Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke on phone today with Mahmoud Abbas, President of Palestine and conveyed greetings to the President and the people of Palestine, for the forthcoming holy month of Ramzan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke on phone today with Mahmoud Abbas, President of Palestine and conveyed greetings to the President and the people of Palestine, for the forthcoming holy month of Ramzan. Modi also appreciated the efforts being made by Palestine authorities to protect their population from the virus. He also assured all possible support from India for these efforts. The two leaders agreed to remain in touch at appropriate levels to explore avenues of cooperation at this challenging time. The two leaders also discussed the challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and apprised each other of the steps being taken in their respective countries to control the situation.

PM Modi conveys Ramzan greetings to Palestine President Abbas in telephonic conversation 

The Prime Minister Office announced on Monday that PM Narendra Modi would address the nation tomorrow. Immediately after the announcement on Twitter, people started speculating another nationwide lockdown as the first would be over by April 14.

And amid times of uncertainty and gloom, Twitterati started amusing people with hilarious posts on what they are calling as "lockdown 2.0".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-covid-19-cases-rise-to-9152-308-deaths-reported-292179">India's COVID-19 cases rise to 9152; 308 deaths reported</a>

One user took this opportunity for a jibe on the recently released remake of Masakali, commenting "Lockdown 2.0 is still better than Masakali 2.0".&nbsp;

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Lockdown 2.0 is still better than Masakali 2.0
— 👀 (@fangirl_shira) <a href="https://twitter.com/fangirl_shira/status/1249622701993574402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Another person shared a meme of a popular movie 'Welcome' starring Akshay Kumar, and the post said: "seh lenge thoda", implying we will bear with this.&nbsp;

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*NEWS* - "Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 10 AM tomorrow." 
 
Everyone : guessing about Lockdown 2.0 and New Task 
 
Meanwhile <a href="https://t.co/6hKn4SYoGS">pic.twitter.com/6hKn4SYoGS</a>
— Bihar Reawakens (@BiharReawakens) <a href="https://twitter.com/BiharReawakens/status/1249636856242659328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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A Twitter user hoped that the government might home deliver panipuri this time. "Missing it badly," he added.&nbsp;

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I hope this time govt. would arrange home delivery services of panipuri during Lockdown 2.0 
 
Missing it badly😔😣 <a href="https://t.co/Ua3nfEiNJD">pic.twitter.com/Ua3nfEiNJD</a>
— ⓜⓐⓣⓤⓡⓔ ⓜⓐⓗⓘ (@miss_matured__) <a href="https://twitter.com/miss_matured__/status/1249635731049332738?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Govt: Raise your hand if you want hair cutting salon to be included in Emergency Services," a woman wrote on Twitter. it was followed by an image of people standing a stadium and raising hands.&nbsp;

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Lockdown 2.0 
Govt.: Raise your hand if you want hair cutting salon to be included in Emergency Services 😁 
People: <a href="https://t.co/sJkmptfziQ">pic.twitter.com/sJkmptfziQ</a>
— shalini sharma (@Sharmashalini05) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sharmashalini05/status/1249631475885957120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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A popular Bollywood movie 'Karan Arjun' was also not spared, with his popular dialogue "Mere Karan Arjun aayenge" (Karan Arjun will come back). In the post, PM Modi said, they would come, but after April 14, with the user saying this happened before a possible second lockdown.&nbsp;

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Before announcing Lockdown 2.0 
Raakhee ji asking to Modi ji 👇👇 <a href="https://t.co/Dg3yBj6MoO">pic.twitter.com/Dg3yBj6MoO</a>
— Dhaval (@Dhaval_KD) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dhaval_KD/status/1249634834953031680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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India is currently under a 21-day lockdown to contain the spread of novel coronavirus. However, when the lockdown was nearing its end, many states urged PM Modi to extend the lockdown by two more weeks. Some states, including Odisha, Maharashtra have already decided to extend the lockdown for two more weeks.&nbsp;

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The Prime Minister Office announced on Monday that PM Narendra Modi would address the nation tomorrow. Immediately after the announcement on Twitter, people started speculating another nationwide lockdown as the first would be over by April 14.

