Union Health Ministry on Sunday said that countrywide COVID-19 death toll has reached 826 while the number of cases climbed to 26,917.&nbsp;

1975 new COVID-19 cases and 47 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, the health ministry said.

Among 26,917 positive cases, 20177 active cases, 5914 cured/discharged/migrated and 826 deaths), according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.&nbsp;

Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Sunday said the coronavirus situation in the country is improving as many hotspot districts (HSD) are moving towards being non-hotspot districts (NHSD).

The minister visited All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Trauma Centre to take stock of the preparedness to overcome COVID-19, a statement from the ministry said.

During his visit, he spoke to some COVID-19 positive people through video calling and enquired about their health. Robots handled the technology at the patients' end, it said.

Vardhan also sought their feedback about the facilities available at AIIMS so that necessary improvements can be made, the statement said.

Through a graded, pre-emptive and pro-active approach, the Government of India is taking several steps along with the states/UTs for prevention, containment and management of COVID-19. These are being regularly reviewed and monitored at the highest level,&nbsp;the ministry said.

Union Health Ministry on Sunday said that countrywide COVID-19 death toll has reached 826 while the number of cases climbed to 26,917. 1975 new COVID-19 cases and 47 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, the health ministry said.

Union Health Ministry on Sunday said that countrywide COVID-19 death toll has reached 826 while the number of cases climbed to 26,917. 1975 new COVID-19 cases and 47 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, the health ministry said. Among 26,917 positive cases, 20177 active cases, 5914 cured/discharged/migrated and 826 deaths), according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Sunday said the coronavirus situation in the country is improving as many hotspot districts (HSD) are moving towards being non-hotspot districts (NHSD). The minister visited All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Trauma Centre to take stock of the preparedness to overcome COVID-19, a statement from the ministry said. During his visit, he spoke to some COVID-19 positive people through video calling and enquired about their health. Robots handled the technology at the patients' end, it said. Vardhan also sought their feedback about the facilities available at AIIMS so that necessary improvements can be made, the statement said. Through a graded, pre-emptive and pro-active approach, the Government of India is taking several steps along with the states/UTs for prevention, containment and management of COVID-19. These are being regularly reviewed and monitored at the highest level, the ministry said.

Countrywide COVID-19 death toll 826, number of cases climbs to 26,917: Union Health Ministry

Recently, India reaches out to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. PM Modi calls the GCC leaders for unity against the pademic COVID-19.

India reaches out to the Arab world, PM Modi calls for unity against COVID-19

India confirmed on Saturday 1,429 new coronavirus infections in the last 24 hours, raising the total figures to 24,506, health officials said.

Also, with 57 new deaths, the total number of coronavirus fatalities rose to 775, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dharavi-slum-area-in-mumbai-reports-six-new-covid-19-cases-294592">Dharavi slum area in Mumbai reports six new COVID-19 cases</a>

The health ministry also said 5,063 people in India have been cured, discharged or migrated. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tigress-dies-in-delhi-zoo-sample-sent-for-coronavirus-testing-294640">Tigress dies in Delhi zoo; sample sent for coronavirus testing</a>

The latest figures also suggested that Maharashtra continues to remain the worst-hit state, both in terms of cases and deaths with 6,817 infections, including 301 deaths.&nbsp;

After, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Delhi follows with 2,815 and 2,514 coronavirus cases. Gujarat is the only state after Maharashtra that has seen more than 100 deaths.&nbsp;

As India completes today a month of the nationwide lockdown, the Ministry of Home Affairs gave certain relaxations with the opening of shops in market complexes outside municipality areas with 50 per cent staff and following mandatory precautions like wearing of masks and social distancing guidelines.

India earlier extended the 21-day nationwide lockdown for another 19 days till May 3 to contain the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

India confirmed on Saturday 1,429 new coronavirus infections in the last 24 hours, raising the total figures to 24,506, health officials said. Also, with 57 new deaths, the total number of coronavirus fatalities rose to 775, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

India confirmed on Saturday 1,429 new coronavirus infections in the last 24 hours, raising the total figures to 24,506, health officials said. Also, with 57 new deaths, the total number of coronavirus fatalities rose to 775, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. Also read | Dharavi slum area in Mumbai reports six new COVID-19 cases The health ministry also said 5,063 people in India have been cured, discharged or migrated. Also read | Tigress dies in Delhi zoo; sample sent for coronavirus testing The latest figures also suggested that Maharashtra continues to remain the worst-hit state, both in terms of cases and deaths with 6,817 infections, including 301 deaths. After, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Delhi follows with 2,815 and 2,514 coronavirus cases. Gujarat is the only state after Maharashtra that has seen more than 100 deaths. As India completes today a month of the nationwide lockdown, the Ministry of Home Affairs gave certain relaxations with the opening of shops in market complexes outside municipality areas with 50 per cent staff and following mandatory precautions like wearing of masks and social distancing guidelines. India earlier extended the 21-day nationwide lockdown for another 19 days till May 3 to contain the spread of the virus.

Coronavirus in India: Infections rise to 1,429; death toll at 775

India has placed an order of 9.5 lakh COVID test kits from South Korea even as focus is on increasing with a subsidiary of South Korean company starting to manufacture kits in Manesar. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Indian envoy to South Korea Sripriya Ranganathan said the aim is to "get best possible prices and the best possible quality and the shortest possible delivery schedule".She also said that the Indian Foreign Secretary and Korean vice foreign minister along with members of other Indo Pacific countries are speaking on a weekly basis on how best they can work to tackle the crisis.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1684-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hours-confirmed-cases-nationwide-at-23077-india-health-ministry-294534">1,684 coronavirus cases in 24 hours, confirmed cases nationwide at 23,077: India health ministry</a>

Sidhant Sibal: What is the role played by the Indian mission in South Korea in taking care of Indian citizens?

Sripriya Ranganathan: Our mission in Seoul has been constantly engaged with the community right from the start of the pandemic in Korea. We have about 13000 people that include, large number of students, and they are spread out all across the country. So what we have tried to do, taking in view the advice of the Korean government, that there should be social distancing and that we should refrain from unavoidable travel and so on. We have used video conferencing and we have also used our website and social media platforms to remain in constant touch with our community. My officers have been holding weekly video conferences with representatives of all our community association as well as with student body leaders so that we are able to inform them of the advice of the periodic update that has been coming from the Korean govt and we have also been able to hear from them the kind of difficulties they are facing. We have been able to reassure them we are there whenever they have any difficulties, I think this has been very effective, in that we have managed to give our people the confidence that there is no reason for them to panic and the very positive outcome has been we have not had a single case of a positive person being defected from amongst our own community in Korea and God willing that will remain the same. We have also been supporting those of our community in need by supplying masks and hand sanitizers through various community associations when they were finding it difficult to find them in the open market. 
&nbsp; 
SS: How India &amp; South Korea are cooperating to tackle the COVID-19 crisis?

SR: I think India and the Republic of Korea have a great deal to offer each other in this time of crisis. We already have had and are continuing to have regular conversations between our leadership, our Prime Minister and Korean President had spoken on April 9, in which they had apprised each other of the respective approaches, the solution they have devised for handling the crisis in India and in Korea respectively and had also agreed that all possible assistance will be extended by both our govt to each other at this time of need. Our foreign secretary and Korean vice foreign minister have been speaking on weekly basis along with other members of the Indo pacific countries, and we have been talking about how best we can pool our, thoughts and idea and work out the way forward to get out of the crisis at the earliest. In terms of medical supplies, we are finding that there is a lot of scope of sourcing our needs, in terms of COVID test kits as well as other protective clothing and so on from Korean companies who have created a niche for themself by way of quality and price competitiveness of what they have to offer. Our ICMR has already approved the products of some of the Korean companies and many of our agencies, both central govt, and state govt agencies placed orders for about 9.5 lakh test kits, we are expecting around 2 million tests kits to be sourced from Korea in the coming weeks, we are also hoping very much that Korean companies will be able to manufacture from India so that our needs for much needed medical supplies can be met from India. In fact, one of the Korean companies has made a beginning in this direction. Its Indian subsidiary has started manufacturing from its Manesar plant for COVID-19 test kits, this company has received its licence from ICMR on April 14 and it has started manufacturing from April 20. Looking ahead, I expect that Indian and Korean research institutions and scientists alike will be able to work together so that they are able the leverage the respective strengthens in coming up with innovative solutions that will help our govts in addressing this pandemic.&nbsp;

SS: What are we are purchasing in terms of PPE or ventilators from South Korea? 
SR: As I mentioned a short while ago, at the moment, we have negotiated for picking up of a large number of COVID-19 test kits from Korean companies, this has been possible because there are a number of Korean companies that have reoriented there manufacturing to start producing COVID-19 test kits, and also because these companies have got the requisite certification and so on and are also authorized to export by the Korean government, this apart, we have also been looking at how far Korean companies can meet our country's need of protective clothing, mask, gloves, ventilators and so on. What the embassy has been doing is to work on the basis of requirements that have been indicated to our ministry by ICMR, try to find the companies that are qualified and have the necessary background and experience to supply these items and are constantly keeping our ICMR informed of the products that are available here, the technical specifications, prices and so on and once ICMR works out what are the products that are most suitable, most required by our people, we are proceeding to negotiate further with those companies so that we are able to get best possible prices and the best possible quality and the shortest possible delivery schedule from these companies. We have been working in constant coordination with our ministry, with the ICMR, with other central govt agencies, with various state govt agencies in this very important exercise.

