Three policemen from Delhi were suspended for one day as they were caught lying about coming in contact with other policemen who had tested positive for coronavirus, as reported by Delhi Police.

The policemen who were deployed at Shastri Park metro station claimed they came in contact with few other policemen who were tested positive, and asked for permission to self-quarantine themselves.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/entire-country-suffering-supreme-court-rules-out-separate-funds-for-lawyers-295979">Also read:&nbsp;Entire country suffering’: Supreme Court rules out separate funds for lawyers</a>

The policemen, unlike their plan,&nbsp;have now returned to their duties.&nbsp;"3 policemen were suspended on 29 April for 1 day for lying to seniors that they came in contact with police personnel who tested positive for COVID-19. They were deployed at Shastri Park metro station. They have joined duty now," a statement from the Delhi Police said.

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3 policemen were suspended on 29 April for 1 day for lying to seniors that they came in contact with police personnel who tested positive for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>&amp;so,they must be sent for home-quarantine. They were deployed at Shastri Park metro station. They've joined duty now: Delhi Police <a href="https://t.co/2QHLHT71YD">pic.twitter.com/2QHLHT71YD</a>
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With a total of more than 3,500 positive cases and 59&nbsp;deaths,&nbsp;Delhi has been one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has urged people to stay calm and has assured that plasma therapy is helping patients recover.

“The 1,100 cured ppl are being contacted for plasma donation and most are willing to donate their plasma to help in the cure of positive patients,” he told the media..

“We were permitted by Centre for trial of plasma therapy at LNJP hospital. We administered it to a few patients. The first one among them was discharged after he made recovery. He was critical and in ICU, but was discharged. Initial results of the therapy are good,” he added.

Three policemen from Delhi were suspended for one day as they were caught lying about coming in contact with other policemen who had tested positive for coronavirus, as reported by Delhi Police.

Three policemen from Delhi were suspended for one day as they were caught lying about coming in contact with other policemen who had tested positive for coronavirus, as reported by Delhi Police. The policemen who were deployed at Shastri Park metro station claimed they came in contact with few other policemen who were tested positive, and asked for permission to self-quarantine themselves. Also read: Entire country suffering’: Supreme Court rules out separate funds for lawyers The policemen, unlike their plan, have now returned to their duties. "3 policemen were suspended on 29 April for 1 day for lying to seniors that they came in contact with police personnel who tested positive for COVID-19. They were deployed at Shastri Park metro station. They have joined duty now," a statement from the Delhi Police said. 3 policemen were suspended on 29 April for 1 day for lying to seniors that they came in contact with police personnel who tested positive for #COVID19&so,they must be sent for home-quarantine. They were deployed at Shastri Park metro station. They've joined duty now: Delhi Police pic.twitter.com/2QHLHT71YD — ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2020 × With a total of more than 3,500 positive cases and 59 deaths, Delhi has been one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has urged people to stay calm and has assured that plasma therapy is helping patients recover. “The 1,100 cured ppl are being contacted for plasma donation and most are willing to donate their plasma to help in the cure of positive patients,” he told the media.. “We were permitted by Centre for trial of plasma therapy at LNJP hospital. We administered it to a few patients. The first one among them was discharged after he made recovery. He was critical and in ICU, but was discharged. Initial results of the therapy are good,” he added.

Three policemen suspended for lying about coming in contact with coronavirus patients

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the Health Ministry has classified districts across all states and Union Territories as Red, Orange and Green zones with 130, 284 and 319 such zones respectively across the country, as on April 30.

All four major metropolitans - Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai and Mumbai - have been classified as red zones. The other major cities which are under the red zone are - Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Indore, Bhopal, Patna, Ahmedabad, Surat, Pune and Nagpur among others.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/alcohol-will-kill-coronavirus-in-throat-believes-mla-bharat-singh-kundanpur-296039">Also read:&nbsp;Alcohol will kill coronavirus in throat, believes MLA Bharat Singh Kundanpur</a>

Union Health Secretary Preeti Sudan has written to Chief Secretaries of all States and UTs delineating the above classification.

According to the data shared by the ministry, Uttar Pradesh has the maximum 19 red zones followed by Maharashtra which has 14 red zones. Tamil Nadu comes next with 12 red zones followed by Delhi which has 11 red zones. West Bengal is in fifth place with 10 red zones.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/entire-country-suffering-supreme-court-rules-out-separate-funds-for-lawyers-295979">Also read:&nbsp;Entire country suffering’: Supreme Court rules out separate funds for lawyers</a>

Uttar Pradesh also has the highest number of orange zones at 36. It is followed by Tamil Nadu with 24 orange zones. Bihar comes in third place with 20 orange zones.

The maximum green zones are in Assam at 30 followed by Arunachal Pradesh and Chhattisgarh with both states having 25 green zones. Madhya Pradesh comes next with 24 green zones.

"The districts were earlier designated as hotspots/red-zones, orange zones and green zones primarily based on the cumulative cases reported and the doubling rate. Since recovery rates have gone up, the districts are now being designated across various zones duly broad-basing the criteria," the Union Health Secretary wrote.

"This classification is multi-factorial and takes into consideration the incidence of cases, doubling rate, the extent of testing, and surveillance feedback to classify the districts. A district will be considered green zone if there are no confirmed cases so far or there is no reported case in the last 21 days in the district," she added.

Clarifying the classification of districts, the Health Secretary said: "For districts having 1 or more municipal corporations, corporations and other areas of districts may be treated as separate units. If 1 or more of these have reported no cases for the last 21 days, they can be considered 1 level lower in zonal classification, if the district is in Red/Orange zone."

"In buffer zones, extensive surveillance for cases through monitoring of ILI/SARI cases in health facilities has to be taken up. States are requested to delineate the containment zones and buffer zones in the identified red and orange zone districts and notify the same," she added.

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the Health Ministry has classified districts across all states and Union Territories as Red, Orange and Green zones with 130, 284 and 319 such zones respectively across the country, as on April 30.

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the Health Ministry has classified districts across all states and Union Territories as Red, Orange and Green zones with 130, 284 and 319 such zones respectively across the country, as on April 30. All four major metropolitans - Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai and Mumbai - have been classified as red zones. The other major cities which are under the red zone are - Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Indore, Bhopal, Patna, Ahmedabad, Surat, Pune and Nagpur among others. Also read: Alcohol will kill coronavirus in throat, believes MLA Bharat Singh Kundanpur Union Health Secretary Preeti Sudan has written to Chief Secretaries of all States and UTs delineating the above classification. According to the data shared by the ministry, Uttar Pradesh has the maximum 19 red zones followed by Maharashtra which has 14 red zones. Tamil Nadu comes next with 12 red zones followed by Delhi which has 11 red zones. West Bengal is in fifth place with 10 red zones. Also read: Entire country suffering’: Supreme Court rules out separate funds for lawyers Uttar Pradesh also has the highest number of orange zones at 36. It is followed by Tamil Nadu with 24 orange zones. Bihar comes in third place with 20 orange zones. The maximum green zones are in Assam at 30 followed by Arunachal Pradesh and Chhattisgarh with both states having 25 green zones. Madhya Pradesh comes next with 24 green zones. "The districts were earlier designated as hotspots/red-zones, orange zones and green zones primarily based on the cumulative cases reported and the doubling rate. Since recovery rates have gone up, the districts are now being designated across various zones duly broad-basing the criteria," the Union Health Secretary wrote. "This classification is multi-factorial and takes into consideration the incidence of cases, doubling rate, the extent of testing, and surveillance feedback to classify the districts. A district will be considered green zone if there are no confirmed cases so far or there is no reported case in the last 21 days in the district," she added. Clarifying the classification of districts, the Health Secretary said: "For districts having 1 or more municipal corporations, corporations and other areas of districts may be treated as separate units. If 1 or more of these have reported no cases for the last 21 days, they can be considered 1 level lower in zonal classification, if the district is in Red/Orange zone." "In buffer zones, extensive surveillance for cases through monitoring of ILI/SARI cases in health facilities has to be taken up. States are requested to delineate the containment zones and buffer zones in the identified red and orange zone districts and notify the same," she added.

Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai among 130 Red Zones designated by Centre

In a bid to contain the spread of Coronavirus in the Bengal’s capital city of Kolkata, Police have formulated guidelines to prevent people from spitting at public places. 
&nbsp; 
According to sources in the Kolkata Police, a person who is caught spitting might invite arrest with a case being registered against him and can be charged a fine between Rs.2,000-Rs.5,000 as per the West Bengal Prohibition of Smoking &amp; Spitting &amp; Protection of Health of Non-Smokers &amp; Minors Act. 
&nbsp; 
Sources reveal top brass of Kolkata Police have asked the field officers to prosecute those who are caught spitting in place of public work or use as per the West Bengal Prohibition of Smoking &amp; Spitting &amp; Protection of Health of Non-Smokers &amp; Minors Act. 
&nbsp; 
“This Act allows a person to be prosecuted who spits in place of public work or use like - auditoriums, hospital buildings, health institutions, educational institutions, libraries, court buildings, public offices and public conveyances including Railways,” said a senior official of Kolkata Police. 
&nbsp; 
He further added, “In case of a person is caught spitting in thoroughfares or open maidan, he will be prosecuted under the Calcutta Police Act or the Disaster Management Act.” 
&nbsp; 
Kolkata Police on Wednesday registered the first case under the West Bengal Prohibition of Smoking &amp; Spitting &amp; Protection of Health of Non-Smokers &amp; Minors Act in the lockdown period. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;A 55-year-old Kumar Gourisaria was prosecuted by New Alipore Police Station on Wednesday for spitting in a public place.