The Prime Minister Office announced on Monday that PM Narendra Modi would address the nation tomorrow. Immediately after the announcement on Twitter, people started speculating another nationwide lockdown as the first would be over by April 14. And amid times of uncertainty and gloom, Twitterati started amusing people with hilarious posts on what they are calling as "lockdown 2.0". Also read | India's COVID-19 cases rise to 9152; 308 deaths reported One user took this opportunity for a jibe on the recently released remake of Masakali, commenting "Lockdown 2.0 is still better than Masakali 2.0". Lockdown 2.0 is still better than Masakali 2.0 — 👀 (@fangirl_shira) April 13, 2020 × Another person shared a meme of a popular movie 'Welcome' starring Akshay Kumar, and the post said: "seh lenge thoda", implying we will bear with this. *NEWS* - "Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 10 AM tomorrow." Everyone : guessing about Lockdown 2.0 and New Task Meanwhile pic.twitter.com/6hKn4SYoGS — Bihar Reawakens (@BiharReawakens) April 13, 2020 × A Twitter user hoped that the government might home deliver panipuri this time. "Missing it badly," he added. I hope this time govt. would arrange home delivery services of panipuri during Lockdown 2.0 Missing it badly😔😣 pic.twitter.com/Ua3nfEiNJD — ⓜⓐⓣⓤⓡⓔ ⓜⓐⓗⓘ (@miss_matured__) April 13, 2020 × "Govt: Raise your hand if you want hair cutting salon to be included in Emergency Services," a woman wrote on Twitter. it was followed by an image of people standing a stadium and raising hands. Lockdown 2.0 Govt.: Raise your hand if you want hair cutting salon to be included in Emergency Services 😁 People: pic.twitter.com/sJkmptfziQ — shalini sharma (@Sharmashalini05) April 13, 2020 × A popular Bollywood movie 'Karan Arjun' was also not spared, with his popular dialogue "Mere Karan Arjun aayenge" (Karan Arjun will come back). In the post, PM Modi said, they would come, but after April 14, with the user saying this happened before a possible second lockdown. Before announcing Lockdown 2.0 Raakhee ji asking to Modi ji 👇👇 pic.twitter.com/Dg3yBj6MoO — Dhaval (@Dhaval_KD) April 13, 2020 × India is currently under a 21-day lockdown to contain the spread of novel coronavirus. However, when the lockdown was nearing its end, many states urged PM Modi to extend the lockdown by two more weeks. Some states, including Odisha, Maharashtra have already decided to extend the lockdown for two more weeks.

'Still better than Masakali 2.0': As PM Modi set to address nation, netizens gear up for another lockdown

India is continuously facing the challenges to implement lockdown strictly across the country. Policemen were brutally attacked in Punjab meanwhile even a Uruguyan diplomat defies lockdown in Delhi and found cycling on Delhi streets.

Challenges of coronavirus lockdown in India

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place on April 13, 1919. British troops fired on hundreds of unarmed men, women and children in Amritsar. Official records put the death toll at 379, but historians say the number was closer to 1,000. 101 years on, Britain has not apologised for this deeply shameful chapter of its colonial past. Why do India's calls for a formal state apology from the British government continue to fall on deaf ears? Kishwar Desai, author of 'Jallianwala Bagh, 1919: The Real-Story' explains.

Jallianwala Bagh: Lest We Forget

Sources told WION that India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi is considering on extension of lockdown in India after having an important video conferencing with states & UT's Chief Ministers.

Source: PM Modi considering lockdown extension in India, after video conferencing with Chief Ministers

After reports claiming a spike in divorce rates last month made rounds on social media, a strikingly opposite take is now gaining traction.

An online application in China used for online marriage applications is now crashing due to the overwhelming number of demands.

Turns out, the lockdown has made some relationships more solid.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-faces-the-worst-crisis-since-great-depression-imf-chief-291720" hreflang="en">World faces the worst crisis since 'Great depression': IMF chief</a>

The 76-day lockdown was lifted on Wednesday in the city where the virus initially emerged.

According to a statement released by the company Alipay, a 300 per cent surge was recorded on the portal after the removal of the lockdown.

“The number of visits to the wedding appointment applet in Wuhan exceeded expectations, about 300 percent... which caused a temporary freeze. The appointment system did not collapse, but it may be a bit slow. Just refresh it a few more times,” the company said in a statement.

As 11 million people were quarantined from the rest of the world in February, marriage applications were halted.