SS: What do you think about the South Korea model and have we shared any Indian model? 
SR: I must say the South Korean Government's strategy, which is the 3-T strategy--testing, &nbsp;tracing and treating has been very very effective in enabling the govt to bring the outbreak under check. They have used a lot of technology in the efforts, which is focused on aggressive and early testing to the widest possible degree. They have used technology, which includes GPS data, CCTV data, credit card transactions data to map the movement of people who have been detected as COVID-19 positive, put this information out very widely through the messaging system, local district offices and social media platforms. As a result of this and as a result of the wholehearted cooperation, which the people of Korea have given to the govt in the effort they have really managed to bring down the number of new cases to an amazing degree and today cases of less than 10 are added per day, which I think is remarkable by any standards. At the same time, the kind of steps, we have taken in India which includes, the prime minister's call for a Janta curfew, the lockdown we have managed to implement in our country this has won respect in Korea for what we are trying to do, given the size of our population and the scale of operation we have to undertake and there is a lot of optimism that these measures will help us keep the virus under check in our own country. In so far, what we have in common, there is shared faith in the traditional system of medicines, traditional methods to build up immunity which will sit alongside conventional western methods of medicine. Just as we have a lot of faith in yoga and in turmeric, ginger and other such herbs in building up our immune systems in the overall psychological health of our people, the Koreans have a lot of faith in yoga and ginseng and turmeric has become quite a rage over here and in these aspects, we have a lot in common. As I have mentioned earlier, our PM has spoken to the president of Korea, our Foreign secretary and Korean vice foreign minister and other foreign secretaries of the Indo-Pacific countries are speaking on the regular basis and I have no doubt we will continue to share ideas, information and best practices that will enable us to work together to counter the pandemic.

SS: How are the Indian diplomats faring.. it hasn't been easy for diplomats too?

SR: It is certainly been an unusual time for all of us at the embassy, the usual methods that we used to reach out to Koreans and others in Korea have not been possible in this situation. We have been very very disciplined and clear that we have to follow the advice that has been given by Korean authorities from time to time so we have been practising social distancing and we have been rigorous in our use of hand sanitizers, mask and so on. As to the extent possible, our local staff have been encouraged to work from home, so that we are able to reduce the risk by use of public transport and enable them to continue the work while they remain safe at home. We have been using technology to do as much as we can so that we don't lose the momentum that we have gained with all our work in the past few months. This is something we have used not only in our interaction with the Indian community and others who are spread across the country but also with the people back home in India were people we have used video conference and telephone calls to keep up the momentum. This apart from our cultural centre has remained very vibrant. We have taken our yoga sessions, dance classes online, in fact, we are trying to do some experiments on providing classes on Indian cooking online. Our yoga teacher is also doing her bit to keep all off use at the embassy healthy. We have been doing our yoga every day just before lunch so that we build up our own immunity. Off course as I have mentioned earlier the embassy is continuing to work hard, to really serve as a bridge between agencies back home in India, our ministry, ICMR as well as our various state govt who are looking for support by way of sourcing of much-needed COVID-19 related material and the companies here in Korea which are qualified and certified to export many of these products. We have been liaising with people at both ends so that we are able to figure out what exactly is needed by our agencies in India and try to make the best possible match with what Koreans have to offer, so this is how we are adjusting to new COVID 19 realities. 
&nbsp;

India has placed an order of 9.5 lakh COVID test kits from South Korea even as focus is on increasing with a subsidiary of South Korean company starting to manufacture kits in Manesar.

