India reported a spike of 24,248 new coronavirus cases and 425 deaths in the past 24 hours on Monday.

Positive cases stand at 6, 97,413 including 2, 53,287 active cases, 4, 24,433 cured/discharged/migrated &amp; 19,693 deaths

As many as 1, 80,596 samples were tested on Sunday, says the Indian Council of Medical Research. Till 5 July, India has tested 99, 69,662 samples.

India went past Russia on Sunday to become the third worst-hit nation by the COVID-19 pandemic. Only the US and Brazil are ahead of India in terms of total coronavirus infections.

Russia has 6, 81,251 infections while Brazil has 15, 78,376 and the US has 29, 54,999 cases, according to Worldometer which compiles the COVID-19 data from around the globe.

Meanwhile, more than 6 million individuals have recovered from COVID-19 around the world, days after 11 million cases of the novel coronavirus were confirmed globally.

(With inputs from agencies)

India reported a spike of 24,248 new coronavirus cases and 425 deaths in the past 24 hours on Monday. Positive cases stand at 6, 97,413 including 2, 53,287 active cases, 4, 24,433 cured/discharged/migrated & 19,693 deaths As many as 1, 80,596 samples were tested on Sunday, says the Indian Council of Medical Research.

India reported a spike of 24,248 new coronavirus cases and 425 deaths in the past 24 hours on Monday. Positive cases stand at 6, 97,413 including 2, 53,287 active cases, 4, 24,433 cured/discharged/migrated & 19,693 deaths As many as 1, 80,596 samples were tested on Sunday, says the Indian Council of Medical Research. Till 5 July, India has tested 99, 69,662 samples. India went past Russia on Sunday to become the third worst-hit nation by the COVID-19 pandemic. Only the US and Brazil are ahead of India in terms of total coronavirus infections. Russia has 6, 81,251 infections while Brazil has 15, 78,376 and the US has 29, 54,999 cases, according to Worldometer which compiles the COVID-19 data from around the globe. Meanwhile, more than 6 million individuals have recovered from COVID-19 around the world, days after 11 million cases of the novel coronavirus were confirmed globally. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid-19: 24,248 new cases, 425 deaths in last 24 hours as India becomes the third worst-hit nation

A 106-year old man from Delhi, who had witnessed the 1918 Spanish Flu when he was four, has won the battle against COVID-19 and recovered faster than his son, in his 70s, at a dedicated coronavirus facility here, doctors said.

The 106-year-old patient was discharged from the Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital (RGSSH) recently after recovering, where his wife, son and another family member also recuperated after contracting the novel coronavirus infection, they said.

"Perhaps, he is the first reported case of COVID-19 in Delhi who also went through the dreaded Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918 which like COVID-19 had also ravaged the world. And, he not only recovered from COVID-19, he recovered faster than his son, who is also very old," a senior doctor.

Spanish Flu was a pandemic which hit the world 102 years ago and affected nearly one-third of the global population at that time.

"The 1918 influenza pandemic was the most severe pandemic in recent history. It was caused by an H1N1 virus with genes of avian origin. Although there is no universal consensus regarding where the virus originated, it spread worldwide during 1918-1919," according to the Centre for Diseases Control (CDC) in the US.

In the US, it was first identified in military personnel in spring 1918. It is estimated that about 6,75,000 deaths occurred in America, it said.

According to a World Health Organisation (WHO) report, the pandemic of 1918-1919 called the Spanish Flu was particularly virulent and killed an estimated 40 million people worldwide.

In India, the disease is believed to have been brought in by the soldiers returning from World War I conflicts.

The first cases of Spanish Flu were reported in areas which are major ports of entry, such as Mumbai (then Bombay), Kolkata (Calcutta), Delhi and Chennai (Madras), where a large number of people returned from abroad.

The casualty count in India from the Spanish Flu is believed to be nearly one-fifth of the entire fatalities in the world, though the statistics for mortality in India are too wide-ranging and debatable.

Doctors at the RGSSH, a dedicated COVID-19 facility were amazed to see the recovery of this centenarian patient from the novel coronavirus, even though he was highly vulnerable to the infection.

"We don't know whether he was affected by the Spanish Flu or not. We haven't seen much documentation on the situation back then as far as Delhi is concerned, but very few hospitals were there at that time. It is amazing this 106-year-old showed the will power to survive," a senior doctor, who monitored his situation, said.

But, what is more, interesting is that he recovered faster than his son, who is in his 70s. So, he lived through the Spanish Flu and now survived COVID-19, hence, he lived through two pandemics, he said.

Notably, his wife and another family member also had contracted COVID-19, and have successfully recovered about a month-and-a-half ago., the doctor said.

The RGSSH has treated 1,000 COVID-19 patients so fare, and on Monday it is marking the milestone with a symbolic event where Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and Health Minister Satyendar Jain are slated to participate.

Delhi recorded 2,505 fresh coronavirus cases on Friday, taking the tally in the city to over 97,000-mark, while the death toll from the disease mounted to 3,004, authorities said.

The national capital, at present, is the worst-COVID-19-hit city across India.

According to the COVID-19 health bulletin, 68,256 patients have been recovered, or discharged or migrated so far. 
&nbsp;

A 106-year old man from Delhi, who had witnessed the 1918 Spanish Flu when he was four, has won the battle against COVID-19 and recovered faster than his son, in his 70s, at a dedicated coronavirus facility here, doctors said.

A 106-year old man from Delhi, who had witnessed the 1918 Spanish Flu when he was four, has won the battle against COVID-19 and recovered faster than his son, in his 70s, at a dedicated coronavirus facility here, doctors said. The 106-year-old patient was discharged from the Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital (RGSSH) recently after recovering, where his wife, son and another family member also recuperated after contracting the novel coronavirus infection, they said. "Perhaps, he is the first reported case of COVID-19 in Delhi who also went through the dreaded Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918 which like COVID-19 had also ravaged the world. And, he not only recovered from COVID-19, he recovered faster than his son, who is also very old," a senior doctor. Spanish Flu was a pandemic which hit the world 102 years ago and affected nearly one-third of the global population at that time. "The 1918 influenza pandemic was the most severe pandemic in recent history. It was caused by an H1N1 virus with genes of avian origin. Although there is no universal consensus regarding where the virus originated, it spread worldwide during 1918-1919," according to the Centre for Diseases Control (CDC) in the US. In the US, it was first identified in military personnel in spring 1918. It is estimated that about 6,75,000 deaths occurred in America, it said. According to a World Health Organisation (WHO) report, the pandemic of 1918-1919 called the Spanish Flu was particularly virulent and killed an estimated 40 million people worldwide. In India, the disease is believed to have been brought in by the soldiers returning from World War I conflicts. The first cases of Spanish Flu were reported in areas which are major ports of entry, such as Mumbai (then Bombay), Kolkata (Calcutta), Delhi and Chennai (Madras), where a large number of people returned from abroad. The casualty count in India from the Spanish Flu is believed to be nearly one-fifth of the entire fatalities in the world, though the statistics for mortality in India are too wide-ranging and debatable. Doctors at the RGSSH, a dedicated COVID-19 facility were amazed to see the recovery of this centenarian patient from the novel coronavirus, even though he was highly vulnerable to the infection. "We don't know whether he was affected by the Spanish Flu or not. We haven't seen much documentation on the situation back then as far as Delhi is concerned, but very few hospitals were there at that time. It is amazing this 106-year-old showed the will power to survive," a senior doctor, who monitored his situation, said. But, what is more, interesting is that he recovered faster than his son, who is in his 70s. So, he lived through the Spanish Flu and now survived COVID-19, hence, he lived through two pandemics, he said. Notably, his wife and another family member also had contracted COVID-19, and have successfully recovered about a month-and-a-half ago., the doctor said. The RGSSH has treated 1,000 COVID-19 patients so fare, and on Monday it is marking the milestone with a symbolic event where Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and Health Minister Satyendar Jain are slated to participate. Delhi recorded 2,505 fresh coronavirus cases on Friday, taking the tally in the city to over 97,000-mark, while the death toll from the disease mounted to 3,004, authorities said. The national capital, at present, is the worst-COVID-19-hit city across India. According to the COVID-19 health bulletin, 68,256 patients have been recovered, or discharged or migrated so far.

106-year-old Delhi man who was child during Spanish Flu in 1918 survives COVID-19

The total number of tests for detection of COVID-19 crossed the one-crore mark in India on Monday, an ICMR official said.

A single-day jump of 24,248 COVID-19 cases took India's tally close to the 7-lakh mark on Monday, while the death toll due to the disease climbed to 19,693 with 425 new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry.

"A cumulative total of 1,00,04,101 samples have been tested till 11 am on Monday with 1,80,596 samples being tested on July 5," Scientist and media coordinator at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Dr Lokesh Sharma said.

There are now 1,105 testing labs in the country comprising 788 in the public sector and 317 private labs.

The per day testing capacity is also fast growing, Sharma said.

Around 2,00,000 samples have been tested on an average daily for the last 14 days, he said.

India had crossed the nine million-mark on July 1.

"The per day testing capacity which was around 1.5 lakh on May 25 is more than three lakh per day now," Sharma said.

Starting with one single laboratory at the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune and then expanding to 100 laboratories in the beginning of the lockdown, the ICMR on June 23 validated the 1000th testing laboratory.

Various steps taken by the central government have paved the way for enhanced testing for COVID-19, the health ministry had said earlier.

The Centre has strongly advised states and UTs to take immediate steps to facilitate testing at the earliest by enabling all qualified medical practitioners, including private practitioners, to prescribe COVID test to any individual fulfilling the criteria for testing as per the ICMR guidelines.

Reiterating that 'Test-Track-Treat' is the key strategy for early detection and containment of the outbreak, the Centre last week advised them to take all possible steps to ensure full capacity utilization of all COVID-19 testing laboratories.

States were also asked to facilitate testing in a big way by adoption of 'campaign mode' by organizing testing camps, using mobile vans etc.

This shall effectively take COVID-19 tests to the people's doorsteps in high incidence areas to collect samples of all symptomatic individuals as well as their contacts, and get those samples tested by using rapid antigen tests, the ministry had said.

The total number of tests for detection of COVID-19 crossed the one-crore mark in India on Monday, an ICMR official said. A single-day jump of 24,248 COVID-19 cases took India's tally close to the 7-lakh mark on Monday, while the death toll due to the disease climbed to 19,693 with 425 new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry.

The total number of tests for detection of COVID-19 crossed the one-crore mark in India on Monday, an ICMR official said. A single-day jump of 24,248 COVID-19 cases took India's tally close to the 7-lakh mark on Monday, while the death toll due to the disease climbed to 19,693 with 425 new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry. "A cumulative total of 1,00,04,101 samples have been tested till 11 am on Monday with 1,80,596 samples being tested on July 5," Scientist and media coordinator at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Dr Lokesh Sharma said. There are now 1,105 testing labs in the country comprising 788 in the public sector and 317 private labs. The per day testing capacity is also fast growing, Sharma said. Around 2,00,000 samples have been tested on an average daily for the last 14 days, he said. India had crossed the nine million-mark on July 1. "The per day testing capacity which was around 1.5 lakh on May 25 is more than three lakh per day now," Sharma said. Starting with one single laboratory at the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune and then expanding to 100 laboratories in the beginning of the lockdown, the ICMR on June 23 validated the 1000th testing laboratory. Various steps taken by the central government have paved the way for enhanced testing for COVID-19, the health ministry had said earlier. The Centre has strongly advised states and UTs to take immediate steps to facilitate testing at the earliest by enabling all qualified medical practitioners, including private practitioners, to prescribe COVID test to any individual fulfilling the criteria for testing as per the ICMR guidelines. Reiterating that 'Test-Track-Treat' is the key strategy for early detection and containment of the outbreak, the Centre last week advised them to take all possible steps to ensure full capacity utilization of all COVID-19 testing laboratories. States were also asked to facilitate testing in a big way by adoption of 'campaign mode' by organizing testing camps, using mobile vans etc. This shall effectively take COVID-19 tests to the people's doorsteps in high incidence areas to collect samples of all symptomatic individuals as well as their contacts, and get those samples tested by using rapid antigen tests, the ministry had said.

