Pakistan on Saturday summoned a senior Indian diplomat to register a strong protest over alleged ceasefire violations by the Indian forces along the Line of Control (LoC) in which a woman was killed.

The Foreign Office (FO) claimed in a statement that the Indian forces violated ceasefire in Hajipir and Sankh Sectors on Friday.

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The Indian forces along the LoC and the Working Boundary (WB) have continuously been targeting civilian populated areas with artillery fire, heavy-calibre mortars and automatic weapons,? the FO said.

It claimed that in 2020, India has so far committed 940 ceasefire violations.

A 30-year-old woman was killed in Friday's "unprovoked firing" by the Indian forces, the FO claimed.

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This is the second time this week that Pakistan has summoned an Indian diplomat.

Pakistan on Thursday summoned the Indian Charge d'Affaires here to protest against the alleged firing by the Indian troops across the Line of Control that resulted in the killing of a Pakistani soldier and two civilians. 
The FO asked the Indian side to respect the 2003 Ceasefire Understanding; investigate this and other such incidents of "deliberate" ceasefire violations and maintain peace along the LoC and the WB.

The Indian side was also asked to allow the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) to play its mandated role as per the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolutions, according to the FO. India maintains that UNMOGIP has outlived its utility and is irrelevant after the Simla Agreement and the consequent establishment of the LoC.&nbsp;

Pakistan on Saturday summoned a senior Indian diplomat to register a strong protest over alleged ceasefire violations by the Indian forces along the Line of Control (LoC) in which a woman was killed.

Pakistan on Saturday summoned a senior Indian diplomat to register a strong protest over alleged ceasefire violations by the Indian forces along the Line of Control (LoC) in which a woman was killed. The Foreign Office (FO) claimed in a statement that the Indian forces violated ceasefire in Hajipir and Sankh Sectors on Friday. Also read: US approves Remdesivir as several states ease lockdown The Indian forces along the LoC and the Working Boundary (WB) have continuously been targeting civilian populated areas with artillery fire, heavy-calibre mortars and automatic weapons,? the FO said. It claimed that in 2020, India has so far committed 940 ceasefire violations. A 30-year-old woman was killed in Friday's "unprovoked firing" by the Indian forces, the FO claimed. Also read: Swedish police find body of missing Baloch journalist This is the second time this week that Pakistan has summoned an Indian diplomat. Pakistan on Thursday summoned the Indian Charge d'Affaires here to protest against the alleged firing by the Indian troops across the Line of Control that resulted in the killing of a Pakistani soldier and two civilians. The FO asked the Indian side to respect the 2003 Ceasefire Understanding; investigate this and other such incidents of "deliberate" ceasefire violations and maintain peace along the LoC and the WB. The Indian side was also asked to allow the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) to play its mandated role as per the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolutions, according to the FO. India maintains that UNMOGIP has outlived its utility and is irrelevant after the Simla Agreement and the consequent establishment of the LoC.

Pak summons senior Indian diplomat over alleged ceasefire violation

May 1 in India is observed as Labour Day or May Day (International Worker's Day) to honour the working class across the country. It is celebrated with a public holiday declared in all states and Union Territories.&nbsp;

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It is celebrated because India has a massive working population that has played a major role in boosting the Indian economy.&nbsp;It may have different names such as Labour Day, May Day, ‘Antarrashtriya Shramik Diwas’, ‘Uzhaipalar Dinam’ (Tamil) and ‘Kamgar Din’ but the notion remains the same, honour the working class.&nbsp;

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Last year's Labour Day theme was 'Uniting Workers for Social and Economic Advancement.'&nbsp;

The history of this significant day dates back to 1886 when a Labour Union in the United States of America decided to go on strike with a sole demand that a worker should not be allowed to work more than 8 hours. The 8-hour working norm had established in the country and India.&nbsp;

In India, the first celebrations began when Chennai-based 'Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan' observed a holiday across the nation to pay respect to India's workforce. Currently, India has over 522 million workers.&nbsp;The Triumph of Labour also known as Labour statue was erected at the northern end of the Marina beach in Chennai. India.&nbsp;The statue shows four men toiling to move a rock, depicting the hard work of the labouring class. It bears a semblance to the famed&nbsp;World War II&nbsp;photograph of the&nbsp;raising of the flag on Iwo Jima&nbsp;by the&nbsp;American Marines. It was sculpted by&nbsp;Debi Prasad Roy Chowdhury. The statue is the earliest one to be erected on the beach&nbsp;and is installed close to the site where the country's first commemoration of&nbsp;May Day&nbsp;was held.&nbsp;

It is also known as Maharashtra Day and Gujarat day in Maharashtra and Gujarat respectively.&nbsp;

May 1 in India is observed as Labour Day or May Day (International Worker's Day) to honour the working class across the country. It is celebrated with a public holiday declared in all states and Union Territories.

May 1 in India is observed as Labour Day or May Day (International Worker's Day) to honour the working class across the country. It is celebrated with a public holiday declared in all states and Union Territories. Also read: Approval rating of PM Modi soar amid coronavirus outbreak It is celebrated because India has a massive working population that has played a major role in boosting the Indian economy. It may have different names such as Labour Day, May Day, ‘Antarrashtriya Shramik Diwas’, ‘Uzhaipalar Dinam’ (Tamil) and ‘Kamgar Din’ but the notion remains the same, honour the working class. Also read: Aarogya Setu app being misused by Pakistani spies to target Indian military personnel Last year's Labour Day theme was 'Uniting Workers for Social and Economic Advancement.' The history of this significant day dates back to 1886 when a Labour Union in the United States of America decided to go on strike with a sole demand that a worker should not be allowed to work more than 8 hours. The 8-hour working norm had established in the country and India. In India, the first celebrations began when Chennai-based 'Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan' observed a holiday across the nation to pay respect to India's workforce. Currently, India has over 522 million workers. The Triumph of Labour also known as Labour statue was erected at the northern end of the Marina beach in Chennai. India. The statue shows four men toiling to move a rock, depicting the hard work of the labouring class. It bears a semblance to the famed World War II photograph of the raising of the flag on Iwo Jima by the American Marines. It was sculpted by Debi Prasad Roy Chowdhury. The statue is the earliest one to be erected on the beach and is installed close to the site where the country's first commemoration of May Day was held. It is also known as Maharashtra Day and Gujarat day in Maharashtra and Gujarat respectively.

May Day: India observes Labour Day, know its history and significance!

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) thinks that secularism in India is under siege and India has been categorised as a 'tier-2 country'.&nbsp; It has been downgraded to the lowest rank possible.

Countries placed along with India are --&nbsp;North Korea, the world's most secretive state and prison masquerading as a country and China,&nbsp;a country with re-education camps for minorities,&nbsp;Iran,&nbsp;a nation which controls every aspect of its society and Pakistan --- a country which has left its minorities to die during this pandemic. India's equivalence to these regimes is outrageous.

But, for USCIRF the&nbsp;&nbsp;'steepest and most alarming deterioration' in religious conditions was in the largest thriving democracy in the world India.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has responded to these baseless charges and said that the panel is&nbsp;'biased and tendentious comments against India are not new... But on this occasion, its misrepresentation had reached new levels'

Describing the USCIRF's comments against India, "biased and tendentious" and "not new", the spokesperson said, "But on this occasion, its misrepresentation has reached new levels. It has not been able to carry its own Commissioners in its endeavour."

The government said that it regards it as "an organisation of particular concern and will treat it accordingly."

&nbsp;

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) thinks that secularism in India is under siege and India has been categorised as a 'tier-2 country'.

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) thinks that secularism in India is under siege and India has been categorised as a 'tier-2 country'. It has been downgraded to the lowest rank possible. Countries placed along with India are -- North Korea, the world's most secretive state and prison masquerading as a country and China, a country with re-education camps for minorities, Iran, a nation which controls every aspect of its society and Pakistan --- a country which has left its minorities to die during this pandemic. India's equivalence to these regimes is outrageous. But, for USCIRF the 'steepest and most alarming deterioration' in religious conditions was in the largest thriving democracy in the world India. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has responded to these baseless charges and said that the panel is 'biased and tendentious comments against India are not new... But on this occasion, its misrepresentation had reached new levels' Describing the USCIRF's comments against India, "biased and tendentious" and "not new", the spokesperson said, "But on this occasion, its misrepresentation has reached new levels. It has not been able to carry its own Commissioners in its endeavour." The government said that it regards it as "an organisation of particular concern and will treat it accordingly."

India slams USCIRF which accused India of violating religious freedom

The US must first get its own house in order before it gets 'particularly concerned' about India. The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) report is soaked in hypocrisy. It's holier than thou attitude goes missing when it comes its own country.

A Washington Post report says how African Americans are dying at higher rates due to the coronavirus as they have been left at the mercy of America's health-care system which has long been shaped by racism. There's a disparity in the way they are being treated in comparison to their fellow Americans. They're working jobs that don't pay them if they don't physically show up.

There's an assumption that African Americans are immune to the flu and have been left to fend for themselves. They are also being forced to work to keep the business going. The result is these most mass-transit workers&nbsp;who are sick by the hundreds in new york are African-Americans.

When they show up at hospitals with signs of infections, they have to deal with biased 'white doctors'.&nbsp;Ethnic discrimination is being experienced by a large proportion of non-white surgical residents. Medical school graduates who are being discriminated against in surgical training. The north-western university in Chicago conducted a survey and its findings were published just yesterday. 23.7% of the respondents complained of discrimination based on race and religion.&nbsp;The rates were highest among African Americans at 70.7%, Asian -- 45.9%, and Hispanic 25.3%.&nbsp;

The discriminatory behaviours included biased evaluation of their work, being mistaken for another person of the same race and hurtful comments from patients and their families.

Is this not particularly concerning? Doesn't this violate&nbsp;USCIRF standards on identity-based discrimination?

Would the USCIRF dare to put its own country on such watch lists? If the answer is no then this body's campaign for international religious freedom is bogus. It has no right to give lessons in secularism to anybody -- certainly not to India.

The US must first get its own house in order before it gets 'particularly concerned' about India. The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) report is soaked in hypocrisy.

The US must first get its own house in order before it gets 'particularly concerned' about India. The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) report is soaked in hypocrisy. It's holier than thou attitude goes missing when it comes its own country. A Washington Post report says how African Americans are dying at higher rates due to the coronavirus as they have been left at the mercy of America's health-care system which has long been shaped by racism. There's a disparity in the way they are being treated in comparison to their fellow Americans. They're working jobs that don't pay them if they don't physically show up. There's an assumption that African Americans are immune to the flu and have been left to fend for themselves. They are also being forced to work to keep the business going. The result is these most mass-transit workers who are sick by the hundreds in new york are African-Americans. When they show up at hospitals with signs of infections, they have to deal with biased 'white doctors'. Ethnic discrimination is being experienced by a large proportion of non-white surgical residents. Medical school graduates who are being discriminated against in surgical training. The north-western university in Chicago conducted a survey and its findings were published just yesterday. 23.7% of the respondents complained of discrimination based on race and religion. The rates were highest among African Americans at 70.7%, Asian -- 45.9%, and Hispanic 25.3%. The discriminatory behaviours included biased evaluation of their work, being mistaken for another person of the same race and hurtful comments from patients and their families. Is this not particularly concerning? Doesn't this violate USCIRF standards on identity-based discrimination? Would the USCIRF dare to put its own country on such watch lists? If the answer is no then this body's campaign for international religious freedom is bogus. It has no right to give lessons in secularism to anybody -- certainly not to India.

US must set its house in order before accusing India of violating religious freedom

BRICS countries have agreed to set up $15 billion loan instrument to finance projects for the economic rebuilding of BRICS countries due to Covid crisis. This was among the key outcome of the BRICS foreign ministers meet via video conference on Tuesday.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who initiated the meet being said," BRICS agreed to increase bilateral partnership at the international organisations like UN, G20, WHO, WTO, IMF &amp; World Bank. We decided to set up a special loan instrument to finance projects for the economic rebuilding of BRICS countries. In total, we decided to allocate $15 billion. Russia advised about the ideas that we need to jointly respond to the crisis"

BRICS economic experts will meet on April 29th,&nbsp;followed by BRICS health ministers meet on May 7th.

India also highlighted the economic impact of the pandemic with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar saying the crisis not only poses a "great risk to the health and well being of humanity but is also severely impacting global economy and output by disruption of global trade and supply chains."

Highlighting how economic activity across sectors has been "negatively impacted leading to loss of jobs and livelihoods", Jaishanker said, "we need to provide support to businesses, especially MSMEs, to tide over the crisis and ensure livelihoods are not lost."