India has placed an order of 9.5 lakh COVID test kits from South Korea even as focus is on increasing with a subsidiary of South Korean company starting to manufacture kits in Manesar. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Indian envoy to South Korea Sripriya Ranganathan said the aim is to "get best possible prices and the best possible quality and the shortest possible delivery schedule".She also said that the Indian Foreign Secretary and Korean vice foreign minister along with members of other Indo Pacific countries are speaking on a weekly basis on how best they can work to tackle the crisis. Also read | 1,684 coronavirus cases in 24 hours, confirmed cases nationwide at 23,077: India health ministry Sidhant Sibal: What is the role played by the Indian mission in South Korea in taking care of Indian citizens? Sripriya Ranganathan: Our mission in Seoul has been constantly engaged with the community right from the start of the pandemic in Korea. We have about 13000 people that include, large number of students, and they are spread out all across the country. So what we have tried to do, taking in view the advice of the Korean government, that there should be social distancing and that we should refrain from unavoidable travel and so on. We have used video conferencing and we have also used our website and social media platforms to remain in constant touch with our community. My officers have been holding weekly video conferences with representatives of all our community association as well as with student body leaders so that we are able to inform them of the advice of the periodic update that has been coming from the Korean govt and we have also been able to hear from them the kind of difficulties they are facing. We have been able to reassure them we are there whenever they have any difficulties, I think this has been very effective, in that we have managed to give our people the confidence that there is no reason for them to panic and the very positive outcome has been we have not had a single case of a positive person being defected from amongst our own community in Korea and God willing that will remain the same. We have also been supporting those of our community in need by supplying masks and hand sanitizers through various community associations when they were finding it difficult to find them in the open market. SS: How India & South Korea are cooperating to tackle the COVID-19 crisis? SR: I think India and the Republic of Korea have a great deal to offer each other in this time of crisis. We already have had and are continuing to have regular conversations between our leadership, our Prime Minister and Korean President had spoken on April 9, in which they had apprised each other of the respective approaches, the solution they have devised for handling the crisis in India and in Korea respectively and had also agreed that all possible assistance will be extended by both our govt to each other at this time of need. Our foreign secretary and Korean vice foreign minister have been speaking on weekly basis along with other members of the Indo pacific countries, and we have been talking about how best we can pool our, thoughts and idea and work out the way forward to get out of the crisis at the earliest. In terms of medical supplies, we are finding that there is a lot of scope of sourcing our needs, in terms of COVID test kits as well as other protective clothing and so on from Korean companies who have created a niche for themself by way of quality and price competitiveness of what they have to offer. Our ICMR has already approved the products of some of the Korean companies and many of our agencies, both central govt, and state govt agencies placed orders for about 9.5 lakh test kits, we are expecting around 2 million tests kits to be sourced from Korea in the coming weeks, we are also hoping very much that Korean companies will be able to manufacture from India so that our needs for much needed medical supplies can be met from India. In fact, one of the Korean companies has made a beginning in this direction. Its Indian subsidiary has started manufacturing from its Manesar plant for COVID-19 test kits, this company has received its licence from ICMR on April 14 and it has started manufacturing from April 20. Looking ahead, I expect that Indian and Korean research institutions and scientists alike will be able to work together so that they are able the leverage the respective strengthens in coming up with innovative solutions that will help our govts in addressing this pandemic. SS: What are we are purchasing in terms of PPE or ventilators from South Korea? SR: As I mentioned a short while ago, at the moment, we have negotiated for picking up of a large number of COVID-19 test kits from Korean companies, this has been possible because there are a number of Korean companies that have reoriented there manufacturing to start producing COVID-19 test kits, and also because these companies have got the requisite certification and so on and are also authorized to export by the Korean government, this apart, we have also been looking at how far Korean companies can meet our country's need of protective clothing, mask, gloves, ventilators and so on. What the embassy has been doing is to work on the basis of requirements that have been indicated to our ministry by ICMR, try to find the companies that are qualified and have the necessary background and experience to supply these items and are constantly keeping our ICMR informed of the products that are available here, the technical specifications, prices and so on and once ICMR works out what are the products that are most suitable, most required by our people, we are proceeding to negotiate further with those companies so that we are able to get best possible prices and the best possible quality and the shortest possible delivery schedule from these companies. We have been working in constant coordination with our ministry, with the ICMR, with other central govt agencies, with various state govt agencies in this very important exercise. SS: What do you think about the South Korea model and have we shared any Indian model? SR: I must say the South Korean Government's strategy, which is the 3-T strategy--testing, tracing and treating has been very very effective in enabling the govt to bring the outbreak under check. They have used a lot of technology in the efforts, which is focused on aggressive and early testing to the widest possible degree. They have used technology, which includes GPS data, CCTV data, credit card transactions data to map the movement of people who have been detected as COVID-19 positive, put this information out very widely through the messaging system, local district offices and social media platforms. As a result of this and as a result of the wholehearted cooperation, which the people of Korea have given to the govt in the effort they have really managed to bring down the number of new cases to an amazing degree and today cases of less than 10 are added per day, which I think is remarkable by any standards. At the same time, the kind of steps, we have taken in India which includes, the prime minister's call for a Janta curfew, the lockdown we have managed to implement in our country this has won respect in Korea for what we are trying to do, given the size of our population and the scale of operation we have to undertake and there is a lot of optimism that these measures will help us keep the virus under check in our own country. In so far, what we have in common, there is shared faith in the traditional system of medicines, traditional methods to build up immunity which will sit alongside conventional western methods of medicine. Just as we have a lot of faith in yoga and in turmeric, ginger and other such herbs in building up our immune systems in the overall psychological health of our people, the Koreans have a lot of faith in yoga and ginseng and turmeric has become quite a rage over here and in these aspects, we have a lot in common. As I have mentioned earlier, our PM has spoken to the president of Korea, our Foreign secretary and Korean vice foreign minister and other foreign secretaries of the Indo-Pacific countries are speaking on the regular basis and I have no doubt we will continue to share ideas, information and best practices that will enable us to work together to counter the pandemic. SS: How are the Indian diplomats faring.. it hasn't been easy for diplomats too? SR: It is certainly been an unusual time for all of us at the embassy, the usual methods that we used to reach out to Koreans and others in Korea have not been possible in this situation. We have been very very disciplined and clear that we have to follow the advice that has been given by Korean authorities from time to time so we have been practising social distancing and we have been rigorous in our use of hand sanitizers, mask and so on. As to the extent possible, our local staff have been encouraged to work from home, so that we are able to reduce the risk by use of public transport and enable them to continue the work while they remain safe at home. We have been using technology to do as much as we can so that we don't lose the momentum that we have gained with all our work in the past few months. This is something we have used not only in our interaction with the Indian community and others who are spread across the country but also with the people back home in India were people we have used video conference and telephone calls to keep up the momentum. This apart from our cultural centre has remained very vibrant. We have taken our yoga sessions, dance classes online, in fact, we are trying to do some experiments on providing classes on Indian cooking online. Our yoga teacher is also doing her bit to keep all off use at the embassy healthy. We have been doing our yoga every day just before lunch so that we build up our own immunity. Off course as I have mentioned earlier the embassy is continuing to work hard, to really serve as a bridge between agencies back home in India, our ministry, ICMR as well as our various state govt who are looking for support by way of sourcing of much-needed COVID-19 related material and the companies here in Korea which are qualified and certified to export many of these products. We have been liaising with people at both ends so that we are able to figure out what exactly is needed by our agencies in India and try to make the best possible match with what Koreans have to offer, so this is how we are adjusting to new COVID 19 realities.

EXCLUSIVE: We have placed order of 9.5 lakhs COVID-19 test kits to South Korea: Indian envoy

India's relationship with the Arab world was impacted in the last few weeks and one of the major reasons was fake Twitter handles used from Pakistan to defame India. However, the Indian administration has started to use diplomatic channels to reset the ties.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier had telephonic conservations with his counterparts from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman, where he stressed on India's "Think West" foreign policy. He reportedly also highlighted the need for a collaborative and coordinated strategy to tackle the COVID-19 crisis.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wont-let-fake-tweets-create-discord-gulf-countries-assure-india-294638">Won't let fake tweets create discord, Gulf countries assure India</a>

The Minister of External Affairs (MEA) S Jaishankar also extended his greetings on the holy month of Ramzan to the foreign ministers of the Middle East countries and thanked them for supporting the Indian diaspora. The foreign ministers of Gulf nations also lauded the contribution of the Indian community during the coronavirus outbreak and promised to support them.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/twitter-suspends-isis-fake-account-being-used-to-spread-fake-news-against-india-in-gulf-countries-294510">Twitter suspends ISI's fake account being used to spread fake news against India in Gulf countries</a>

India is also supplying drugs, including hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar.&nbsp;

After Kuwait's request, India has also sent a specialised team of medical professionals for training purposes related to coronavirus.&nbsp;

The Indo-Gulf talks also touched upon the negative social media campaign and the two sides agreed to have a zero-tolerance policy towards such incidents.&nbsp;

This comes after a number of parody accounts on Twitter spread fake information which strained the ties between both the regions.&nbsp;

India also vowed that it will help in the evacuation at the earliest of the medical personnel from the Gulf who are stranded in India.&nbsp;

The recovery plan post-COVID-19 was also discussed, along with talks on energy and volatility in the oil market.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India's relationship with the Arab world was impacted in the last few weeks and one of the major reasons was fake Twitter handles used from Pakistan to defame India.

India's relationship with the Arab world was impacted in the last few weeks and one of the major reasons was fake Twitter handles used from Pakistan to defame India. However, the Indian administration has started to use diplomatic channels to reset the ties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier had telephonic conservations with his counterparts from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman, where he stressed on India's "Think West" foreign policy. He reportedly also highlighted the need for a collaborative and coordinated strategy to tackle the COVID-19 crisis. Also read | Won't let fake tweets create discord, Gulf countries assure India The Minister of External Affairs (MEA) S Jaishankar also extended his greetings on the holy month of Ramzan to the foreign ministers of the Middle East countries and thanked them for supporting the Indian diaspora. The foreign ministers of Gulf nations also lauded the contribution of the Indian community during the coronavirus outbreak and promised to support them. Also read | Twitter suspends ISI's fake account being used to spread fake news against India in Gulf countries India is also supplying drugs, including hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar. After Kuwait's request, India has also sent a specialised team of medical professionals for training purposes related to coronavirus. The Indo-Gulf talks also touched upon the negative social media campaign and the two sides agreed to have a zero-tolerance policy towards such incidents. This comes after a number of parody accounts on Twitter spread fake information which strained the ties between both the regions. India also vowed that it will help in the evacuation at the earliest of the medical personnel from the Gulf who are stranded in India. The recovery plan post-COVID-19 was also discussed, along with talks on energy and volatility in the oil market.

Diplomacy at work to ease off straining Indo-Arab ties

India's decision to export hydroxychloroquine has received praise from across the world and the Russian Envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev was the latest to laud India's move. Watch report.

Russia lauds India's COVID-19 response: Move to export HCQ 'Nobel'

Two 60-year-old male patients, who died at a SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have tested positive for COVID-19&nbsp;taking the number of deaths due to coronavirus in the state to 32.

According to the state Health Department, a resident of Ramganj, who had&nbsp;comorbidity of coronary artery disease,&nbsp;was admitted to the SMS Hospital on April 22 and took his last breath on April 23. He was detected positive for COVID-19 on April 23.

Another patient, a resident of MD road, was brought dead to the SMS Hospital on April 22. As he was a suspected COVID-19 patient, a sample was taken which was reported positive on April 23.