Owing to this unexpected surge in the number of cases, the app was grounded for a few hours.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-coronavirus-deaths-top-16000-cases-near-500000-291694" hreflang="en">US coronavirus deaths top 16,000; cases near 5,00,000</a>

However, once the application was fixed, the number of registrations surged monumentally.

Marriage won’t be easy for Wuhan residents, as they must prove that they are coronavirus negative, otherwise they will not be given a registration appointment.

The app also offers an option to check trending baby names.

Alipay “didn’t expect the strong demand for marriage services after an earlier surge in divorce appointments.”

After reports claiming a spike in divorce rates last month made rounds on social media, a strikingly opposite take is now gaining traction. An online application in China used for online marriage applications is now crashing due to the overwhelming number of demands.

After reports claiming a spike in divorce rates last month made rounds on social media, a strikingly opposite take is now gaining traction. An online application in China used for online marriage applications is now crashing due to the overwhelming number of demands. Turns out, the lockdown has made some relationships more solid. Also read: World faces the worst crisis since 'Great depression': IMF chief The 76-day lockdown was lifted on Wednesday in the city where the virus initially emerged. According to a statement released by the company Alipay, a 300 per cent surge was recorded on the portal after the removal of the lockdown. “The number of visits to the wedding appointment applet in Wuhan exceeded expectations, about 300 percent... which caused a temporary freeze. The appointment system did not collapse, but it may be a bit slow. Just refresh it a few more times,” the company said in a statement. As 11 million people were quarantined from the rest of the world in February, marriage applications were halted. Owing to this unexpected surge in the number of cases, the app was grounded for a few hours. Also read: US coronavirus deaths top 16,000; cases near 5,00,000 However, once the application was fixed, the number of registrations surged monumentally. Marriage won’t be easy for Wuhan residents, as they must prove that they are coronavirus negative, otherwise they will not be given a registration appointment. The app also offers an option to check trending baby names. Alipay “didn’t expect the strong demand for marriage services after an earlier surge in divorce appointments.”

Chinese app records 300% surge in marriage appointments as Wuhan lockdown ends

Pakistan is struggling to fight Coronavirus (COVID-19) as persistent rise has been witnessed in number of positive cases. China advises the 21-day lockdown to Pakistan.

Pakistan struggles to fight COVID-19, China advises 21-day lockdown to Pak

The Malaysian government has requested hydroxychloroquine from India to deal with COVID even as New Delhi gets the request from 30 countries for the drug. Hydroxychloroquine or HCQ is being called as a game-changer drug in the fight against COVID.

India has got a request for HCQ from US, Brazil, Gulf, Europe and now from South East Asia. Hydroxychloroquine or HCQ is banned from being exported but India will give licensed quantities. Earlier in the week, the ministry of external affairs said the neighbourhood will be India's priority in giving licenced Hydroxychloroquine and then to countries "badly" impacted by it. As far as the order which are is already given by countries--like the US, the "export commitments" can be allowed.

India plans to get some medical equipment from Malaysia, among other countries. New Delhi will get 2 lac personal protection equipment PPE kits (which includes N95 masks) from a company from Malaysia's neighbour Singapore from 11th April. India had placed an order of 80 lakh PPE to the Singapore company.

Indian mission&nbsp;helps stranded Indians in Malaysia&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India has got over a thousand Indians nationals back from home and the Indian mission in Kuala Lumpur is in touch with Indians still stranded in Malaysia. The Indian high commissioner to Malaysia Mridul Kumar had met the Indian tourist stranded in the South East Asian country.113 Indias stranded in transit in Malaysia due to travel restrictions were sent back last month to India.

The mission has arranged accommodation, food and medicines for Indians with assistance from local partners and requested its nationals to respect the movement restrictions announced by the Malaysian Govt.

India Malaysia ties which had suffered a set back during the tenure of Former Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad, which had raked up Kashmir and India's Citizenship Amendment Law many times drawing the wrath of New Delhi.&nbsp;

Things look optimistic under the new Malaysian leadership of Muhyiddin Yassin. Last month, the new Malaysian Foreign Minister Hishammuddin Hussein had met the Indian envoy and in a tweet said, "Malaysia and India’s relationship must be nurtured and consolidated to ensure we explore a new chapter together, looking forward to stronger ties for our mutual benefit."

The Malaysian government has requested hydroxychloroquine from India to deal with COVID even as New Delhi gets the request from 30 countries for the drug. Hydroxychloroquine or HCQ is being called as a game-changer drug in the fight against COVID.