COVID-19 tests in India cross one-crore mark as country reports more than 20,000 cases for fourth consecutive day

The National Eligibility-Cum-Entrance Test (NEET) and the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) were postponed till September, announced Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal. The new dates were announced by the HRD Minister in a video message issued by him on microblogging website Twitter.

"Keeping in mind the safety of students and to ensure quality education, we have decided to postpone JEE and NEET examinations," Pokhriyal tweeted. 
&nbsp;

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Keeping in mind the safety of students and to ensure quality education we have decided to postpone <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JEE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JEE</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NEET?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NEET</a> examinations. JEE Main examination will be held between 1st-6th Sept, JEE advanced exam will be held on 27th Sept &amp; NEET examination will be held on 13th Sept. <a href="https://t.co/klTjtBxvuw">pic.twitter.com/klTjtBxvuw</a>
— Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank (@DrRPNishank) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrRPNishank/status/1279051659721666560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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On Thursday, the HRD ministry formed a panel to check the feasibility to conduct the examinations in July. The JEE examination will be held between September 1 to 6, JEE Advanced examination will be held on September 27 and NEET examination will be held on September 13. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The National Eligibility-Cum-Entrance Test (NEET) and the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) were postponed till September, announced Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal.

The National Eligibility-Cum-Entrance Test (NEET) and the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) were postponed till September, announced Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal. The new dates were announced by the HRD Minister in a video message issued by him on microblogging website Twitter. "Keeping in mind the safety of students and to ensure quality education, we have decided to postpone JEE and NEET examinations," Pokhriyal tweeted. Keeping in mind the safety of students and to ensure quality education we have decided to postpone #JEE & #NEET examinations. JEE Main examination will be held between 1st-6th Sept, JEE advanced exam will be held on 27th Sept & NEET examination will be held on 13th Sept. pic.twitter.com/klTjtBxvuw — Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank (@DrRPNishank) July 3, 2020 × On Thursday, the HRD ministry formed a panel to check the feasibility to conduct the examinations in July. The JEE examination will be held between September 1 to 6, JEE Advanced examination will be held on September 27 and NEET examination will be held on September 13. (With inputs from agencies)

NEET, JEE Exams 2020 postponed to September amid Covid-19 fears

Maharashtra reported the biggest single-day spike of 6364 COVID-19 cases so far on Friday, which took the tally of patients in the state to 192990, a health official said.&nbsp;

The state also reported deaths of 198 coronavirus positive patients, due to which the number of victims grew to 8376, the official said.

3515 patients were discharged today after recovery. So far, 104,687 patients have been recovered and discharged in Maharashtra.

With the highest ever single-day spike of 20,903 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours, India’s coronavirus tally reached 6, 25,544 on Friday. Out of which 2, 27,439 patients are active cases while 3, 79,892 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated, the Union Health Ministry said.

Meanwhile, 10,992,462 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19 so far. Of them, 6,140,758 have recovered, and 524,039 have died, according to Worldometer.

The United States remains by far the worst affected country with 2,836,875 coronavirus cases and 131,477 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,501,353 cases, deaths 61,990), Russia (661,165 cases, 9,683 deaths), and India (627,168 cases, 18,225 deaths).

(With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra reported the biggest single-day spike of 6364 COVID-19 cases so far on Friday, which took the tally of patients in the state to 192990, a health official said.

Maharashtra reported the biggest single-day spike of 6364 COVID-19 cases so far on Friday, which took the tally of patients in the state to 192990, a health official said. The state also reported deaths of 198 coronavirus positive patients, due to which the number of victims grew to 8376, the official said. 3515 patients were discharged today after recovery. So far, 104,687 patients have been recovered and discharged in Maharashtra. With the highest ever single-day spike of 20,903 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours, India’s coronavirus tally reached 6, 25,544 on Friday. Out of which 2, 27,439 patients are active cases while 3, 79,892 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated, the Union Health Ministry said. Meanwhile, 10,992,462 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19 so far. Of them, 6,140,758 have recovered, and 524,039 have died, according to Worldometer. The United States remains by far the worst affected country with 2,836,875 coronavirus cases and 131,477 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,501,353 cases, deaths 61,990), Russia (661,165 cases, 9,683 deaths), and India (627,168 cases, 18,225 deaths). (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra records highest single-day spike in COVID-19 numbers

The deadly coronavirus containment zones in Delhi have risen to 445 on Friday, according to government data.&nbsp;

Of these, 398 areas are active containment zones while 47 have been scaled-down but are yet to be de-contained.&nbsp;

A total of 218 areas have been added to the list of containment zones after June 21. COVID-19 cases in the national capital crossed 92,000 on Thursday.

Meanwhile, with the highest ever single-day spike of 20,903 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours, India’s coronavirus tally reached 6, 25,544 on Friday. Out of which 2, 27,439 patients are active cases while 3, 79,892 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated, the Union Health Ministry said.

10,992,462 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19 so far. Of them, 6,140,758 have recovered, and 524,039 have died, according to Worldometer.

The United States remains by far the worst affected country with 2,836,875 coronavirus cases and 131,477 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,501,353 cases, deaths 61,990), Russia (661,165 cases, 9,683 deaths), and India (627,168 cases, 18,225 deaths).

 
(With inputs from agencies)

The deadly coronavirus containment zones in Delhi have risen to 445 on Friday, according to government data. Of these, 398 areas are active containment zones while 47 have been scaled-down but are yet to be de-contained.

The deadly coronavirus containment zones in Delhi have risen to 445 on Friday, according to government data. Of these, 398 areas are active containment zones while 47 have been scaled-down but are yet to be de-contained. A total of 218 areas have been added to the list of containment zones after June 21. COVID-19 cases in the national capital crossed 92,000 on Thursday. Meanwhile, with the highest ever single-day spike of 20,903 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours, India’s coronavirus tally reached 6, 25,544 on Friday. Out of which 2, 27,439 patients are active cases while 3, 79,892 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated, the Union Health Ministry said. 10,992,462 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19 so far. Of them, 6,140,758 have recovered, and 524,039 have died, according to Worldometer. The United States remains by far the worst affected country with 2,836,875 coronavirus cases and 131,477 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,501,353 cases, deaths 61,990), Russia (661,165 cases, 9,683 deaths), and India (627,168 cases, 18,225 deaths). (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus containment zones in Delhi rise to 445

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Friday said that his government is making all-out efforts, including setting up of COVID-19 hospitals, to ensure best healthcare services for the patients.

Sonowal visited COVID care centres at IIT Guwahati and Maniram Dewan Trade Centre here to view the arrangements made for patients following a recent surge in the number of cases in Guwahati, an official release said.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma along with his junior minister Pijush Hazarika and officials of the health department apprised Sonowal about the facilities available at the centres, it said.

There are provisions for 800 isolation beds at IIT Guwahati and 440 beds at Maniram Dewan Trade Centre, the release said.

Due to the proactive steps of the health department, more than 6,000 people have recovered so far while 3,000 patients are under treatment, the chief minister was quoted as saying.

He urged the people of the state to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the health department on COVID-19.

Sonowal said his government is committed to keeping people safe and has made dedicated efforts in this regard.

He also praised the residents of Guwahati for sincerely following the norms of the ongoing lockdown in the city.

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Friday said that his government is making all-out efforts, including setting up of COVID-19 hospitals, to ensure best healthcare services for the patients.

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Friday said that his government is making all-out efforts, including setting up of COVID-19 hospitals, to ensure best healthcare services for the patients. Sonowal visited COVID care centres at IIT Guwahati and Maniram Dewan Trade Centre here to view the arrangements made for patients following a recent surge in the number of cases in Guwahati, an official release said. Health and Family Welfare Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma along with his junior minister Pijush Hazarika and officials of the health department apprised Sonowal about the facilities available at the centres, it said. There are provisions for 800 isolation beds at IIT Guwahati and 440 beds at Maniram Dewan Trade Centre, the release said. Due to the proactive steps of the health department, more than 6,000 people have recovered so far while 3,000 patients are under treatment, the chief minister was quoted as saying. He urged the people of the state to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the health department on COVID-19. Sonowal said his government is committed to keeping people safe and has made dedicated efforts in this regard. He also praised the residents of Guwahati for sincerely following the norms of the ongoing lockdown in the city.

Assam making all-out efforts to provide best healthcare services to COVID-19 patients: CM Sonowal

The Indian state of Kerala on Friday reported 211 more fresh coronavirus cases — the highest ever registered in a single day.

According to the Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan "Of the new cases, 138 are returnees from abroad, 39 returnees from within the country, 27 local infectees, six CISF personnel, and one air cabin crew. Besides cities, villages are also now reporting positive patients. So far, 4,961 cases were detected, including 2,098 positive cases at present. As many as 1, 77,011 persons are in isolation, including 2,894 in various hospitals,.”

With the highest ever single-day spike of 20,903 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours, India’s coronavirus tally reached 6, 25,544 on Friday. Out of which 2, 27,439 patients are active cases while 3, 79,892 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated, the Union Health Ministry said.

Meanwhile, 10,992,462 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19 so far. Of them, 6,140,758 have recovered, and 524,039 have died, according to Worldometer.

The United States remains by far the worst affected country with 2,836,875 coronavirus cases and 131,477 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,501,353 cases, deaths 61,990), Russia (661,165 cases, 9,683 deaths), and India (627,168 cases, 18,225 deaths).

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian state of Kerala on Friday reported 211 more fresh coronavirus cases — the highest ever registered in a single day. According to the Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan "Of the new cases, 138 are returnees from abroad, 39 returnees from within the country, 27 local infectees, six CISF personnel, and one air cabin crew.

The Indian state of Kerala on Friday reported 211 more fresh coronavirus cases — the highest ever registered in a single day. According to the Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan "Of the new cases, 138 are returnees from abroad, 39 returnees from within the country, 27 local infectees, six CISF personnel, and one air cabin crew. Besides cities, villages are also now reporting positive patients. So far, 4,961 cases were detected, including 2,098 positive cases at present. As many as 1, 77,011 persons are in isolation, including 2,894 in various hospitals,.” With the highest ever single-day spike of 20,903 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours, India’s coronavirus tally reached 6, 25,544 on Friday. Out of which 2, 27,439 patients are active cases while 3, 79,892 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated, the Union Health Ministry said. Meanwhile, 10,992,462 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19 so far. Of them, 6,140,758 have recovered, and 524,039 have died, according to Worldometer. The United States remains by far the worst affected country with 2,836,875 coronavirus cases and 131,477 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,501,353 cases, deaths 61,990), Russia (661,165 cases, 9,683 deaths), and India (627,168 cases, 18,225 deaths). (With inputs from agencies)

Kerala reports a highest single-day spike of 211 cases, tally nearing 5000 mark

India will operate nine more flights on Friday to evacuate its citizens stranded in the UAE due to the travel restrictions imposed in view of the coronavirus pandemic.