Meanwhile, a 70-year-old female from Adarsh Nagar who tested positive for coronavirus on April 21 also succumbed to the infection today. She also had comorbidity of coronary artery disease, the health officials said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-couple-stranded-in-tripura-names-their-newborn-lockdown-293913">Also read:&nbsp;Rajasthan couple stranded in Tripura names their newborn 'Lockdown'</a>

These figures have taken the total number of positive cases in Rajasthan to 1,890, with 27 deaths in the state.&nbsp;

The department also shared the details of evacuees from Iran who were quarantined at the Army facility in Jaisalmer and now have been shifted to various places in Jammu and Kashmir. On April 21, 180 evacuees were rushed to Srinagar, while 225 were moved to Ladakh on April 22. On Friday, 52 were taken to Srinagar. With 44 fresh cases reported in Rajasthan today, 2,008 people are infected with virus in the state so far.&nbsp;

Two 60-year-old male patients, who died at a SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have tested positive for COVID-19 taking the number of deaths due to coronavirus in the state to 32.

Two 60-year-old male patients, who died at a SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have tested positive for COVID-19 taking the number of deaths due to coronavirus in the state to 32. According to the state Health Department, a resident of Ramganj, who had comorbidity of coronary artery disease, was admitted to the SMS Hospital on April 22 and took his last breath on April 23. He was detected positive for COVID-19 on April 23. Another patient, a resident of MD road, was brought dead to the SMS Hospital on April 22. As he was a suspected COVID-19 patient, a sample was taken which was reported positive on April 23. Meanwhile, a 70-year-old female from Adarsh Nagar who tested positive for coronavirus on April 21 also succumbed to the infection today. She also had comorbidity of coronary artery disease, the health officials said. Also read: Rajasthan couple stranded in Tripura names their newborn 'Lockdown' These figures have taken the total number of positive cases in Rajasthan to 1,890, with 27 deaths in the state. The department also shared the details of evacuees from Iran who were quarantined at the Army facility in Jaisalmer and now have been shifted to various places in Jammu and Kashmir. On April 21, 180 evacuees were rushed to Srinagar, while 225 were moved to Ladakh on April 22. On Friday, 52 were taken to Srinagar. With 44 fresh cases reported in Rajasthan today, 2,008 people are infected with virus in the state so far.

Two 60-year-old male patients test positive of coronavirus post-death

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev lauded India's "Comprehensive efforts" that resulted in significant "decrease in the rate of infection". Incidentally, Russian FM Sergey Lavrov and Indian FM S Jaishankar spoke on COVID-19 crisis during which the upcoming BRICS FM Video meet, that is to take place on 28th of April was also discussed.

Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev speaks to WION

Reacting to the reports of social media profiles changing&nbsp;names to the Arab royalty, India said that attempts are being made to create discord in the special relations between India and the Gulf

Highlighting the impersonation of Omani Princess Mona bint Fahd al Said by a Pakistani twitter ID, sources said, "it clearly demonstrates that it is deliberate attempt to disturb social harmony in India and in that region".

"Attempts to create discord in the special relations between India and the Gulf,"&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Indian missions have appealed to the Indian community not to be swayed by such propaganda.&nbsp;

"The friendly relations between India and Oman are underpinned by our shared values of tolerance and pluralism. Let us all commit to maintaining unity and social harmony at this critical juncture," The Indian mission in Oman said o Twitter.

Asking Indian community in the country to "stay focused and united in our fight against COVID-19", mission asked "not get distracted by fake news on social media with malicious intentions".

Omani Princess Mona bint Fahd who was impersonated has issued a statement clarifying the uproar created by the fake handle which even had parody written in its bio.&nbsp;

In the statement, she said, "Friends, First of all, I thank you for your concern to verify the offensive post published through an account impersonating me, which you are sure that I have no connection with it."

"With full trust in all of you in strengthening awareness among all regarding such activities, which are not acceptable to the Omani society, I confirm again that my presence in social media is restricted on the following accounts: @hhmonaalsaid and @MonaFahad 13," she added.

Indian envoy to Oman Munu Mahawar thanked the Omani princes for clarification on Twitter and wrote India values its "friendly relations with Oman and will continue working closely with the Government and people of Oman to further strengthen our special relationship."

A Pakistani profile with username @pak_fauj changed its name to Omani Royalty Mona bint Fahd al Said @SayyidaMona and on Wednesday and tweeted anti-India rant, which went viral, by design. The tweet was retweeted by many including by Pakistani media personnel.

Twitter gives the option of changing one's twitter name, username and description but its history is not managed publicly.&nbsp;

Another fake twitter handle emerged of a so-called Saudi Princess Noura Bint Faisal coming out with anti-India stuff but it was a no brainer to find the account was previously by the name @idanialusaf.

Sources also slammed Organisation of Islamic Cooperation's anti-India statement saying "It is deeply regrettable OIC continues to make a factually incorrect and misleading statement" advising the grouping not to "communalise fight against COVID-19".

Reacting to the reports of social media profiles changing names to the Arab royalty, India said that attempts are being made to create discord in the special relations between India and the Gulf Highlighting the impersonation of Omani Princess Mona bint Fahd al Said by a Pakistani twitter ID, sources said, "it clearly demonstrates that it is deliberate attempt to disturb social harmony in India and in that region".

Reacting to the reports of social media profiles changing names to the Arab royalty, India said that attempts are being made to create discord in the special relations between India and the Gulf Highlighting the impersonation of Omani Princess Mona bint Fahd al Said by a Pakistani twitter ID, sources said, "it clearly demonstrates that it is deliberate attempt to disturb social harmony in India and in that region". "Attempts to create discord in the special relations between India and the Gulf," Meanwhile, Indian missions have appealed to the Indian community not to be swayed by such propaganda. "The friendly relations between India and Oman are underpinned by our shared values of tolerance and pluralism. Let us all commit to maintaining unity and social harmony at this critical juncture," The Indian mission in Oman said o Twitter. Asking Indian community in the country to "stay focused and united in our fight against COVID-19", mission asked "not get distracted by fake news on social media with malicious intentions". Omani Princess Mona bint Fahd who was impersonated has issued a statement clarifying the uproar created by the fake handle which even had parody written in its bio. In the statement, she said, "Friends, First of all, I thank you for your concern to verify the offensive post published through an account impersonating me, which you are sure that I have no connection with it." "With full trust in all of you in strengthening awareness among all regarding such activities, which are not acceptable to the Omani society, I confirm again that my presence in social media is restricted on the following accounts: @hhmonaalsaid and @MonaFahad 13," she added. Indian envoy to Oman Munu Mahawar thanked the Omani princes for clarification on Twitter and wrote India values its "friendly relations with Oman and will continue working closely with the Government and people of Oman to further strengthen our special relationship." A Pakistani profile with username @pak_fauj changed its name to Omani Royalty Mona bint Fahd al Said @SayyidaMona and on Wednesday and tweeted anti-India rant, which went viral, by design. The tweet was retweeted by many including by Pakistani media personnel. Twitter gives the option of changing one's twitter name, username and description but its history is not managed publicly. Another fake twitter handle emerged of a so-called Saudi Princess Noura Bint Faisal coming out with anti-India stuff but it was a no brainer to find the account was previously by the name @idanialusaf. Sources also slammed Organisation of Islamic Cooperation's anti-India statement saying "It is deeply regrettable OIC continues to make a factually incorrect and misleading statement" advising the grouping not to "communalise fight against COVID-19".

Attempts to create discord in India-Gulf relations, says India on fake Twitter handles of Arab royalty

Russia on Wednesday praised India for sending medicines as it described the decision as "noble". It also said that this friendly gesture would be reciprocated. Speaking to WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev praised India's "comprehensive efforts" and said that it resulted in significant "decrease in the rate of infection" in the country.