He also called for the need for "reform of multilateral systems", comments clearly indicating at reforms at world bodies including WHO which is under increased criticism for failing to warn about the pandemic.

Other BRICS members were also informed about India's actions to deal with COVID crisis including measures in South Asia with the creation of COVID-19 emergency fund and providing assistance of medicines to 85 countries.

Interestingly, no BRICS joint statement on COVID-19 was released after the meeting of foreign ministers. The meet saw the participation of Russian FM Sergey Lavrov, India by EAM S Jaishankar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brazil Amb. Ernesto Araújo, Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi &amp; Minister of International Relations Grace Naledi Pandor.

BRICS bring together 42% of the global population and has evolved rapidly since the first decade of the current century.

BRICS countries have agreed to set up $15 billion loan instrument to finance projects for the economic rebuilding of BRICS countries due to Covid crisis. This was among the key outcome of the BRICS foreign ministers meet via video conference on Tuesday.

BRICS countries have agreed to set up $15 billion loan instrument to finance projects for the economic rebuilding of BRICS countries due to Covid crisis. This was among the key outcome of the BRICS foreign ministers meet via video conference on Tuesday. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who initiated the meet being said," BRICS agreed to increase bilateral partnership at the international organisations like UN, G20, WHO, WTO, IMF & World Bank. We decided to set up a special loan instrument to finance projects for the economic rebuilding of BRICS countries. In total, we decided to allocate $15 billion. Russia advised about the ideas that we need to jointly respond to the crisis" BRICS economic experts will meet on April 29th, followed by BRICS health ministers meet on May 7th. India also highlighted the economic impact of the pandemic with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar saying the crisis not only poses a "great risk to the health and well being of humanity but is also severely impacting global economy and output by disruption of global trade and supply chains." Highlighting how economic activity across sectors has been "negatively impacted leading to loss of jobs and livelihoods", Jaishanker said, "we need to provide support to businesses, especially MSMEs, to tide over the crisis and ensure livelihoods are not lost." He also called for the need for "reform of multilateral systems", comments clearly indicating at reforms at world bodies including WHO which is under increased criticism for failing to warn about the pandemic. Other BRICS members were also informed about India's actions to deal with COVID crisis including measures in South Asia with the creation of COVID-19 emergency fund and providing assistance of medicines to 85 countries. Interestingly, no BRICS joint statement on COVID-19 was released after the meeting of foreign ministers. The meet saw the participation of Russian FM Sergey Lavrov, India by EAM S Jaishankar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brazil Amb. Ernesto Araújo, Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi & Minister of International Relations Grace Naledi Pandor. BRICS bring together 42% of the global population and has evolved rapidly since the first decade of the current century.

COVID-19: BRICS to set up $15 billion loan support as India calls for reform of multilateral system

Scotland Yard detectives have launched an appeal for witnesses after an Indian-origin man was found dead following an assault in an alleyway in west London.

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Baljit Singh, 37, who lived in the Hayes area of London, was pronounced dead at the scene after the Metropolitan Police and London Ambulance Service were called to Station Road on Saturday night.

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Singh was formally identified by police on Wednesday after his next of kin were informed.

A forensic post-mortem examination held at Fulham Mortuary in London on Monday gave the cause of his death as compression to the neck. Officers from the Met Police's Specialist Crime Command (Homicide) are investigating the case.

Mr Singh was subjected to a vicious assault; the severity of which has caused him to lose his life. My officers are working through hours of CCTV footage and speaking with people in the area to establish what has happened and identify those responsible,&nbsp;said Detective Chief Inspector Helen Rance, who is leading the Met Police investigation.

I would like to appeal directly to anyone who was in the vicinity of Station Road, Hayes, from around 2200hrs onwards on Saturday night who may have seen the victim in company with two individuals. Alternatively, if anyone is aware of the victim's movements earlier that day we would be keen to hear from them,? Rance said.

The Met's Homicide team wants to trace two people Singh was in the company of just prior to his death. It is believed a disagreement may have taken place during which the victim was assaulted.

Scotland Yard detectives have launched an appeal for witnesses after an Indian-origin man was found dead following an assault in an alleyway in west London. Also read: White House's official Twitter handle unfollows Prime Minister Narendra Modi Baljit Singh, 37, who lived in the Hayes area of London, was pronounced dead at the scene after the Metropolitan Police and London Ambulance Service were called to Station Road on Saturday night.

Scotland Yard detectives have launched an appeal for witnesses after an Indian-origin man was found dead following an assault in an alleyway in west London. Also read: White House's official Twitter handle unfollows Prime Minister Narendra Modi Baljit Singh, 37, who lived in the Hayes area of London, was pronounced dead at the scene after the Metropolitan Police and London Ambulance Service were called to Station Road on Saturday night. Also read: American dream comes crashing down as over 200,000 H-1B workers face the threat of losing legal status by June Singh was formally identified by police on Wednesday after his next of kin were informed. A forensic post-mortem examination held at Fulham Mortuary in London on Monday gave the cause of his death as compression to the neck. Officers from the Met Police's Specialist Crime Command (Homicide) are investigating the case. Mr Singh was subjected to a vicious assault; the severity of which has caused him to lose his life. My officers are working through hours of CCTV footage and speaking with people in the area to establish what has happened and identify those responsible, said Detective Chief Inspector Helen Rance, who is leading the Met Police investigation. I would like to appeal directly to anyone who was in the vicinity of Station Road, Hayes, from around 2200hrs onwards on Saturday night who may have seen the victim in company with two individuals. Alternatively, if anyone is aware of the victim's movements earlier that day we would be keen to hear from them,? Rance said. The Met's Homicide team wants to trace two people Singh was in the company of just prior to his death. It is believed a disagreement may have taken place during which the victim was assaulted.

Indian-origin man found dead following assault in alleyway in United Kingdom

The United Nations children’s agency Unicef said hundreds of thousands were at risk as lockdowns across South Asia halted immunisation drives and parents refrained from taking their children to doctors to be inoculated.

“While the Covid-19 virus does not appear to make many children seriously ill, the health of hundreds of thousands of children could be impacted by this disruption of regular immunisation services,” said Jean Gough, director of Unicef’s South Asia office.

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“This is a very serious threat. Early action is key.” Bangladesh and Nepal have halted their measles and rubella campaigns while Pakistan and Afghanistan have suspended their polio drives since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Unicef noted that “sporadic” outbreaks of preventable diseases that can be cured with vaccines, including the measles and diphtheria, have emerged in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal.

Vaccine stocks were also running low in some countries in the region thanks to lockdowns and travel bans which have disrupted supply chains.

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“Unicef strongly recommends that, where immunisation campaigns are suspended, governments begin rigorous planning now to intensify immunisation activities once the Covid-19 pandemic is under control,” the agency said in a statement.

It added that as long as health workers take hygiene precautions, there was no reason for vaccinations not to continue.

The agency estimated that 4.5 million of South Asia’s children had already missed out on routine immunisations, even before the coronavirus pandemic struck.

The United Nations children’s agency Unicef said hundreds of thousands were at risk as lockdowns across South Asia halted immunisation drives and parents refrained from taking their children to doctors to be inoculated.

The United Nations children’s agency Unicef said hundreds of thousands were at risk as lockdowns across South Asia halted immunisation drives and parents refrained from taking their children to doctors to be inoculated. “While the Covid-19 virus does not appear to make many children seriously ill, the health of hundreds of thousands of children could be impacted by this disruption of regular immunisation services,” said Jean Gough, director of Unicef’s South Asia office. Also read: US considering coronavirus checks on international flights: Trump “This is a very serious threat. Early action is key.” Bangladesh and Nepal have halted their measles and rubella campaigns while Pakistan and Afghanistan have suspended their polio drives since the Covid-19 pandemic. Unicef noted that “sporadic” outbreaks of preventable diseases that can be cured with vaccines, including the measles and diphtheria, have emerged in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal. Vaccine stocks were also running low in some countries in the region thanks to lockdowns and travel bans which have disrupted supply chains. Also read: COVID-19 outbreak: Is Mumbai turning into India's New York City? “Unicef strongly recommends that, where immunisation campaigns are suspended, governments begin rigorous planning now to intensify immunisation activities once the Covid-19 pandemic is under control,” the agency said in a statement. It added that as long as health workers take hygiene precautions, there was no reason for vaccinations not to continue. The agency estimated that 4.5 million of South Asia’s children had already missed out on routine immunisations, even before the coronavirus pandemic struck.

South Asia may face new health crisis as children miss vaccinations: UN

Continuing its support to the Maldives in times of COVID-19 crisis, New Delhi has activated a currency swap arrangement to help the Indian Ocean Island country to mitigate the impact of COVID crisis. The move is expected to help Maldive's financial system by stabilizing the exchange rate and ease liquidity.&nbsp;

India has given a foreign currency swap facility of $ 150 million to the Maldives Central Bank--Maldives Monetary Authority-- under the USD 400 million currency swap agreement signed in July 2019 between the two countries.

A currency swap is a transaction in which two parties exchange principal and interest in different currencies.

Companies doing business abroad often use currency swaps to get more favourable loan rates in the local currency than if they borrowed money from a local bank

Example if, the Maldives borrow 100 Rs From India and told India that it will repay 100 Rs in INR but the Interest in Maldivian rufiyaa or vice versa the Maldives borrow Rs 100 from India and gave back the principal amount in Maldivian rufiyaa and repaid interest in INR. Both parties benefit by hedging against interest rates.&nbsp;

The decision to activate the currency swap arrangement comes a week Indian PM Modi and Maldives President Solih spoke. The $ 400 million currency swap facility is a part of the $ 1.4 billion the economic package announced by India for the Maldives in December 2018 during the State Visit of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. That was the first visit of Maldives President to India after being elected in November of that year.

Indian govt is also considering extending the validity of the currency swap facility by one year. Maldives is the only SAARC country other than Bhutan, which has been extended USD 400 million currency swap facility. 
&nbsp;

Continuing its support to the Maldives in times of COVID-19 crisis, New Delhi has activated a currency swap arrangement to help the Indian Ocean Island country to mitigate the impact of COVID crisis.

Continuing its support to the Maldives in times of COVID-19 crisis, New Delhi has activated a currency swap arrangement to help the Indian Ocean Island country to mitigate the impact of COVID crisis. The move is expected to help Maldive's financial system by stabilizing the exchange rate and ease liquidity. India has given a foreign currency swap facility of $ 150 million to the Maldives Central Bank--Maldives Monetary Authority-- under the USD 400 million currency swap agreement signed in July 2019 between the two countries. A currency swap is a transaction in which two parties exchange principal and interest in different currencies. Companies doing business abroad often use currency swaps to get more favourable loan rates in the local currency than if they borrowed money from a local bank Example if, the Maldives borrow 100 Rs From India and told India that it will repay 100 Rs in INR but the Interest in Maldivian rufiyaa or vice versa the Maldives borrow Rs 100 from India and gave back the principal amount in Maldivian rufiyaa and repaid interest in INR. Both parties benefit by hedging against interest rates. The decision to activate the currency swap arrangement comes a week Indian PM Modi and Maldives President Solih spoke. The $ 400 million currency swap facility is a part of the $ 1.4 billion the economic package announced by India for the Maldives in December 2018 during the State Visit of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. That was the first visit of Maldives President to India after being elected in November of that year. Indian govt is also considering extending the validity of the currency swap facility by one year. Maldives is the only SAARC country other than Bhutan, which has been extended USD 400 million currency swap facility.

India activates currency swap to help the Maldives amid COVID-19

India has given go-ahead to Malaysia's request for hydroxychloroquine(HCQ), a drug that is being called a game-changer to deal with COVID crisis. Kuala Lumpur had requested hydroxychloroquine from India to deal with COVID even as New Delhi got the request from several countries for the drug.

India has given go-ahead to Malaysia's request for hydroxychloroquine(HCQ), a drug that is being called a game-changer to deal with COVID crisis. Kuala Lumpur had requested hydroxychloroquine from India to deal with COVID even as New Delhi got the request from several countries for the drug. New Delhi has gifted 5 million HCQ tablets to countries in the neighbourhood and the IOR, Africa, Latin America, Central Asia, Eurasia and WANA regions. It is also providing 1.32 million Paracetamol (PCM) tablets to its neighbouring and other partner countries. Total Value of the medicines and other supplies to be gifted by India stands at INR 383 million (about USD 5 million). In addition to this, India has given clearance to commercial consignments of around 285 million HCQ tablets to 40 countries. Commercial consignments of around 500 million PCM tablets for 60 countries have also been cleared. Ties between India and Malaysia are headed towards a positive trajectory under the new leadership. Earlier this month, Indian high commissioner to Malaysia Mridul Kumar met Malaysian foreign minister Hishammuddin Hussein regarding cooperation on COVID-19. That was the second meet between both of them in the last month. Indian high commissioner was the first envoy received by the Malaysian foreign minister on March 18, and on the same day, HC Kumar also called on the new Malaysian PM Tan Sri Muhyiddin. India had allowed eighteen special Malaysian flights for the evacuation of Malaysian nationals since it had imposed a ban on international flights on March 20. This is the biggest number of flights New Delhi allowed for any foreign country. The flights brought back 2,833 Malaysian nationals, which is again the maximum number of citizens repatriated till now for any foreign country.