The Malaysian government has requested hydroxychloroquine from India to deal with COVID even as New Delhi gets the request from 30 countries for the drug. Hydroxychloroquine or HCQ is being called as a game-changer drug in the fight against COVID. India has got a request for HCQ from US, Brazil, Gulf, Europe and now from South East Asia. Hydroxychloroquine or HCQ is banned from being exported but India will give licensed quantities. Earlier in the week, the ministry of external affairs said the neighbourhood will be India's priority in giving licenced Hydroxychloroquine and then to countries "badly" impacted by it. As far as the order which are is already given by countries--like the US, the "export commitments" can be allowed. India plans to get some medical equipment from Malaysia, among other countries. New Delhi will get 2 lac personal protection equipment PPE kits (which includes N95 masks) from a company from Malaysia's neighbour Singapore from 11th April. India had placed an order of 80 lakh PPE to the Singapore company. Indian mission helps stranded Indians in Malaysia Meanwhile, India has got over a thousand Indians nationals back from home and the Indian mission in Kuala Lumpur is in touch with Indians still stranded in Malaysia. The Indian high commissioner to Malaysia Mridul Kumar had met the Indian tourist stranded in the South East Asian country.113 Indias stranded in transit in Malaysia due to travel restrictions were sent back last month to India. The mission has arranged accommodation, food and medicines for Indians with assistance from local partners and requested its nationals to respect the movement restrictions announced by the Malaysian Govt. India Malaysia ties which had suffered a set back during the tenure of Former Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad, which had raked up Kashmir and India's Citizenship Amendment Law many times drawing the wrath of New Delhi. Things look optimistic under the new Malaysian leadership of Muhyiddin Yassin. Last month, the new Malaysian Foreign Minister Hishammuddin Hussein had met the Indian envoy and in a tweet said, "Malaysia and India’s relationship must be nurtured and consolidated to ensure we explore a new chapter together, looking forward to stronger ties for our mutual benefit."

Malaysia requests hydroxychloroquine from India

A sizeable chunk of the 29 million doses of hydroxychloroquine bought by the US to combat the coronavirus pandemic is from India, President Donald Trump has said as he acknowledged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "great" when he sought his help to allow the sale of the anti-malaria drug to treat the growing number of COVID-19 patients in America.

Trump and Prime Minister Modi spoke over the phone last week. During the call, Trump requested Modi to lift the hold on the American order of hydroxychloroquine, of which India is the major producer.

Hydroxychloroquine has been identified by the US Food and Drug Administration as a possible treatment for the COVID-19 and it is being tested on more than 1,500 coronavirus patients in New York.

Anticipating that it will work, given initial positive results, Trump has bought more than 29 million doses of hydroxychloroquine for the potential treatment of COVID-19 patients.

"I bought millions of doses (of hydroxychloroquine). More than 29 million. I spoke to Prime Minister Modi, a lot of it (hydroxychloroquine) comes out of India. I asked him if he would release it? He was Great. He was really good," Trump told Sean Hannity of the Fox News on Monday night.

"You know they put a stop because they wanted it for India,"&nbsp;Trump said responding to a question on the usage of hydroxychloroquine.

India on Tuesday allowed the export of hydroxychloroquine to the US, which has emerged as the global hotspot of COVID-19.

By Tuesday night, nearly four lakh Americans tested positive for the novel coronavirus and the fatalities was more than 12,850. During the interview, Trump described hydroxychloroquine as a powerful malaria drug. The drug is being tested on hundreds of coronavirus patients in New York.

"But there are a lot of good things coming from that,"&nbsp;Trump said.

"Lot of people are looking at it and saying, you know I don't hear bad stories, I hear good stories. And I don't hear anything where it is causing death,"&nbsp;said the US President.

Hydroxychloroquine, an old and inexpensive drug used to treat malaria, is seen as a viable therapeutic solution by President Trump to coronavirus.

Last week Trump said he has sought help from Prime Minister Modi to allow the sale of hydroxychloroquine tablets ordered by the US to treat the growing number of coronavirus patients in his country, hours after India banned the export of the anti-malarial drug.

India has received similar requests from several other countries including its immediate neighbours Sri Lanka and Nepal. India has said that it is reviewing its export ban order.