Russia on Wednesday praised India for sending medicines as it described the decision as "noble". It also said that this friendly gesture would be reciprocated. Speaking to WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev praised India's "comprehensive efforts" and said that it resulted in significant "decrease in the rate of infection" in the country. WION: COVID-19 crisis is something that is caused by a great deal of uncertainty. How is Moscow and New Delhi collaborating to deal with the crisis? Nikolay Kudashev: Continous spread of COVID-19 infection is a global challenge. In this battle, Russia and India fight a common enemy. We follow closely steps taken by the union governments and regional administrations. These comprehensive efforts resulted in a significant decrease in the rate of infection and we see a number of recoveries growing. In Russia too, the government introduced various measures to tackle the diseases, apart from lockdown and social distancing measures, additional hospitals are being operated, vaccines are tested which help in preventing the unchecked spread of the infection. Of course, people are at the centre of all our efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. While keeping in mind the safety of people in Russia, we also remember the citizens stranded abroad in lockdown. The embassy of Russia with the help of Indian authorities facilitated the repatriation of our tourist from India. So far about 1700 left India onboard special charted flights organised by the Russian government from Delhi and Goa from different cities and destinations of Russia. More flights are expected. At the same time, the Russian govt has provided support to Indian stranded in Russia, to ensure their safety. The Russian ministry of the interior ministry extended the visas of Indian nationals. WION: Termed as 'game-changer' in the battle against coronavirus, India is sending hydrocholoquine around the world. It will be sent to Russia also, how do you see it. And, any collaboration at BRICS Level? Nikolay Kudashev: The generous decision of the government of India to lift the ban on the export of important medicines to treat COVID-19 patients despite the increased demand in this country was very much appreciated in Russia. Be sure, it will be reciprocated. In our understanding, the conducive atmosphere for this noble decision was created during earlier contact of our leaders, PM Vladimir Putin and PM Modi followed by conversation and contact between top diplomats. We create a framework of cooperation within the United Nations, G20 and BRICS and we will push this close cooperation further in coming days. I am sure together we will be able to defeat the infection.

India's decision to send hydrocholoquine is 'noble'; it will be reciprocated: Russia

India has completed 27 days of nationwide lockdown and since the European countries have finally begun showing some, but, significant success against the novel coronavirus.&nbsp; 
 
The focus will now shift to South Asia and Africa, where concerns regarding preparations are immense and resources are limited. In South Asia, if the COVID-19 outbreak grows rapidly, a large country like India which has the second-largest population in the world and a health system not to boast about, the damage could be unimaginable. One must also keep in mind that this lockdown in India has given time to&nbsp;increase the&nbsp;testing, strengthen COVID-19 treatment facilities, and create more isolation and quarantine centres in the country.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/coronavirus-outbreak-what-should-be-indias-lockdown-exit-strategy-294033">Coronavirus outbreak: What should be India's lockdown exit strategy?</a>

Here, I will try to address, where India stands now in terms of saving lives and containing the spread of the virus. Is India on the right trajectory or the light towards the end of the tunnel seems afar?&nbsp;

Testing

Initially, when the outbreak began in India, health experts were worried that India was not testing enough and that possibly could be a reason behind its low infections. On April 5, India was testing at the rate of 93 people per million of its population, and it has gone up to over 211 in two weeks. This figure, however, doesn't look good, since all the countries that have more infections than India are conducting over 10,000 tests per million of their population, except Brazil, which conducts over 1,000 tests. India is the second-most populous country which means no testing will ever be enough and we have tested over 4 lakh people by now.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/heres-why-india-should-not-be-in-a-rush-to-jumpstart-the-economy-stalled-by-coronavirus-294009">Here's why India should not be in a rush to jumpstart the economy stalled by coronavirus</a>

India tested just over 16,000 people for coronavirus on April 9, and now 27,000-30,000 people are getting tested every day. And the daily rise of COVID-19 infections is 1200,1500 cases from in the last&nbsp;two weeks, which suggests that even though the country is testing a lot more people, the cases are not escalating at the same pace. This gives us some evidence that the lockdown is managing to contain the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

Test Positivity Rate&nbsp; 
 
There is another parameter called the test positivity rate (TPR). TPR is a rate that evaluates the number of people getting coronavirus-infected out of the total people who got tested&nbsp;and the good news for India is that it ranks very low in this and only South Korea has a better TPR. According to ICMR, one person out of 23 tested in India, gets infected with COVID-19, which means a TPR of 4.4 per cent, as per data released on April 19. Italy and Spain's TPR are more than 10 per cent, with the US recording nearly 20 per cent.&nbsp;

Doubling rate

Another measurement to know how coronavirus is spreading is the doubling rate, which tells us the time taken for infections to double itself. If the doubling rate is more, it suggests the containment of the virus. Initially, India took five days to double from 750 cases to 1500, and now that rate has grown to 7.5 days. This is encouraging as main coronavirus-hit countries have a doubling rate of 3-5 days at this stage and include countries from China to the US.&nbsp;

Recovery rate

In one line, the coronavirus recovery rate in India is getting better by the day. As per the latest updates, 17.48 per cent have recovered in India out of the total infected cases. On April 1, during the initial days of the nationwide lockdown, this rate was a tad over 8 per cent. So from April 1-&nbsp;21, the recovery rate has more than doubled.

Let's give it some context, the US is the worst-affected country suffering from coronavirus and its recovery rate is about 9 per cent. However, these rates in Italy and Spain, who are the other hard-hit countries, are way more, 27 per cent and 40 per cent. What lockdown has achieved in India, so far,&nbsp;is that the daily infections rise is in the range of 1200-1500 cases for quite some time, and if it remains the same way, the rate of recovery is likely to improve.&nbsp;

RO

RO tells us the rate at which an infected patient passes the disease to a healthy person. The lower the RO, the better for society, and India's RO is slowing down continuously, with the latest rate standing at 1.36, down from 1.55 on April 11, as per a report.

So, even though, the figures look encouraging, to make any concrete prediction about this&nbsp;virus in a large country like India will be childish. However, at a time when advanced economies are also on their toes, any good news from the backyard is welcomed.&nbsp;

 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

India has completed 27 days of nationwide lockdown and since the European countries have finally begun showing some, but, significant success against the novel coronavirus.

India has completed 27 days of nationwide lockdown and since the European countries have finally begun showing some, but, significant success against the novel coronavirus. The focus will now shift to South Asia and Africa, where concerns regarding preparations are immense and resources are limited. In South Asia, if the COVID-19 outbreak grows rapidly, a large country like India which has the second-largest population in the world and a health system not to boast about, the damage could be unimaginable. One must also keep in mind that this lockdown in India has given time to increase the testing, strengthen COVID-19 treatment facilities, and create more isolation and quarantine centres in the country. Also read | Coronavirus outbreak: What should be India's lockdown exit strategy? Here, I will try to address, where India stands now in terms of saving lives and containing the spread of the virus. Is India on the right trajectory or the light towards the end of the tunnel seems afar? Testing Initially, when the outbreak began in India, health experts were worried that India was not testing enough and that possibly could be a reason behind its low infections. On April 5, India was testing at the rate of 93 people per million of its population, and it has gone up to over 211 in two weeks. This figure, however, doesn't look good, since all the countries that have more infections than India are conducting over 10,000 tests per million of their population, except Brazil, which conducts over 1,000 tests. India is the second-most populous country which means no testing will ever be enough and we have tested over 4 lakh people by now. Also read | Here's why India should not be in a rush to jumpstart the economy stalled by coronavirus India tested just over 16,000 people for coronavirus on April 9, and now 27,000-30,000 people are getting tested every day. And the daily rise of COVID-19 infections is 1200,1500 cases from in the last two weeks, which suggests that even though the country is testing a lot more people, the cases are not escalating at the same pace. This gives us some evidence that the lockdown is managing to contain the spread of the virus. Test Positivity Rate There is another parameter called the test positivity rate (TPR). TPR is a rate that evaluates the number of people getting coronavirus-infected out of the total people who got tested and the good news for India is that it ranks very low in this and only South Korea has a better TPR. According to ICMR, one person out of 23 tested in India, gets infected with COVID-19, which means a TPR of 4.4 per cent, as per data released on April 19. Italy and Spain's TPR are more than 10 per cent, with the US recording nearly 20 per cent. Doubling rate Another measurement to know how coronavirus is spreading is the doubling rate, which tells us the time taken for infections to double itself. If the doubling rate is more, it suggests the containment of the virus. Initially, India took five days to double from 750 cases to 1500, and now that rate has grown to 7.5 days. This is encouraging as main coronavirus-hit countries have a doubling rate of 3-5 days at this stage and include countries from China to the US. Recovery rate In one line, the coronavirus recovery rate in India is getting better by the day. As per the latest updates, 17.48 per cent have recovered in India out of the total infected cases. On April 1, during the initial days of the nationwide lockdown, this rate was a tad over 8 per cent. So from April 1- 21, the recovery rate has more than doubled. Let's give it some context, the US is the worst-affected country suffering from coronavirus and its recovery rate is about 9 per cent. However, these rates in Italy and Spain, who are the other hard-hit countries, are way more, 27 per cent and 40 per cent. What lockdown has achieved in India, so far, is that the daily infections rise is in the range of 1200-1500 cases for quite some time, and if it remains the same way, the rate of recovery is likely to improve. RO RO tells us the rate at which an infected patient passes the disease to a healthy person. The lower the RO, the better for society, and India's RO is slowing down continuously, with the latest rate standing at 1.36, down from 1.55 on April 11, as per a report. So, even though, the figures look encouraging, to make any concrete prediction about this virus in a large country like India will be childish. However, at a time when advanced economies are also on their toes, any good news from the backyard is welcomed. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Is India on right track to defeat coronavirus? What numbers tell

United Kingdom's court dismisses appeal of Vijay Mallya against extradition ruling in 2018. There are fraud cases against Mallya amounting Rs 90,000 Crore in India.