India gives go head to Malaysia's hydroxychloroquine request

India has sent the second tranche of emergency medical supply consisting of&nbsp;1,00,000 hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) tablets and&nbsp;50,000 sterile surgical latex gloves to Bangladesh.

The assistance comes under the SAARC Covid-19 Emergency Fund whose establishment was announced during the SAARC video conference meeting that took place in mid-March under Indian PM Modi's initiative.

The Indian envoy to Bangladesh Riva Ganguly Das handed over the supplies&nbsp;to Bangladesh Health Minister Zahid Maleque who appreciated India's continued support.

Zahid said, “Helping hands of our neighbour at this time of distress is most welcome”.

"We are close neighbours. India has a neighbourhood first policy &amp; in the neighbourhood, it’s BD first for India. &nbsp;We stand with you. Stay safe, stay home. We will come out victorious in this", Indian envoy to Bangladesh Riva Ganguly Das said.

The supplies were transported from India with the help of Biman Bangladesh and have been dispatched to Central Medical Stores Depot, Government of Bangladesh.

The first tranche of emergency medical assistance under this fund containing 30,000 surgical masks and 15,000 head-cover were handed over to Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Dr A.K. Abdul Momen on 25 March.

India has sent the second tranche of emergency medical supply consisting of 1,00,000 hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) tablets and 50,000 sterile surgical latex gloves to Bangladesh.

India has sent the second tranche of emergency medical supply consisting of 1,00,000 hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) tablets and 50,000 sterile surgical latex gloves to Bangladesh. The assistance comes under the SAARC Covid-19 Emergency Fund whose establishment was announced during the SAARC video conference meeting that took place in mid-March under Indian PM Modi's initiative. The Indian envoy to Bangladesh Riva Ganguly Das handed over the supplies to Bangladesh Health Minister Zahid Maleque who appreciated India's continued support. Zahid said, “Helping hands of our neighbour at this time of distress is most welcome”. "We are close neighbours. India has a neighbourhood first policy & in the neighbourhood, it’s BD first for India. We stand with you. Stay safe, stay home. We will come out victorious in this", Indian envoy to Bangladesh Riva Ganguly Das said. The supplies were transported from India with the help of Biman Bangladesh and have been dispatched to Central Medical Stores Depot, Government of Bangladesh. The first tranche of emergency medical assistance under this fund containing 30,000 surgical masks and 15,000 head-cover were handed over to Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Dr A.K. Abdul Momen on 25 March.

India sends second tranche of medicines to Bangladesh

India has briefed European Union on the methodology it is following in combating the spread of COVID-19 including "macro-level response of the government since January 2020". Speaking to WION's Principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, India's envoy to EU Gaitri Issar Kumar said mission swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide Indian students on accommodation, services etc and New Delhi has made sure that continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU.

WION: How is the situation in EU now and role played by the Indian mission in Brussels in taking care of Indian citizens?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: The EU has been affected more directly in a way, as the virus seems to have reached directly and spread very rapidly in Europe – first in Italy followed by Spain, Belgium, Germany and the other EU Member States. Today, the situation in the EU, after a worrisome period, seems to be improving as per reports. The lockdown and containment measures – including the closing of borders --&nbsp;though challenging for EU citizens and governments alike, have proven to be successful.

The EU leadership quickly took steps to ensure the uninterrupted flow of essential supplies through the EU’s internal borders by creating “green lanes” and that helped to avoid shortages in supermarkets across the EU. Healthcare systems are being revamped across the European Union, people seem to have settled down into the new normal and social distancing rules are being followed with considerable discipline. &nbsp;Of course, as in the rest of the world, the pandemic has caused a shut down of normal economic activity in the EU.

I am glad to say that by and large, the Indian community in Belgium and Luxembourg has stayed safe and well. As for our Mission, we have been complying with the Belgian Government’s advisories and encouraging Indian nationals and the Indian-origin community in Belgium and Luxembourg to do so as well.

Fortunately, as we are in close touch with the Indian community leaders, we were able to alert and advise them, render consular services and help many to depart from here well before the lockdown in Belgium (March 18, 2020) – which was before the announcement, by Government of India, of restrictions on travel to India.

Since then, Indian nationals who stayed back, professionals employed here and students &nbsp;- those who have contacted us seeking information or help have been attended to individually. They have been briefed about the lockdown in India – the necessary quarantine of incoming travellers and advised that till flights to India and within India are restored, the best thing to do would be to prepare for an extended stay wherever they are. In many cases, our Mission has connected stranded visitors and students with local doctors, grocers or suppliers of ready meals. As required, we have, in consultation with local authorities, assisted Indian nationals in securing an extension of their visas. In order to avoid uncertainty and stress to Indian students, our Mission’s officers swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide our students accurate information about measures being taken by them to facilitate accommodation, services etc in the unforeseen situation.

I am happy to say that our officers have received very positive feedback, and they continue to take care to reassure each caller, note the particular circumstances in each case and prioritise requests received for assisted departures.

WION: How are India and EU collaborating in the fight against COVID pandemic?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: We have been consulting closely. We decided to postpone the India-EU Summit which had been scheduled for March 13, 2020; once the lockdown was announced in India, we coordinated to ensure the continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU and the repatriation of European nationals. About 20,000 EU citizens in the different states of India have been assisted in taking special flights back to the EU Member States. Our Government has evacuated Indian nationals from Italy and Hague (stranded en route from US/Canada to India).

Our leaders have been speaking to each other, sharing experiences and discussing joint efforts for reviving the global economy. On March 24, 2020, Hon'ble Prime Minister received a call from H.E. Ursula Von Der Leyen, President of the European Commission – the two leaders discussed the global situation in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, PM&nbsp;expressed his condolences at the loss of life in the European Union due to COVID-19 and emphasized the need for coordination and cooperation among all nations to fight the pandemic. The PM &nbsp;spoke about the steps taken by India to contain the spread of the Coronavirus. President Von Der Leyen praised PM’s leadership in taking early measures – which, she said, had been key to containing the spread of the virus in India.

She also expressed her appreciation for the assistance rendered to the European citizens stranded in India in this situation. Von Der Leyen emphasized the importance of maintaining a steady supply of essential items - including medicines - and coordinating research as well as vaccine development; and the two leaders discussed possible cooperation, within the G-20 framework, to address the health crisis and revive global economic growth.

The EU’s High Representative in charge of the EU’s Foreign and Security Policy, Mr Josep Borrell and Hble External Affairs Minister of India have, similarly, spoken and exchanged views on the challenges India and the EU are facing respectively; and India’s &nbsp;Foreign Secretary and his EU counterpart, Mme Helga Schmid, Secretary-General of the European External Action Services have also spoken telephonically.

India and the EU, in any case, share a deep commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development, preserving a rules-based international order, rules-based international trade with WTO at its core and we have a convergence on most global issues – whether it is climate change or connectivity, EU is supportive of India’s International Solar Alliance (ISA) initiative and the Climate and Disaster Resilience Initiatives (CDRI). Now, all these are most relevant – perhaps a reprioritization of some elements of our co-operation &nbsp;– such as healthcare and research - would be necessary in response to the emerging world scenario and infusion of a greater sense of urgency in others areas - like climate change, enhancing trade and investment flows in both directions etc.

WION: Have we shared any Indian model?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: As a part of our regular exchanges, our Mission here has been sharing the developments in India, briefing EU partners on the methodology that we have followed in combating SPREAD of COVID 19 in India including the macro-level response of Government since January 2020.

WION: How are Indian diplomats doing, how has diplomacy changed due to COVID?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: So far we have been coping fairly well. Of course, we have been working from home. We have faced no difficulty in reaching our Embassy whenever it has been necessary to go into the office - with due precautions. We have meticulously complied with the local Government’s advisories and ensured that the Indian Mission and community co-operate and contribute to making the Belgian Government’s containment strategy work. One of our main priorities, naturally, has been to co-ordinate closely local authorities in assisting the Indian diaspora with their visa issues and resolving any other problems faced by stranded Indians.

We are engaging – almost as smoothly as before - with our counterparts in the Foreign Ministries of Belgium and Luxembourg and the European Commission/European External Action Services in the context of our normal diplomatic work. However, naturally, it is not business as usual; for example, we have certainly lost valuable time in implementing the India-EU Road Map due to the postponement of the 15th India EU Summit. But we remain positive and look forward to a strengthened India-EU partnership. But we all agree that in diplomacy, face to face meetings and negotiations are almost indispensable. So much of communication relies on a personal touch. Presently we are drawing on a bank of goodwill built-in energetic pre-COVID diplomatic efforts.

India has briefed European Union on the methodology it is following in combating the spread of COVID-19 including "macro-level response of the government since January 2020".

India has briefed European Union on the methodology it is following in combating the spread of COVID-19 including "macro-level response of the government since January 2020". Speaking to WION's Principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, India's envoy to EU Gaitri Issar Kumar said mission swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide Indian students on accommodation, services etc and New Delhi has made sure that continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU. WION: How is the situation in EU now and role played by the Indian mission in Brussels in taking care of Indian citizens? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: The EU has been affected more directly in a way, as the virus seems to have reached directly and spread very rapidly in Europe – first in Italy followed by Spain, Belgium, Germany and the other EU Member States. Today, the situation in the EU, after a worrisome period, seems to be improving as per reports. The lockdown and containment measures – including the closing of borders -- though challenging for EU citizens and governments alike, have proven to be successful. The EU leadership quickly took steps to ensure the uninterrupted flow of essential supplies through the EU’s internal borders by creating “green lanes” and that helped to avoid shortages in supermarkets across the EU. Healthcare systems are being revamped across the European Union, people seem to have settled down into the new normal and social distancing rules are being followed with considerable discipline. Of course, as in the rest of the world, the pandemic has caused a shut down of normal economic activity in the EU. I am glad to say that by and large, the Indian community in Belgium and Luxembourg has stayed safe and well. As for our Mission, we have been complying with the Belgian Government’s advisories and encouraging Indian nationals and the Indian-origin community in Belgium and Luxembourg to do so as well. Fortunately, as we are in close touch with the Indian community leaders, we were able to alert and advise them, render consular services and help many to depart from here well before the lockdown in Belgium (March 18, 2020) – which was before the announcement, by Government of India, of restrictions on travel to India. Since then, Indian nationals who stayed back, professionals employed here and students - those who have contacted us seeking information or help have been attended to individually. They have been briefed about the lockdown in India – the necessary quarantine of incoming travellers and advised that till flights to India and within India are restored, the best thing to do would be to prepare for an extended stay wherever they are. In many cases, our Mission has connected stranded visitors and students with local doctors, grocers or suppliers of ready meals. As required, we have, in consultation with local authorities, assisted Indian nationals in securing an extension of their visas. In order to avoid uncertainty and stress to Indian students, our Mission’s officers swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide our students accurate information about measures being taken by them to facilitate accommodation, services etc in the unforeseen situation. I am happy to say that our officers have received very positive feedback, and they continue to take care to reassure each caller, note the particular circumstances in each case and prioritise requests received for assisted departures. WION: How are India and EU collaborating in the fight against COVID pandemic? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: We have been consulting closely. We decided to postpone the India-EU Summit which had been scheduled for March 13, 2020; once the lockdown was announced in India, we coordinated to ensure the continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU and the repatriation of European nationals. About 20,000 EU citizens in the different states of India have been assisted in taking special flights back to the EU Member States. Our Government has evacuated Indian nationals from Italy and Hague (stranded en route from US/Canada to India). Our leaders have been speaking to each other, sharing experiences and discussing joint efforts for reviving the global economy. On March 24, 2020, Hon'ble Prime Minister received a call from H.E. Ursula Von Der Leyen, President of the European Commission – the two leaders discussed the global situation in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, PM expressed his condolences at the loss of life in the European Union due to COVID-19 and emphasized the need for coordination and cooperation among all nations to fight the pandemic. The PM spoke about the steps taken by India to contain the spread of the Coronavirus. President Von Der Leyen praised PM’s leadership in taking early measures – which, she said, had been key to containing the spread of the virus in India. She also expressed her appreciation for the assistance rendered to the European citizens stranded in India in this situation. Von Der Leyen emphasized the importance of maintaining a steady supply of essential items - including medicines - and coordinating research as well as vaccine development; and the two leaders discussed possible cooperation, within the G-20 framework, to address the health crisis and revive global economic growth. The EU’s High Representative in charge of the EU’s Foreign and Security Policy, Mr Josep Borrell and Hble External Affairs Minister of India have, similarly, spoken and exchanged views on the challenges India and the EU are facing respectively; and India’s Foreign Secretary and his EU counterpart, Mme Helga Schmid, Secretary-General of the European External Action Services have also spoken telephonically. India and the EU, in any case, share a deep commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development, preserving a rules-based international order, rules-based international trade with WTO at its core and we have a convergence on most global issues – whether it is climate change or connectivity, EU is supportive of India’s International Solar Alliance (ISA) initiative and the Climate and Disaster Resilience Initiatives (CDRI). Now, all these are most relevant – perhaps a reprioritization of some elements of our co-operation – such as healthcare and research - would be necessary in response to the emerging world scenario and infusion of a greater sense of urgency in others areas - like climate change, enhancing trade and investment flows in both directions etc. WION: Have we shared any Indian model? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: As a part of our regular exchanges, our Mission here has been sharing the developments in India, briefing EU partners on the methodology that we have followed in combating SPREAD of COVID 19 in India including the macro-level response of Government since January 2020. WION: How are Indian diplomats doing, how has diplomacy changed due to COVID? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: So far we have been coping fairly well. Of course, we have been working from home. We have faced no difficulty in reaching our Embassy whenever it has been necessary to go into the office - with due precautions. We have meticulously complied with the local Government’s advisories and ensured that the Indian Mission and community co-operate and contribute to making the Belgian Government’s containment strategy work. One of our main priorities, naturally, has been to co-ordinate closely local authorities in assisting the Indian diaspora with their visa issues and resolving any other problems faced by stranded Indians. We are engaging – almost as smoothly as before - with our counterparts in the Foreign Ministries of Belgium and Luxembourg and the European Commission/European External Action Services in the context of our normal diplomatic work. However, naturally, it is not business as usual; for example, we have certainly lost valuable time in implementing the India-EU Road Map due to the postponement of the 15th India EU Summit. But we remain positive and look forward to a strengthened India-EU partnership. But we all agree that in diplomacy, face to face meetings and negotiations are almost indispensable. So much of communication relies on a personal touch. Presently we are drawing on a bank of goodwill built-in energetic pre-COVID diplomatic efforts.