Air India Express will operate these flights as part of the Vande Bharat Mission to south Indian cities from Sharjah, according to the Indian Consulate in Dubai.

"All Indian nationals are advised to take note of direct sale of Air India Express flights from Sharjah. Following flights will be opened for sale effective 4 pm UAE Time on July 3. Make sure to book your tickets once the sale is live," the mission announced on Twitter.

The flights scheduled to operate from July 9 to 14 are flying to Madurai, Coimbatore, Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchirappalli, Kochi and Hyderabad, the Gulf News reported.

"Indian nationals registered with the Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi or the Consulate-General of India in Dubai, fulfilling the required entry conditions can book through Air India Express booking offices or online on www.airindiaexpress.in or through authorised travel agents in the UAE," the statement with the flight details posted on Twitter said.

"Mentioning of correct passport number and contact number is important. Otherwise, tickets can be cancelled or boarding pass may be denied," the Indian Consulate said.

While 75 per cent of tickets are open for sale, 25 per cent are reserved for those with emergency cases handled by the missions, the report said.

India will operate nine more flights on Friday to evacuate its citizens stranded in the UAE due to the travel restrictions imposed in view of the coronavirus pandemic.

India will operate nine more flights on Friday to evacuate its citizens stranded in the UAE due to the travel restrictions imposed in view of the coronavirus pandemic. Air India Express will operate these flights as part of the Vande Bharat Mission to south Indian cities from Sharjah, according to the Indian Consulate in Dubai. "All Indian nationals are advised to take note of direct sale of Air India Express flights from Sharjah. Following flights will be opened for sale effective 4 pm UAE Time on July 3. Make sure to book your tickets once the sale is live," the mission announced on Twitter. The flights scheduled to operate from July 9 to 14 are flying to Madurai, Coimbatore, Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchirappalli, Kochi and Hyderabad, the Gulf News reported. "Indian nationals registered with the Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi or the Consulate-General of India in Dubai, fulfilling the required entry conditions can book through Air India Express booking offices or online on www.airindiaexpress.in or through authorised travel agents in the UAE," the statement with the flight details posted on Twitter said. "Mentioning of correct passport number and contact number is important. Otherwise, tickets can be cancelled or boarding pass may be denied," the Indian Consulate said. While 75 per cent of tickets are open for sale, 25 per cent are reserved for those with emergency cases handled by the missions, the report said.

Vande Bharat Mission: India to operate nine more flights to evacuate stranded citizens from UAE

The World Health Organization backtracked on its attestation that the Chinese government alarmed the United Nations office about the flare-up of deadly coronavirus. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-news-as-china-warns-of-another-pandemic-from-pigs-who-insists-to-not-let-our-guard-down-309643">Also read: As China warns of another pandemic from pigs, WHO insists to 'not let our guard down'</a> 
 
According to the American weekly news magazine The Washington Examiner, WHO changed the official timeline on their website removing the information about China reporting "a cluster of cases of pneumonia in Wuhan".

"The WHO quietly updated its “Timeline of WHO’s response to COVID-19” on Tuesday following the House Foreign Affairs Committee Republicans' mid-June Interim Report on Origins of COVID-19 Pandemic (led by ranking member and China task force Chairman Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas), which concluded that “despite public reporting to the contrary ... China never notified the WHO about the outbreak in Wuhan," reported The Washington Examiner.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazenecas-covid-19-vaccines-trial-on-pigs-shows-promise-with-two-shots-307935" hreflang="en">AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine's trial on pigs shows promise with two shots</a>

The original “Timeline of WHO’s response to COVID-19” said:

December 31, 2019: Wuhan Municipal Health Commission, China, reported a cluster of cases of pneumonia in Wuhan, Hubei Province. A novel coronavirus was eventually identified.

The changed version says:

December 31, 2019: WHO’s Country Office in the People’s Republic of China picked up a media statement by the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission from their website on cases of ‘viral pneumonia’ in Wuhan, People’s Republic of China.

Meanwhile, 10,992,462 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19 so far. Of them, 6,140,758 have recovered, and 524,039 have died, according to Worldometer.

The United States remains by far the worst affected country&nbsp;with 2,836,875 coronavirus cases and 131,477 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,501,353 cases, deaths 61,990), Russia (661,165 cases, 9,683 deaths), and India (627,168 cases, 18,225 deaths).

(With inputs from agencies)

The World Health Organization backtracked on its attestation that the Chinese government alarmed the United Nations office about the flare-up of deadly coronavirus.

The World Health Organization backtracked on its attestation that the Chinese government alarmed the United Nations office about the flare-up of deadly coronavirus. Also read: As China warns of another pandemic from pigs, WHO insists to 'not let our guard down' According to the American weekly news magazine The Washington Examiner, WHO changed the official timeline on their website removing the information about China reporting "a cluster of cases of pneumonia in Wuhan". "The WHO quietly updated its “Timeline of WHO’s response to COVID-19” on Tuesday following the House Foreign Affairs Committee Republicans' mid-June Interim Report on Origins of COVID-19 Pandemic (led by ranking member and China task force Chairman Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas), which concluded that “despite public reporting to the contrary ... China never notified the WHO about the outbreak in Wuhan," reported The Washington Examiner. Also read: AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine's trial on pigs shows promise with two shots The original “Timeline of WHO’s response to COVID-19” said: December 31, 2019: Wuhan Municipal Health Commission, China, reported a cluster of cases of pneumonia in Wuhan, Hubei Province. A novel coronavirus was eventually identified. The changed version says: December 31, 2019: WHO’s Country Office in the People’s Republic of China picked up a media statement by the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission from their website on cases of ‘viral pneumonia’ in Wuhan, People’s Republic of China. Meanwhile, 10,992,462 people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19 so far. Of them, 6,140,758 have recovered, and 524,039 have died, according to Worldometer. The United States remains by far the worst affected country with 2,836,875 coronavirus cases and 131,477 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,501,353 cases, deaths 61,990), Russia (661,165 cases, 9,683 deaths), and India (627,168 cases, 18,225 deaths). (With inputs from agencies)

China never reported the existence of coronavirus outbreak, admits WHO

India's first indigenous Covid-19 antibody (BBV152 COVID immunization) might be launched by August 15.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has announced that it is planning to fast track the human clinical trials of coronavirus vaccine which is being developed in partnership with Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharat-biotech-announces-dgcis-approval-for-its-covaxin-covid-19-vaccine-for-phase-i-ii-human-clinical-trials-309491">Also read: Bharat Biotech announces DGCI's approval for its "COVAXIN" COVID-19 vaccine for Phase I &amp; II human clinical trials</a>

ICMR Director General Balram Bhargava, in a letter to the heads of the selected institutions, informed them that it has partnered with Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL) to fast-track clinical trials of the indigenous COVID-19 vaccine (BBV152 COVID vaccine).

"The vaccine is being derived from a strain of SARS-CoV-2 isolated by ICMR-National Institute of Virology, Pune. ICMR and BBIL are jointly working for the preclinical as well as clinical development of this vaccine," he wrote.

The ICMR has selected 12 institutes, including one from Odisha, for the clinical trial of the country's first indigenous COVID-19 vaccine.

The 12 institutes have been asked by the ICMR to fast track clinical trials of the vaccine as it is being considered as one of the top priority projects which are being monitored at the topmost level of the government.

The institutes selected for the clinical trial are Bhubaneswar's IMS and SUM Hospital, and other institutes are located in Visakhapatnam, Rohtak, New Delhi, Patna, Belgaum (Karnataka), Nagpur, Gorakhpur, Kattankulathur (Tamil Nadu), Hyderabad, Arya Nagar, Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh) and Goa.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's first indigenous Covid-19 antibody (BBV152 COVID immunization) might be launched by August 15. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has announced that it is planning to fast track the human clinical trials of coronavirus vaccine which is being developed in partnership with Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL).

India's first indigenous Covid-19 antibody (BBV152 COVID immunization) might be launched by August 15. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has announced that it is planning to fast track the human clinical trials of coronavirus vaccine which is being developed in partnership with Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL). Also read: Bharat Biotech announces DGCI's approval for its "COVAXIN" COVID-19 vaccine for Phase I & II human clinical trials ICMR Director General Balram Bhargava, in a letter to the heads of the selected institutions, informed them that it has partnered with Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL) to fast-track clinical trials of the indigenous COVID-19 vaccine (BBV152 COVID vaccine). "The vaccine is being derived from a strain of SARS-CoV-2 isolated by ICMR-National Institute of Virology, Pune. ICMR and BBIL are jointly working for the preclinical as well as clinical development of this vaccine," he wrote. The ICMR has selected 12 institutes, including one from Odisha, for the clinical trial of the country's first indigenous COVID-19 vaccine. The 12 institutes have been asked by the ICMR to fast track clinical trials of the vaccine as it is being considered as one of the top priority projects which are being monitored at the topmost level of the government. The institutes selected for the clinical trial are Bhubaneswar's IMS and SUM Hospital, and other institutes are located in Visakhapatnam, Rohtak, New Delhi, Patna, Belgaum (Karnataka), Nagpur, Gorakhpur, Kattankulathur (Tamil Nadu), Hyderabad, Arya Nagar, Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh) and Goa. (With inputs from agencies)

India to launch coronavirus vaccine for public use by August 15: Reports

The health ministry of Karnataka on Wednesday reported a spike of 1,272 fresh coronavirus positive cases. The state reported five cases more than its previous single-day highest spike record of 1,267 cases on Sunday.

According to the Health Ministry, 507 deaths and 18,653 new cases have been reported in the last 24 hours.

The health department said, out of 8,194 active cases, 7,902 patients are in isolation at designated hospitals and stable, while 292 are in ICU.

Meanwhile, with 16,241 people testing positive for COVID-19 in a single day, India's case count reached 602,033 on Wednesday while the death toll rose to 17,786 with 418 new fatalities, according to the data provided by Worldometer.

ICMR has tested over 2.17 lakh samples tested in the last 24 hours, total tests cross 88.26 lakh.

In the six months since the World Health Organization (WHO) first reported a cluster of mysterious pneumonia cases in Wuhan, China, more than 500,000 people have died from the coronavirus. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The health ministry of Karnataka on Wednesday reported a spike of 1,272 fresh coronavirus positive cases. The state reported five cases more than its previous single-day highest spike record of 1,267 cases on Sunday.

The health ministry of Karnataka on Wednesday reported a spike of 1,272 fresh coronavirus positive cases. The state reported five cases more than its previous single-day highest spike record of 1,267 cases on Sunday. According to the Health Ministry, 507 deaths and 18,653 new cases have been reported in the last 24 hours. The health department said, out of 8,194 active cases, 7,902 patients are in isolation at designated hospitals and stable, while 292 are in ICU. Meanwhile, with 16,241 people testing positive for COVID-19 in a single day, India's case count reached 602,033 on Wednesday while the death toll rose to 17,786 with 418 new fatalities, according to the data provided by Worldometer. ICMR has tested over 2.17 lakh samples tested in the last 24 hours, total tests cross 88.26 lakh. In the six months since the World Health Organization (WHO) first reported a cluster of mysterious pneumonia cases in Wuhan, China, more than 500,000 people have died from the coronavirus. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka records biggest single-day spike of 1,272 COVID-19 cases, seven deaths

With 16,241 people testing positive for COVID-19 in a single day, India's case count reached 602,033 on Wednesday while the death toll rose to 17,786 with 418 new fatalities, according to the data provided by Worldometer.