UK court dismisses Vijay Mallya's appeal against extradition ruling in 2018

China has criticized India for tweaking its foreign direct investment rules as the coronavirus pandemic ravages the economy. Watch report.

China objects to India tweaking FDI rules: Move violates WTO norms

On World Heritage Day on Saturday, Indian monuments expressed solidarity by illuminating with oil lamps in the nation's fight against novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

There was special lighting of earthen lamps and candles in Red Fort, Qutub Minar and Humayun's tomb to express solidarity with the 'corona warriors', including sanitation workers, police, medical personnel, and civil administration.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-cases-in-india-jump-to-15712-more-than-500-dead-293348">Coronavirus cases in India jump to 15,712; more than 500 dead</a>

Earlier, while announcing the gesture, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) also said that they would organise online pledge taking ceremonies, where students would administer an oath to safeguard and respect the monuments.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-decision-on-domesticinternational-operations-ministry-of-civil-aviation-293336">No decision on domestic/international operations: Ministry of Civil Aviation</a>

A few days ago, India extended nationwide lockdown, which is imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19, which has taken lives of over 500 people in the country and infected more than 15,000 others.&nbsp;

(With agency inputs)

On World Heritage Day on Saturday, Indian monuments expressed solidarity by illuminating with oil lamps in the nation's fight against novel coronavirus. There was special lighting of earthen lamps and candles in Red Fort, Qutub Minar and Humayun's tomb to express solidarity with the 'corona warriors', including sanitation workers, police, medical personnel, and civil administration.

On World Heritage Day on Saturday, Indian monuments expressed solidarity by illuminating with oil lamps in the nation's fight against novel coronavirus. There was special lighting of earthen lamps and candles in Red Fort, Qutub Minar and Humayun's tomb to express solidarity with the 'corona warriors', including sanitation workers, police, medical personnel, and civil administration. Also read | Coronavirus cases in India jump to 15,712; more than 500 dead Earlier, while announcing the gesture, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) also said that they would organise online pledge taking ceremonies, where students would administer an oath to safeguard and respect the monuments. Also read | No decision on domestic/international operations: Ministry of Civil Aviation A few days ago, India extended nationwide lockdown, which is imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19, which has taken lives of over 500 people in the country and infected more than 15,000 others. (With agency inputs)

Indian monuments lit up to express solidarity with 'corona warriors'

India confirmed on Sunday 1,334 new coronavirus cases and 27 deaths in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

With the new COVID-19 figures, death toll in India stands at 507 and infections at 15,712, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-indian-paracetamol-to-land-at-british-supermarkets-soon-293337">COVID-19: Indian paracetamol to land at British supermarkets soon&nbsp;</a>

As many as 2,230 people in the country have cured from the virus in India or migrated, according to the official figures.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-india-update-21-navy-personnel-in-western-naval-command-test-positive-293257">Coronavirus India update: 21 Navy personnel in Western Naval Command test positive</a>

The data revealed that Maharashtra continued to remain worst-hit coronavirus state with 3651 cases and 211 deaths. The capital city Delhi has the second-highest COVID-19 infections in the country, 1893. Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu have recorded 1,407, 1,376, and 1,372 coronavirus cases respectively.&nbsp;

With 70 deaths, Madhya Pradesh comes after Maharashtra in terms of COVID-19 deaths. Gujarat and Delhi have reported 53 and 42 deaths respectively.&nbsp;

India confirmed on Sunday 1,334 new coronavirus cases and 27 deaths in the last 24 hours. With the new COVID-19 figures, death toll in India stands at 507 and infections at 15,712, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

India confirmed on Sunday 1,334 new coronavirus cases and 27 deaths in the last 24 hours. With the new COVID-19 figures, death toll in India stands at 507 and infections at 15,712, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. Also read | COVID-19: Indian paracetamol to land at British supermarkets soon As many as 2,230 people in the country have cured from the virus in India or migrated, according to the official figures. Also read | Coronavirus India update: 21 Navy personnel in Western Naval Command test positive The data revealed that Maharashtra continued to remain worst-hit coronavirus state with 3651 cases and 211 deaths. The capital city Delhi has the second-highest COVID-19 infections in the country, 1893. Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu have recorded 1,407, 1,376, and 1,372 coronavirus cases respectively. With 70 deaths, Madhya Pradesh comes after Maharashtra in terms of COVID-19 deaths. Gujarat and Delhi have reported 53 and 42 deaths respectively.

Coronavirus cases in India jump to 15,712; more than 500 dead

'Hum jeetenge': How iconic Indian monuments saluted 'corona warriors'

A day before a host of relaxations to boost economic activities kick in amid the nationwide lockdown, Union minister Prakash Javadekar said on Sunday that more relief measures are bound to come if India continues to manage the coronavirus crisis well, asserting that "you cannot (have) lockdown permanently".

In an interview to PTI, the information and broadcasting minister also called for fully observing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's request to people to stay wherever they are amid a row over the UP government's decision to send buses to Kota in Rajasthan to bring back students stuck there.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-mission-has-set-up-teams-to-reach-out-to-indians-stranded-says-indian-envoy-to-uk-293352">EXCLUSIVE: Mission has set up teams to reach out to Indians stranded, says Indian envoy to UK</a>

"I will not go into any particular incident but let me make it clear that the Prime Minister has spoken about people facing hardship when they are away from home. He has advised them to stay wherever you are. That is the real point," he said when asked about the incident.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has objected to the development, saying it was against the spirit of lockdown, and some opposition leaders have questioned as to why then the central government is not making provisions for stranded migrant labourers to return to their homes.

"Our policy is stay wherever you are and help each other," Javadekar said, adding that Modi's appeal in this regard should be observed 100 per cent.

A member of the group of ministers to oversee the measures to combat the pandemic, he said unlike leaders in some other countries, who are "confused" between the choices of shutdown and letting economic activities pick up, PM Modi is "not in two minds" about the way forward and knows what needed to be done and when.

"He gave the call of lockdown at the right time and is now partially allowing economic activity while the lockdown continues. With such a (huge) population we have managed well, if this continues we will get more relief," he said.

While the relaxations starting from April 20 are primarily aimed at boosting the rural economy, Javadekar expressed confidence that economic activities will start in cities as well "sooner than later".

"The lockdown has been very successfully conducted. The world is praising it because this is the way to fight the coronavirus. But even after this you cannot (have) lockdown permanently. It was needed to start economic activity.

"The world has seen that in such a pandemic the country which saves lives actually then gets better... We have saved lives and at the same time we must start economic activity. To that end Prime Minister has partially opened economic activities," he said.

To a question about Rahul Gandhi's claim that the lockdown is not a solution to the pandemic, he took a dig at him, saying that the Congress leader must be "more knowledgable" about COVID-19 than others.

"The world is praising India for timely lockdown and its good implementation. Compared to what we are witnessing in western countries, we are doing much better," the senior BJP leader said, in an apparent reference to thousands of deaths in developed countries like the US, France and Italy.

The toll due to COVID-19 in India was at 507 and the number of cases at 15,712 on Sunday, according to the Union Health Ministry.

The prime minister, Javadekar said, kept a keen eye on the COVID spread outside India even when there was not a single case here and would tell his cabinet colleagues about its potential danger and seriousness.