In a bid to contain the spread of Coronavirus in the Bengal’s capital city of Kolkata, Police have formulated guidelines to prevent people from spitting at public places.

In a bid to contain the spread of Coronavirus in the Bengal’s capital city of Kolkata, Police have formulated guidelines to prevent people from spitting at public places. According to sources in the Kolkata Police, a person who is caught spitting might invite arrest with a case being registered against him and can be charged a fine between Rs.2,000-Rs.5,000 as per the West Bengal Prohibition of Smoking & Spitting & Protection of Health of Non-Smokers & Minors Act. Sources reveal top brass of Kolkata Police have asked the field officers to prosecute those who are caught spitting in place of public work or use as per the West Bengal Prohibition of Smoking & Spitting & Protection of Health of Non-Smokers & Minors Act. “This Act allows a person to be prosecuted who spits in place of public work or use like - auditoriums, hospital buildings, health institutions, educational institutions, libraries, court buildings, public offices and public conveyances including Railways,” said a senior official of Kolkata Police. He further added, “In case of a person is caught spitting in thoroughfares or open maidan, he will be prosecuted under the Calcutta Police Act or the Disaster Management Act.” Kolkata Police on Wednesday registered the first case under the West Bengal Prohibition of Smoking & Spitting & Protection of Health of Non-Smokers & Minors Act in the lockdown period. A 55-year-old Kumar Gourisaria was prosecuted by New Alipore Police Station on Wednesday for spitting in a public place.

Coronavirus: Spitting in public places in Kolkata might invite arrest by police

Two days after cops were attacked in Howrah’s Tikiapara area, the main instigators were arrested on Thursday. 
&nbsp; 
Two main instigators were identified and arrested by Howrah City Police, taking the total number of arrests in the case to 12. 
&nbsp; 
On Tuesday evening, police officers from Howrah City Police got information that some people were were violating the lockdown and were out on the streets. 
&nbsp; 
Immediately a team of Rapid Action Force (RAF) and other officers from Tikiapara Police Out Post were rushed to the spot. However, suddenly the gathering grew bigger with people stepping out of their homes. 
&nbsp; 
Immediately the RAF team and other officers were pushed to a cornered and the locals began chasing them. In no time, the locals started pelting stones and hurled bottles at them. Two police vehicles were vandalised, ransacked and the Tikipara Police Out Post was attacked too. 
&nbsp; 
As many as three police officials suffered injuries. 
&nbsp; 
Three FIRs were registered and ten persons involved in the attack on cops were arrested on Wednesday.

Two days after cops were attacked in Howrah’s Tikiapara area, the main instigators were arrested on Thursday. Two main instigators were identified and arrested by Howrah City Police, taking the total number of arrests in the case to 12.

Two days after cops were attacked in Howrah’s Tikiapara area, the main instigators were arrested on Thursday. Two main instigators were identified and arrested by Howrah City Police, taking the total number of arrests in the case to 12. On Tuesday evening, police officers from Howrah City Police got information that some people were were violating the lockdown and were out on the streets. Immediately a team of Rapid Action Force (RAF) and other officers from Tikiapara Police Out Post were rushed to the spot. However, suddenly the gathering grew bigger with people stepping out of their homes. Immediately the RAF team and other officers were pushed to a cornered and the locals began chasing them. In no time, the locals started pelting stones and hurled bottles at them. Two police vehicles were vandalised, ransacked and the Tikipara Police Out Post was attacked too. As many as three police officials suffered injuries. Three FIRs were registered and ten persons involved in the attack on cops were arrested on Wednesday.

Attack on police in Bengal's COVID hotspot Howrah: Main instigators nabbed

As the lockdown 2.0 is coming close to its end date, people are wondering if the lockdown will be lifted this time, or will it be extended for a lockdown 3.0. While it is being believed that the lockdown has helped India get control of the situation, the number of positive cases that are on a rise tell a scary story.

According to official figures released, 73 people have died in the last 24 hours, recording the biggest jump in the number of deaths in a day. The number of positive coronavirus cases as well as the death count has doubled in the past 10 days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-slams-us-body-for-accusing-it-of-violating-religious-freedom-295443">Also read: India slams US body for accusing it of violating religious freedom</a>

According to the latest figures from the Union Health Ministry, as much as 1,007 people have died of coronavirus in the country and 31,332 cases have been reported so far.&nbsp;

While the plasma therapy is giving some hope to the citizens, ICMR has said that currently there are no approved, definitive therapies for coronavirus. The government has also announced plasma therapy is still in an experimental stage and can even prove life-threatening for a patient.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-activates-currency-swap-to-help-the-maldives-amid-covid-19-295380">Also read: India activates currency swap to help the Maldives amid COVID-19</a>

In India, Maharashtra is still the worst-affected state as more than 729 new cases were reported taking the total toll to 9,318, and the death toll to nearly 400 as the state reported its highest single-day death count of 31.

Delhi has recorded a total of 3,108 positive cases as a CRPF battalion in Delhi has reported 47 cases of coronavirus, including one jawan who died yesterday. Following this news, the entire battalion of nearly 1,000 personnel has been quarantined.

Tamil Nadu, too, has been fighting its battle by implementing a four-day intense lockdown in Chennai and Coimbatore, and a three-day lockdown in &nbsp;Salem and Tirupur, which ended last night. Coronavirus cases in the state crossed the 2,000-mark, with 25 reported deaths.

As people wait for a decision on the extension or lifting up of the lockdown, there has been no official word from the government yet. Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined the Chief Ministers on a video meeting. It is being speculated that the lockdown could continue beyond May 3 in parts of the country which have been worst affected by the pandemic.

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, on Tuesday, said that the doubling rate of COVID-19 cases has slowed to 10.9, with a recovery rate of 24.56 per cent.

As the lockdown 2.0 is coming close to its end date, people are wondering if the lockdown will be lifted this time, or will it be extended for a lockdown 3.0. While it is being believed that the lockdown has helped India get control of the situation, the number of positive cases that are on a rise tell a scary story.

As the lockdown 2.0 is coming close to its end date, people are wondering if the lockdown will be lifted this time, or will it be extended for a lockdown 3.0. While it is being believed that the lockdown has helped India get control of the situation, the number of positive cases that are on a rise tell a scary story. According to official figures released, 73 people have died in the last 24 hours, recording the biggest jump in the number of deaths in a day. The number of positive coronavirus cases as well as the death count has doubled in the past 10 days. Also read: India slams US body for accusing it of violating religious freedom According to the latest figures from the Union Health Ministry, as much as 1,007 people have died of coronavirus in the country and 31,332 cases have been reported so far. While the plasma therapy is giving some hope to the citizens, ICMR has said that currently there are no approved, definitive therapies for coronavirus. The government has also announced plasma therapy is still in an experimental stage and can even prove life-threatening for a patient. Also read: India activates currency swap to help the Maldives amid COVID-19 In India, Maharashtra is still the worst-affected state as more than 729 new cases were reported taking the total toll to 9,318, and the death toll to nearly 400 as the state reported its highest single-day death count of 31. Delhi has recorded a total of 3,108 positive cases as a CRPF battalion in Delhi has reported 47 cases of coronavirus, including one jawan who died yesterday. Following this news, the entire battalion of nearly 1,000 personnel has been quarantined. Tamil Nadu, too, has been fighting its battle by implementing a four-day intense lockdown in Chennai and Coimbatore, and a three-day lockdown in Salem and Tirupur, which ended last night. Coronavirus cases in the state crossed the 2,000-mark, with 25 reported deaths. As people wait for a decision on the extension or lifting up of the lockdown, there has been no official word from the government yet. Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined the Chief Ministers on a video meeting. It is being speculated that the lockdown could continue beyond May 3 in parts of the country which have been worst affected by the pandemic. Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, on Tuesday, said that the doubling rate of COVID-19 cases has slowed to 10.9, with a recovery rate of 24.56 per cent.

Coronavirus deaths cross the 1,000 mark in India, biggest jump in last 24 hours

As the country went into a complete lockdown, all the schools and educational institutions were closed until further notice. A lot of schools have now shifted to online classes. However, there are a lot of students of classes X and XII who are suffering due to this lockdown.

The board examinations were immediately suspended when the coronavirus started spreading in the country. This led to few exams being delayed. Centra Board of Secondary Education issued a press release about the situation at that time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/around-1000-coronavirus-deaths-in-a-country-of-13-bn-people-whats-the-deal-with-modis-india-295441">Also read:&nbsp;Around 1,000 coronavirus deaths in a country of 1.3 bn people? What's the deal with Modi's India!</a>

"As a precautionary measure and in compliance of the instructions received from Secretary, Department of Higher Education/ School Education and Literacy, Government of India, dated 18th March, 2020, CBSE had postponed all the board examinations that were to be held between 19.03.2020 to 31.03.2020," read the release.