ICMR has tested over 2.17 lakh samples tested in last 24 hours, total tests cross 88.26 lakh.

In the six months since the World Health Organization (WHO) first reported a cluster of mysterious pneumonia cases in Wuhan, China, more than 500,000 people have died from the coronavirus.

More than 10.59 million people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19, while more than 5.8 million have recovered, and 515,006 have died, according to Worldometer.

Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected country, with 2,727,853 coronavirus cases and 130,122 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,408,485 cases, deaths 59,656), Russia (647,849 cases, 9,320deaths), and India (585,792 cases, 17,410 deaths).

(With inputs from agencies)

With 16,241 people testing positive for COVID-19 in a single day, India's case count reached 602,033 on Wednesday while the death toll rose to 17,786 with 418 new fatalities, according to the data provided by Worldometer.

With 16,241 people testing positive for COVID-19 in a single day, India's case count reached 602,033 on Wednesday while the death toll rose to 17,786 with 418 new fatalities, according to the data provided by Worldometer. ICMR has tested over 2.17 lakh samples tested in last 24 hours, total tests cross 88.26 lakh. In the six months since the World Health Organization (WHO) first reported a cluster of mysterious pneumonia cases in Wuhan, China, more than 500,000 people have died from the coronavirus. More than 10.59 million people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19, while more than 5.8 million have recovered, and 515,006 have died, according to Worldometer. Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected country, with 2,727,853 coronavirus cases and 130,122 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,408,485 cases, deaths 59,656), Russia (647,849 cases, 9,320deaths), and India (585,792 cases, 17,410 deaths). (With inputs from agencies)

16,241 fresh cases take India's COVID-19 tally to over 6 lakh

Maharashtra's coronavirus case tally rose to 1,74,761 on Tuesday with the addition of 4,878 new patients while the death toll mounted by 245, including 57 fatalities in Mumbai, to 7,855, the state health department said.

This is for the first time in the last five days that the number of the average daily cases has fallen below 5,000 in the state.

A total of 1,951 coronavirus patients were discharged during the day, taking the number of the recovered cases in the state to 90,911.

There are 75,995 active cases in Maharashtra now.

A total of 9,66,723 people have been tested for coronavirus infection and 18.07 per cent of them have tested positive.

Of the 245 deaths being added to the tally, 95 had occurred in the last 48 hours, the department said.

The fatality rate stands at 4.49 per cent while the state recovery rate is 52.02 per cent.

Mumbai reported 57 deaths and 893 new cases in the day.

A total of 5,78,033 people are currently placed under home quarantine while 38,866 others are in institutional quarantine, it said.

Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) reported 3,075 new cases in the day.

Pune city reported 816 new cases in the day and Aurangabad 128 new cases.

The COVID-19 figures in Maharashtra are as follows: positive cases 1,74,761, deaths 7,855, recoveries 90,911, active cases 75,995, and people tested so far 9,66,723.

Maharashtra's coronavirus case tally rose to 1,74,761 on Tuesday with the addition of 4,878 new patients while the death toll mounted by 245, including 57 fatalities in Mumbai, to 7,855, the state health department said.

Maharashtra's coronavirus case tally rose to 1,74,761 on Tuesday with the addition of 4,878 new patients while the death toll mounted by 245, including 57 fatalities in Mumbai, to 7,855, the state health department said. This is for the first time in the last five days that the number of the average daily cases has fallen below 5,000 in the state. A total of 1,951 coronavirus patients were discharged during the day, taking the number of the recovered cases in the state to 90,911. There are 75,995 active cases in Maharashtra now. A total of 9,66,723 people have been tested for coronavirus infection and 18.07 per cent of them have tested positive. Of the 245 deaths being added to the tally, 95 had occurred in the last 48 hours, the department said. The fatality rate stands at 4.49 per cent while the state recovery rate is 52.02 per cent. Mumbai reported 57 deaths and 893 new cases in the day. A total of 5,78,033 people are currently placed under home quarantine while 38,866 others are in institutional quarantine, it said. Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) reported 3,075 new cases in the day. Pune city reported 816 new cases in the day and Aurangabad 128 new cases. The COVID-19 figures in Maharashtra are as follows: positive cases 1,74,761, deaths 7,855, recoveries 90,911, active cases 75,995, and people tested so far 9,66,723.

Maharashtra COVID-19 cases up by 4,878 to over 1.74 lakh; toll 7,855

Tamil Nadu's COVID-19 count crossed the 90,000 mark with almost 4,000 new cases for the third back to back day on Tuesday and with 60 deaths.

Chennai recorded the most noteworthy single day increment of 2,393 cases and the rest of spread across the state.&nbsp;

While the State capital's aggregate portion of infection cases till date was 58,327, Tamil Nadu's count remained at 90,167.

India’s tally has risen from 548,318 to 566,840, an increase of 3.4%. The death toll has reached 16,893, with 418 fatalities in a day. India is the fourth-most-affected country by total cases, and eighth by death toll.

The net increase in active cases across India is 5,005, compared with 7,069 on Monday. The states that have reported the biggest 24-hour jump inactive cases are Maharashtra (2,691), Tamil Nadu (1,675), Karnataka (910), Telangana (559), and Rajasthan (376).

With 13,099 new recoveries being reported, India’s recovery rate has improved marginally to 59.1%; death rate remains unchanged at 3%.

(With inputs from agencies)

Tamil Nadu's COVID-19 count crossed the 90,000 mark with almost 4,000 new cases for the third back to back day on Tuesday and with 60 deaths. Chennai recorded the most noteworthy single day increment of 2,393 cases and the rest of spread across the state.

Tamil Nadu's COVID-19 count crossed the 90,000 mark with almost 4,000 new cases for the third back to back day on Tuesday and with 60 deaths. Chennai recorded the most noteworthy single day increment of 2,393 cases and the rest of spread across the state. While the State capital's aggregate portion of infection cases till date was 58,327, Tamil Nadu's count remained at 90,167. India’s tally has risen from 548,318 to 566,840, an increase of 3.4%. The death toll has reached 16,893, with 418 fatalities in a day. India is the fourth-most-affected country by total cases, and eighth by death toll. The net increase in active cases across India is 5,005, compared with 7,069 on Monday. The states that have reported the biggest 24-hour jump inactive cases are Maharashtra (2,691), Tamil Nadu (1,675), Karnataka (910), Telangana (559), and Rajasthan (376). With 13,099 new recoveries being reported, India’s recovery rate has improved marginally to 59.1%; death rate remains unchanged at 3%. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus cases in Tamil Nadu surge ahead of Delhi as tally mounts to 90,167

Tamil Nadu's Higher Education Minister KP Anbazhagan has tested positive for COVID-19 and admitted to a private hospital.

Anbazhagan is part of COVID-19 control team and oversees control measures in North Chennai.

With 18,522 people testing positive for COVID-19 in a single day, India's case count reached 5, 66,840 on Tuesday while the death toll rose to 16,893 with 418 new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data.

The number of active cases stands at 2, 15,125, while 3, 34,821 people have recovered, and one patient has migrated, according to the updated data at 8 am.

More than 10.4 million people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19, while more than 5.69 million have recovered, and 508,804 have died.

Country-wise, the United States remains the worst-hit country with 2,681,778 cases and 128,777 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,370,488 cases, deaths 58,385), Russia (641,156 cases, 9,166 deaths), and India (567,536 cases, 16,904 deaths).

(With inputs from agencies)

Tamil Nadu's Higher Education Minister KP Anbazhagan has tested positive for COVID-19 and admitted to a private hospital. Anbazhagan is part of COVID-19 control team and oversees control measures in North Chennai.

Tamil Nadu's Higher Education Minister KP Anbazhagan has tested positive for COVID-19 and admitted to a private hospital. Anbazhagan is part of COVID-19 control team and oversees control measures in North Chennai. With 18,522 people testing positive for COVID-19 in a single day, India's case count reached 5, 66,840 on Tuesday while the death toll rose to 16,893 with 418 new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data. The number of active cases stands at 2, 15,125, while 3, 34,821 people have recovered, and one patient has migrated, according to the updated data at 8 am. More than 10.4 million people around the world have been diagnosed with Covid-19, while more than 5.69 million have recovered, and 508,804 have died. Country-wise, the United States remains the worst-hit country with 2,681,778 cases and 128,777 deaths. It is followed by Brazil (1,370,488 cases, deaths 58,385), Russia (641,156 cases, 9,166 deaths), and India (567,536 cases, 16,904 deaths). (With inputs from agencies)

Tamil Nadu's higher education minister tests positive for coronavirus

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the nation, his sixth such televised address since the outbreak of the coronavirus outbreak in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/garib-kalyan-anna-yojana-extended-till-november-says-pm-narendra-modi-309653">Also read: Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana extended till November, says PM Narendra Modi</a> 
 
"In comparison to other countries across the globe, India is still in a very stable situation in the battle against Covid-19. Timely decisions and measures have played a great role," PM Modi said.

Here are the Highlights of PM Narendra Modi's speech

1: PM urged everyone to observe all the safety precautions: "This is a matter of concern. We had taken all precautions during the lockdown and now we have to take all necessary precautions, particularly those living in containment zones,".

2: In comparison to other countries, India is still in a very stable situation, in the battle against COVID-19. Our death rate is under control. Timely decisions and measures have played a great role.

3: One Nation One Ration Card scheme is being actively worked upon. Such a ration card will help those who travel away from their home states.

4: We announced a package of Rs 1.75 lakh crore under PM Garib Kalyan Yojana. Rs 31,000 crore have been deposited in bank accounts of 20 crore poor families in the last 3 months.

5: PM Gareeb Kalyan Anna Yojana will be extended till the end of November, an extension to cost over Rs 90 thousand crores.

6: Under PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, govt will provide free ration to 80 crore poor citizens. Each member of the family will get 5 kg of wheat or rice. Also, every family will get 1 Kg of whole chana per month. This will be free of cost.

7: "Be it central government, state governments, civil society, everyone has ensured that the poor don't go hungry," PM Modi said.

8: We are entering in Unlock 2. The festive season is at hand. Also is the season of cough and fever. We should take care of our health.

9: PM Modi expressed gratitude towards farmers and the honest taxpayers without whom the government would not have been able to provide help to the poor.