India briefed EU on methodology followed in combating spread of COVID-19: India's envoy to EU Gaitri Issar Kumar

India has built a new bridge in Arunachal Pradesh area, a region claimed by China. This can strain the relationship between China and India.

It is a new all-weather access point in the disputed part of Indo-China border. The bridge, which can bear 40 tons of weight, will enable faster movement of troops and artillery. This can be another reason for the Chinese government to object on the bridge.

It has been made at a time when the tension between the two nations is high as&nbsp;Beijing accused India of blocking its companies in the South Asian nation after New Delhi tightened laws for foreign investment.&nbsp;

While there has been no comment from the Chinese government yet,&nbsp;Indian Army spokesman Aman Anand said, “India and China have different perceptions of the border. Perceived transgressions are result of the perceived boundary.”

“That part of the border has always had a tendency to friction point between India and China. Lack of reliable and all weather connectivity was vulnerability,” said Nitin Gokhale, a New Delhi-based strategic affairs expert to a media organization. “The new bridge and improved road overcomes that and ensures uninterrupted supply to troops.”

The new bridge has been made under the initiative of ramping up its infrastructure along the border, but also strides one of the main access routes of the Chinese Army into India from Tibet.

India has built a new bridge in Arunachal Pradesh area, a region claimed by China. This can strain the relationship between China and India. It is a new all-weather access point in the disputed part of Indo-China border.

India has built a new bridge in Arunachal Pradesh area, a region claimed by China. This can strain the relationship between China and India. It is a new all-weather access point in the disputed part of Indo-China border. The bridge, which can bear 40 tons of weight, will enable faster movement of troops and artillery. This can be another reason for the Chinese government to object on the bridge. It has been made at a time when the tension between the two nations is high as Beijing accused India of blocking its companies in the South Asian nation after New Delhi tightened laws for foreign investment. While there has been no comment from the Chinese government yet, Indian Army spokesman Aman Anand said, “India and China have different perceptions of the border. Perceived transgressions are result of the perceived boundary.” “That part of the border has always had a tendency to friction point between India and China. Lack of reliable and all weather connectivity was vulnerability,” said Nitin Gokhale, a New Delhi-based strategic affairs expert to a media organization. “The new bridge and improved road overcomes that and ensures uninterrupted supply to troops.” The new bridge has been made under the initiative of ramping up its infrastructure along the border, but also strides one of the main access routes of the Chinese Army into India from Tibet.

India's new bridge along the Indo-China border can strain relationship with China

China's faulty test kits that couldn't detect the virus have dealt a blow to India's fight against the Wuhan virus.

Last week, India had bought lakhs of rapid testing kits from China and they have turned out to be faulty. World over, countries are complaining about unusable Chinese equipment.

In a daily press conference today Indian health officials said that the Chinese kits are not working and&nbsp;that&nbsp;there was a ''huge variation" in the test results.

States have been advised to not use Chinese test kits.&nbsp;&nbsp;India got 6.5 lakh testing kits from China on April 16, supplied by three Chinese companies.

About three lakh of these kits were sent to Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu. The Rajasthan government went public with its findings today. The state health minister said they were expecting a 90 per cent accuracy. What they got, was more than 94 per cent inaccuracy. Only 5.4 per cent of the Chinese kits give an accurate result. The rest are faulty.

India's ambassador to China&nbsp;Vikram Misri said that he has been coordinating the procurement from China and added India was&nbsp;in touch with China to identify bonafide suppliers. He said that India is getting more supplies from china.

New Delhi has placed an order of 7-8 million PPEs and 1000 ventilators. It is a fact that options are limited which is why most countries continue to buy from China despite the poor quality..&nbsp;After today's disclosure, India should re-think its orders from China as supplies from China cannot be trusted. Several countries have complained about China's defective supplies. Spain, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Turkey, Finland and the United Kingdom have received faulty kits from China.&nbsp;The Netherlands recalled 600 thousand face masks purchased from china.

China's faulty test kits that couldn't detect the virus have dealt a blow to India's fight against the Wuhan virus. Last week, India had bought lakhs of rapid testing kits from China and they have turned out to be faulty.

China's faulty test kits that couldn't detect the virus have dealt a blow to India's fight against the Wuhan virus. Last week, India had bought lakhs of rapid testing kits from China and they have turned out to be faulty. World over, countries are complaining about unusable Chinese equipment. In a daily press conference today Indian health officials said that the Chinese kits are not working and that there was a ''huge variation" in the test results. States have been advised to not use Chinese test kits. India got 6.5 lakh testing kits from China on April 16, supplied by three Chinese companies. About three lakh of these kits were sent to Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu. The Rajasthan government went public with its findings today. The state health minister said they were expecting a 90 per cent accuracy. What they got, was more than 94 per cent inaccuracy. Only 5.4 per cent of the Chinese kits give an accurate result. The rest are faulty. India's ambassador to China Vikram Misri said that he has been coordinating the procurement from China and added India was in touch with China to identify bonafide suppliers. He said that India is getting more supplies from china. New Delhi has placed an order of 7-8 million PPEs and 1000 ventilators. It is a fact that options are limited which is why most countries continue to buy from China despite the poor quality.. After today's disclosure, India should re-think its orders from China as supplies from China cannot be trusted. Several countries have complained about China's defective supplies. Spain, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Turkey, Finland and the United Kingdom have received faulty kits from China. The Netherlands recalled 600 thousand face masks purchased from china.

China's faulty test kits deal a body blow to India's fight against Wuhan virus

The historic rout in oil markets that sent US crude prices plummeting to as much as minus USD 40 a barrel is unlikely to translate into any big reduction in petrol and diesel prices in India as domestic pricing is based on different benchmark, and refineries are already filled up to brim and cannot buy US crude just yet.

With storage capacity already overflowing amid coronavirus-induced demand collapse, traders rushed to to get rid of unwanted stocks triggering the collapse of US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for May delivery.

Indian Oil Corp (IOC) Chairman Sanjiv Singh said the collapse was triggered by traders unable to take deliveries of crude they had previously booked because of a demand collapse. And so they paid the seller to keep oil in their storage.

"If you look at June futures, it is trading in positive territory... Around USD 20 per barrel," he said.

Low oil prices may seem good in short-term but in the long run it will hurt the oil economy as producers will have no surplus to invest in exploration and production which will lead to a drop in production, he said.

He did not comment on retail fuel prices that have been static since March 16.

Oil companies have not changed rates despite a fall in international prices as they first adjusted them against the increase that was warranted from a Rs 3 per litre hike in excise duty and close to Re 1 per litre additional cost of switching over to cleaner BS-VI grade fuel from April 1.

Petrol in Delhi is priced at Rs 69.59 a litre and diesel comes for Rs 62.29 per litre.

"The negative price has no direct impact on India or Indian oil prices, as this has taken place due to crude oil produced and traded within the US. India's prices are driven partly by another benchmark, the Brent, which is still trading at USD 25/barrel. Therefore, the retail price of fuels in India are unlikely to fall," said Amit Bhandari, Fellow, Energy and Environment Studies, Gateway House.

Also, Indian refineries are already overflowing as fuel demand has evaporated due to the unprecedented nationwide lockdown imposed to curb spread of COVID-19. So, they can't rush to buy US crude. 
The refineries have already cut operating rate to half because the fuel they produce has not been sold yet.

India imports 4 million barrels/day (1.4 billion barrels/year) of oil. The country has been benefitting from the falling prices of oil for the last five years, when oil dropped from a peak of USD 110/barrel to USD 50-60/barrel last year, enabling India to invest in public service programmes.

"However, the additional USD 30 fall of this week is good for India - but there is also a downside. If oil prices are too low, the economies of oil-rich gulf countries will be hurt, threatening the job prospects of the 8 million Indians working in the Gulf countries. India is the largest recipient of foreign remittances due to these workers very low oil prices will hurt this cash stream," Bhandari said. 
&nbsp;

The historic rout in oil markets that sent US crude prices plummeting to as much as minus USD 40 a barrel is unlikely to translate into any big reduction in petrol and diesel prices in India as domestic pricing is based on different benchmark, and refineries are already filled up to brim and cannot buy US crude just yet.

The historic rout in oil markets that sent US crude prices plummeting to as much as minus USD 40 a barrel is unlikely to translate into any big reduction in petrol and diesel prices in India as domestic pricing is based on different benchmark, and refineries are already filled up to brim and cannot buy US crude just yet. With storage capacity already overflowing amid coronavirus-induced demand collapse, traders rushed to to get rid of unwanted stocks triggering the collapse of US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for May delivery. Indian Oil Corp (IOC) Chairman Sanjiv Singh said the collapse was triggered by traders unable to take deliveries of crude they had previously booked because of a demand collapse. And so they paid the seller to keep oil in their storage. "If you look at June futures, it is trading in positive territory... Around USD 20 per barrel," he said. Low oil prices may seem good in short-term but in the long run it will hurt the oil economy as producers will have no surplus to invest in exploration and production which will lead to a drop in production, he said. He did not comment on retail fuel prices that have been static since March 16. Oil companies have not changed rates despite a fall in international prices as they first adjusted them against the increase that was warranted from a Rs 3 per litre hike in excise duty and close to Re 1 per litre additional cost of switching over to cleaner BS-VI grade fuel from April 1. Petrol in Delhi is priced at Rs 69.59 a litre and diesel comes for Rs 62.29 per litre. "The negative price has no direct impact on India or Indian oil prices, as this has taken place due to crude oil produced and traded within the US. India's prices are driven partly by another benchmark, the Brent, which is still trading at USD 25/barrel. Therefore, the retail price of fuels in India are unlikely to fall," said Amit Bhandari, Fellow, Energy and Environment Studies, Gateway House. Also, Indian refineries are already overflowing as fuel demand has evaporated due to the unprecedented nationwide lockdown imposed to curb spread of COVID-19. So, they can't rush to buy US crude. The refineries have already cut operating rate to half because the fuel they produce has not been sold yet. India imports 4 million barrels/day (1.4 billion barrels/year) of oil. The country has been benefitting from the falling prices of oil for the last five years, when oil dropped from a peak of USD 110/barrel to USD 50-60/barrel last year, enabling India to invest in public service programmes. "However, the additional USD 30 fall of this week is good for India - but there is also a downside. If oil prices are too low, the economies of oil-rich gulf countries will be hurt, threatening the job prospects of the 8 million Indians working in the Gulf countries. India is the largest recipient of foreign remittances due to these workers very low oil prices will hurt this cash stream," Bhandari said.