Now, weeks later as the students are still not sure about the future of their exams, CBSE has tweeted to put an end to the various rumours that were being circulated on the internet. Some people rumoured that the exams will be cancelled and the students will be automatically promoted to the next class, whereas some reports assumed that the exams will be conducted through video calls.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-in-us-top-1-million-death-toll-at-57266-295419">Also read |&nbsp;Coronavirus cases in US top 1 million; death toll at 57,266</a>

However, CBSE, on Wednesday, tweeted "Recently there has been a lot of speculation regarding 10th CBSE Board exams. It is reiterated that the boards decision to take board exams for 29 subjects of class 10 and 12, stands the same as mentioned in circular dated 1.4.20.@DrRPNishank @PMOIndia @PTI_News"

It also issued a circular to further clear out the rumours. It also clarified that the Board will give&nbsp;time of 10 days to all stakeholders before starting the examinations.

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Press Release dated 29.04.2020 regrading CBSE Exams<a href="https://twitter.com/DrRPNishank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrRPNishank</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HRDMinistry?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HRDMinistry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficeOfSDhotre?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficeOfSDhotre</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PTI_News</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNewslive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DDNewslive</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AkashvaniAIR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AkashvaniAIR</a> <a href="https://t.co/XtXvET66fm">pic.twitter.com/XtXvET66fm</a>
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A media organisation also quoted the education ministry officials saying the pending class X and class XII board examinations for 29 crucial subjects will be held at the first possibility.

The Delhi government, on Tuesday, requested the central government to promote Class X and XII students based on internal exams.

As the country went into a complete lockdown, all the schools and educational institutions were closed until further notice. A lot of schools have now shifted to online classes.

As the country went into a complete lockdown, all the schools and educational institutions were closed until further notice. A lot of schools have now shifted to online classes. However, there are a lot of students of classes X and XII who are suffering due to this lockdown. The board examinations were immediately suspended when the coronavirus started spreading in the country. This led to few exams being delayed. Centra Board of Secondary Education issued a press release about the situation at that time. Also read: Around 1,000 coronavirus deaths in a country of 1.3 bn people? What's the deal with Modi's India! "As a precautionary measure and in compliance of the instructions received from Secretary, Department of Higher Education/ School Education and Literacy, Government of India, dated 18th March, 2020, CBSE had postponed all the board examinations that were to be held between 19.03.2020 to 31.03.2020," read the release. Now, weeks later as the students are still not sure about the future of their exams, CBSE has tweeted to put an end to the various rumours that were being circulated on the internet. Some people rumoured that the exams will be cancelled and the students will be automatically promoted to the next class, whereas some reports assumed that the exams will be conducted through video calls. Also read | Coronavirus cases in US top 1 million; death toll at 57,266 However, CBSE, on Wednesday, tweeted "Recently there has been a lot of speculation regarding 10th CBSE Board exams. It is reiterated that the boards decision to take board exams for 29 subjects of class 10 and 12, stands the same as mentioned in circular dated 1.4.20.@DrRPNishank @PMOIndia @PTI_News" It also issued a circular to further clear out the rumours. It also clarified that the Board will give time of 10 days to all stakeholders before starting the examinations. Press Release dated 29.04.2020 regrading CBSE Exams@DrRPNishank @HRDMinistry @OfficeOfSDhotre @PIB_India @PTI_News @DDNewslive @AkashvaniAIR pic.twitter.com/XtXvET66fm — CBSE HQ (@cbseindia29) April 29, 2020 × A media organisation also quoted the education ministry officials saying the pending class X and class XII board examinations for 29 crucial subjects will be held at the first possibility. The Delhi government, on Tuesday, requested the central government to promote Class X and XII students based on internal exams.

Pending board exams of class 10 and 12 will be conducted at the first possibility, says CBSE

While other states are yet to take a decision on whether to lift the lockdown, Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh in a video message announced a two-week extension of the lockdown.

It&nbsp;has to been done to contain the spread of the virus.

"Though the curfew has been extended by two more weeks, there will be relaxation from 7am to 11am every day. During this time, people can come out of their houses. Shops will also be allowed to open," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-rajasthan-reports-29-cases-madhya-pradesh-announces-94-cases-295555">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: Rajasthan reports 29 cases, Madhya Pradesh announces 94 cases</a>

India has now crossed the 31,000 mark of positive cases as the country recorded&nbsp;1,897 cases in 24 hours, making it the steepest rise i the curve. According to the Union Health Ministry, there a&nbsp;total of&nbsp;22,629 active cases, 7,695 cured/discharged, 1 migrated and 1,007 deaths.

A total of 73 people have lost their battle to coronavirus&nbsp;in the last 24 hours, recording the biggest jump in the number of deaths in a day. The number of positive coronavirus cases as well as the death count has doubled in the past 10 days, despite the lockdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-oxford-vaccine-effective-in-monkeys-heading-for-mass-production-in-india-295429">Also Read:&nbsp;Oxford vaccine effective in monkeys, heading for mass production in India</a>

Rajasthan on Wednesday reported 29 more COVID-19 cases taking the total number of coronavirus cases in the state to 2,393, state Health Department said. Jammu and Kashmir has also seen a rise as the total number of cases in the Union Territory stands at 565 in Jammu and Kashmir, including 381 active cases.

Bihar, too, has reported 12 new cases, including a six-month old baby, taking the tally to 378.&nbsp;Madhya Pradesh announced&nbsp;94 new cases on Wednesday.

As the cases are on a constant rise, Tamil Nadu had initiated a four-day&nbsp;intense lockdown in four cities, which is ending today. Following that, the Tamil Nadu government has issued a notice that grocery shops will be allowed to function from 6am to 5pm for tomorrow in those cities, namely Chennai and Coimbatore. The timings will shift back to 6am to 1pm from Friday.

While other states are yet to take a decision on whether to lift the lockdown, Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh in a video message announced a two-week extension of the lockdown.

While other states are yet to take a decision on whether to lift the lockdown, Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh in a video message announced a two-week extension of the lockdown. It has to been done to contain the spread of the virus. "Though the curfew has been extended by two more weeks, there will be relaxation from 7am to 11am every day. During this time, people can come out of their houses. Shops will also be allowed to open," he said. Also read: COVID-19: Rajasthan reports 29 cases, Madhya Pradesh announces 94 cases India has now crossed the 31,000 mark of positive cases as the country recorded 1,897 cases in 24 hours, making it the steepest rise i the curve. According to the Union Health Ministry, there a total of 22,629 active cases, 7,695 cured/discharged, 1 migrated and 1,007 deaths. A total of 73 people have lost their battle to coronavirus in the last 24 hours, recording the biggest jump in the number of deaths in a day. The number of positive coronavirus cases as well as the death count has doubled in the past 10 days, despite the lockdown. Also Read: Oxford vaccine effective in monkeys, heading for mass production in India Rajasthan on Wednesday reported 29 more COVID-19 cases taking the total number of coronavirus cases in the state to 2,393, state Health Department said. Jammu and Kashmir has also seen a rise as the total number of cases in the Union Territory stands at 565 in Jammu and Kashmir, including 381 active cases. Bihar, too, has reported 12 new cases, including a six-month old baby, taking the tally to 378. Madhya Pradesh announced 94 new cases on Wednesday. As the cases are on a constant rise, Tamil Nadu had initiated a four-day intense lockdown in four cities, which is ending today. Following that, the Tamil Nadu government has issued a notice that grocery shops will be allowed to function from 6am to 5pm for tomorrow in those cities, namely Chennai and Coimbatore. The timings will shift back to 6am to 1pm from Friday.

Decided to extend curfew in state by two more weeks: Punjab CM Amarinder Singh

The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in India rose to 29,435 on Tuesday with 62 deaths and 1543 new cases in the last 24 hours, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.&nbsp;

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday reported that the total number of COVID-19 positive cases in India rises to 29435 including 21632 active cases, 6868 cured/discharged, 934 deaths and 1 migrated.

Maharashtra continued to be the worst-hit state with the total number of COVID-19 cases at 8,590.

Meanwhile, the overall number of COVID-19 cases worldwide increased to 2,878,196 and the death count reached 198,668. There are 1,359,380 confirmed cases and 124,525 deaths in Europe. The number of cases in the Americas total 1,140,520, with 58,492 deaths.

The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in India rose to 29,435 on Tuesday with 62 deaths and 1543 new cases in the last 24 hours, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in India rose to 29,435 on Tuesday with 62 deaths and 1543 new cases in the last 24 hours, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday reported that the total number of COVID-19 positive cases in India rises to 29435 including 21632 active cases, 6868 cured/discharged, 934 deaths and 1 migrated. Maharashtra continued to be the worst-hit state with the total number of COVID-19 cases at 8,590. Meanwhile, the overall number of COVID-19 cases worldwide increased to 2,878,196 and the death count reached 198,668. There are 1,359,380 confirmed cases and 124,525 deaths in Europe. The number of cases in the Americas total 1,140,520, with 58,492 deaths.