Notably, India's decision to ban the exports of hydroxychloroquine is driven by its desire to take stock of the domestic requirements and ensure that the country has enough of the drug.

"I would be surprised if he would, you know, because India does very well with the United States," Trump told reporters during a press briefing at the White House on Monday.

Trump and Modi enjoy a personal friendship as reflected in the president joining the prime minister at the "Howdy, Modi!" event in Houston last September.

This February, Trump made a rare India-specific solo trip to Ahmedabad and New Delhi.

India on Monday agreed to lift the ban on export of hydroxychloroquine to the US. Three Gujarat-based companies would export these tablets to the US, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said on Tuesday.

India manufactures 70 per cent of the world's supply of hydroxychloroquine, according to Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA) secretary-general Sudarshan Jain.

The country has a production capacity of 40 tonnes of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) every month, implying 20 crore tablets of 200 mg each. And since the drug is also used to auto-immune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, manufacturers have good production capacities that can also be ramped up.&nbsp;

A sizeable chunk of the 29 million doses of hydroxychloroquine bought by the US to combat the coronavirus pandemic is from India, President Donald Trump has said as he acknowledged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "great" when he sought his help to allow the sale of the anti-malaria drug to treat the growing number of COVID-19 patients in America.

A sizeable chunk of the 29 million doses of hydroxychloroquine bought by the US to combat the coronavirus pandemic is from India, President Donald Trump has said as he acknowledged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "great" when he sought his help to allow the sale of the anti-malaria drug to treat the growing number of COVID-19 patients in America. Trump and Prime Minister Modi spoke over the phone last week. During the call, Trump requested Modi to lift the hold on the American order of hydroxychloroquine, of which India is the major producer. Hydroxychloroquine has been identified by the US Food and Drug Administration as a possible treatment for the COVID-19 and it is being tested on more than 1,500 coronavirus patients in New York. Anticipating that it will work, given initial positive results, Trump has bought more than 29 million doses of hydroxychloroquine for the potential treatment of COVID-19 patients. "I bought millions of doses (of hydroxychloroquine). More than 29 million. I spoke to Prime Minister Modi, a lot of it (hydroxychloroquine) comes out of India. I asked him if he would release it? He was Great. He was really good," Trump told Sean Hannity of the Fox News on Monday night. "You know they put a stop because they wanted it for India," Trump said responding to a question on the usage of hydroxychloroquine. India on Tuesday allowed the export of hydroxychloroquine to the US, which has emerged as the global hotspot of COVID-19. By Tuesday night, nearly four lakh Americans tested positive for the novel coronavirus and the fatalities was more than 12,850. During the interview, Trump described hydroxychloroquine as a powerful malaria drug. The drug is being tested on hundreds of coronavirus patients in New York. "But there are a lot of good things coming from that," Trump said. "Lot of people are looking at it and saying, you know I don't hear bad stories, I hear good stories. And I don't hear anything where it is causing death," said the US President. Hydroxychloroquine, an old and inexpensive drug used to treat malaria, is seen as a viable therapeutic solution by President Trump to coronavirus. Last week Trump said he has sought help from Prime Minister Modi to allow the sale of hydroxychloroquine tablets ordered by the US to treat the growing number of coronavirus patients in his country, hours after India banned the export of the anti-malarial drug. India has received similar requests from several other countries including its immediate neighbours Sri Lanka and Nepal. India has said that it is reviewing its export ban order. Notably, India's decision to ban the exports of hydroxychloroquine is driven by its desire to take stock of the domestic requirements and ensure that the country has enough of the drug. "I would be surprised if he would, you know, because India does very well with the United States," Trump told reporters during a press briefing at the White House on Monday. Trump and Modi enjoy a personal friendship as reflected in the president joining the prime minister at the "Howdy, Modi!" event in Houston last September. This February, Trump made a rare India-specific solo trip to Ahmedabad and New Delhi. India on Monday agreed to lift the ban on export of hydroxychloroquine to the US. Three Gujarat-based companies would export these tablets to the US, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said on Tuesday. India manufactures 70 per cent of the world's supply of hydroxychloroquine, according to Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA) secretary-general Sudarshan Jain. The country has a production capacity of 40 tonnes of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) every month, implying 20 crore tablets of 200 mg each. And since the drug is also used to auto-immune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, manufacturers have good production capacities that can also be ramped up.