Oil price collapse in US not to lead to any big drop in fuel prices in India

India's new policy for foreign direct investment (FDI) from specific countries was against the consensus arrived at the G20 to realise a free, fair and non-discriminatory environment for investment, a Chinese embassy spokesperson said on Monday.

The policy also violated WTO's principle of non-discrimination and are against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fdi-policy-revised-to-ward-off-opportunistic-takeover-of-indian-firms-amid-covid-19-pandemic-293311">general trend of free trade</a>, she said and added, the impact of the policy, introducing "additional barriers", was clear on Chinese investors,&nbsp;

Last week, India made it mandatory to have prior clearance by the government for foreign investments from countries that share land border with India to curb "opportunistic takeovers" of domestic firms following the coronavirus pandemic.

A PTI report quoting the Chinese embassy spokesperson Ji Rong said that China hoped that India would revise the "relevant discriminatory practices" and treat investments from different countries equally while fostering an "open, fair and equitable" business environment.

With an aim is to curb the opportunistic takeover of Indian companies whose valuations have come down due to the coronavirus pandemic, the government has made its nod compulsory for all foreign direct investment coming from neighbouring countries including China.

"The additional barriers set by Indian side for investors from specific countries violate WTO's principle of non-discrimination, and go against the general trend of liberalisation and facilitation of trade and investment," Chinese embassy Spokesperson Ji Rong said in a statement.

She said China hoped that India would revise the "relevant discriminatory practices" and treat investments from different countries equally while fostering an "open, fair and equitable" business environment.

"Chinese investment has driven the development of India's industries, such as mobile phone, household electrical appliances, infrastructure and automobile, creating a large number of jobs in India, and promoting mutual beneficial and win-win cooperation," Ji said.

The spokesperson said China's cumulative investment in India has exceeded USD 8 billion, noting it is far more than the total investments by countries sharing border with India.

(With inputs from PTI)

India's new policy for foreign direct investment (FDI) from specific countries was against the consensus arrived at the G20 to realise a free, fair and non-discriminatory environment for investment, a Chinese embassy spokesperson said on Monday.

India's new policy for foreign direct investment (FDI) from specific countries was against the consensus arrived at the G20 to realise a free, fair and non-discriminatory environment for investment, a Chinese embassy spokesperson said on Monday. The policy also violated WTO's principle of non-discrimination and are against the general trend of free trade, she said and added, the impact of the policy, introducing "additional barriers", was clear on Chinese investors, Last week, India made it mandatory to have prior clearance by the government for foreign investments from countries that share land border with India to curb "opportunistic takeovers" of domestic firms following the coronavirus pandemic. A PTI report quoting the Chinese embassy spokesperson Ji Rong said that China hoped that India would revise the "relevant discriminatory practices" and treat investments from different countries equally while fostering an "open, fair and equitable" business environment. With an aim is to curb the opportunistic takeover of Indian companies whose valuations have come down due to the coronavirus pandemic, the government has made its nod compulsory for all foreign direct investment coming from neighbouring countries including China. "The additional barriers set by Indian side for investors from specific countries violate WTO's principle of non-discrimination, and go against the general trend of liberalisation and facilitation of trade and investment," Chinese embassy Spokesperson Ji Rong said in a statement. She said China hoped that India would revise the "relevant discriminatory practices" and treat investments from different countries equally while fostering an "open, fair and equitable" business environment. "Chinese investment has driven the development of India's industries, such as mobile phone, household electrical appliances, infrastructure and automobile, creating a large number of jobs in India, and promoting mutual beneficial and win-win cooperation," Ji said. The spokesperson said China's cumulative investment in India has exceeded USD 8 billion, noting it is far more than the total investments by countries sharing border with India. (With inputs from PTI)

India's new FDI norms against WTO's principle of free trade: China

Indian Navy confirmed on Saturday that at least 21 of its personnel tested coronavirus positive at the Western Naval Command in Mumbai

It is the first such case where a large number of military personnel got infected with the coronavirus. The Indian Army has confirmed eight cases of the COVID-19 so far.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-from-coronavirus-in-india-nears-500-more-than-14000-infected-293264">Death toll from coronavirus in India nears 500, more than 14,000 infected</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-from-coronavirus-in-india-nears-500-more-than-14000-infected-293264">"</a>A total of 21 serving personnel have been tested positive for COVID-19 within naval premises at Mumbai. This number includes 20 sailors of INS Angre, a shore establishment," the Navy said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-coronavirus-mediplomacy-russia-says-thanks-to-new-delhi-hcq-sent-to-gulf-293225">India's coronavirus mediplomacy: Russia says thanks to New Delhi; HCQ sent to Gulf</a>

All the infected personnel are being treated&nbsp;at a naval hospital in Mumbai, the statement added.

The Indian Navy also said that a majority of cases are asymptomatic and traced to a single sailor who tested positive on April 7.&nbsp;

"They all reside in the same accommodation block at INS Angre. All primary contacts were tested for COVID-19. Entire in-living block was immediately put under quarantine," the Navy said, adding the shore establishment too has been placed under total lockdown.

It said that no cases of infection onboard ships and submarines have been reported.&nbsp;

Navies across the world have reported coronavirus cases. Recently, at least 500 COVID-19 cases were confirmed from&nbsp;the USS Theodore Roosevelt, an aircraft carrier.&nbsp;&nbsp;The French Navy has also been hit by the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Indian Navy confirmed on Saturday that at least 21 of its personnel tested coronavirus positive at the Western Naval Command in Mumbai It is the first such case where a large number of military personnel got infected with the coronavirus.

Indian Navy confirmed on Saturday that at least 21 of its personnel tested coronavirus positive at the Western Naval Command in Mumbai It is the first such case where a large number of military personnel got infected with the coronavirus. The Indian Army has confirmed eight cases of the COVID-19 so far. Also read | Death toll from coronavirus in India nears 500, more than 14,000 infected "A total of 21 serving personnel have been tested positive for COVID-19 within naval premises at Mumbai. This number includes 20 sailors of INS Angre, a shore establishment," the Navy said. Also read | India's coronavirus mediplomacy: Russia says thanks to New Delhi; HCQ sent to Gulf All the infected personnel are being treated at a naval hospital in Mumbai, the statement added. The Indian Navy also said that a majority of cases are asymptomatic and traced to a single sailor who tested positive on April 7. "They all reside in the same accommodation block at INS Angre. All primary contacts were tested for COVID-19. Entire in-living block was immediately put under quarantine," the Navy said, adding the shore establishment too has been placed under total lockdown. It said that no cases of infection onboard ships and submarines have been reported. Navies across the world have reported coronavirus cases. Recently, at least 500 COVID-19 cases were confirmed from the USS Theodore Roosevelt, an aircraft carrier. The French Navy has also been hit by the coronavirus pandemic.

Coronavirus India update: 21 Navy personnel in Western Naval Command test positive

Life under lockdown can be tough. You cannot go out. There is no school. nor college. Shopping malls are closed so are restaurants and clubs...

You are locked indoors but who said you cannot go places virtually?

Enter social media. With one click and scroll, you can cross borders, climb mountains and jam to the latest track. Social media has become India's favourite lockdown pastime.

Ask an Indian and he or she will most likely point at the phone. Indians have become hooked to social media.

Data is proof.

An average Indian is opening Facebook 20.9 times a day. In February, the number was 13.9.

India went into lockdown on the 24th of march and by March 29, an average Indian was opening Instagram 19 times a day. These numbers are from market intelligence platform-- Kalagato.

It says TikTok has emerged as one of the biggest gainers. It's session time has risen to 56.9 minutes. TikTok's varied content, despite the security concerns, seems to have worked magic with Indian users.

Live dot me too has seen an uptick in user base. Its time spent has grown 315% per cent between 2nd of February and 29th of march. With an average user clicking on the app at least 11.8 times a day.

A daily active user base is not something too many apps can boast of.

Twitter is at number 1 in India. Its daily active users have grown 30 per cent. Experts say-- it's courtesy the lack of newspapers. Live dot me is at number 2. Tiktok has been a gainer here too but misinformation and fake news remain a matter of big concern for this Chinese app. The numbers for Facebook and Instagram are not too impressive. That said, one must keep in mind that both these apps already have a loyal fan base. At the end of the day, there is one thing that all of these numbers are pointing at...

How are Indians passing their time in the lockdown?

Tik tok tik tok tik tok.

Life under lockdown can be tough. You cannot go out. There is no school. nor college. Shopping malls are closed so are restaurants and clubs... You are locked indoors but who said you cannot go places virtually?

Life under lockdown can be tough. You cannot go out. There is no school. nor college. Shopping malls are closed so are restaurants and clubs... You are locked indoors but who said you cannot go places virtually? Enter social media. With one click and scroll, you can cross borders, climb mountains and jam to the latest track. Social media has become India's favourite lockdown pastime. Ask an Indian and he or she will most likely point at the phone. Indians have become hooked to social media. Data is proof. An average Indian is opening Facebook 20.9 times a day. In February, the number was 13.9. India went into lockdown on the 24th of march and by March 29, an average Indian was opening Instagram 19 times a day. These numbers are from market intelligence platform-- Kalagato. It says TikTok has emerged as one of the biggest gainers. It's session time has risen to 56.9 minutes. TikTok's varied content, despite the security concerns, seems to have worked magic with Indian users. Live dot me too has seen an uptick in user base. Its time spent has grown 315% per cent between 2nd of February and 29th of march. With an average user clicking on the app at least 11.8 times a day. A daily active user base is not something too many apps can boast of. Twitter is at number 1 in India. Its daily active users have grown 30 per cent. Experts say-- it's courtesy the lack of newspapers. Live dot me is at number 2. Tiktok has been a gainer here too but misinformation and fake news remain a matter of big concern for this Chinese app. The numbers for Facebook and Instagram are not too impressive. That said, one must keep in mind that both these apps already have a loyal fan base. At the end of the day, there is one thing that all of these numbers are pointing at... How are Indians passing their time in the lockdown? Tik tok tik tok tik tok.

How are Indians passing their time in the lockdown?

The delivery of the first batch of Rafale fighter aircraft has been delayed by a few weeks now due to the coronavirus lockdowns going on in both France and India, according to news agency ANI.

"At present, the delivery schedule has been pushed back by a few weeks due to the lockdown but arrangements are being made in this regard," the news agency reported quoting IAF sources.

Sources said apart from the delays in deliveries from France, some preparations are yet to be completed at the Ambala airbase which will house the first squadron of the French-origin fighters.

The aircraft were supposed to reach India by the end of May next month but now would be delayed by few weeks.

The final delivery schedule would be known only after the lockdowns get over.&nbsp;

The first squadron of Rafales in India would be the 17 Squadron which was earlier commanded by former Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa and the tail number of the fighters would also be BS.

The four trainers would come with tail numbers RB in recognition of the important role played by present Air Force Chief Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria in finalising the deal of the planes as head of the contract negotiation committee for buying 36 Rafales for around Rs 60,000 crore.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

The delivery of the first batch of Rafale fighter aircraft has been delayed by a few weeks now due to the coronavirus lockdowns going on in both France and India, according to news agency ANI.

The delivery of the first batch of Rafale fighter aircraft has been delayed by a few weeks now due to the coronavirus lockdowns going on in both France and India, according to news agency ANI. "At present, the delivery schedule has been pushed back by a few weeks due to the lockdown but arrangements are being made in this regard," the news agency reported quoting IAF sources. Sources said apart from the delays in deliveries from France, some preparations are yet to be completed at the Ambala airbase which will house the first squadron of the French-origin fighters. The aircraft were supposed to reach India by the end of May next month but now would be delayed by few weeks. The final delivery schedule would be known only after the lockdowns get over. The first squadron of Rafales in India would be the 17 Squadron which was earlier commanded by former Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa and the tail number of the fighters would also be BS. The four trainers would come with tail numbers RB in recognition of the important role played by present Air Force Chief Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria in finalising the deal of the planes as head of the contract negotiation committee for buying 36 Rafales for around Rs 60,000 crore. (With inputs from ANI)

Rafale fighters delivery delayed by 'few weeks' due to COVID-19 lockdown

In 1916, the United States sent its soldiers to war without the necessary gear luckily the war turned in favour of the allies. Over 100 years have passed since World War I.