India sees sharpest death count rise; total Covid-19 cases 29,435

The inter-ministerial central teams on COVID-19 assessment in West Bengal on Monday toured several areas of East Midnapore and Jalpaiguri districts to take stock of the situation at hospitals and oversee the implementation of lockdown norms.

The team in Kolkata, led by senior bureaucrat Apurba Chandra, went to Tamluk, Haldia and Paskura in East Midnapore district. It visited the Baroma Covid Hospital, Paskura, District Hospital in Tamluk and S D Hospital in Haldia.

“At all the three hospitals, the team met senior officials and hospital superintendents. They took stock of the situation, inquired about minute details and data of the patients,” a state government official said.

In Jalpaiguri district, the central team led by senior official Vineet Joshi visited various hospitals and quarantine centres.

“They visited COVID-19 hospitals at Rajganj and Biswa Bangla Sports Centre and a few quarantine centres,” another official said.

Joshi, while speaking to reporters, later, said in several areas, people were not adhering to lockdown norms.

There has been a war of words between the West Bengal government and the Centre over the arrival of the two central teams in the state to assess the coronavirus situation. The teams have visited several hospitals and hotspot areas in the past couple of days to look into the state’s preparedness for tackling the COVID-19 outbreak.

The inter-ministerial central teams on COVID-19 assessment in West Bengal on Monday toured several areas of East Midnapore and Jalpaiguri districts to take stock of the situation at hospitals and oversee the implementation of lockdown norms.

The inter-ministerial central teams on COVID-19 assessment in West Bengal on Monday toured several areas of East Midnapore and Jalpaiguri districts to take stock of the situation at hospitals and oversee the implementation of lockdown norms. The team in Kolkata, led by senior bureaucrat Apurba Chandra, went to Tamluk, Haldia and Paskura in East Midnapore district. It visited the Baroma Covid Hospital, Paskura, District Hospital in Tamluk and S D Hospital in Haldia. “At all the three hospitals, the team met senior officials and hospital superintendents. They took stock of the situation, inquired about minute details and data of the patients,” a state government official said. In Jalpaiguri district, the central team led by senior official Vineet Joshi visited various hospitals and quarantine centres. “They visited COVID-19 hospitals at Rajganj and Biswa Bangla Sports Centre and a few quarantine centres,” another official said. Joshi, while speaking to reporters, later, said in several areas, people were not adhering to lockdown norms. There has been a war of words between the West Bengal government and the Centre over the arrival of the two central teams in the state to assess the coronavirus situation. The teams have visited several hospitals and hotspot areas in the past couple of days to look into the state’s preparedness for tackling the COVID-19 outbreak.

COVID-19: Central teams visit East Midnapore, Jalpaiguri to asses situation

The Kerala BJP on Monday criticised Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for not participating in the video conference called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the situation arising due to the coronavirus pandemic in the country.&nbsp;

BJP state chief K Surendran said while the whole country was fighting the pandemic together, it was “inappropriate” on part of the Kerala chief minister to miss the meeting.

“Kerala chief minister said he had attended the last meeting and hence he did not attend today’s meeting. However, most of the chief ministers, who attended the last meeting, had attended Monday’s meeting. While the whole country is fighting the pandemic together, his absence cannot be justified,” Surendran said in a statement.

However, Vijayan, in his daily COVID-19 evaluation press meet, said the Union cabinet secretary had on Sunday informed that only a few chief ministers will have a chance to speak at the video conference.

“We were asked to share the topics which we would like to share in the video conference. We had informed the cabinet secretary about it on Sunday itself. The cabinet secretary had informed us that only a few chief ministers will get a chance to speak during the conference,” Vijayan said.

Only nine chief ministers got the chance to speak during the video conference called by the prime minister. Kerala Chief Secretary Tom Jose participated in the conference.

Kerala had informed the cabinet secretary about the concerns of the state government on Sunday itself. Vijayan said the state government had said that the lockdown could be extended partially till May 15.

The Kerala BJP on Monday criticised Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for not participating in the video conference called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the situation arising due to the coronavirus pandemic in the country.

The Kerala BJP on Monday criticised Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for not participating in the video conference called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the situation arising due to the coronavirus pandemic in the country. BJP state chief K Surendran said while the whole country was fighting the pandemic together, it was “inappropriate” on part of the Kerala chief minister to miss the meeting. “Kerala chief minister said he had attended the last meeting and hence he did not attend today’s meeting. However, most of the chief ministers, who attended the last meeting, had attended Monday’s meeting. While the whole country is fighting the pandemic together, his absence cannot be justified,” Surendran said in a statement. However, Vijayan, in his daily COVID-19 evaluation press meet, said the Union cabinet secretary had on Sunday informed that only a few chief ministers will have a chance to speak at the video conference. “We were asked to share the topics which we would like to share in the video conference. We had informed the cabinet secretary about it on Sunday itself. The cabinet secretary had informed us that only a few chief ministers will get a chance to speak during the conference,” Vijayan said. Only nine chief ministers got the chance to speak during the video conference called by the prime minister. Kerala Chief Secretary Tom Jose participated in the conference. Kerala had informed the cabinet secretary about the concerns of the state government on Sunday itself. Vijayan said the state government had said that the lockdown could be extended partially till May 15.

‘Cannot be justified’: BJP slams Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan for skipping PM Modi’s COVID-19 meet with chief ministers

The extension of lockdown in the country was discussed in the video-conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers of nine states on Monday. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-cases-in-india-rise-to-27892-with-872-deaths-click-for-state-wise-status-294960">Coronavirus cases in India rise to 27,892 with 872 deaths | click for state-wise status</a> 
 
PM Modi assured the states that the economy is in good shape and there is no need to worry.

The chief ministers who attended the meeting included Arvind Kejriwal (Delhi), Uddhav Thackeray (Maharashtra), E K Palaniswami (Tamil Nadu), Conrad Sangma (Meghalaya) Trivendra Singh Rawat (Uttarakhand) and Yogi Adityanath (Uttar Pradesh).

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-to-cms-in-video-conference-nationwide-lockdown-in-india-helping-alot-to-contain-coronavirus-spread-295038/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the reports more than seven states have asked for lockdown extension. Few CMs wanted lockdown should be eased in non-corona zones and economic activities be allowed.

Odisha has requested for one more month of lockdown and Bihar has asked more PPE kits.

"I have demanded that lockdown should continue otherwise we can't face these things in Odisha. Let it be one month more, then, we will see what is going on," Odisha Health Minister Naba Das, who was present along with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at the video conference, said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
This was the fourth such interaction since March 22 when he first spoke to them on the pandemic, Modi also highlighted the importance for states to enforce prescribed guidelines strictly in the coronavirus hotspots zones, the government said in a statement.

What PM Modi said in the meeting?

<ul>
	<li>Lockdown has yielded positive results, the country has managed to save thousands of lives in the past 1.5 months.</li>
	<li>Our aim must be the rapid response, need to follow the mantra of ‘do gaz doori’.</li>
	<li>PM said that efforts of states should be directed towards converting the red zones into orange and thereafter to green zones.</li>
	<li>We have to be brave and bring in reforms that touch the lives of common citizens.</li>
	<li>We have to give importance to the economy as well as continue the fight against covid-19.</li>
	<li>Impact of coronavirus will remain visible in the coming months, masks and face covers will be part of our life.</li>
	<li>CMs provide feedback, suggest measures to meet economic challenges and boost health infrastructure.</li>
</ul>

 
Today's meeting comes just a week ahead of the scheduled ending of the nationwide lockdown. On March 24, the Prime Minister had announced a 21-day lockdown as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of COVID-19. The lockdown was later extended till May 3.

(With inputs from agencies)

The extension of lockdown in the country was discussed in the video-conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers of nine states on Monday.

The extension of lockdown in the country was discussed in the video-conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers of nine states on Monday. Coronavirus cases in India rise to 27,892 with 872 deaths | click for state-wise status PM Modi assured the states that the economy is in good shape and there is no need to worry. The chief ministers who attended the meeting included Arvind Kejriwal (Delhi), Uddhav Thackeray (Maharashtra), E K Palaniswami (Tamil Nadu), Conrad Sangma (Meghalaya) Trivendra Singh Rawat (Uttarakhand) and Yogi Adityanath (Uttar Pradesh). According to the reports more than seven states have asked for lockdown extension. Few CMs wanted lockdown should be eased in non-corona zones and economic activities be allowed. Odisha has requested for one more month of lockdown and Bihar has asked more PPE kits. "I have demanded that lockdown should continue otherwise we can't face these things in Odisha. Let it be one month more, then, we will see what is going on," Odisha Health Minister Naba Das, who was present along with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at the video conference, said. This was the fourth such interaction since March 22 when he first spoke to them on the pandemic, Modi also highlighted the importance for states to enforce prescribed guidelines strictly in the coronavirus hotspots zones, the government said in a statement. What PM Modi said in the meeting? Lockdown has yielded positive results, the country has managed to save thousands of lives in the past 1.5 months. Our aim must be the rapid response, need to follow the mantra of ‘do gaz doori’. PM said that efforts of states should be directed towards converting the red zones into orange and thereafter to green zones. We have to be brave and bring in reforms that touch the lives of common citizens. We have to give importance to the economy as well as continue the fight against covid-19. Impact of coronavirus will remain visible in the coming months, masks and face covers will be part of our life. CMs provide feedback, suggest measures to meet economic challenges and boost health infrastructure. Today's meeting comes just a week ahead of the scheduled ending of the nationwide lockdown. On March 24, the Prime Minister had announced a 21-day lockdown as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of COVID-19. The lockdown was later extended till May 3. (With inputs from agencies)

Lockdown has yielded positive results, says PM; States want extension with relaxations

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Monday reported that countrywide COVID-19 death toll has reached 872 while the number of cases climbed to 27892.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-positive-cases-near-3-million-mark-globally-death-toll-passes-2-lacs-294998">Also read: COVID-19 positive cases near 3-million mark globally; death toll passes 2 lacs</a> 
 
​​​​​​​According to the available data, the total cases in the country reached 27892, including 6184 cured/discharged/migrated and 872 deaths. In the past 24 hours, 1,396 new cases of coronavirus and 48 deaths were reported. The total number of cases in Maharashtra, the worst affected state by Covid-19, has risen to 8068 with 342 deaths.