10: "Whether village Pradhan or country's Pradhan Mantri, no one is above rules," the Prime Minister emphasized.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the nation, his sixth such televised address since the outbreak of the coronavirus outbreak in the country. Also read: Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana extended till November, says PM Narendra Modi "In comparison to other countries across the globe, India is still in a very stable situation in the battle against Covid-19.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the nation, his sixth such televised address since the outbreak of the coronavirus outbreak in the country. Also read: Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana extended till November, says PM Narendra Modi "In comparison to other countries across the globe, India is still in a very stable situation in the battle against Covid-19. Timely decisions and measures have played a great role," PM Modi said. Here are the Highlights of PM Narendra Modi's speech 1: PM urged everyone to observe all the safety precautions: "This is a matter of concern. We had taken all precautions during the lockdown and now we have to take all necessary precautions, particularly those living in containment zones,". 2: In comparison to other countries, India is still in a very stable situation, in the battle against COVID-19. Our death rate is under control. Timely decisions and measures have played a great role. 3: One Nation One Ration Card scheme is being actively worked upon. Such a ration card will help those who travel away from their home states. 4: We announced a package of Rs 1.75 lakh crore under PM Garib Kalyan Yojana. Rs 31,000 crore have been deposited in bank accounts of 20 crore poor families in the last 3 months. 5: PM Gareeb Kalyan Anna Yojana will be extended till the end of November, an extension to cost over Rs 90 thousand crores. 6: Under PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, govt will provide free ration to 80 crore poor citizens. Each member of the family will get 5 kg of wheat or rice. Also, every family will get 1 Kg of whole chana per month. This will be free of cost. 7: "Be it central government, state governments, civil society, everyone has ensured that the poor don't go hungry," PM Modi said. 8: We are entering in Unlock 2. The festive season is at hand. Also is the season of cough and fever. We should take care of our health. 9: PM Modi expressed gratitude towards farmers and the honest taxpayers without whom the government would not have been able to provide help to the poor. 10: "Whether village Pradhan or country's Pradhan Mantri, no one is above rules," the Prime Minister emphasized.

From Covid-19 guidelines to Pradhan Mantri Gareeb Kalyan Anna Yojana: Highlights of PM Modi's speech

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the nation, his sixth such televised address since the outbreak of the coronavirus outbreak in the country.

"In comparison to other countries across the globe, India is still in a very stable situation in the battle against Covid-19. Timely decisions and measures have played a great role," PM Modi said.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LIVE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LIVE</a> | Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (<a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>) addresses the nation <a href="https://t.co/2ivFA3jRxR">https://t.co/2ivFA3jRxR</a>
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Prime Minister extended the Pradhan Mantri Gareeb Kalyan Ann Yojna till November 30 in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the scheme, over 80 crore people are entitled to free five kilos of free wheat or rice, and an additional one kilo of anyone pulse per family. The scheme was launched in March after the imposition of lockdown to ensure that loss of livelihoods and restriction on movement should not compound the issue of hunger amongst India's poorest.

"We are planning to bring 'One Nation, One Ration Card'. Now a ration card is also being arranged for the whole of India. The biggest benefit of this will be to those poor colleagues who leave their village and go elsewhere for employment or other needs," announced PM Modi.&nbsp;

"In the last three months, Rs 31,000&nbsp;crore have been deposited directly into Jan Dhan accounts of 20 crore poor families. During this time, 18 thousand crore rupees have been deposited in the bank accounts of more than 9 crore farmers," the PM said.

India is at a very crucial phase in its fight against COVID-19 and on Tuesday the tally rose to 5, 66,840. The death toll rose to 16,893 with 418 ore persons succumbing to the virus.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the nation, his sixth such televised address since the outbreak of the coronavirus outbreak in the country. "In comparison to other countries across the globe, India is still in a very stable situation in the battle against Covid-19.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the nation, his sixth such televised address since the outbreak of the coronavirus outbreak in the country. "In comparison to other countries across the globe, India is still in a very stable situation in the battle against Covid-19. Timely decisions and measures have played a great role," PM Modi said. #LIVE | Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) addresses the nation https://t.co/2ivFA3jRxR — WION (@WIONews) June 30, 2020 × Prime Minister extended the Pradhan Mantri Gareeb Kalyan Ann Yojna till November 30 in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the scheme, over 80 crore people are entitled to free five kilos of free wheat or rice, and an additional one kilo of anyone pulse per family. The scheme was launched in March after the imposition of lockdown to ensure that loss of livelihoods and restriction on movement should not compound the issue of hunger amongst India's poorest. "We are planning to bring 'One Nation, One Ration Card'. Now a ration card is also being arranged for the whole of India. The biggest benefit of this will be to those poor colleagues who leave their village and go elsewhere for employment or other needs," announced PM Modi. "In the last three months, Rs 31,000 crore have been deposited directly into Jan Dhan accounts of 20 crore poor families. During this time, 18 thousand crore rupees have been deposited in the bank accounts of more than 9 crore farmers," the PM said. India is at a very crucial phase in its fight against COVID-19 and on Tuesday the tally rose to 5, 66,840. The death toll rose to 16,893 with 418 ore persons succumbing to the virus.

Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana extended till November, says PM Narendra Modi

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Monday released Unlock-2 guidelines which will be in force till July 31.

"Lockdown shall continue to remain in force in containment zones till July 31. In containment zones, only essential activities to be allowed," the press release issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said, while also listing the specific details on what would be allowed and what remains prohibited.

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According to the Unlock 2 guidelines, Social/ political/ sports/ entertainment/ academic/ cultural/ religious functions and other large congregations remain prohibited.&nbsp;

Metro Rail services shall remain shut and cinema halls, gymnasiums, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres, bars, auditoriums, assembly halls and similar places will also not be allowed to open.&nbsp;

All activities apart from those prohibited will be allowed outside containment zones. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Monday released Unlock-2 guidelines which will be in force till July 31. "Lockdown shall continue to remain in force in containment zones till July 31.

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Monday released Unlock-2 guidelines which will be in force till July 31. "Lockdown shall continue to remain in force in containment zones till July 31. In containment zones, only essential activities to be allowed," the press release issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said, while also listing the specific details on what would be allowed and what remains prohibited. #UNLOCK2: National directives for #COVID19 management; wearing of face cover is compulsory in public places, workplaces and during transport. pic.twitter.com/WJTjkhxqO9 — ANI (@ANI) June 29, 2020 × According to the Unlock 2 guidelines, Social/ political/ sports/ entertainment/ academic/ cultural/ religious functions and other large congregations remain prohibited. Metro Rail services shall remain shut and cinema halls, gymnasiums, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres, bars, auditoriums, assembly halls and similar places will also not be allowed to open. All activities apart from those prohibited will be allowed outside containment zones. (With inputs from agencies)

Schools, colleges, cinemas to remain shut till July 31: Centre issues guidelines for Unlock 2.0 

Maharashtra on Friday registered 5,024 new coronavirus cases — highest in one day so far, taking the tally of cases in the state to 1, 52,765, while the number of fatalities reached 7,106 with 175 new deaths.

Maharashtra on Friday registered 5,024 new coronavirus cases — highest in one day so far, taking the tally of cases in the state to 1, 52,765, while the number of fatalities reached 7,106 with 175 new deaths. According to the state health department, Out of the total 175 deaths, 91 deaths are of last 48 hours, and 84 deaths are of previous dates but recorded today. Currently, there are 65,829 active cases in the state. Over 78,000 patients have recovered from the virus until now. Meanwhile, India recorded the highest daily spike of 17,926 new coronavirus cases and 407 deaths in the last 24 hours. Coronavirus cases in India stand at 4, 90,401 including 1, 89,463 active cases, 2, 85,637 cured/discharged/migrated and 15,301 deaths, as reported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The national capital Delhi is being compared to New York now as the state has crossed the 70,000 mark with 3,390 new positive cases, 64 deaths and 3,328 recoveries reported in Delhi in the last 24 hrs. The total number of positive cases in Delhi stands at 73,780, including 44,765 recovered/discharged cases and 2,429 deaths. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra reports over 5,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours; state's tally crosses 1.5 lakh 

Most special trains from migrant rich states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal towards cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Bangalore are scheduled to run on 100 per cent occupancy over the next four days, the Railways said Friday, adding that it was a sign of economic revival.

These three states together accounted for 81 per cent of the 4,594 Sharmik Special trains that have been operated so far since May 1.

In an online briefing on Friday, Railway Board Chairperson VK Yadav said the migrant workers who are returning to the cities are doing so in the regular trains that are being run by the Railways since June 1.

The railways is running 100 pairs of mail/express trains from June 1 and 15 pairs of air-conditioned trains on the Rajdhani routes.

"It is very encouraging to note that some of the trains which are moving in the reverse direction -- trains from UP to Mumbai, Bihar to Mumbai or UP to Gujarat or West Bengal to Gujarat showing the increase in occupancy day by day. This is an indicator that the economic situation is picking up. We are talking to state governments and in the coming week we will announce new special trains based on occupancy," said Yadav.

Most trains originating in Bihar and going towards Mumbai, Delhi and Ahmedabad have high occupancy, according to data provided by railways.

Among the trains from Bihar, the Muzaffarpur-Bandra terminal special has an occupancy of 115 per cent in the next four days, the Danapur-Secunderabad special has an occupancy of 121 per cent and the Muzzafarpur-Ahmedabad special train of 127 per cent.

Bihar was the destination state for 37 per cent of the total Shramik Special trains run so far, second only to UP which accounted for 38 per cent of these trains.

Similarly, Uttar Pradesh which has received 1,723 Shramik Special trains so far is also seeing migrant workers returning to their workplaces.

Trains like the Kushinagar Express from Gorakhpur to Mumbai has an occupancy rate of more than 100 per cent till June 30, the Avadh special train from Gorakhpur to Bandra terminal has an occupancy of 121 per cent and the Gorakhpur-Ahmedabad special has an occupancy of 121 per cent, again indicating that migration back to workplaces is underway.

West Bengal, another state with a high number of migrant workers, which has so far received 6 per cent or just 282 Shramik special trains so far, is also seeing people moving back to the workplace in other states.

Trains from Howrah to Delhi, Ahmedabad, Jodhpur, Secunderabad are all running on full occupancy, according to the data.

Lakhs of workers had left cities, many on foot, during the lockdown which was enforced from March 25 to fight the coronavirus crisis.

Many died on the way, and those who survived were left jobless and without any resources to return home.

It was on May 1 that the government allowed the Railways to run the Shramik Special trains which are still in service.

So far, the Railways has ferried more than 62 lakh migrant workers home.

As of June 26, Yadav said out of the 230 special trains in service 43 trains had 75-100 per cent occupancy, 27 trains had 50-75 per cent occupancy and 78 trains had occupancy of 100 per cent of more.

Most special trains from migrant rich states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal towards cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Bangalore are scheduled to run on 100 per cent occupancy over the next four days, the Railways said Friday, adding that it was a sign of economic revival.

