Court Friday said courts can't monitor or stop the movement of migrant workers across the country and it is for the government to take necessary action in this regard.

The Centre told the top court that migrant workers across the country were being provided transportation by the government to their destinations but they have to wait for their turn rather than starting walking on foot amid coronavirus or COVID-19 pandemic.

A bench headed by Justice L Nageswara Rao refused to entertain an application seeking a direction to the Centre to ask all District Magistrates to identify stranded migrant workers and provide shelter, food to them before ensuring their free transportation to native places because of the recent incident at Aurangabad in which 16 workers were mowed down by a goods train.

The bench, which also comprised Justices S K Kaul and B R Gavai, asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta whether there was any way to stop these migrants workers from walking on the roads.

Mehta said states are providing inter-state transport to the migrant workers but if the people start walking on foot instead of waiting for transportation, then nothing can be done.

He said authorities can only request these people not to start walking on foot as using any force to stop them would be counter-productive.

Mehta told the bench, which was hearing the matter through video-conferencing, that subject to the agreement between state governments everybody would get a chance to travel to their destinations.

Advocate Alakh Alok Srivastava, who had filed the plea, referred to recent incidents of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh where migrant workers were killed in accidents on highways.

"How can we stop it?" the bench observed, adding that states should take necessary action on these issues.

The bench, which said it was not inclined to hear the plea, observed that the court can't monitor who is walking and who is not walking.

Srivastava had filed the plea soon after the Aurangabad incident in which 16 migrant workers, who were returning to Madhya Pradesh and had slept on railway tracks, were mowed down by a goods train.

The interim application, filed in a disposed PIL, had said that the deceased labourers belonged to Shahdol and Umaria districts of Madhya Pradesh and were walking from Jalna in Maharashtra to Aurangabad Railway Station to board trains to reach hometowns.

After walking for several kilometres, they decided to take rest on the railway tracks between Satana and Karmad and were mowed down by a goods train, it had said.

Earlier, the top court had disposed of the PIL seeking migrant workers' welfare during the pandemic and consequential lockdown saying that the Centre and states are taking appropriate steps to provide them relief.

The Supreme Court Friday said courts can't monitor or stop the movement of migrant workers across the country and it is for the government to take necessary action in this regard.

The Supreme Court Friday said courts can't monitor or stop the movement of migrant workers across the country and it is for the government to take necessary action in this regard. The Centre told the top court that migrant workers across the country were being provided transportation by the government to their destinations but they have to wait for their turn rather than starting walking on foot amid coronavirus or COVID-19 pandemic. A bench headed by Justice L Nageswara Rao refused to entertain an application seeking a direction to the Centre to ask all District Magistrates to identify stranded migrant workers and provide shelter, food to them before ensuring their free transportation to native places because of the recent incident at Aurangabad in which 16 workers were mowed down by a goods train. The bench, which also comprised Justices S K Kaul and B R Gavai, asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta whether there was any way to stop these migrants workers from walking on the roads. Mehta said states are providing inter-state transport to the migrant workers but if the people start walking on foot instead of waiting for transportation, then nothing can be done. He said authorities can only request these people not to start walking on foot as using any force to stop them would be counter-productive. Mehta told the bench, which was hearing the matter through video-conferencing, that subject to the agreement between state governments everybody would get a chance to travel to their destinations. Advocate Alakh Alok Srivastava, who had filed the plea, referred to recent incidents of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh where migrant workers were killed in accidents on highways. "How can we stop it?" the bench observed, adding that states should take necessary action on these issues. The bench, which said it was not inclined to hear the plea, observed that the court can't monitor who is walking and who is not walking. Srivastava had filed the plea soon after the Aurangabad incident in which 16 migrant workers, who were returning to Madhya Pradesh and had slept on railway tracks, were mowed down by a goods train. The interim application, filed in a disposed PIL, had said that the deceased labourers belonged to Shahdol and Umaria districts of Madhya Pradesh and were walking from Jalna in Maharashtra to Aurangabad Railway Station to board trains to reach hometowns. After walking for several kilometres, they decided to take rest on the railway tracks between Satana and Karmad and were mowed down by a goods train, it had said. Earlier, the top court had disposed of the PIL seeking migrant workers' welfare during the pandemic and consequential lockdown saying that the Centre and states are taking appropriate steps to provide them relief.

'How can we stop it': Supreme Court on plea to monitor migrants walking back to their native states

Reaching out to Iceland despite the pan India lockdown, New Delhi was able to send its medicine consignment to country earning India lot of praise in the country.