Through a graded, pre-emptive and pro-active approach, the Government of India is taking several steps along with the states/UTs for prevention, containment and management of COVID-19. These are being regularly reviewed and monitored at the highest level, the ministry said.

The Indian Council of Medical Research has said that a total of 280 government laboratories in the country are conducting tests for Covid-19. ICMR also released a list of 90 private labs which will conduct the testing.

Here is the total coronavirus cases in India, state-wise

Andaman and Nicobar Islands - 33

Andhra Pradesh - 1097

Arunachal Pradesh - 1

Assam - 36

Bihar - 274

Chandigarh - 30

Chhattisgarh - 37

Delhi - 2918

Goa - 7

Gujarat - 3301

Haryana - 289

Himachal Pradesh - 40

Jammu and Kashmir - 523

Jharkhand -82

Karnataka - 503

Kerala - 458

Ladakh - 20

Madhya Pradesh - 2096

Maharashtra - 8068

Manipur - 2

Meghalaya - 12

Mizoram - 1

Odisha - 103

Puducherry - 7

Punjab - 7

Rajasthan - 2185

Tamil Nadu - 1885

Telangana - 1002

Tripura - 2

Uttarakhand - 50

Uttar Pradesh - 1868

West Bengal - 649

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a video conference with the Chief Ministers of all states today amid the coronavirus lockdown.

Meanwhile, the Indian government is planning to evacuate the countrymen stranded in different countries after the nationwide lockdown is lifted. Indian missions in different countries are laying the groundwork for the same and holding consultations with authorities.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, India's Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba held a video conference with chief secretaries of all states and union territories on the situation on lockdown in the country and resumption of economic activities.

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Monday reported that countrywide COVID-19 death toll has reached 872 while the number of cases climbed to 27892. Also read: COVID-19 positive cases near 3-million mark globally; death toll passes 2 lacs According to the available data, the total cases in the country reached 27892, including 6184 cured/discharged/migrated and 872 deaths.

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Monday reported that countrywide COVID-19 death toll has reached 872 while the number of cases climbed to 27892. Also read: COVID-19 positive cases near 3-million mark globally; death toll passes 2 lacs According to the available data, the total cases in the country reached 27892, including 6184 cured/discharged/migrated and 872 deaths. In the past 24 hours, 1,396 new cases of coronavirus and 48 deaths were reported. The total number of cases in Maharashtra, the worst affected state by Covid-19, has risen to 8068 with 342 deaths. Through a graded, pre-emptive and pro-active approach, the Government of India is taking several steps along with the states/UTs for prevention, containment and management of COVID-19. These are being regularly reviewed and monitored at the highest level, the ministry said. The Indian Council of Medical Research has said that a total of 280 government laboratories in the country are conducting tests for Covid-19. ICMR also released a list of 90 private labs which will conduct the testing. Here is the total coronavirus cases in India, state-wise Andaman and Nicobar Islands - 33 Andhra Pradesh - 1097 Arunachal Pradesh - 1 Assam - 36 Bihar - 274 Chandigarh - 30 Chhattisgarh - 37 Delhi - 2918 Goa - 7 Gujarat - 3301 Haryana - 289 Himachal Pradesh - 40 Jammu and Kashmir - 523 Jharkhand -82 Karnataka - 503 Kerala - 458 Ladakh - 20 Madhya Pradesh - 2096 Maharashtra - 8068 Manipur - 2 Meghalaya - 12 Mizoram - 1 Odisha - 103 Puducherry - 7 Punjab - 7 Rajasthan - 2185 Tamil Nadu - 1885 Telangana - 1002 Tripura - 2 Uttarakhand - 50 Uttar Pradesh - 1868 West Bengal - 649 Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a video conference with the Chief Ministers of all states today amid the coronavirus lockdown. Meanwhile, the Indian government is planning to evacuate the countrymen stranded in different countries after the nationwide lockdown is lifted. Indian missions in different countries are laying the groundwork for the same and holding consultations with authorities. Earlier this week, India's Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba held a video conference with chief secretaries of all states and union territories on the situation on lockdown in the country and resumption of economic activities.

Coronavirus cases in India rise to 27,892 with 872 deaths | click for state-wise status

To contain biomedical waste, a Gujarat-based company has developed reusable Personal protective equipment (PPE) kits amid the coronavirus outbreak.

"Wearing these suits, doctors will be 100 per cent safe as it operates with positive air pressure. The air quality in the suits is also measured online. This PPE suit has its own decontamination process. As this is not disposable, so no biomedical waste will be generated," said Managing Director of Sure Safety (India) Ltd, N Dand while speaking to ANI.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-1990-new-cases-india-witnesses-highest-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hour-period-294814">Also read:&nbsp;With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest COVID-19 cases in 24-hour period</a>

"We provide COVID-19 safety equipment to Government for India, Government of Gujarat and Indian Defence," he added.

This comes after reports came from several states that health workers at the hospitals do not have PPE while treating the COVID-19 patients.

To contain biomedical waste, a Gujarat-based company has developed reusable Personal protective equipment (PPE) kits amid the coronavirus outbreak. "Wearing these suits, doctors will be 100 per cent safe as it operates with positive air pressure.

To contain biomedical waste, a Gujarat-based company has developed reusable Personal protective equipment (PPE) kits amid the coronavirus outbreak. "Wearing these suits, doctors will be 100 per cent safe as it operates with positive air pressure. The air quality in the suits is also measured online. This PPE suit has its own decontamination process. As this is not disposable, so no biomedical waste will be generated," said Managing Director of Sure Safety (India) Ltd, N Dand while speaking to ANI. Also read: With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest COVID-19 cases in 24-hour period "We provide COVID-19 safety equipment to Government for India, Government of Gujarat and Indian Defence," he added. This comes after reports came from several states that health workers at the hospitals do not have PPE while treating the COVID-19 patients.

Gujarat-based company develops reusable PPE kits

Despite budgetary challenges in view of coronavirus outbreak, the Indian Armed Forces are capable of undertaking any operational task assigned to them, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat said on Sunday.

"Whatever budget has been given to us, we must spend it pragmatically avoiding any wasteful expenditure. We don't see any major drop in our operational preparedness as far as the three services are concerned," the CDS told ANI in an exclusive interview.

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General Rawat said COVID-19 has taught us a lesson to be self-reliant."COVID-19 has taught us a lesson that time has come to be self-reliant. In times of crisis, nations will have to live by themselves. In fact, a country like India, when we are looking at becoming a regional power, we will have to support other nations and not be dependent on others," the CDS said.

Stressing that it becomes very important for the country to start addressing the issue of in-house manufacturing, the CDS said: "That is why it becomes very important that we start addressing the issue of in-house manufacturing through Make in India and make sure that whatever we are importing, gradually we should start depending on Make in India. If we start depending on Make in India, we will also reduce our ab initio holdings.

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"Pointing out as to how the health industry in the country has come forward during these challenging times, the CDS said: "The scientists and other agencies involved in medical research have come up with innovative ideas to produce medical equipment in the country which we were so far importing to help us tide over COVID-19 has been amazing."

"There is a very major lesson for us. We have been importing our weapons and ammunition from abroad but I think if we can give this challenge to our industry, academia and research and development organisation. I think if we can start manufacturing our own weapon, ammunition in the country, we may not have to be dependent on imports," he said.

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The CDS said he was quite sure that the defence manufacturing in the country can also move at the same pace provided "we have faith in our industry and research organisations".

"We are able to do their handholding and are able to move forward.

"General Rawat said gradually we have to start looking that most of the major components are made in India.

"I am also happy to inform that we are making our own guns, we are making our own air defence systems and small arms. You will be happy to know that the Air Chief has now placed a demand for 83 Light Combat Aircraft to be produced by the HAL. We do know that they have a lot of import content in them but gradually we have to start looking at how to ensure that most of the major components are made in India," he said.

Despite budgetary challenges in view of coronavirus outbreak, the Indian Armed Forces are capable of undertaking any operational task assigned to them, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat said on Sunday.