In 1916, the United States sent its soldiers to war without the necessary gear luckily the war turned in favour of the allies. Over 100 years have passed since World War I. Also read: 'Millions need to be tested': New York reports 774 deaths in 24 hours Today, the United States is fighting another battle and it's being called World War-III, the Wuhan virus is the enemy with hospitals turning into war zones. Also read: Simulation shows how single droplet of coronavirus cough can spread in supermarket But this time too, the men and women at the frontline are ill-equipped. Washington does not have enough personal protective equipment for its medical workers. What is Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)? These are protective gear worn to minimise health or safety hazard at work. In their absence, nurses are being forced to wear trash bags. Many nurses from New York have posted pictures on social media with #riskingourlivestosaveyours. Who is to be blamed for this? The US Federal agencies for their utter lack of preparedness, the state governments or the hospitals? Cynthia Riemer, who is an emergency room nurse said: "If we get sick, then who's going to take care of them?" Nurses say the situation is criminal. Guess who is Washington's partner in crime? War ally, the United Kingdom. London too is sending healthcare workers to war without armour. Three nurses have already tested positive. All of them were forced to wear trash bags. In one London hospital, 50% of the staff at a particular ward have tested positive. Reports also claim that doctors are being bullied into treating coronavirus patients. With no PPE, doctors are being told to hold their breath. If you ask the British government, they would blame it on the hospitals. The United Kingdom has already lost 17 frontline medics to the coronavirus. A shortage of protective gear is a reality in India too. Doctors are using raincoats and sunglasses to fight the virus. China too was scrambling for protective gear during the outbreak, Beijing bought surgical garments worth $12.6 million from the US alone. This is the state of some of the world's richest countries. There is a shortage and there is confusion. The Wuhan virus has caught everyone off-guard. The contagion has also exposed the loopholes in public health systems. The need of the hour is to develop and procure vital equipment. Health workers cannot and should not be pushed to risk their lives without basic protection.

Coronavirus crisis without PPE: Nurses in US, UK forced to wear trash bags

Spitting in public is one of the vilest things one can do to humiliate another person. It's a form of violence, menace to public health. A person who intentionally spits in the face of a frontline worker is no victim regardless of the outcome. Not only does the act evoke disgust but it deserves the strictest of punishment.

In New Zealand, a man has been sentenced to three months in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-to-impose-fines-for-open-defecation-spitting-littering-164483">jail for spitting </a>at a police officer. Police say it has reported a surge in cases of cops being spat on even for inquiring about a person's health.&nbsp;

They say such behaviour is making it tough for the officers to function within their communities as they're being forced to self-isolate for 14 days. Now the New Zealand authorities say a person could face 14 years in jail for spitting on someone and infecting them with a disease.

Back in India, countless stories of suspected <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/explained-as-world-battles-coronavirus-outbreak-heres-how-spit-attacks-can-land-you-in-trouble-291603">coronavirus patients </a>spitting on health-care workers have emerged but so have countless unsubstantiated reports. Unrelated videos and lies are being masqueraded as news. Meaningless debates on such reports are stirring up communal hate and the Centre and state governments have decided to nip the infodemic in the bud.

In Odisha, the chief minister himself has urged citizens to behave responsibly and stop spitting. In Uttar Pradesh, the government has banned the sale of 'paan masala' &nbsp;and spitting in public places. Gujarat has decided to impose a fine of 500 rupees on anyone caught doing the same. In West Bengal, citizens may have to pay up to 1 lakh rupees as fine for spitting, even littering.

Punishments are growing more severe even globally. In Belgium, offenders could now be fined for up to 2,000 dollars for spitting in public. Similarly, in Australia, the health ministry has introduced a fine of 5,000 dollars. In Saudi Arabia, a man recently caught spitting in shopping trolleys could be subjected to the death penalty and in France, violators are being fined up to 197 dollars. Pandemic or no pandemic, spitting in public is plain wrong while spitting on health-care workers even more so.&nbsp;

Our governments are dealing with a pandemic and the least we can do as responsible citizens are to lessen their burden.

Spitting in public is one of the vilest things one can do to humiliate another person. It's a form of violence, menace to public health. A person who intentionally spits in the face of a frontline worker is no victim regardless of the outcome.

Spitting in public is one of the vilest things one can do to humiliate another person. It's a form of violence, menace to public health. A person who intentionally spits in the face of a frontline worker is no victim regardless of the outcome. Not only does the act evoke disgust but it deserves the strictest of punishment. In New Zealand, a man has been sentenced to three months in jail for spitting at a police officer. Police say it has reported a surge in cases of cops being spat on even for inquiring about a person's health. They say such behaviour is making it tough for the officers to function within their communities as they're being forced to self-isolate for 14 days. Now the New Zealand authorities say a person could face 14 years in jail for spitting on someone and infecting them with a disease. Back in India, countless stories of suspected coronavirus patients spitting on health-care workers have emerged but so have countless unsubstantiated reports. Unrelated videos and lies are being masqueraded as news. Meaningless debates on such reports are stirring up communal hate and the Centre and state governments have decided to nip the infodemic in the bud. In Odisha, the chief minister himself has urged citizens to behave responsibly and stop spitting. In Uttar Pradesh, the government has banned the sale of 'paan masala' and spitting in public places. Gujarat has decided to impose a fine of 500 rupees on anyone caught doing the same. In West Bengal, citizens may have to pay up to 1 lakh rupees as fine for spitting, even littering. Punishments are growing more severe even globally. In Belgium, offenders could now be fined for up to 2,000 dollars for spitting in public. Similarly, in Australia, the health ministry has introduced a fine of 5,000 dollars. In Saudi Arabia, a man recently caught spitting in shopping trolleys could be subjected to the death penalty and in France, violators are being fined up to 197 dollars. Pandemic or no pandemic, spitting in public is plain wrong while spitting on health-care workers even more so. Our governments are dealing with a pandemic and the least we can do as responsible citizens are to lessen their burden.

Here is why spitting in public may cost you dear

The total number of COVID-19 cases across India has risen to 3,113 and the death toll is nearing 100-mark, according to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)

ICMR further said that it tested 11,182 samples, of these, 324 were found positive for COVID-19

Meanwhile, in a bid to see whether the coronavirus is getting transmitted in the hotspot areas, ICMR has set a fresh protocol for healthcare workers to start with rapid antibody-based blood test for COVID-19.

The top medical research body has framed a newer strategy for areas reporting in clusters (containment zone), in large migration gatherings and evacuee`s centres, where large number of COVID-19 cases are arising.ICMR stated that cases of Influenza-like Illness (ILI) are to be monitored in health facilities.&nbsp;

Any surge in cases are to be monitored and brought to the notice of surveillance officer or chief medical officer for additional investigation.

"We have identified several hotspot areas where large numbers of COVID-19 cases are cropping up and rapid anti-body test is most suitable to detect whether the disease is spreading in the area or not... Also, rapid antibody test give quick results. Once a person is positive for rapid anti-body test, he or she should be quarantined for 14 days and a RT-PCR test should be done as a confirmatory test," Dr R Ganga Khedkar of ICMR told.

"We have issued fresh guidelines for healthcare workers which say that all healthcare workers who are doing the rapid antibody test should use gloves, mask and headcovers. Healthcare workers collecting throat or nasal swab should follow standard national infection control guidelines," he said.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The total number of COVID-19 cases across India has risen to 3,113 and the death toll is nearing 100-mark, according to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) ICMR further said that it tested 11,182 samples, of these, 324 were found positive for COVID-19 Meanwhile, in a bid to see whether the coronavirus is getting transmitted in the hotspot areas, ICMR has set a fresh protocol for healthcare workers to start with rapid antibody-based blood test for COVID-19.

The total number of COVID-19 cases across India has risen to 3,113 and the death toll is nearing 100-mark, according to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) ICMR further said that it tested 11,182 samples, of these, 324 were found positive for COVID-19 Meanwhile, in a bid to see whether the coronavirus is getting transmitted in the hotspot areas, ICMR has set a fresh protocol for healthcare workers to start with rapid antibody-based blood test for COVID-19. The top medical research body has framed a newer strategy for areas reporting in clusters (containment zone), in large migration gatherings and evacuee`s centres, where large number of COVID-19 cases are arising.ICMR stated that cases of Influenza-like Illness (ILI) are to be monitored in health facilities. Any surge in cases are to be monitored and brought to the notice of surveillance officer or chief medical officer for additional investigation. "We have identified several hotspot areas where large numbers of COVID-19 cases are cropping up and rapid anti-body test is most suitable to detect whether the disease is spreading in the area or not... Also, rapid antibody test give quick results. Once a person is positive for rapid anti-body test, he or she should be quarantined for 14 days and a RT-PCR test should be done as a confirmatory test," Dr R Ganga Khedkar of ICMR told. "We have issued fresh guidelines for healthcare workers which say that all healthcare workers who are doing the rapid antibody test should use gloves, mask and headcovers. Healthcare workers collecting throat or nasal swab should follow standard national infection control guidelines," he said. (With inputs from ANI)

COVID-19 cases in India rise to 3,113,  death toll nears 100-mark

Nepal government on Sunday intensified lockdown in western districts bordering India after two people who returned from India tested positive for coronavirus, taking the total number of cases to nine.

The government has intensified security in western Nepal's Kailali and Kanchanpur districts after the two India returnees found to be infected with coronavirus during tests on Saturday, officials said.

Rapid tests will be conducted in these two districts and Baglung, situated in North-West Nepal, which have been identified as hotspots. The government will soon dispatch Rapid diagnostic test teams. In the wake of growing fear of coronavirus spread, the testing of suspected infected persons have increased to 1,529.

The government has tightened restrictions during the lockdown imposed till April 7.

A Cabinet meeting held on Saturday decided to stop citizens from moving from one local unit to another and from one district to another, said government spokesperson and Minister for Finance Yuba Raj Khatiwada.

The government's decision came as the country confirmed three new coronavirus cases in a single day.

Among the three cases, one is a 34-year-old woman, who happened to be the first COVID-19 patient in the country who got internally transmitted with the disease. Two others who tested positive had recently returned from India.

The country's health officials have said this incident marks Nepal's entry to the second stage of coronavirus infection, suggesting more restrictive measures.

However, the government has not yet made any decision on whether to extend the lockdown which will be lifted after mid-night of April 7.

Minister Khatiwada said the Cabinet will decide whether to extend the lockdown in its next meeting. Around 780 foreign tourists, mostly from European countries, stranded in the Himalyan country due to the coronavirus pandemic, have been evacuated in special flights.

The foreigners were evacuated in four different chartered flights arranged by different countries and their diplomatic missions in Nepal, according to officials.

Nepal government on Sunday intensified lockdown in western districts bordering India after two people who returned from India tested positive for coronavirus, taking the total number of cases to nine.

Nepal government on Sunday intensified lockdown in western districts bordering India after two people who returned from India tested positive for coronavirus, taking the total number of cases to nine. The government has intensified security in western Nepal's Kailali and Kanchanpur districts after the two India returnees found to be infected with coronavirus during tests on Saturday, officials said. Rapid tests will be conducted in these two districts and Baglung, situated in North-West Nepal, which have been identified as hotspots. The government will soon dispatch Rapid diagnostic test teams. In the wake of growing fear of coronavirus spread, the testing of suspected infected persons have increased to 1,529. The government has tightened restrictions during the lockdown imposed till April 7. A Cabinet meeting held on Saturday decided to stop citizens from moving from one local unit to another and from one district to another, said government spokesperson and Minister for Finance Yuba Raj Khatiwada. The government's decision came as the country confirmed three new coronavirus cases in a single day. Among the three cases, one is a 34-year-old woman, who happened to be the first COVID-19 patient in the country who got internally transmitted with the disease. Two others who tested positive had recently returned from India. The country's health officials have said this incident marks Nepal's entry to the second stage of coronavirus infection, suggesting more restrictive measures. However, the government has not yet made any decision on whether to extend the lockdown which will be lifted after mid-night of April 7. Minister Khatiwada said the Cabinet will decide whether to extend the lockdown in its next meeting. Around 780 foreign tourists, mostly from European countries, stranded in the Himalyan country due to the coronavirus pandemic, have been evacuated in special flights. The foreigners were evacuated in four different chartered flights arranged by different countries and their diplomatic missions in Nepal, according to officials.