Most special trains from migrant rich states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal towards cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Bangalore are scheduled to run on 100 per cent occupancy over the next four days, the Railways said Friday, adding that it was a sign of economic revival. These three states together accounted for 81 per cent of the 4,594 Sharmik Special trains that have been operated so far since May 1. In an online briefing on Friday, Railway Board Chairperson VK Yadav said the migrant workers who are returning to the cities are doing so in the regular trains that are being run by the Railways since June 1. The railways is running 100 pairs of mail/express trains from June 1 and 15 pairs of air-conditioned trains on the Rajdhani routes. "It is very encouraging to note that some of the trains which are moving in the reverse direction -- trains from UP to Mumbai, Bihar to Mumbai or UP to Gujarat or West Bengal to Gujarat showing the increase in occupancy day by day. This is an indicator that the economic situation is picking up. We are talking to state governments and in the coming week we will announce new special trains based on occupancy," said Yadav. Most trains originating in Bihar and going towards Mumbai, Delhi and Ahmedabad have high occupancy, according to data provided by railways. Among the trains from Bihar, the Muzaffarpur-Bandra terminal special has an occupancy of 115 per cent in the next four days, the Danapur-Secunderabad special has an occupancy of 121 per cent and the Muzzafarpur-Ahmedabad special train of 127 per cent. Bihar was the destination state for 37 per cent of the total Shramik Special trains run so far, second only to UP which accounted for 38 per cent of these trains. Similarly, Uttar Pradesh which has received 1,723 Shramik Special trains so far is also seeing migrant workers returning to their workplaces. Trains like the Kushinagar Express from Gorakhpur to Mumbai has an occupancy rate of more than 100 per cent till June 30, the Avadh special train from Gorakhpur to Bandra terminal has an occupancy of 121 per cent and the Gorakhpur-Ahmedabad special has an occupancy of 121 per cent, again indicating that migration back to workplaces is underway. West Bengal, another state with a high number of migrant workers, which has so far received 6 per cent or just 282 Shramik special trains so far, is also seeing people moving back to the workplace in other states. Trains from Howrah to Delhi, Ahmedabad, Jodhpur, Secunderabad are all running on full occupancy, according to the data. Lakhs of workers had left cities, many on foot, during the lockdown which was enforced from March 25 to fight the coronavirus crisis. Many died on the way, and those who survived were left jobless and without any resources to return home. It was on May 1 that the government allowed the Railways to run the Shramik Special trains which are still in service. So far, the Railways has ferried more than 62 lakh migrant workers home. As of June 26, Yadav said out of the 230 special trains in service 43 trains had 75-100 per cent occupancy, 27 trains had 50-75 per cent occupancy and 78 trains had occupancy of 100 per cent of more.

Occupancy in trains from migrant heavy states to cities 100 per cent; signs of recovery: Railways

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Friday said that schools in Delhi will continue to remain closed till July 31 in view of the COVID-19 situation.

"Reopening schools is not merely a technical work, rather, it is a creative work that would give schools a new and bigger role. Schools will continue to be closed in Delhi till July 31," Sisodia said.

Sisodia, who is also the Education Minister, made the announcement after a meeting with education department officials on how to reopen schools and discuss the future course of action.

Meanwhile, India recorded the highest daily spike of 17,926 new coronavirus cases and 407 deaths in the last 24 hours.

Coronavirus cases in India stand at 4, 90,401 including 1, 89,463 active cases, 2, 85,637 cured/discharged/migrated and 15,301 deaths, as reported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The national capital Delhi is being compared to New York now as the state has crossed the 70,000 mark with 3,390 new positive cases, 64 deaths and 3,328 recoveries reported in Delhi in the last 24 hrs. The total number of positive cases in Delhi stands at 73,780, including 44,765 recovered/discharged cases and 2,429 deaths.

Mumbai, which is one of the worst affected cities in the country, reported 1,365 fresh cases and 58 deaths today, taking the total number of cases to 70,990 and death toll to 4,060, as reported by the Greater Mumbai Municipal Corporation.

(With inputs from agencies)

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Friday said that schools in Delhi will continue to remain closed till July 31 in view of the COVID-19 situation. "Reopening schools is not merely a technical work, rather, it is a creative work that would give schools a new and bigger role.

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Friday said that schools in Delhi will continue to remain closed till July 31 in view of the COVID-19 situation. "Reopening schools is not merely a technical work, rather, it is a creative work that would give schools a new and bigger role. Schools will continue to be closed in Delhi till July 31," Sisodia said. Sisodia, who is also the Education Minister, made the announcement after a meeting with education department officials on how to reopen schools and discuss the future course of action. Meanwhile, India recorded the highest daily spike of 17,926 new coronavirus cases and 407 deaths in the last 24 hours. Coronavirus cases in India stand at 4, 90,401 including 1, 89,463 active cases, 2, 85,637 cured/discharged/migrated and 15,301 deaths, as reported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The national capital Delhi is being compared to New York now as the state has crossed the 70,000 mark with 3,390 new positive cases, 64 deaths and 3,328 recoveries reported in Delhi in the last 24 hrs. The total number of positive cases in Delhi stands at 73,780, including 44,765 recovered/discharged cases and 2,429 deaths. Mumbai, which is one of the worst affected cities in the country, reported 1,365 fresh cases and 58 deaths today, taking the total number of cases to 70,990 and death toll to 4,060, as reported by the Greater Mumbai Municipal Corporation. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: Delhi schools to remain closed till July 31, says Sisodia

On Thursday, the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu had surpassed the 1million (10 lakh) mark in RT-PCR tests conducted thus far, for Covid-19. This is being viewed as a commendable feat, given that Tamil Nadu is the first state in India to have done so. The development comes at a time when the cumulative total of samples tested in India are about 2 lakh short of the 8 million mark.&nbsp;

For perspective, Tamil Nadu had barely performed a total of 3000 tests as on April 1st. However, in the following months testing was immensely ramped up, thus enabling the state to reach the 1 million mark. In terms of Covid-19 testing facilities, from merely 17 labs at the start of April, there has been a five-fold increase and currently, 89 labs are functional. As per the data from the State health bulletins, 47 of these testing labs are state government facilities while 42 of them are private ones.&nbsp;

Dr Radhakrishnan, IAS, Tamil Nadu Health Secretary said that though the testing was slow at the start, the state eventually scaled up rapidly. “Initially it took a little time to get ICMR approvals for new labs, but we were keen on increasing both government and private labs. It was basically a focused strategy to have a testing centre every 30kms in bigger areas. Based on what our Chief Minister had discussed with the health experts, we have been strictly going with RT-PCR (most-reliable) tests only and ramping up the numbers, he told WION.

In terms of the Tests per million too, Tamil Nadu ranks far above the national average. As per state government figures that were released earlier this month, Tamil Nadu had tested 8666 samples per million, whereas the national average stood at 4657. Experts working in the field owe it to the dedication of the staff in testing labs. Microbiologists and lab technicians are said to be the unseen heroes of this battle, as their tedious work requires a lot of precision, involves high risk.&nbsp;

“All our testing labs are dependent on RT-PCR machines and most of these machines need to be imported, there are also delays in supply due to the logistical challenges. But in Tamil Nadu, we decided to set-up more labs using the RT-PCR machines that were already available in the educational, research institutions. Our government labs test about 80% of the total samples by working 24 hours a day, all through the week” Dr S.Raju, Deputy Director, State Public Health Laboratory, told WION.

In recent weeks, Tamil Nadu has been consistently testing above 20,000 samples on a daily basis. On certain days there were over 33,000 samples tested. Officials say that nearly 80% of the 1 million tests were done in Government labs, with the remaining being done in Private facilities.&nbsp;

“Such scaling up is possible because we have been getting sufficient testing kits from the US, South Korea and some even from India. In parallel, we are also placing orders for more RT-PCR machines, but we are meeting urgent requirements by getting the machines with the support of various departments and their research institutions. Some of them are Higher education department, animal husbandry, fisheries etc.” Dr Raja added.&nbsp;

While the rapid ramp-up of test capability has been widely appreciated, experts also suggest few other additional measures that Tamil Nadu could follow in the coming times.&nbsp;

“It is commendable that we have surpassed one million tests in a state that has an 8 crore population, but in specific districts, testing needs to be increased. Chennai (within Civic body limits) has a population of around 1crore, but we have only around 10,000 tests per day. The testing in Chennai and its three adjoining districts of Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu, which have a combined population of over 2 crores must be scaled up even more” Healthcare Consultant Dr Sumanth C Raman told WION.&nbsp;

Besides the scaling up of testing numbers, experts also point out towards broader testing among different groups of people.&nbsp;

“States are testing people based on latest ICMR guidelines, but they could also go a step ahead and test the aged population, cancer patients, vulnerable groups, pregnant women etc. Such testing can be done across social strata and at random. For example, a pregnant lady or a cancer patient must not have much exposure to infection while at home. But if they test positive, it means that there are many cases in their locality. Random testing for such groups and it would reveal more cases. Covid-19 testing before admitting all senior citizens (for other ailments) and pregnant women in hospitals is also a good strategy” Dr K Kolandaiswamy, who retired recently as Tamil Nadu's Director of Public Health and Preventive medicine told WION.&nbsp;

“From a few hundred daily tests in March and April, it is a tremendous growth that Tamil Nadu has shown in testing capability. But henceforth, the public must pay sincere attention to hand-washing(using soap) and mask-wearing, as that’s what reduces the spread and controls this pandemic” he added.&nbsp;

On Friday, Tamil Nadu recorded its highest-ever day increase of 3645 cases, thus taking the total case count to 74622. There are currently 32305 active cases in the state and 957 people have so far succumbed to the deadly pandemic. Capital city Chennai has a bulk of the state’s cases and accounts for 49,690 cases, of which 20,136 are active.

On Thursday, the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu had surpassed the 1million (10 lakh) mark in RT-PCR tests conducted thus far, for Covid-19. This is being viewed as a commendable feat, given that Tamil Nadu is the first state in India to have done so.

On Thursday, the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu had surpassed the 1million (10 lakh) mark in RT-PCR tests conducted thus far, for Covid-19. This is being viewed as a commendable feat, given that Tamil Nadu is the first state in India to have done so. The development comes at a time when the cumulative total of samples tested in India are about 2 lakh short of the 8 million mark. For perspective, Tamil Nadu had barely performed a total of 3000 tests as on April 1st. However, in the following months testing was immensely ramped up, thus enabling the state to reach the 1 million mark. In terms of Covid-19 testing facilities, from merely 17 labs at the start of April, there has been a five-fold increase and currently, 89 labs are functional. As per the data from the State health bulletins, 47 of these testing labs are state government facilities while 42 of them are private ones. Dr Radhakrishnan, IAS, Tamil Nadu Health Secretary said that though the testing was slow at the start, the state eventually scaled up rapidly. “Initially it took a little time to get ICMR approvals for new labs, but we were keen on increasing both government and private labs. It was basically a focused strategy to have a testing centre every 30kms in bigger areas. Based on what our Chief Minister had discussed with the health experts, we have been strictly going with RT-PCR (most-reliable) tests only and ramping up the numbers, he told WION. In terms of the Tests per million too, Tamil Nadu ranks far above the national average. As per state government figures that were released earlier this month, Tamil Nadu had tested 8666 samples per million, whereas the national average stood at 4657. Experts working in the field owe it to the dedication of the staff in testing labs. Microbiologists and lab technicians are said to be the unseen heroes of this battle, as their tedious work requires a lot of precision, involves high risk. “All our testing labs are dependent on RT-PCR machines and most of these machines need to be imported, there are also delays in supply due to the logistical challenges. But in Tamil Nadu, we decided to set-up more labs using the RT-PCR machines that were already available in the educational, research institutions. Our government labs test about 80% of the total samples by working 24 hours a day, all through the week” Dr S.Raju, Deputy Director, State Public Health Laboratory, told WION. In recent weeks, Tamil Nadu has been consistently testing above 20,000 samples on a daily basis. On certain days there were over 33,000 samples tested. Officials say that nearly 80% of the 1 million tests were done in Government labs, with the remaining being done in Private facilities. “Such scaling up is possible because we have been getting sufficient testing kits from the US, South Korea and some even from India. In parallel, we are also placing orders for more RT-PCR machines, but we are meeting urgent requirements by getting the machines with the support of various departments and their research institutions. Some of them are Higher education department, animal husbandry, fisheries etc.” Dr Raja added. While the rapid ramp-up of test capability has been widely appreciated, experts also suggest few other additional measures that Tamil Nadu could follow in the coming times. “It is commendable that we have surpassed one million tests in a state that has an 8 crore population, but in specific districts, testing needs to be increased. Chennai (within Civic body limits) has a population of around 1crore, but we have only around 10,000 tests per day. The testing in Chennai and its three adjoining districts of Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu, which have a combined population of over 2 crores must be scaled up even more” Healthcare Consultant Dr Sumanth C Raman told WION. Besides the scaling up of testing numbers, experts also point out towards broader testing among different groups of people. “States are testing people based on latest ICMR guidelines, but they could also go a step ahead and test the aged population, cancer patients, vulnerable groups, pregnant women etc. Such testing can be done across social strata and at random. For example, a pregnant lady or a cancer patient must not have much exposure to infection while at home. But if they test positive, it means that there are many cases in their locality. Random testing for such groups and it would reveal more cases. Covid-19 testing before admitting all senior citizens (for other ailments) and pregnant women in hospitals is also a good strategy” Dr K Kolandaiswamy, who retired recently as Tamil Nadu's Director of Public Health and Preventive medicine told WION. “From a few hundred daily tests in March and April, it is a tremendous growth that Tamil Nadu has shown in testing capability. But henceforth, the public must pay sincere attention to hand-washing(using soap) and mask-wearing, as that’s what reduces the spread and controls this pandemic” he added. On Friday, Tamil Nadu recorded its highest-ever day increase of 3645 cases, thus taking the total case count to 74622. There are currently 32305 active cases in the state and 957 people have so far succumbed to the deadly pandemic. Capital city Chennai has a bulk of the state’s cases and accounts for 49,690 cases, of which 20,136 are active.