Despite budgetary challenges in view of coronavirus outbreak, the Indian Armed Forces are capable of undertaking any operational task assigned to them, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat said on Sunday. "Whatever budget has been given to us, we must spend it pragmatically avoiding any wasteful expenditure. We don't see any major drop in our operational preparedness as far as the three services are concerned," the CDS told ANI in an exclusive interview. Also read: Nicotine to help fight coronavirus? French authorities limit sale of product General Rawat said COVID-19 has taught us a lesson to be self-reliant."COVID-19 has taught us a lesson that time has come to be self-reliant. In times of crisis, nations will have to live by themselves. In fact, a country like India, when we are looking at becoming a regional power, we will have to support other nations and not be dependent on others," the CDS said. Stressing that it becomes very important for the country to start addressing the issue of in-house manufacturing, the CDS said: "That is why it becomes very important that we start addressing the issue of in-house manufacturing through Make in India and make sure that whatever we are importing, gradually we should start depending on Make in India. If we start depending on Make in India, we will also reduce our ab initio holdings. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic God's wrath for obscenity, nudity: Pak cleric "Pointing out as to how the health industry in the country has come forward during these challenging times, the CDS said: "The scientists and other agencies involved in medical research have come up with innovative ideas to produce medical equipment in the country which we were so far importing to help us tide over COVID-19 has been amazing." "There is a very major lesson for us. We have been importing our weapons and ammunition from abroad but I think if we can give this challenge to our industry, academia and research and development organisation. I think if we can start manufacturing our own weapon, ammunition in the country, we may not have to be dependent on imports," he said. Also read: EXCLUSIVE- We will get a million PPEs from Singapore: Indian envoy The CDS said he was quite sure that the defence manufacturing in the country can also move at the same pace provided "we have faith in our industry and research organisations". "We are able to do their handholding and are able to move forward. "General Rawat said gradually we have to start looking that most of the major components are made in India. "I am also happy to inform that we are making our own guns, we are making our own air defence systems and small arms. You will be happy to know that the Air Chief has now placed a demand for 83 Light Combat Aircraft to be produced by the HAL. We do know that they have a lot of import content in them but gradually we have to start looking at how to ensure that most of the major components are made in India," he said.

Armed Forces capable of undertaking any operational task assigned to them: CDS Gen Bipin Rawat

Babu Jagjivan Ram Hospital in Jahangirpuri area of Delhi area has been sealed as the hospital is being sanitised. The hospital had to be sealed as&nbsp;44 staff members, including doctors, were tested positive for COVID-19.

"Total 44 staff members including doctors at Babu Jagjivan Ram Hospital in Jahangirpuri area of Delhi have tested positive for COVID-19. Test reports of other staff members are awaited. Hospital's medical services have been closed and the hospital is being sanitized," Delhi Health Department said.

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This is the second hospital to be sealed within 24 hours in the capital.&nbsp;Hindu Rao Hospital was sealed yesterday as a nurse, who had been working at different sections of the building for the last two weeks, tested positive for coronavirus.

Nearly 111 positive cases were reported yesterday in the capital which took the total number of cases to&nbsp;2,625.

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Considering the constant increase in the number of positive cases in Delhi, the lockdown might have to be extended till May 16, said a top official in the Delhi government's Covid-19 committee.

"India is still on the ascending limb of the epidemic curve and so, to ease the restrictions will mean the cases will multiply uncontrollably. And, Delhi has a large number of containment zones, so it will be wise to extend it," said Dr S K Sarin, chairman of Delhi government's committee on combating Covid-19.

He stated that the lockdown, according to him, should be extended as that is when the epidemic curve is likely to start declining, which happens after&nbsp;he flattening of the curve.

"But, after the flattening of the curve, its decline also needs to be seen over a few weeks to make any assessment," Sarin said.

Babu Jagjivan Ram Hospital in Jahangirpuri area of Delhi area has been sealed as the hospital is being sanitised. The hospital had to be sealed as 44 staff members, including doctors, were tested positive for COVID-19.

Babu Jagjivan Ram Hospital in Jahangirpuri area of Delhi area has been sealed as the hospital is being sanitised. The hospital had to be sealed as 44 staff members, including doctors, were tested positive for COVID-19. "Total 44 staff members including doctors at Babu Jagjivan Ram Hospital in Jahangirpuri area of Delhi have tested positive for COVID-19. Test reports of other staff members are awaited. Hospital's medical services have been closed and the hospital is being sanitized," Delhi Health Department said. Also read: Donate blood plasma, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal appeals to recovered COVID-19 patients This is the second hospital to be sealed within 24 hours in the capital. Hindu Rao Hospital was sealed yesterday as a nurse, who had been working at different sections of the building for the last two weeks, tested positive for coronavirus. Nearly 111 positive cases were reported yesterday in the capital which took the total number of cases to 2,625. Also read: Tax officers suggest 40% tax on super-rich, higher levy on foreign companies to fund COVID-19 fight Considering the constant increase in the number of positive cases in Delhi, the lockdown might have to be extended till May 16, said a top official in the Delhi government's Covid-19 committee. "India is still on the ascending limb of the epidemic curve and so, to ease the restrictions will mean the cases will multiply uncontrollably. And, Delhi has a large number of containment zones, so it will be wise to extend it," said Dr S K Sarin, chairman of Delhi government's committee on combating Covid-19. He stated that the lockdown, according to him, should be extended as that is when the epidemic curve is likely to start declining, which happens after he flattening of the curve. "But, after the flattening of the curve, its decline also needs to be seen over a few weeks to make any assessment," Sarin said.

Babu Jagjivan Ram Memorial Hospital in Delhi sealed; second hospital in less than 24 hours

West Bengal Medical officer Doctor Biplab Kanti Dasgupta who was diagnosed with COVID-19 passed away at a hospital here on Sunday.

Dasgupta has becomes the first case of a doctor succumbing to the deadly infection in the state.

The doctor (60) along with another man (34), both diagnosed with the disease and on ventilators died at a hospital here.

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Dasgupta was in charge of the central medical store wing of West Bengal government's health and family welfare department.

The resident of Haridevpur, who was admitted to hospital on April 18 with respiratory distress and other co-morbidities,&nbsp;passed away at around 1:20 am on Sunday.

The other 34-year-old patient from the city`s Garden Reach area who had tested positive for the disease and admitted on April 23 to the hospital also succumbed around 7 am at the same facility.

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"We are deeply saddened by the news of Dr. Biplab Kanti Dasgupta, ADHS, Central Medical Store, WBHS passing away in the early hours of April 26," read a message from West Bengal Doctors Forum (WBDF).

The WBDF said: "This is the first reported death of a member of our medical fraternity, in the state, who was tested positive for COVID-19. Unfortunately, his spouse has also tested positive for Corona. Our prayers are with her and we wish her a speedy recovery. "Pointing out that over the last few weeks more and more healthcare workers are diagnosed with COVID-19, the WBDF urged health and administrative authorities to "proactively look into the matter as it is a matter of grave concern".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-should-provide-rs-7500-per-month-for-three-months-to-those-who-lost-livelihood-in-lockdown-sitaram-yechury-294844">Also read:&nbsp;Govt should provide Rs 7,500 per month for three months to those who lost livelihood in lockdown: Sitaram Yechury</a>

"With limited resources at disposal, we cannot afford to have a situation where the shortage of healthcare providers pose a threat to the delivery of care."

The Forum also requested the State administration to issue a separate medical bulletin daily to appraise about the condition of the healthcare workers under treatment and quarantine.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee too condoled the demise of Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta saying his sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will "ever be in our hearts."

"We have lost Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta Assistant Director, Health Services, West Bengal in the early hours of today. He was Assistant Director of Health Services, Central Medical Stores. We are deeply pained with his untimely demise," the Chief Minister said in a tweet.

"His sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will ever be in our hearts and will make our COVID warriors fight the deadly virus with even greater determination. My heartfelt condolence to Dr Dasgupta`s bereaved family members and colleagues," she added.

West Bengal Medical officer Doctor Biplab Kanti Dasgupta who was diagnosed with COVID-19 passed away at a hospital here on Sunday. Dasgupta has becomes the first case of a doctor succumbing to the deadly infection in the state.