Nepal intensifies lockdown near India border after two India returnees test positive for coronavirus

With 67 new cases on Friday, the infected coronavirus tally in Maharashtra has gone up to 490, health officials said.&nbsp;

Six COVID-19 patients died today in the state that continues to remain the worst-hit state with a big margin.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/42-drop-in-crime-rate-since-march-15-nearly-2000-cases-registered-police-290478">42% drop in crime rate since March 15, nearly 2,000 cases registered: Police</a>

The state's capital city Mumbai recorded 43 cases today with which the infected toll now stands at 278 with 19 deaths.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/53000-dead-over-1-million-infected-with-deadly-coronavirus-globally-290382">53,000 dead, over 1 million infected with deadly coronavirus globally</a>

At least 50 people have also been treated and discharged in Maharastra, the state's health department said.&nbsp;

Out of the six new deaths, two were reported from Mumbai, and one each from Vasai-Virar, Badlapur in Thane, Jalgaon, and Pune.&nbsp;

Earlier today, Maharashtra government announced a compensation of Rs 50 lakh to the next of any police officer who may die while discharging his duty during the lockdown and coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

In India, coronavirus cases continue to rise at an increasing level with the number of positive cases standing at 2,547 and death toll at 62.

(With inputs from ANI, PTI)

With 67 new cases on Friday, the infected coronavirus tally in Maharashtra has gone up to 490, health officials said. Six COVID-19 patients died today in the state that continues to remain the worst-hit state with a big margin.

With 67 new cases on Friday, the infected coronavirus tally in Maharashtra has gone up to 490, health officials said. Six COVID-19 patients died today in the state that continues to remain the worst-hit state with a big margin. Also read | 42% drop in crime rate since March 15, nearly 2,000 cases registered: Police The state's capital city Mumbai recorded 43 cases today with which the infected toll now stands at 278 with 19 deaths. Also read | 53,000 dead, over 1 million infected with deadly coronavirus globally At least 50 people have also been treated and discharged in Maharastra, the state's health department said. Out of the six new deaths, two were reported from Mumbai, and one each from Vasai-Virar, Badlapur in Thane, Jalgaon, and Pune. Earlier today, Maharashtra government announced a compensation of Rs 50 lakh to the next of any police officer who may die while discharging his duty during the lockdown and coronavirus outbreak. In India, coronavirus cases continue to rise at an increasing level with the number of positive cases standing at 2,547 and death toll at 62. (With inputs from ANI, PTI)

Coronavirus: Infected toll in Maharashtra nears 500, over 250 in Mumbai

Religious programmes attended by thousands in several mosques in Pakistan, Malaysia and India have been linked to many positive cases of coronavirus, according to reports.

Religious programmes attended by thousands in several mosques in Pakistan, Malaysia and India have been linked to many positive cases of coronavirus, according to reports. Some 27 members of Tableeghi Jamaat congregation out of 35 screened at the Tableeghi Markaz in Raiwind tested positive for coronavirus recently in Pakistan as mosques and religious gatherings emerged as potential spreaders of the virus in South Asia. Around 1,200 people, including over 500 foreigners, were attending the five-day congregation. Similarly in Malaysia out 673 confirmed infections, nearly two-thirds are linked to a Muslim gathering held at the end of last month at a sprawling mosque complex on the outskirts of Malaysia's capital Kuala Lumpur has emerged as a source of hundreds of new coronavirus infections spanning Southeast Asia. Worshippers slept in packed tents outside the golden-domed mosque, waking before dawn to kneel on rows of prayer mats laid out in its cavernous central hall. But unknown to the guests, the coronavirus was also passing among them. Meanwhile, around 200 people were taken from Nizamuddin area in New Delhi, India to various hospitals by district authorities after they developed coronavirus symptoms, said a police officer on Monday. The 200 people were among 1400 who attended a religious programme at the mosque around March 18 in the area. 300 foreigners also attended the programme, according to the police.

How religious gatherings becoming potential COVID-19 hotspots in Asia 

As the number of coronavirus cases in India crossed the 1,000 mark, India has reached out to foreign countries for medical assistance.&nbsp;

Three Asian countries -- South Korea, Singapore and China -- will be supplying India with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and ventilators.&nbsp;

On Sunday, Joint Secretary of Health Ministry, Lav Aggarwal said, "We got a shipment which has masks, Personal Protective Equipment and ventilators"

India has identified a Singapore based online platform that can supply 10 lakh PPE kits and an order has been placed to procure them.

Another supplier based in South Korea, which has tie-up&nbsp;with production companies in Vietnam and Turkey has been identified. India has ordered 20 lakh PPE from the South Korean firm which has the capacity to produce 1 lakh equipment.&nbsp;

Last week, China's Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Foundation had supplied Indian Red cross society 10,000 PPEs.

&nbsp;Currently, Indian hospitals have 3.34 lakh PPEs.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs has approached suppliers in China for sourcing 10,000 ventilators.

As the number of coronavirus cases in India crossed the 1,000 mark, India has reached out to foreign countries for medical assistance. Three Asian countries -- South Korea, Singapore and China -- will be supplying India with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and ventilators.

As the number of coronavirus cases in India crossed the 1,000 mark, India has reached out to foreign countries for medical assistance. Three Asian countries -- South Korea, Singapore and China -- will be supplying India with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and ventilators. On Sunday, Joint Secretary of Health Ministry, Lav Aggarwal said, "We got a shipment which has masks, Personal Protective Equipment and ventilators" India has identified a Singapore based online platform that can supply 10 lakh PPE kits and an order has been placed to procure them. Another supplier based in South Korea, which has tie-up with production companies in Vietnam and Turkey has been identified. India has ordered 20 lakh PPE from the South Korean firm which has the capacity to produce 1 lakh equipment. Last week, China's Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Foundation had supplied Indian Red cross society 10,000 PPEs. Currently, Indian hospitals have 3.34 lakh PPEs. Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs has approached suppliers in China for sourcing 10,000 ventilators.

India reaches out to China, Singapore, South Korea for PPE as COVID-19 cases surge 

Coronavirus outbreak in India is, technically, still in local transmission stage, and there has been no community transmission so far, the Union Health Ministry clarified on Monday.&nbsp;

99 cases out of the over 1,000 positive coronavirus cases have recovered so far, said Joint Secretary, Health Lav Agarwal.

The Health Ministry urged people to follow dos and don`ts and said early identification of the viral infection is very crucial in fighting the disease.

As many as 1,071 cases have been confirmed for the viral infection with 92 cases coming in the last 24 hours and four deaths.

10 empowered groups have been constituted focusing on medical emergency, hospital management, community mobilisation etc., and emphasised on following social distancing to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

"Most of the positive cases for the coronavirus had a travel history," Agarwal added.

"We should maintain social distancing. Even one person`s carelessness may play a big role in the spreading of the coronavirus," he said.

On the viral video of disinfectant being sprayed on migrant workers, Aggarwal said that some employees took an overzealous step due to ignorance.&nbsp;

Required action has been taken against those employees, he added

Indian Council of Medical Research`s Dr. Raman Gangakhedkar said 38,442 coronavirus test has been done so far and it is still below 30 per cent of its testing capacity.

He added that 47 private labs have conducted 1,334 in three days.

- 
&nbsp;

Coronavirus outbreak in India is, technically, still in local transmission stage, and there has been no community transmission so far, the Union Health Ministry clarified on Monday.

Coronavirus outbreak in India is, technically, still in local transmission stage, and there has been no community transmission so far, the Union Health Ministry clarified on Monday. 99 cases out of the over 1,000 positive coronavirus cases have recovered so far, said Joint Secretary, Health Lav Agarwal. The Health Ministry urged people to follow dos and don`ts and said early identification of the viral infection is very crucial in fighting the disease. As many as 1,071 cases have been confirmed for the viral infection with 92 cases coming in the last 24 hours and four deaths. 10 empowered groups have been constituted focusing on medical emergency, hospital management, community mobilisation etc., and emphasised on following social distancing to contain the spread of the coronavirus. "Most of the positive cases for the coronavirus had a travel history," Agarwal added. "We should maintain social distancing. Even one person`s carelessness may play a big role in the spreading of the coronavirus," he said. On the viral video of disinfectant being sprayed on migrant workers, Aggarwal said that some employees took an overzealous step due to ignorance. Required action has been taken against those employees, he added Indian Council of Medical Research`s Dr. Raman Gangakhedkar said 38,442 coronavirus test has been done so far and it is still below 30 per cent of its testing capacity. He added that 47 private labs have conducted 1,334 in three days. -

India not at community transmission level, says Health Ministry

Following on the footsteps of India, people across the UK took a part in national applause exercise to thank the health workers currently working day-in and day-out amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The event dubbed "Clap for our Carers" received overwhelming support as people came out on their balconies at 8 pm to thank the National Health Workers staff working at the frontline of the battle against the deadly virus.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-sets-the-stage-for-unprecedented-global-economic-losses-288927">Coronavirus pandemic sets the stage for unprecedented global economic losses</a>

While people cheered, monuments, buildings and bridges across Britain also turned NHS blue in applause for the health workers.

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We 💙 you. London Eye, Shard and Canary Wharf all in blue - hope you hear us... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClapForTheNHS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClapForTheNHS</a> <a href="https://t.co/FWbQi9QQCu">pic.twitter.com/FWbQi9QQCu</a>
— Wendy Hurrell (@WendyHurrell) <a href="https://twitter.com/WendyHurrell/status/1243292047026634753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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From the BBC across England, thank you. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/clapforourcarers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#clapforourcarers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClapforNHS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClapforNHS</a> <a href="https://t.co/i2AdIhwhX1">pic.twitter.com/i2AdIhwhX1</a>
— BBC News England (@BBCEngland) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBCEngland/status/1243274198174306312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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✨✨✨ 
 
Magical. 
 
Just magical.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClapForCarers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClapForCarers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/clapforourcarers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#clapforourcarers</a> <a href="https://t.co/ur3jKR9KxY">pic.twitter.com/ur3jKR9KxY</a>
— BBC Radio London (@BBCRadioLondon) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBCRadioLondon/status/1243273185325453314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"On behalf of the whole country, I want to thank all the incredible nurses, doctors, NHS support staff &amp; carers who are working flat out to fight coronavirus," UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson wrote on his Twiter while sharing a video of him clapping.

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On behalf of the whole country, I want to thank all the incredible nurses, doctors, NHS support staff &amp; carers who are working flat out to fight coronavirus 👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClapForOurCarers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClapForOurCarers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClapForNHS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClapForNHS</a> 
 
To help them, and protect the NHS, we need everyone to stay at home <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHomeSaveLives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHomeSaveLives</a> <a href="https://t.co/kpdQ5KHQiy">pic.twitter.com/kpdQ5KHQiy</a>
— Boris Johnson #StayHomeSaveLives (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1243271386845581325?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This came days after India organised a similar practice during in which people took five minutes out of their Sunday to applaud the nation's health care workers combating the coronavirus pandemic by clapping, ringing bells and blowing conch shells.

The move was called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi after which, President Ram Nath Kovind along with other senior cabinet ministers all stood in their respective courtyards, to express their gratitude.

Meanwhile, the coronavirus cases continued to surge in the United Kingdom. A total of 11,658 cases have now been confirmed with a daily increase of more than 2,000.

British Parliament has also been shut and MPs have been sent to their Easter break a week earlier.

 
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Following on the footsteps of India, people across the UK took a part in national applause exercise to thank the health workers currently working day-in and day-out amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Following on the footsteps of India, people across the UK took a part in national applause exercise to thank the health workers currently working day-in and day-out amid the coronavirus outbreak. The event dubbed "Clap for our Carers" received overwhelming support as people came out on their balconies at 8 pm to thank the National Health Workers staff working at the frontline of the battle against the deadly virus. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic sets the stage for unprecedented global economic losses While people cheered, monuments, buildings and bridges across Britain also turned NHS blue in applause for the health workers. We 💙 you. London Eye, Shard and Canary Wharf all in blue - hope you hear us... #ClapForTheNHS pic.twitter.com/FWbQi9QQCu — Wendy Hurrell (@WendyHurrell) March 26, 2020 × From the BBC across England, thank you. #clapforourcarers #ClapforNHS pic.twitter.com/i2AdIhwhX1 — BBC News England (@BBCEngland) March 26, 2020 × ✨✨✨ Magical. Just magical.#ClapForCarers #clapforourcarers pic.twitter.com/ur3jKR9KxY — BBC Radio London (@BBCRadioLondon) March 26, 2020 × "On behalf of the whole country, I want to thank all the incredible nurses, doctors, NHS support staff & carers who are working flat out to fight coronavirus," UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson wrote on his Twiter while sharing a video of him clapping. On behalf of the whole country, I want to thank all the incredible nurses, doctors, NHS support staff & carers who are working flat out to fight coronavirus 👏 #ClapForOurCarers #ClapForNHS To help them, and protect the NHS, we need everyone to stay at home #StayHomeSaveLives pic.twitter.com/kpdQ5KHQiy — Boris Johnson #StayHomeSaveLives (@BorisJohnson) March 26, 2020 × This came days after India organised a similar practice during in which people took five minutes out of their Sunday to applaud the nation's health care workers combating the coronavirus pandemic by clapping, ringing bells and blowing conch shells. The move was called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi after which, President Ram Nath Kovind along with other senior cabinet ministers all stood in their respective courtyards, to express their gratitude. Meanwhile, the coronavirus cases continued to surge in the United Kingdom. A total of 11,658 cases have now been confirmed with a daily increase of more than 2,000. British Parliament has also been shut and MPs have been sent to their Easter break a week earlier.