How Tamil Nadu became the first state in India to test over 1 million Covid-19 samples

Showering praise on Yogi Adityanath for his handling of COVID-19 pandemic, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the vast preparations made by the Uttar Pradesh chief minister saved at least 85,000 lives, something that was unthinkable before 2017.

Modi, who launched the "Atma nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rozgar Abhiyan" seeking to promote local entrepreneurship with industrial associations to provide employment, said Adityanath managed to turn the epidemic into an opportunity which the governments prior to 2017 would have avoided.

The prime minister referred to the pre-2017 period when the state was mostly ruled by non-BJP governments, saying, "Whichever government or system was in place, the circumstances were such that they would have avoided the challenge but the Adityanath government took it seriously and worked on a war footing."

He referred to a stampede in Allahabad during the Kumbh Mela, when a former prime minister was in power who was also an MP from the city, saying the PM made all efforts to brush the "deaths of hundreds of thousands" pilgrims under the carpet.

Modi said UP's population of 24 crore is same as that of four European countries put together but, in UP the death toll is 600 due to coronavirus and lauded the efforts of Adityanath in tackling the pandemic.

"UP's achievement is massive. The population of 24 crore is bigger than that of many countries. The population of England, France, Italy and Spain put together comes to 24 crore but they saw 1.30 lakh deaths due to coronavirus," he said, adding that these four countries lost more lives than UP even though they are developed nations and have no dearth of facilities.

Referring to the scenario in United States, he said, "You must have seen reports of America. They have everything but even then 1.25 lakh lives have been lost till now."

"If Yogiji and his team had not made proper preparations, today 85,000 people would have lost their lives if we compare with other countries. We can say that the hard work done by the UP government saved so many lives," he said.

Modi, who interacted with villagers of six districts through common services centres and krishi vigyan kendras , said this achievement has been managed when 30 to 35 lakh labourers have returned to the state by hundreds of shramik trains.

Speaking about the works done by the Adityanath government, he said the chief minister's dedication was evident in the fact that he opted to miss his father's last rites.

Modi said that he always talked about the double engine for development which was working for Uttar Pradesh and hoped that other states would also bring in schemes like UP.

He stressed that he is concerned about the state as a citizen and also because he is an MP from here.

"Whoever shows courage in crisis gets success.

What you have done is an example for the world," he said, adding that Uttar Pradesh has a great role in making the country self-reliant.

He also hailed the work done by the UP government in the past three years and reminded that the fight against coronavirus was on and cited three steps of social distancing, covering face with a mask and sanitation.

The "Atma nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rozgar Abhiyan" scheme aims to generate 1.

25 crore jobs in 31 districts.

Exuding confidence of providing jobs to all migrant workers of Uttar Pradesh, Adityanath said the state has enough potential to create employment opportunities for all of them.

"Uttar Pradesh has enough possibilities for creating employment for migrant workers who have returned to the state.

I can assure that we will succeed in employing all of them," said Adityanath while launching the scheme through video conference. 
&nbsp;

Showering praise on Yogi Adityanath for his handling of COVID-19 pandemic, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the vast preparations made by the Uttar Pradesh chief minister saved at least 85,000 lives, something that was unthinkable before 2017.

Showering praise on Yogi Adityanath for his handling of COVID-19 pandemic, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the vast preparations made by the Uttar Pradesh chief minister saved at least 85,000 lives, something that was unthinkable before 2017. Modi, who launched the "Atma nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rozgar Abhiyan" seeking to promote local entrepreneurship with industrial associations to provide employment, said Adityanath managed to turn the epidemic into an opportunity which the governments prior to 2017 would have avoided. The prime minister referred to the pre-2017 period when the state was mostly ruled by non-BJP governments, saying, "Whichever government or system was in place, the circumstances were such that they would have avoided the challenge but the Adityanath government took it seriously and worked on a war footing." He referred to a stampede in Allahabad during the Kumbh Mela, when a former prime minister was in power who was also an MP from the city, saying the PM made all efforts to brush the "deaths of hundreds of thousands" pilgrims under the carpet. Modi said UP's population of 24 crore is same as that of four European countries put together but, in UP the death toll is 600 due to coronavirus and lauded the efforts of Adityanath in tackling the pandemic. "UP's achievement is massive. The population of 24 crore is bigger than that of many countries. The population of England, France, Italy and Spain put together comes to 24 crore but they saw 1.30 lakh deaths due to coronavirus," he said, adding that these four countries lost more lives than UP even though they are developed nations and have no dearth of facilities. Referring to the scenario in United States, he said, "You must have seen reports of America. They have everything but even then 1.25 lakh lives have been lost till now." "If Yogiji and his team had not made proper preparations, today 85,000 people would have lost their lives if we compare with other countries. We can say that the hard work done by the UP government saved so many lives," he said. Modi, who interacted with villagers of six districts through common services centres and krishi vigyan kendras , said this achievement has been managed when 30 to 35 lakh labourers have returned to the state by hundreds of shramik trains. Speaking about the works done by the Adityanath government, he said the chief minister's dedication was evident in the fact that he opted to miss his father's last rites. Modi said that he always talked about the double engine for development which was working for Uttar Pradesh and hoped that other states would also bring in schemes like UP. He stressed that he is concerned about the state as a citizen and also because he is an MP from here. "Whoever shows courage in crisis gets success. What you have done is an example for the world," he said, adding that Uttar Pradesh has a great role in making the country self-reliant. He also hailed the work done by the UP government in the past three years and reminded that the fight against coronavirus was on and cited three steps of social distancing, covering face with a mask and sanitation. The "Atma nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rozgar Abhiyan" scheme aims to generate 1. 25 crore jobs in 31 districts. Exuding confidence of providing jobs to all migrant workers of Uttar Pradesh, Adityanath said the state has enough potential to create employment opportunities for all of them. "Uttar Pradesh has enough possibilities for creating employment for migrant workers who have returned to the state. I can assure that we will succeed in employing all of them," said Adityanath while launching the scheme through video conference.

Yogi Adityanath government saved 85,000 lives, says PM Modi praising UP's handling of COVID-19

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation on Friday announced to suspend all scheduled International commercial passenger flights to and from India till July 15 due to coronavirus pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-highest-daily-spike-of-17926-cases-death-toll-crosses-15000-308689">Also read: India records highest daily spike of 17,926 cases; death toll crosses 15,000</a> 
 
"In continuation of the circular dated 30.05.2020 on the subject cited above (Travel and Visa related to COVID-19), the competent authority has decided that Scheduled International commercial passenger services to/from India shall remain suspended till 2359 hours IST of 15th July 2020," DGCA said in the statement.

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But according to the statement, this restriction will not apply to international all-cargo operations and flights.

Meanwhile, India recorded the highest daily spike of 17,926 new coronavirus cases and 407 deaths in the last 24 hours.

Coronavirus cases in India stand at 4, 90,401 including 1, 89,463 active cases, 2, 85,637 cured/discharged/migrated and 15,301 deaths, as reported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The national capital Delhi is being compared to New York now as the state has crossed the 70,000 mark with 3,390 new positive cases, 64 deaths and 3,328 recoveries reported in Delhi in the last 24 hrs. The total number of positive cases in Delhi stands at 73,780, including 44,765 recovered/discharged cases and 2,429 deaths.

Mumbai, which is one of the worst affected cities in the country, reported 1,365 fresh cases and 58 deaths today, taking the total number of cases to 70,990 and death toll to 4,060, as reported by the Greater Mumbai Municipal Corporation.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation on Friday announced to suspend all scheduled International commercial passenger flights to and from India till July 15 due to coronavirus pandemic.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation on Friday announced to suspend all scheduled International commercial passenger flights to and from India till July 15 due to coronavirus pandemic. Also read: India records highest daily spike of 17,926 cases; death toll crosses 15,000 "In continuation of the circular dated 30.05.2020 on the subject cited above (Travel and Visa related to COVID-19), the competent authority has decided that Scheduled International commercial passenger services to/from India shall remain suspended till 2359 hours IST of 15th July 2020," DGCA said in the statement. pic.twitter.com/qDqtyit14Q — DGCA (@DGCAIndia) June 26, 2020 × But according to the statement, this restriction will not apply to international all-cargo operations and flights. Meanwhile, India recorded the highest daily spike of 17,926 new coronavirus cases and 407 deaths in the last 24 hours. Coronavirus cases in India stand at 4, 90,401 including 1, 89,463 active cases, 2, 85,637 cured/discharged/migrated and 15,301 deaths, as reported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The national capital Delhi is being compared to New York now as the state has crossed the 70,000 mark with 3,390 new positive cases, 64 deaths and 3,328 recoveries reported in Delhi in the last 24 hrs. The total number of positive cases in Delhi stands at 73,780, including 44,765 recovered/discharged cases and 2,429 deaths. Mumbai, which is one of the worst affected cities in the country, reported 1,365 fresh cases and 58 deaths today, taking the total number of cases to 70,990 and death toll to 4,060, as reported by the Greater Mumbai Municipal Corporation. (With inputs from agencies)

India suspends all international commercial flight operations till July 15

Maharashtra on Thursday reported the highest single-day spike of coronavirus cases after 4,841 more people tested positive for the deadly virus.

Till now, 1, 47,741 people have contracted COVID-19 in the state. Currently, there are 63,342 active cases in Maharashtra. On June 25, 3,661 patients recovered from the disease, taking the number of cured patients to 77453.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that the Indian economy faces an even deeper downturn than projected in April as the country grapples with the Covid-19 pandemic. It has projected a sharp contraction of 4.5 per cent in FY21, a steep drop from its April forecast of a 1.9 per cent expansion. The international body has called this a "historic low" for India.