Reaching out to Iceland despite the pan India lockdown, New Delhi was able to send its medicine consignment to country earning India lot of praise in the country. A commercial consignment of 50,000 packages of anti-malarial drug Chloroquine, sufficient to treat 25,000 patients were sent by India. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Iceland's capital Reykjavik, India's envoy to Iceland Armstrong Changsan spoke about how Iceland's deCODE Genetics and India's CSIR-IGIB are "examining ways and means to collaborate on scientific research on the pandemic.". Armstrong also spoke about stranded Indians, which are about 10 in number and Indian mission the country is trying to make sure they reach to a destination in any Schengen country from where they can come to India. WION: India-Iceland cooperation on the COVID-19 pandemic is two-fold. T. Armstrong Changsan: At the initial stage, this mission along with Hq MEA helped clear a shipment of 50,000 chloroquine phosphate tablets that got stuck at the end of March due to our lockdown. This involved, movement from the factory in Uttarakhand to Delhi and then clarifications to Customs etc. The shipment finally reached Iceland on 6 April 2020. A few weeks later, we also shipped about 45 million paracetamol tablets to Iceland. Both of these were commercial transactions but nevertheless earned us much goodwill here. Their Permanent Secretary (Mr Sturla Sigurjonsson, who was their first HOM to India back in 2006) even wrote a thank you message. Moving forward, the Icelandic biotech company deCODE Genetics and our CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), New Delhi are examining ways and means to collaborate on scientific research on the pandemic. In the middle of April last month, deCODE had published a paper in the New England Journal of Medicine, about the spread of the COVID pandemic in Iceland. Since the company is renowned for its studies on genetic risk factors and diseases, made possible due to deCODE’s an extensive database of the complete genealogy of Icelanders, going back 1000 years, as well as genetic details and medical records of half the Icelandic population, I had brought the paper to the attention of CSIR and ICMR, and they found it very impressive. Thereafter CSIR-IGIB was identified as the Indian research institute to collaborate with deCODE. I am therefore very happy that even in this northernmost capital of the world, there is cutting edge research, and thus scope for our two countries to work together in tackling this pandemic. The small Icelandic population, with extensive genealogical records, and genetic data and health data being available, makes for an excellent testing lab, so to say, for perhaps finding out why COVID-19 disease manifests in so many ways: from asymptomatic, to mild, to severe, to fatal. WION: How is the Indian mission reaching to stranded Indians in the country, if any? Any plans of repatriation? Any Indian infected with COVID. T. Armstrong Changsan: Only about 10 Indians are stranded here in Iceland who wish to return to India, since they are tourists/some whose work permits are expiring soon. These numbers are rather small for a repatriation/evacuation flight and hence Mission is looking at ways and means of getting them to some other Schengen country from where they will catch the evacuation flight to their respective cities. The challenge here is that Iceland is virtually cut off with just about 3 known flights to Europe (Stockholm on 16 May, and London on 13 and 15 May) in the coming days. In other words, there is just 1 flight to a Schengen country since London requires a separate visa. These limited flights are there only due to the support of the Government of Iceland given to the near-bankrupt airline namely Icelandair. Government support is being extended on a weekly basis and it is unclear whether it will receive further support next week. WION: How has the ground situation in Iceland changed, how have Indian diplomats faring? T. Armstrong Changsan: Fortunately, none of the stranded Indians or Mission’s officials/staff are infected. The Iceland health authorities are ready to test the stranded Indians for the sake of COVID-free documentation before departure. In fact, as you might be aware, out of 1801 confirmed infections in Iceland, 1773 have recovered and there remain 18 persons with infections, with only 2 persons in hospital. 10 fatalities in all. In fact, only 3 cases of infection by the virus have been diagnosed in this month of May. Earlier today, 12 May, the government announced that it expects to start easing restrictions on international arrivals by 15 June 2020; and offer arriving persons the option to do virus testing on arrival and proceed normally without quarantine, or else, they would be required to home-quarantine for 2 weeks. WION: Anything we can learn from Iceland's COVID containment model, even though it has a natural advantage of being a sparsely populated country. T. Armstrong Changsan: Iceland’s containment model is based on what is already known which is large scale testing, tracing and isolation. But the surprising thing here is, about 63% of the tests were done on the general public; that is, random tests, and not the other way around. I think this is quite unique. Although, I am not an expert but there is something more which I would like to share here. It is do with Iceland’s healthcare system which has extensive digitisation of patient records, accessible across the country, across hospitals including private clinics. Prescriptions are also paperless and can be viewed by the pharmacist directly. Allows for remote healthcare, thus preventing a great deal of visits to and crowding at the hospitals, or even clogging hospital telephone lines, while at the same time enabling remote monitoring of sick persons and advising them. Iceland’s national patients portal (heilsuvera.is) is very interactive, and sends out alerts to doctors, nurses and the patient concerned once certain responses to questionnaires trigger certain parameters; it even has the facility for video conferencing with the doctor. This came through very effective in tackling the pandemic and allowing for better, wider and optimal use of the resources of doctors, nurses and other medical staff. Iceland's digitisation of its healthcare system is different from the European healthcare systems, which are perhaps like our big hospitals in which a lot of patient data, etc. is stored in individual hospital software (or even paper files), giving rise to challenges in accessibility at different locations across the country. And since this Icelandic system can be accessed even on a smartphone, perhaps we too could emulate and develop a similar healthcare system backbone in India. And thereby leapfrogging over to a new smartphone-based healthcare system, that allows for optimising the use of the limited number of our doctors and other healthcare professionals.

From Uttarakhand to Reykjavik, India's medicines reach Iceland

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