India now has 700 COVID-19 hospitals, over one lakh isolation beds, more than 11,000 ICUs for coronavirus patients and has begun manufacturing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), rapid test kits and masks that it did not do earlier, he added.

The Union minister said the partial resumption of economic activities, including all agriculture-related work, fishery and dairy works besides industries active in rural areas, under the prescribed guidelines will be a good relief to the rural economy.

The work under MNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) will also start, he noted, adding that over 13 crore families will benefit.

A day before a host of relaxations to boost economic activities kick in amid the nationwide lockdown, Union minister Prakash Javadekar said on Sunday that more relief measures are bound to come if India continues to manage the coronavirus crisis well, asserting that "you cannot (have) lockdown permanently".

A day before a host of relaxations to boost economic activities kick in amid the nationwide lockdown, Union minister Prakash Javadekar said on Sunday that more relief measures are bound to come if India continues to manage the coronavirus crisis well, asserting that "you cannot (have) lockdown permanently". In an interview to PTI, the information and broadcasting minister also called for fully observing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's request to people to stay wherever they are amid a row over the UP government's decision to send buses to Kota in Rajasthan to bring back students stuck there. Also read | EXCLUSIVE: Mission has set up teams to reach out to Indians stranded, says Indian envoy to UK "I will not go into any particular incident but let me make it clear that the Prime Minister has spoken about people facing hardship when they are away from home. He has advised them to stay wherever you are. That is the real point," he said when asked about the incident. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has objected to the development, saying it was against the spirit of lockdown, and some opposition leaders have questioned as to why then the central government is not making provisions for stranded migrant labourers to return to their homes. "Our policy is stay wherever you are and help each other," Javadekar said, adding that Modi's appeal in this regard should be observed 100 per cent. A member of the group of ministers to oversee the measures to combat the pandemic, he said unlike leaders in some other countries, who are "confused" between the choices of shutdown and letting economic activities pick up, PM Modi is "not in two minds" about the way forward and knows what needed to be done and when. "He gave the call of lockdown at the right time and is now partially allowing economic activity while the lockdown continues. With such a (huge) population we have managed well, if this continues we will get more relief," he said. While the relaxations starting from April 20 are primarily aimed at boosting the rural economy, Javadekar expressed confidence that economic activities will start in cities as well "sooner than later". "The lockdown has been very successfully conducted. The world is praising it because this is the way to fight the coronavirus. But even after this you cannot (have) lockdown permanently. It was needed to start economic activity. "The world has seen that in such a pandemic the country which saves lives actually then gets better... We have saved lives and at the same time we must start economic activity. To that end Prime Minister has partially opened economic activities," he said. To a question about Rahul Gandhi's claim that the lockdown is not a solution to the pandemic, he took a dig at him, saying that the Congress leader must be "more knowledgable" about COVID-19 than others. "The world is praising India for timely lockdown and its good implementation. Compared to what we are witnessing in western countries, we are doing much better," the senior BJP leader said, in an apparent reference to thousands of deaths in developed countries like the US, France and Italy. The toll due to COVID-19 in India was at 507 and the number of cases at 15,712 on Sunday, according to the Union Health Ministry. The prime minister, Javadekar said, kept a keen eye on the COVID spread outside India even when there was not a single case here and would tell his cabinet colleagues about its potential danger and seriousness. India now has 700 COVID-19 hospitals, over one lakh isolation beds, more than 11,000 ICUs for coronavirus patients and has begun manufacturing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), rapid test kits and masks that it did not do earlier, he added. The Union minister said the partial resumption of economic activities, including all agriculture-related work, fishery and dairy works besides industries active in rural areas, under the prescribed guidelines will be a good relief to the rural economy. The work under MNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) will also start, he noted, adding that over 13 crore families will benefit.

More relaxations in offing if India continues to manage coronavirus well: Prakash Javadekar

Indian Economy could grow less than 2% this year, so what does that number means for you?

Indian economy could grow less than 2% this year, what does this means for you?

India on Saturday updated its coronavirus figures with 480 new deaths and the number of infections rising to 14,378.&nbsp;

At least 1,991 people in India have been cured and discharged, the Union Health Ministry said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-india-update-21-navy-personnel-in-western-naval-command-test-positive-293257">Coronavirus India update: 21 Navy personnel in Western Naval Command test positive</a>

As many as 76 foreign nationals are also included in the coronavirus infection list.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-lockdown-ramayan-gets-thumbs-up-from-the-younger-generation-as-well-293216">Coronavirus lockdown: 'Ramayan' gets thumbs up from the younger generation as well</a>

Since Friday evening, 28 deaths have been reported, which includes 12 fatalities from Madhya Pradesh, seven from Maharashtra, and four, three, from Delhi and Gujarat respectively.&nbsp;

One each died of coronavirus in Jammu and Kashmir and Bihar.

Out of the total 480 total fatalities, Maharashtra records the highest 201, followed by Madhya Pradesh with 69, Delhi with 42, Gujarat with 41 and Telengana with 18.

In Tamil Nadu, 15 died of COVID-19, while 14 each died in Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. &nbsp;

Punjab and Karnataka have confirmed 13 deaths each.

The highest number of COVID-19 cases in India are also in Maharashtra at 3,323. Delhi has witnessed 1,707 coronavirus infections and is followed by Tamil Nadu with 1,323 and Madhya Pradesh with 1,310 cases.

Telengana, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala are next in order with 766, 572 and 396 cases respectively.&nbsp;

India on Saturday updated its coronavirus figures with 480 new deaths and the number of infections rising to 14,378. At least 1,991 people in India have been cured and discharged, the Union Health Ministry said.

India on Saturday updated its coronavirus figures with 480 new deaths and the number of infections rising to 14,378. At least 1,991 people in India have been cured and discharged, the Union Health Ministry said. Also read | Coronavirus India update: 21 Navy personnel in Western Naval Command test positive As many as 76 foreign nationals are also included in the coronavirus infection list. Also read | Coronavirus lockdown: 'Ramayan' gets thumbs up from the younger generation as well Since Friday evening, 28 deaths have been reported, which includes 12 fatalities from Madhya Pradesh, seven from Maharashtra, and four, three, from Delhi and Gujarat respectively. One each died of coronavirus in Jammu and Kashmir and Bihar. Out of the total 480 total fatalities, Maharashtra records the highest 201, followed by Madhya Pradesh with 69, Delhi with 42, Gujarat with 41 and Telengana with 18. In Tamil Nadu, 15 died of COVID-19, while 14 each died in Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Punjab and Karnataka have confirmed 13 deaths each. The highest number of COVID-19 cases in India are also in Maharashtra at 3,323. Delhi has witnessed 1,707 coronavirus infections and is followed by Tamil Nadu with 1,323 and Madhya Pradesh with 1,310 cases. Telengana, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala are next in order with 766, 572 and 396 cases respectively.

Death toll from coronavirus in India nears 500, more than 14,000 infected

As the world observes the International Day for Monuments and Sites, also known as World Heritage Day on 18 April, we bring you top 5 breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are worth visiting.

Top 5 World Heritage Sites to Visit

Countries who are struggling to contain COVID-19 earlier complained of faulty testing kits and now sources in the Indian Health Ministry have confirmed too that Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) kits that were received from China have failed quality tests.&nbsp;

Earlier, Spain, Slovakia, Turkey, Finland and Britain were some of the countries that complained of faulty and substandard kits received from China.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-once-chinas-coronavirus-epicentre-raises-death-toll-by-50-293040">Wuhan, once China's coronavirus epicentre raises death toll by 50%</a>

PPE comprises gloves, mask and a gown and is worn by medical personnel for novel coronavirus treatment.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-india-steps-up-procurement-of-testing-ppe-kits-from-abroad-293056">Coronavirus: India steps up procurement of testing, PPE kits from abroad</a>

The sources in the Indian health ministry also said nearly 50,000 testing kits failed quality tests.&nbsp;Georgia earlier wanted to buy rapid coronavirus test kits from China, but, now the country has suspended the agreement.&nbsp;

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1/2 China export "defective" masks to the Netherlands? True story about masks purchased by a Dutch procurement agent: the Chinese manufacturer stated clearly that they are non-surgical &amp; the exported customs clearing procedures were also under the name of "non-surgical masks".
— Spokesperson发言人办公室 (@MFA_China) <a href="https://twitter.com/MFA_China/status/1245749448841416704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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— Spokesperson发言人办公室 (@MFA_China) <a href="https://twitter.com/MFA_China/status/1245749451446054913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Netherlands is planning to return 600,000 face masks purchased from China after the N95 gears were found to not fit properly and filters were not working. China, instead of apologising to the Dutch, blamed them for not reading instructions.&nbsp;

Countries who are struggling to contain COVID-19 earlier complained of faulty testing kits and now sources in the Indian Health Ministry have confirmed too that Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) kits that were received from China have failed quality tests.