'Clap for carers': After India, Britain lauds its health workers battling coronavirus

The Government of India on Monday informed that three Indians died outside India due to novel coronavirus infection. &nbsp;The deaths were reported from Iran, Egypt and Sweden, according to the government.&nbsp;

70-year-old Indian died in Iran while the Indian who lost his life in Egypt was a 52- year-old man. In Sweden, a 42-year-old Indian committed suicide after he was diagnosed with coronavirus.&nbsp;

A total of 276 cases of Indias infected with the deadly virus have been reported with a substantial number of 255 from Iran's central city of Qom. 12 Indians from the UAE and five from Italy are the other two countries with most infected cases. Hong Kong, Kuwait, Rwanda and Sri Lanka has one case each.

India has been focusing on getting its nationals back from countries worst-hit and Indians stranded in transit in countries like Malaysia, UK.&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is in the process of bringing back 113 Indian citizens stuck in transit at Kuala Lumper Airport. 
&nbsp;

The Government of India on Monday informed that three Indians died outside India due to novel coronavirus infection. The deaths were reported from Iran, Egypt and Sweden, according to the government.

The Government of India on Monday informed that three Indians died outside India due to novel coronavirus infection. The deaths were reported from Iran, Egypt and Sweden, according to the government. 70-year-old Indian died in Iran while the Indian who lost his life in Egypt was a 52- year-old man. In Sweden, a 42-year-old Indian committed suicide after he was diagnosed with coronavirus. A total of 276 cases of Indias infected with the deadly virus have been reported with a substantial number of 255 from Iran's central city of Qom. 12 Indians from the UAE and five from Italy are the other two countries with most infected cases. Hong Kong, Kuwait, Rwanda and Sri Lanka has one case each. India has been focusing on getting its nationals back from countries worst-hit and Indians stranded in transit in countries like Malaysia, UK. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is in the process of bringing back 113 Indian citizens stuck in transit at Kuala Lumper Airport.

Indian government says three Indians died outside India due to coronavirus 

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Wednesday said that the total number of confirmed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-sanitisation-social-distancing-among-health-ministrys-measures-to-control-spread-in-offices-287047">COVID-19</a> cases in India has risen to 147.

122 Indian nationals and 25 foreign nationals have tested positive for the virus, it said.

In a bid to strengthen containment measures amid rising cases, the Health Ministry on Tuesday issued guidelines for notifying COVID-19 in private facilities.

Stating that it is of utmost importance that each <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-health-ministry-issues-travel-advisory-bans-passengers-from-afghanistan-and-malaysia-287037">case of coronavirus</a> is isolated and provided appropriate treatment and their contacts are traced at the earliest to break the chain of transmission, the Health Ministry said.

Three persons have died of the disease so far.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday night visited the Delhi airport to meet immigration, health, security and airport officials who are responding to the challenge posed by coronavirus outbreak.

"India works because countless Indians do. Night or day, rain or shine," Jaishankar tweeted after visiting the airport.

"Went tonight to meet our immigration, health, security and airport officials at Delhi Airport who are responding to COVID challenge," he said.

Jaishankar thanked them for their exceptional effort in these "difficult times". "That too, with great courtesy and a warm smile," he added.&nbsp;

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Wednesday said that the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in India has risen to 147. 122 Indian nationals and 25 foreign nationals have tested positive for the virus, it said.

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Wednesday said that the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in India has risen to 147. 122 Indian nationals and 25 foreign nationals have tested positive for the virus, it said. In a bid to strengthen containment measures amid rising cases, the Health Ministry on Tuesday issued guidelines for notifying COVID-19 in private facilities. Stating that it is of utmost importance that each case of coronavirus is isolated and provided appropriate treatment and their contacts are traced at the earliest to break the chain of transmission, the Health Ministry said. Three persons have died of the disease so far. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday night visited the Delhi airport to meet immigration, health, security and airport officials who are responding to the challenge posed by coronavirus outbreak. "India works because countless Indians do. Night or day, rain or shine," Jaishankar tweeted after visiting the airport. "Went tonight to meet our immigration, health, security and airport officials at Delhi Airport who are responding to COVID challenge," he said. Jaishankar thanked them for their exceptional effort in these "difficult times". "That too, with great courtesy and a warm smile," he added.

COVID-19 positive cases in India jumps to 147

A 63-year-old doctor, who treated the Kalaburagi patient killed by coronavirus last week, has tested positive for the disease.

"The doctor and his seven family members have been put under strict home quarantine," the government said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-reports-two-new-coronavirus-cases-286859">Karnataka reports two new coronavirus cases</a>

Karnataka has reported 10 positive coronavirus cases till date.

Out of these cases, three have been reported in the last 24 hours, said Karnataka government on Tuesday.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/confirmed-coronavirus-cases-rise-to-125-in-india-286872">Confirmed coronavirus cases rise to 125 in India</a>

The state had reported one death in Kalaburagi due to the infection last week. Karnataka health minister B Sriramulu held a meeting with health department officials at Mangalore today to review the prevailing situation.

A 63-year-old doctor, who treated the Kalaburagi patient killed by coronavirus last week, has tested positive for the disease. "The doctor and his seven family members have been put under strict home quarantine," the government said.

A 63-year-old doctor, who treated the Kalaburagi patient killed by coronavirus last week, has tested positive for the disease. "The doctor and his seven family members have been put under strict home quarantine," the government said. Also read: Karnataka reports two new coronavirus cases Karnataka has reported 10 positive coronavirus cases till date. Out of these cases, three have been reported in the last 24 hours, said Karnataka government on Tuesday. Also see: Confirmed coronavirus cases rise to 125 in India The state had reported one death in Kalaburagi due to the infection last week. Karnataka health minister B Sriramulu held a meeting with health department officials at Mangalore today to review the prevailing situation.

Karnataka doctor who treated coronavirus victim tests positive for COVID-19

The Centre Tuesday told the Supreme Court that the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019 does not violate any fundamental right. The central government, in its 129-page affidavit in response to the pleas challenging the constitutional validity of CAA, termed the legislation legal and asserted that there was no question of it violating constitutional morality.

It also said CAA does not confer any arbitrary and unguided powers on the executive as the citizenship to the persecuted minorities of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh would be granted in a manner as specified under the law governing grant of citizenship. The affidavit has been filed by BC Joshi, Director in the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The Supreme Court on December 18 last year had decided to examine the constitutional validity of the CAA but had refused to stay its operation. The newly amended law seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Christian, Jain and Parsi communities who came to the country from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan on or before December 31, 2014.

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), one of the petitioners out of over 100 pleas which have challenged the CAA, has said in its plea that it violates the fundamental Right to Equality and intends to grant citizenship to a section of illegal immigrants by making an exclusion on the basis of religion.

A bench, comprising Chief Justice S A Bobde and Justices B R Gavai and Surya Kant, had earlier issued notice to the Centre and sought its response on the batch of pleas, including those filed by the IUML and Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, challenging the CAA.

The bench had also agreed to the submission of lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay that common people should be made aware about the aim, objects and the contents of the CAA and had asked Attorney General K K Venugopal, representing the Centre, to consider using audio-visual medium to make citizens aware of the legislation.

Venugopal had agreed to the suggestion and said the needful would be done by the government.

Parliament had cleared the Act, which grants citizenship rights to religious minorities such as Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Parsis, Jains and Buddhists, who have come to India on or before December 31, 2014. President Ram Nath Kovind gave assent to the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 on December 12 last year, turning it into an Act.

The plea by IUML, filed through advocate Pallavi Pratap, had sought an interim stay on the operation of CAB and the Foreigner Amendment (Order), 2015 and Passport (Entry Into Rules), Amendment Rules, 2015. The petition has alleged that the government’s CAB was against the basic structure of the Constitution and intended to explicitly discriminate against Muslims as the Act extended benefits only to Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians.

The plea filed by Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, has said that the Act is a “brazen attack” on core fundamental rights envisaged under the Constitution and treats “equals as unequal”. In his petition, Ramesh has said that substantial questions of law, including whether religion can be a factor to either acquire or deny citizenship in India, arises for consideration of the court as it is a “patently unconstitutional” amendment to the Citizenship Act, 1955.

“The impugned Act creates two classifications, viz, classification on basis of religion and the classification on the basis of geography and both the classifications are completely unreasonable and share no rational nexus to the object of the impugned Act i.e., to provide shelter, safety and citizenship to communities who in their native country are facing persecution on grounds of religion,” the plea has said.

Several petitions have been filed challenging the constitutional validity of the CAA including by RJD leader Manoj Jha, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi. Other petitioners include Muslim body Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, All Assam Students Union (AASU), Peace Party, CPI, NGOs ‘Rihai Manch’ and Citizens Against Hate, advocate M L Sharma, and law students have also approached the apex court challenging the Act.

The Centre Tuesday told the Supreme Court that the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019 does not violate any fundamental right. The central government, in its 129-page affidavit in response to the pleas challenging the constitutional validity of CAA, termed the legislation legal and asserted that there was no question of it violating constitutional morality.

The Centre Tuesday told the Supreme Court that the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019 does not violate any fundamental right. The central government, in its 129-page affidavit in response to the pleas challenging the constitutional validity of CAA, termed the legislation legal and asserted that there was no question of it violating constitutional morality. It also said CAA does not confer any arbitrary and unguided powers on the executive as the citizenship to the persecuted minorities of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh would be granted in a manner as specified under the law governing grant of citizenship. The affidavit has been filed by BC Joshi, Director in the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Supreme Court on December 18 last year had decided to examine the constitutional validity of the CAA but had refused to stay its operation. The newly amended law seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Christian, Jain and Parsi communities who came to the country from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan on or before December 31, 2014. The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), one of the petitioners out of over 100 pleas which have challenged the CAA, has said in its plea that it violates the fundamental Right to Equality and intends to grant citizenship to a section of illegal immigrants by making an exclusion on the basis of religion. A bench, comprising Chief Justice S A Bobde and Justices B R Gavai and Surya Kant, had earlier issued notice to the Centre and sought its response on the batch of pleas, including those filed by the IUML and Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, challenging the CAA. The bench had also agreed to the submission of lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay that common people should be made aware about the aim, objects and the contents of the CAA and had asked Attorney General K K Venugopal, representing the Centre, to consider using audio-visual medium to make citizens aware of the legislation. Venugopal had agreed to the suggestion and said the needful would be done by the government. Parliament had cleared the Act, which grants citizenship rights to religious minorities such as Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Parsis, Jains and Buddhists, who have come to India on or before December 31, 2014. President Ram Nath Kovind gave assent to the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 on December 12 last year, turning it into an Act. The plea by IUML, filed through advocate Pallavi Pratap, had sought an interim stay on the operation of CAB and the Foreigner Amendment (Order), 2015 and Passport (Entry Into Rules), Amendment Rules, 2015. The petition has alleged that the government’s CAB was against the basic structure of the Constitution and intended to explicitly discriminate against Muslims as the Act extended benefits only to Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians. The plea filed by Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, has said that the Act is a “brazen attack” on core fundamental rights envisaged under the Constitution and treats “equals as unequal”. In his petition, Ramesh has said that substantial questions of law, including whether religion can be a factor to either acquire or deny citizenship in India, arises for consideration of the court as it is a “patently unconstitutional” amendment to the Citizenship Act, 1955. “The impugned Act creates two classifications, viz, classification on basis of religion and the classification on the basis of geography and both the classifications are completely unreasonable and share no rational nexus to the object of the impugned Act i.e., to provide shelter, safety and citizenship to communities who in their native country are facing persecution on grounds of religion,” the plea has said. Several petitions have been filed challenging the constitutional validity of the CAA including by RJD leader Manoj Jha, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi. Other petitioners include Muslim body Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, All Assam Students Union (AASU), Peace Party, CPI, NGOs ‘Rihai Manch’ and Citizens Against Hate, advocate M L Sharma, and law students have also approached the apex court challenging the Act.

CAA does not violate fundamental rights, Centre tells Supreme Court

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