The deadly coronavirus has now infected more than 9,551,987 people worldwide and killed more than 485,433. IMF said it expected the global economy to take a $12-trillion hit from the pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra on Thursday reported the highest single-day spike of coronavirus cases after 4,841 more people tested positive for the deadly virus. Till now, 1, 47,741 people have contracted COVID-19 in the state.

Maharashtra on Thursday reported the highest single-day spike of coronavirus cases after 4,841 more people tested positive for the deadly virus. Till now, 1, 47,741 people have contracted COVID-19 in the state. Currently, there are 63,342 active cases in Maharashtra. On June 25, 3,661 patients recovered from the disease, taking the number of cured patients to 77453. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that the Indian economy faces an even deeper downturn than projected in April as the country grapples with the Covid-19 pandemic. It has projected a sharp contraction of 4.5 per cent in FY21, a steep drop from its April forecast of a 1.9 per cent expansion. The international body has called this a "historic low" for India. The deadly coronavirus has now infected more than 9,551,987 people worldwide and killed more than 485,433. IMF said it expected the global economy to take a $12-trillion hit from the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra sees nearly 5,000 new Covid-19 cases in 24 hours, biggest spike so far

In the wake of deadly coronavirus pandemic, Railways on Thursday, cancelled all regular trains till August 12, 2020, in a notification issued today.&nbsp;

All special Rajdhani, mail and express trains, however, will continue to operate. &nbsp;

"It has been decided that regular time-tabled passenger services including Mail and Express, passenger and suburban services stand cancelled up to 12.08.2020," the Railway Board said in the notification.

However, the special 230 trains will continue to function, said the national transporter.

Also, all the tickets booked for the regular time-tabled trains from 1 July-12 August stand cancelled and a full refund will be generated, said Railways.

All regular train services were cancelled since March 25 when the lockdown in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic began. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

In the wake of deadly coronavirus pandemic, Railways on Thursday, cancelled all regular trains till August 12, 2020, in a notification issued today. All special Rajdhani, mail and express trains, however, will continue to operate.

In the wake of deadly coronavirus pandemic, Railways on Thursday, cancelled all regular trains till August 12, 2020, in a notification issued today. All special Rajdhani, mail and express trains, however, will continue to operate. "It has been decided that regular time-tabled passenger services including Mail and Express, passenger and suburban services stand cancelled up to 12.08.2020," the Railway Board said in the notification. However, the special 230 trains will continue to function, said the national transporter. Also, all the tickets booked for the regular time-tabled trains from 1 July-12 August stand cancelled and a full refund will be generated, said Railways. All regular train services were cancelled since March 25 when the lockdown in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic began. (With inputs from agencies)

Railways cancels regular passenger trains till this date; special trains to run

Voters in Bihar who test positive for COVID-19 will be allowed to cast their vote using postal ballot in the state assembly polls due later this year.

The Legislative Department in the Union Law Ministry has changed the Conduct of Election Rules to allow those suffering from COVID-19 to use postal ballot, a top ministry functionary said on Tuesday.

The Election Commission had approached the ministry recently to allow COVID-19 positive voters to use postal ballot to exercise their franchise.

"It was a fit case and we have agreed to change the rules. Recently we had allowed those above 80 years of age and people with disabilities to use postal ballot. In the same list, we have included COVID positive or those having symptoms," explained the functionary.

As of now, people with disabilities and those above 80 years of age have to fill form 12D to avail the postal ballot facility from the local returning officer.

After the outbreak of coronavirus in India, Bihar will be the first state to have assembly polls.

The EC had approached the government to tweak the rule as the pandemic could continue till the end of the year.

The Legislative Department is the nodal body for the Election Commission.

Election rules are amended after the Law Minister approves changes.

Bihar has nearly 7.20 crore voters and the term of the 243-member assembly ends on November 29 this year. The new assembly has to be formed before November 29.

Voters in Bihar who test positive for COVID-19 will be allowed to cast their vote using postal ballot in the state assembly polls due later this year. The Legislative Department in the Union Law Ministry has changed the Conduct of Election Rules to allow those suffering from COVID-19 to use postal ballot, a top ministry functionary said on Tuesday.

Voters in Bihar who test positive for COVID-19 will be allowed to cast their vote using postal ballot in the state assembly polls due later this year. The Legislative Department in the Union Law Ministry has changed the Conduct of Election Rules to allow those suffering from COVID-19 to use postal ballot, a top ministry functionary said on Tuesday. The Election Commission had approached the ministry recently to allow COVID-19 positive voters to use postal ballot to exercise their franchise. "It was a fit case and we have agreed to change the rules. Recently we had allowed those above 80 years of age and people with disabilities to use postal ballot. In the same list, we have included COVID positive or those having symptoms," explained the functionary. As of now, people with disabilities and those above 80 years of age have to fill form 12D to avail the postal ballot facility from the local returning officer. After the outbreak of coronavirus in India, Bihar will be the first state to have assembly polls. The EC had approached the government to tweak the rule as the pandemic could continue till the end of the year. The Legislative Department is the nodal body for the Election Commission. Election rules are amended after the Law Minister approves changes. Bihar has nearly 7.20 crore voters and the term of the 243-member assembly ends on November 29 this year. The new assembly has to be formed before November 29.

Law Ministry tweaks rule to allow use of postal ballot for those suffering from COVID-19

Fourteen people died of coronavirus in West Bengal on Monday taking the death toll to 569, while 413 fresh cases raised the infection tally to 14,358, a health department bulletin said. 
&nbsp; 
Twelve out of the 14 deaths were due to comorbidities where Covid-19 was incidental, it said. 
&nbsp; 
The active cases in the state stand at 5,102.

Meanwhile, the number of coronavirus positive cases on per lakh people in India is one of the lowest in the world despite its high population density, and the recovery rate has now reached almost 56 per cent, the Union health ministry said on Monday.&nbsp;

For every one lakh population, there are 30.04 coronavirus cases in India, while the global average is over three times at 114.67, the ministry said, referring to the WHO Situation Report 153, dated June 21.

With record 445 deaths and 14,821 new COVID-19 positive cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of cases in India stands at 4, 25,282, according to Ministry of Health.

(With inputs from agencies)

Fourteen people died of coronavirus in West Bengal on Monday taking the death toll to 569, while 413 fresh cases raised the infection tally to 14,358, a health department bulletin said.

Fourteen people died of coronavirus in West Bengal on Monday taking the death toll to 569, while 413 fresh cases raised the infection tally to 14,358, a health department bulletin said. Twelve out of the 14 deaths were due to comorbidities where Covid-19 was incidental, it said. The active cases in the state stand at 5,102. Meanwhile, the number of coronavirus positive cases on per lakh people in India is one of the lowest in the world despite its high population density, and the recovery rate has now reached almost 56 per cent, the Union health ministry said on Monday. For every one lakh population, there are 30.04 coronavirus cases in India, while the global average is over three times at 114.67, the ministry said, referring to the WHO Situation Report 153, dated June 21. With record 445 deaths and 14,821 new COVID-19 positive cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of cases in India stands at 4, 25,282, according to Ministry of Health. (With inputs from agencies)

West Bengal: 14 more deaths take Covid-19 toll to 569; 413 fresh cases detected

The number of coronavirus positive cases on per lakh people in India is one of the lowest in the world despite its high population density, and the recovery rate has now reached almost 56 per cent, the Union health ministry said on Monday.&nbsp;

For every one lakh population, there are 30.04 coronavirus cases in India, while the global average is over three times at 114.67, the ministry said, referring to the WHO Situation Report 153, dated June 21.

With record 445 deaths and 14,821 new COVID-19 positive cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of cases in India stands at 4, 25,282, according to Ministry of Health.

Among the total number of cases, 1, 74,387 are active cases while 2, 37,196 cured/discharged/migrated and 13699 deaths have been recorded so far, the ministry said.&nbsp;

The number of patients recovering from COVID-19 continues to increase in India. The recovery rate has further improved to 55.49 per cent amongst COVID-19 patients," the Ministry said in a statement said on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Goa on Monday reported its first death due to COVID-19.

An 85-year-old woman from Morlem in North Goa, who was diagnosed with coronavirus, has succumbed to the infection in the hospital.

(With inputs from agencies)

The number of coronavirus positive cases on per lakh people in India is one of the lowest in the world despite its high population density, and the recovery rate has now reached almost 56 per cent, the Union health ministry said on Monday.

The number of coronavirus positive cases on per lakh people in India is one of the lowest in the world despite its high population density, and the recovery rate has now reached almost 56 per cent, the Union health ministry said on Monday. For every one lakh population, there are 30.04 coronavirus cases in India, while the global average is over three times at 114.67, the ministry said, referring to the WHO Situation Report 153, dated June 21. With record 445 deaths and 14,821 new COVID-19 positive cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of cases in India stands at 4, 25,282, according to Ministry of Health. Among the total number of cases, 1, 74,387 are active cases while 2, 37,196 cured/discharged/migrated and 13699 deaths have been recorded so far, the ministry said. The number of patients recovering from COVID-19 continues to increase in India. The recovery rate has further improved to 55.49 per cent amongst COVID-19 patients," the Ministry said in a statement said on Sunday. Meanwhile, Goa on Monday reported its first death due to COVID-19. An 85-year-old woman from Morlem in North Goa, who was diagnosed with coronavirus, has succumbed to the infection in the hospital. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s Covid-19 cases per lakh population one of the lowest globally: Union health ministry

Tamil Nadu, the second worst-hit state in India due to the coronavirus pandemic, reported the highest single-day spike so far with more than 2,500 cases in the past 24 hours.

The death toll in the state also rose to 757 after 53 more virus-related fatalities were reported since Saturday. A total of 32,754 patients have been discharged or cured of the highly contagious disease, including 1,438 patients recovering today.

Meanwhile, with the number of coronavirus cases crossing the 4 lakh-mark, India is now ranked fourth after the United States, Brazil and Russia in the list of worst-affected countries by the COVID-19 disease.

As per the health ministry’s latest data on Sunday, 306 deaths and highest single-day spike of 15,413 new COVID-19 positive cases were reported in India in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

Coronavirus positive cases in India stand at 4, 10,461 including 1, 69,451 active cases, 2, 27,756 cured/discharged/migrated. The death toll is 13,254, the ministry said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Tamil Nadu, the second worst-hit state in India due to the coronavirus pandemic, reported the highest single-day spike so far with more than 2,500 cases in the past 24 hours.

Tamil Nadu, the second worst-hit state in India due to the coronavirus pandemic, reported the highest single-day spike so far with more than 2,500 cases in the past 24 hours. The death toll in the state also rose to 757 after 53 more virus-related fatalities were reported since Saturday. A total of 32,754 patients have been discharged or cured of the highly contagious disease, including 1,438 patients recovering today. Meanwhile, with the number of coronavirus cases crossing the 4 lakh-mark, India is now ranked fourth after the United States, Brazil and Russia in the list of worst-affected countries by the COVID-19 disease. As per the health ministry’s latest data on Sunday, 306 deaths and highest single-day spike of 15,413 new COVID-19 positive cases were reported in India in the last 24 hours. Coronavirus positive cases in India stand at 4, 10,461 including 1, 69,451 active cases, 2, 27,756 cured/discharged/migrated. The death toll is 13,254, the ministry said. (With inputs from agencies)

Tamil Nadu reports a highest single-day spike of 2,532 covid-19 cases, tally nears 60,000-mark

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