West Bengal Medical officer Doctor Biplab Kanti Dasgupta who was diagnosed with COVID-19 passed away at a hospital here on Sunday. Dasgupta has becomes the first case of a doctor succumbing to the deadly infection in the state. The doctor (60) along with another man (34), both diagnosed with the disease and on ventilators died at a hospital here. Also read: Coronavirus: Australia launches app to trace patients' contacts Dasgupta was in charge of the central medical store wing of West Bengal government's health and family welfare department. The resident of Haridevpur, who was admitted to hospital on April 18 with respiratory distress and other co-morbidities, passed away at around 1:20 am on Sunday. The other 34-year-old patient from the city`s Garden Reach area who had tested positive for the disease and admitted on April 23 to the hospital also succumbed around 7 am at the same facility. Also read: Not worth the time: US President Donald Trump says about media briefings after backtracking on his controversial comment "We are deeply saddened by the news of Dr. Biplab Kanti Dasgupta, ADHS, Central Medical Store, WBHS passing away in the early hours of April 26," read a message from West Bengal Doctors Forum (WBDF). The WBDF said: "This is the first reported death of a member of our medical fraternity, in the state, who was tested positive for COVID-19. Unfortunately, his spouse has also tested positive for Corona. Our prayers are with her and we wish her a speedy recovery. "Pointing out that over the last few weeks more and more healthcare workers are diagnosed with COVID-19, the WBDF urged health and administrative authorities to "proactively look into the matter as it is a matter of grave concern". Also read: Govt should provide Rs 7,500 per month for three months to those who lost livelihood in lockdown: Sitaram Yechury "With limited resources at disposal, we cannot afford to have a situation where the shortage of healthcare providers pose a threat to the delivery of care." The Forum also requested the State administration to issue a separate medical bulletin daily to appraise about the condition of the healthcare workers under treatment and quarantine. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee too condoled the demise of Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta saying his sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will "ever be in our hearts." "We have lost Dr Biplab Kanti Dasgupta Assistant Director, Health Services, West Bengal in the early hours of today. He was Assistant Director of Health Services, Central Medical Stores. We are deeply pained with his untimely demise," the Chief Minister said in a tweet. "His sacrifice for the cause of ailing humanity will ever be in our hearts and will make our COVID warriors fight the deadly virus with even greater determination. My heartfelt condolence to Dr Dasgupta`s bereaved family members and colleagues," she added.

Doctor dies of COVID-19 in West Bengal; CM Mamata condoles

With a rise in the temperature in the country,&nbsp;Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued a set of guidelines compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) advising people about&nbsp;ideal temperature of an air-conditioner during the lockdown.

There has been an increase in the usage of air conditioners and desert coolers as the public has been spending more time at home under the lockdown in the bustling heat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-coronavirus-fight-is-people-driven-says-pm-narendra-modi-in-mann-ki-baat-294821">Also read:&nbsp;India's coronavirus fight is people-driven, says PM Narendra Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat'</a>

Due to this, there have been several concerns over the use of ACs and coolers over what temperature should&nbsp;we use the AC at this point of time.

As per the 18-page guideline, the temperature of the home-run AC should be between 24-30 degrees Celcius and the humidity should be between 40-70 per cent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-lauds-india-post-postmen-for-their-stupendous-efforts-during-lockdown-294785">Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown</a>

"Recirculation of cool air by room air conditioners must be accompanied by outdoor air intake through slightly open windows and exhaust by natural exfiltration," the advisory said.

“Too much humidity leads to higher levels of dust mites and fungi, two of the worst culprits for indoor allergy sufferers. Mold and fungi are known to exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma,” it added.

The centre also advised people to keep rooms ventilated when ACs are not in use, and to keep the windows partly kept open while using electric fans.

For commercial, industrial facilities, the government has suggested ventilation with outdoor air.&nbsp;“The mechanical exhaust air shall be 70-80 percent of the fresh air quantity to maintain necessary positive pressure in the space,” the advisory read.

With a rise in the temperature in the country, Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued a set of guidelines compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) advising people about ideal temperature of an air-conditioner during the lockdown.

With a rise in the temperature in the country, Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued a set of guidelines compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) advising people about ideal temperature of an air-conditioner during the lockdown. There has been an increase in the usage of air conditioners and desert coolers as the public has been spending more time at home under the lockdown in the bustling heat. Also read: India's coronavirus fight is people-driven, says PM Narendra Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat' Due to this, there have been several concerns over the use of ACs and coolers over what temperature should we use the AC at this point of time. As per the 18-page guideline, the temperature of the home-run AC should be between 24-30 degrees Celcius and the humidity should be between 40-70 per cent. Also read: PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown "Recirculation of cool air by room air conditioners must be accompanied by outdoor air intake through slightly open windows and exhaust by natural exfiltration," the advisory said. “Too much humidity leads to higher levels of dust mites and fungi, two of the worst culprits for indoor allergy sufferers. Mold and fungi are known to exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma,” it added. The centre also advised people to keep rooms ventilated when ACs are not in use, and to keep the windows partly kept open while using electric fans. For commercial, industrial facilities, the government has suggested ventilation with outdoor air. “The mechanical exhaust air shall be 70-80 percent of the fresh air quantity to maintain necessary positive pressure in the space,” the advisory read.

24-30 degree celsius is the ideal temperature for your AC, says CPWD in a guideline

The Federation of Resident Doctors` Association (FORDA) wrote to the Union Health Minister, Dr Harsh Vardhan, requesting him to arrange&nbsp;accommodation facilities for resident doctors advised for home quarantine.

Explaining their anxiety for the safety of their family members, the letter stated the recent reports of resident doctors being tested positive for coronavirus. Sue to that, some resident doctors, who were their primary contacts, have been advised to home quarantine. Some resident doctors stay in hostels allotted on the hospital campus while many stay at their homes in various locations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-employees-receive-10-salary-cut-request-minister-of-civil-aviation-to-intervene-294737">Also read:&nbsp;Air India employees receive 10% salary cut; request Minister of Civil Aviation to intervene</a>

"There are aged family members as well as young children at home who are the most vulnerable to this disease. The doctors themselves might be a source of infection for their family members. Therefore, it is necessary to provide separate accommodation or the resident doctors who are primary contacts, till they test negative for the virus," the letter reads.

The letter assured that the medical fraternity stands together with the nation in the times of a global pandemic. "We appreciate the efforts of the Government of India in providing accommodation and other facilities for the doctors on COVID-19 duties," it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/donate-blood-plasma-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-appeals-to-recovered-covid-19-patients-294509">Also read:&nbsp;Donate blood plasma, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal appeals to recovered COVID-19 patients</a>

The letter came a day after Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij requested Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to provide accommodation facilities to the government officials who travel from Haryana to Delhi for their work.

"I request the Arvind Kejriwal government that those Delhi government employees who reside in Haryana, the arrangements for their stay should be made in the national capital itself and no passes should be issued to them for visiting their homes (in Haryana)," Vij, who is also the state's Health Minister, said.

The Federation of Resident Doctors` Association (FORDA) wrote to the Union Health Minister, Dr Harsh Vardhan, requesting him to arrange accommodation facilities for resident doctors advised for home quarantine.

The Federation of Resident Doctors` Association (FORDA) wrote to the Union Health Minister, Dr Harsh Vardhan, requesting him to arrange accommodation facilities for resident doctors advised for home quarantine. Explaining their anxiety for the safety of their family members, the letter stated the recent reports of resident doctors being tested positive for coronavirus. Sue to that, some resident doctors, who were their primary contacts, have been advised to home quarantine. Some resident doctors stay in hostels allotted on the hospital campus while many stay at their homes in various locations. Also read: Air India employees receive 10% salary cut; request Minister of Civil Aviation to intervene "There are aged family members as well as young children at home who are the most vulnerable to this disease. The doctors themselves might be a source of infection for their family members. Therefore, it is necessary to provide separate accommodation or the resident doctors who are primary contacts, till they test negative for the virus," the letter reads. The letter assured that the medical fraternity stands together with the nation in the times of a global pandemic. "We appreciate the efforts of the Government of India in providing accommodation and other facilities for the doctors on COVID-19 duties," it said. Also read: Donate blood plasma, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal appeals to recovered COVID-19 patients The letter came a day after Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij requested Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to provide accommodation facilities to the government officials who travel from Haryana to Delhi for their work. "I request the Arvind Kejriwal government that those Delhi government employees who reside in Haryana, the arrangements for their stay should be made in the national capital itself and no passes should be issued to them for visiting their homes (in Haryana)," Vij, who is also the state's Health Minister, said.

Doctors urge Health Minister to arrange accommodation for medical officials who are on house quarantine

Assam Chief Secretary, Kumar Sanjay Krishna on Saturday informed that no decision has been taken by the government pertaining to relaxation of ongoing lockdown such as opening of salons, shops, etc.

A decision in this regard will be taken on April 27, Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/4291-of-total-14378-covid-19-cases-related-to-nizamuddin-markaz-health-ministry-293315">Also read:&nbsp;4,291 of total 14,378 COVID-19 cases related to Nizamuddin Markaz: Health Ministry</a>

This comes just a day after the Spokesperson of the Home Affairs tweeted stating that "All registered shops registered under Shops and Establishment Act of respective States/ UTs, including shops in residential complexes, neighborhood and standalone shops exempted from lockdown restrictions."

"Market complexes, except those within the limits of municipal corporations and municipalities, are allowed to open. Mandatory: 50 per cent strength of workers, wearing of masks and observing Social Distancing. Relaxations not applicable in Hotspots/containment zones."

The entire country is under lockdown till May 3 as the number of cases of coronavirus are growing each day.

With 1,429 more COVID-19 cases reported in the last 24 hours, India's count of coronavirus cases has reached 24,506, said Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday.

Out of these, 18,668 patients are active cases and 5063 cases have been cured and discharged, or migrated.The death toll stands at 775, with as many as 57 deaths reported in the last 24 hours.