Countries who are struggling to contain COVID-19 earlier complained of faulty testing kits and now sources in the Indian Health Ministry have confirmed too that Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) kits that were received from China have failed quality tests. Earlier, Spain, Slovakia, Turkey, Finland and Britain were some of the countries that complained of faulty and substandard kits received from China. Also read | Wuhan, once China's coronavirus epicentre raises death toll by 50% PPE comprises gloves, mask and a gown and is worn by medical personnel for novel coronavirus treatment. Also read | Coronavirus: India steps up procurement of testing, PPE kits from abroad The sources in the Indian health ministry also said nearly 50,000 testing kits failed quality tests. Georgia earlier wanted to buy rapid coronavirus test kits from China, but, now the country has suspended the agreement. 1/2 China export "defective" masks to the Netherlands? True story about masks purchased by a Dutch procurement agent: the Chinese manufacturer stated clearly that they are non-surgical & the exported customs clearing procedures were also under the name of "non-surgical masks". — Spokesperson发言人办公室 (@MFA_China) April 2, 2020 × 2/2 Masks of various category offer different levels of protection, for day-to-day use and for medical purposes. Pls Double-check the instructions to make sure that you ordered, paid for and distributed the right ones. Do not use non-surgical masks for surgical purposes. — Spokesperson发言人办公室 (@MFA_China) April 2, 2020 × The Netherlands is planning to return 600,000 face masks purchased from China after the N95 gears were found to not fit properly and filters were not working. China, instead of apologising to the Dutch, blamed them for not reading instructions.

Coronavirus: India joins the league of nations that receive faulty kits from China

As many as 17 people are arrested after a mob pelted stones at a medical team who tried to take a coronavirus-infected patient into isolation in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad district on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Police arrested 17 people including seven women for their alleged involvement in the incident under various sections of the IPC, Criminal Law Amendment Act and Epidemic Act, a Home department official said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-due-to-covid-19-in-india-rises-to-414-cases-climb-to-12380-292778">Death toll due to COVID-19 in India rises to 414; cases climb to 12380</a>

Officials said a doctor and three paramedics were injured in the stone-pelting and a police vehicle and an ambulance were also damaged. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-5-who-died-of-covid-19-in-bhopal-were-1984-gas-tragedy-victims-292766">All 5 who died of COVID-19 in Bhopal were 1984 gas tragedy victims</a>

The mob suddenly appeared as the ambulance was taking away COVID-19 positive man and started pelting stones, Moradabad Chief Medical Officer Milind Garg said.&nbsp;

Officials also said that the mob tried to stop the ambulance as it was driving&nbsp;away the patient.&nbsp;

After the incident, UP CM Yogi Adityanath said those involved in the act would face action under the stringent National Security Act, and the damage costs would be recovered from the perpetrators.&nbsp;

In a statement, Adityanath condemned the attack on police, health personnel and those involved in sanitisation work and called it "unpardonable".

Moradabad District Magistrate Rakesh Kumar Singh said that the mob violence was brought under control and the deployment of police was beefed up in the area.&nbsp;

As many as 17 people are arrested after a mob pelted stones at a medical team who tried to take a coronavirus-infected patient into isolation in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad district on Wednesday.

As many as 17 people are arrested after a mob pelted stones at a medical team who tried to take a coronavirus-infected patient into isolation in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad district on Wednesday. Police arrested 17 people including seven women for their alleged involvement in the incident under various sections of the IPC, Criminal Law Amendment Act and Epidemic Act, a Home department official said. Also read | Death toll due to COVID-19 in India rises to 414; cases climb to 12380 Officials said a doctor and three paramedics were injured in the stone-pelting and a police vehicle and an ambulance were also damaged. Also read | All 5 who died of COVID-19 in Bhopal were 1984 gas tragedy victims The mob suddenly appeared as the ambulance was taking away COVID-19 positive man and started pelting stones, Moradabad Chief Medical Officer Milind Garg said. Officials also said that the mob tried to stop the ambulance as it was driving away the patient. After the incident, UP CM Yogi Adityanath said those involved in the act would face action under the stringent National Security Act, and the damage costs would be recovered from the perpetrators. In a statement, Adityanath condemned the attack on police, health personnel and those involved in sanitisation work and called it "unpardonable". Moradabad District Magistrate Rakesh Kumar Singh said that the mob violence was brought under control and the deployment of police was beefed up in the area.

17 arrested for mob violence against health workers in UP's Moradabad

The United States, which is facing the world's worst coronavirus crisis, is arranging for flights to bring back its citizens from India. But a lot of them don't want to go back. On the contrary, Indians living and working in the US need visa extensions to stay in the country. Amongst these Indians, there are some doctors and nurses, who are helping America to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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So far, 13,000 Americans have been evacuated from India. However, more than 24,000 US nationals are currently in the country and five flights are scheduled for this week to rescue them. But, most of the these people are unwilling to return to home.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worst-is-over-says-new-york-governor-as-covid-19-death-toll-crosses-10000-292316">Worst is over, says New York governor as COVID-19 death toll crosses 10,000</a>

Reportedly, the American Embassy called nearly 800 US citizens in India and only 10 wanted to fly back.&nbsp;

However, the uncertainity of Indians in American remains and the ones affected are those whose visas are expired and whose vias extensions have been delayed. These include healthcare professionals and researchers.

Over 300,000 Indians who are techies and working on H-1B visas are unsure whether their visas will get an extension.&nbsp;

The pandemic has caused an economic downturn and US employers cut a record 701,000 jobs in March. However, practically, it will not be possible for so many Indians to come back to India. And this is the reason why Indian government is urging the US to extend H-1B and other visas.&nbsp;

Two weeks back, the US received about 275,000 requests for H-1B visas, three times more than the mandated 85,000. More than 67% of the applications were from Indians.&nbsp;

At this juncture, India is not just providing the US with HCQ, but taking care of its citizens too. But, tens of thousands Indians future in America look edgy.&nbsp;

The United States, which is facing the world's worst coronavirus crisis, is arranging for flights to bring back its citizens from India. But a lot of them don't want to go back.

The United States, which is facing the world's worst coronavirus crisis, is arranging for flights to bring back its citizens from India. But a lot of them don't want to go back. On the contrary, Indians living and working in the US need visa extensions to stay in the country. Amongst these Indians, there are some doctors and nurses, who are helping America to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch | So far, 13,000 Americans have been evacuated from India. However, more than 24,000 US nationals are currently in the country and five flights are scheduled for this week to rescue them. But, most of the these people are unwilling to return to home. Also read | Worst is over, says New York governor as COVID-19 death toll crosses 10,000 Reportedly, the American Embassy called nearly 800 US citizens in India and only 10 wanted to fly back. However, the uncertainity of Indians in American remains and the ones affected are those whose visas are expired and whose vias extensions have been delayed. These include healthcare professionals and researchers. Over 300,000 Indians who are techies and working on H-1B visas are unsure whether their visas will get an extension. The pandemic has caused an economic downturn and US employers cut a record 701,000 jobs in March. However, practically, it will not be possible for so many Indians to come back to India. And this is the reason why Indian government is urging the US to extend H-1B and other visas. Two weeks back, the US received about 275,000 requests for H-1B visas, three times more than the mandated 85,000. More than 67% of the applications were from Indians. At this juncture, India is not just providing the US with HCQ, but taking care of its citizens too. But, tens of thousands Indians future in America look edgy.

Coronavirus: Americans in India don't want to return, but are Indians safe in US?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing nation over the current status of Coronavirus in India. Recently, the Prime Minister held a meeting with the chief ministers of various states to discuss the extension of the lockdown and the future course of action to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.

PM Modi's address to the nation over COVID-19

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