Assam Chief Secretary, Kumar Sanjay Krishna on Saturday informed that no decision has been taken by the government pertaining to relaxation of ongoing lockdown such as opening of salons, shops, etc.

Assam Chief Secretary, Kumar Sanjay Krishna on Saturday informed that no decision has been taken by the government pertaining to relaxation of ongoing lockdown such as opening of salons, shops, etc. A decision in this regard will be taken on April 27, Monday. Also read: 4,291 of total 14,378 COVID-19 cases related to Nizamuddin Markaz: Health Ministry This comes just a day after the Spokesperson of the Home Affairs tweeted stating that "All registered shops registered under Shops and Establishment Act of respective States/ UTs, including shops in residential complexes, neighborhood and standalone shops exempted from lockdown restrictions." "Market complexes, except those within the limits of municipal corporations and municipalities, are allowed to open. Mandatory: 50 per cent strength of workers, wearing of masks and observing Social Distancing. Relaxations not applicable in Hotspots/containment zones." The entire country is under lockdown till May 3 as the number of cases of coronavirus are growing each day. With 1,429 more COVID-19 cases reported in the last 24 hours, India's count of coronavirus cases has reached 24,506, said Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday. Out of these, 18,668 patients are active cases and 5063 cases have been cured and discharged, or migrated.The death toll stands at 775, with as many as 57 deaths reported in the last 24 hours.

Assam government to take decision on opening of shops on April 27

A total of 205 people belonging to Ladakh who returned from abroad and were quarantined at an Indian Army facility at Jodhpur have now arrived at Leh, after completing the isolation period, Northern Command said.

"#OpNamaste #CoronaMuktAwaam 205 foreign returnees belonging to Ladakh arrived at Leh, after completing quarantine at an Indian Army facility at Jodhpur. Reception and screening at Leh Airfield facilitated by #FireAndFuryCorps," Northern Command said in a tweet.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OpNamaste?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OpNamaste</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronaMuktAwaam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronaMuktAwaam</a> 
205 foreign returnees belonging to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ladakh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ladakh</a> arrived at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Leh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Leh</a>, after completing quarantine at an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> facility at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jodhpur?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jodhpur</a>. Reception &amp; screening at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Leh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Leh</a> Airfield facilitated by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FireAndFuryCorps?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FireAndFuryCorps</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adgpi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IAF_MCC</a><a href="https://twitter.com/lg_ladakh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lg_ladakh</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeCanWeCare?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeCanWeCare</a> <a href="https://t.co/UEXcculX5G">pic.twitter.com/UEXcculX5G</a>
— NorthernComd.IA (@NorthernComd_IA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NorthernComd_IA/status/1253865164815794176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Indian Air Force (IAF) too tweeted to inform that on Friday, its C130 and IL-76 aircraft airlifted 52 and 205 evacuees from Jaisalmer to Srinagar and Jodhpur to Leh respectively.

"#HarKaamDeshKeNaam 24 Apr 20, IAF`s C130 &amp; IL-76 aircraft airlifted 52 &amp; 205 evacuees from Jaisalmer to Srinagar &amp; Jodhpur to Leh respectively. All these people tested negative for #coronavirus after the quarantine period," said IAF in a tweet.

A total of 205 people belonging to Ladakh who returned from abroad and were quarantined at an Indian Army facility at Jodhpur have now arrived at Leh, after completing the isolation period, Northern Command said.

A total of 205 people belonging to Ladakh who returned from abroad and were quarantined at an Indian Army facility at Jodhpur have now arrived at Leh, after completing the isolation period, Northern Command said. "#OpNamaste #CoronaMuktAwaam 205 foreign returnees belonging to Ladakh arrived at Leh, after completing quarantine at an Indian Army facility at Jodhpur. Reception and screening at Leh Airfield facilitated by #FireAndFuryCorps," Northern Command said in a tweet. #OpNamaste #CoronaMuktAwaam 205 foreign returnees belonging to #Ladakh arrived at #Leh, after completing quarantine at an #IndianArmy facility at #Jodhpur. Reception & screening at #Leh Airfield facilitated by #FireAndFuryCorps.@adgpi@IAF_MCC@lg_ladakh#WeCanWeCare pic.twitter.com/UEXcculX5G — NorthernComd.IA (@NorthernComd_IA) April 25, 2020 × Indian Air Force (IAF) too tweeted to inform that on Friday, its C130 and IL-76 aircraft airlifted 52 and 205 evacuees from Jaisalmer to Srinagar and Jodhpur to Leh respectively. "#HarKaamDeshKeNaam 24 Apr 20, IAF`s C130 & IL-76 aircraft airlifted 52 & 205 evacuees from Jaisalmer to Srinagar & Jodhpur to Leh respectively. All these people tested negative for #coronavirus after the quarantine period," said IAF in a tweet.

205 foreign returnees arrive at Leh after completing quarantine at Jodhpur's army facility

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

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

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

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

The state government on Saturday appealed to the Arvind Kejriwal dispensation to make staying arrangements for Haryana residents who are employed with the Delhi government, saying their daily movement increases the risk of COVID-19 spread.

Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij on Saturday said Sonipat, which borders Delhi, has so far reported 17 coronavirus cases and claimed 13 of them were found to have contracted the infection in the national capital.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/donate-blood-plasma-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-appeals-to-recovered-covid-19-patients-294509">Also read:&nbsp;Donate blood plasma, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal appeals to recovered COVID-19 patients</a>

He said a Delhi police personnel, who resides in Jhajjar, was also found coronavirus positive. Besides, a few COVID-19 positive cases in Gurgaon were found to have contracted infection in Delhi, he said.

"This situation poses grave danger and increases risk of infection manifold to Haryana," he said.

Likewise, he said, there are many areas including Gurgaon, Jhajjar, Bahadurgarh and Faridabad, where Haryana residents who are employed in Delhi commute daily between their homes and workplace.

"I request the Arvind Kejriwal government that those Delhi government employees who reside in Haryana, the arrangements for their stay should be made in the national capital itself and no passes should be issued to them for visiting their homes (in Haryana)," Vij, who is also the state's Health Minister, said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-hope-people-appreciate-value-of-sport-and-fitness-after-crisis-bhaichung-bhutia-opens-up-on-life-under-lockdown-impact-of-pandemic-on-global-football-and-more-294612">Also read:&nbsp;Exclusive: 'Hope people appreciate value of sport and fitness after crisis' - Bhaichung Bhutia opens up on life under lockdown, impact of pandemic on global football and more</a>

He said as these employees are issued passes by the Delhi government, despite heavy police presence at the inter-state borders, the authorities in Haryana have to allow them.

"The Delhi government should not issue passes and make arrangements for their stay in the national capital," he said.

Vij said he has directed Haryana's Director General of Police to completely seal off the borders with Delhi and ensure anyone, who is not authorised, does not enter the state.

On Delhi employees who travel to Haryana using passes, he said, "If the Kejriwal government does not stop issuing these passes and make arrangements for their stay, we may be forced to think about the next course of action".

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

The state government on Saturday appealed to the Arvind Kejriwal dispensation to make staying arrangements for Haryana residents who are employed with the Delhi government, saying their daily movement increases the risk of COVID-19 spread. Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij on Saturday said Sonipat, which borders Delhi, has so far reported 17 coronavirus cases and claimed 13 of them were found to have contracted the infection in the national capital. Also read: Donate blood plasma, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal appeals to recovered COVID-19 patients He said a Delhi police personnel, who resides in Jhajjar, was also found coronavirus positive. Besides, a few COVID-19 positive cases in Gurgaon were found to have contracted infection in Delhi, he said. "This situation poses grave danger and increases risk of infection manifold to Haryana," he said. Likewise, he said, there are many areas including Gurgaon, Jhajjar, Bahadurgarh and Faridabad, where Haryana residents who are employed in Delhi commute daily between their homes and workplace. "I request the Arvind Kejriwal government that those Delhi government employees who reside in Haryana, the arrangements for their stay should be made in the national capital itself and no passes should be issued to them for visiting their homes (in Haryana)," Vij, who is also the state's Health Minister, said. Also read: Exclusive: 'Hope people appreciate value of sport and fitness after crisis' - Bhaichung Bhutia opens up on life under lockdown, impact of pandemic on global football and more He said as these employees are issued passes by the Delhi government, despite heavy police presence at the inter-state borders, the authorities in Haryana have to allow them. "The Delhi government should not issue passes and make arrangements for their stay in the national capital," he said. Vij said he has directed Haryana's Director General of Police to completely seal off the borders with Delhi and ensure anyone, who is not authorised, does not enter the state. On Delhi employees who travel to Haryana using passes, he said, "If the Kejriwal government does not stop issuing these passes and make arrangements for their stay, we may be forced to think about the next course of action".

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coronavirus: Pakistan extends partial lockdown till May 9

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

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

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

Yogi Adityanath bans all public gatherings in UP till June 30

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

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

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

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

Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Health Ministry said in press briefing, In last 24 hours, 1684 COVID-19 positive cases have been reported which takes our total confirmed case to 23,077. Our recovery rate is 20.57%.

Indian Health Ministry: 1,684 new COVID-19 cases in last 24 hours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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