US bought over 29 million hydroxychloroquine doses from India: Trump

30 countries have requested India to lift the ban on the export for a medicine - that could potentially help in curing Coronavirus patients. Can India export key medicines to the world right now, while ensuring there is enough for Indians?

Wuhan Coronavirus: 30 countries request India for medicine supplies | Gravitas

India has spent 14 days in a nation-wide lockdown. There is still a week to go for the 21-day lockdown period to end. The number of cases is on the rise as the government ramps up testing and containment measures. So far, India has reported over 4,400 cases and over 110 deaths.

The coronavirus pandemic progresses in four stages: India is still between stage 2 -- local transmission -- and stage 3 -- community transmission. So far, there has been no evidence of widespread community transmission. This explains why India took much longer to reach the 4,000-mark than the worst-affected countries in the world.

India's curve is much steeper than Singapore and Japan but much flatter and restrained to the trio of Spain, Italy and France, who are facing the worst of the pandemic. In the last 24 hours, India has reported 354 new cases and eight deaths. So far, over 325 people have been discharged after recovery.

The rapid spread of the virus over the last week has been a concern. India had registered 500 plus cases for four days in a row. But, that streak has come to an end. India reported fewer than 400 cases over the last 24 hours. However, if you study the numbers, India has reported over half its cases in the last five days.

 
There are several factors:

Testing has gone up. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), over 11,000 tests were conducted in 24 hours. So far, India has tested over a lakh people. India's current capacity stands at 13,000 tests per day.

The government is going to ensure that ICMR gets over 7 lakh rapid test kits. With the new quick test kits, ICMR says India can test over a lakh people each day.

Tablighi Jamaat, the religious congregation held at Delhi's Nizamuddin shrine in mid-march has emerged as the latest hotspot. Government estimate suggests that over 8,000 people -- including foreigners -- attended the event. Over 1,400 cases are linked to the event. That's one-third of the cases detected in India.

The health ministry has said that these cases have spread across 17 states and union territories. The number of cases in India is doubling much faster. Earlier, the number of cases doubled once in a week. Now, the health ministry has said that the number of cases is doubling once every 4 days. This is largely attributed to the Tablighi Jamaat event along with increased testing.&nbsp;

The centre has identified 22 potential hotspots even as new coronavirus hotspots emerging in India. Hotspots are areas with a disproportionate number of COVID-19 cases. There are three such virus hotspots within a 50-kilometre radius of the national capital. In terms of states -- five states contribute over 60 per cent cases recorded across the country.&nbsp;

Maharashtra leads with over 700 cases. So far, the lockdown has made it easier to keep the cases in check. During the daily briefing today, health secretary Luv Agarwal quoted an ICMR study to highlight the use of social distancing and lockdown.&nbsp;

He said the study indicated that one COVID-19 patient can infect 406 people in 30 days if he or she does not follow the lockdown. There is widespread speculation over whether PM Modi will extend the nationwide lockdown after April 14.

If remarks of some chief ministers are anything to go by, the lockdown is certain to be lifted, though it may be done in a staggered manner.

India has spent 14 days in a nation-wide lockdown. There is still a week to go for the 21-day lockdown period to end. The number of cases is on the rise as the government ramps up testing and containment measures.

India has spent 14 days in a nation-wide lockdown. There is still a week to go for the 21-day lockdown period to end. The number of cases is on the rise as the government ramps up testing and containment measures. So far, India has reported over 4,400 cases and over 110 deaths. The coronavirus pandemic progresses in four stages: India is still between stage 2 -- local transmission -- and stage 3 -- community transmission. So far, there has been no evidence of widespread community transmission. This explains why India took much longer to reach the 4,000-mark than the worst-affected countries in the world. India's curve is much steeper than Singapore and Japan but much flatter and restrained to the trio of Spain, Italy and France, who are facing the worst of the pandemic. In the last 24 hours, India has reported 354 new cases and eight deaths. So far, over 325 people have been discharged after recovery. The rapid spread of the virus over the last week has been a concern. India had registered 500 plus cases for four days in a row. But, that streak has come to an end. India reported fewer than 400 cases over the last 24 hours. However, if you study the numbers, India has reported over half its cases in the last five days. There are several factors: Testing has gone up. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), over 11,000 tests were conducted in 24 hours. So far, India has tested over a lakh people. India's current capacity stands at 13,000 tests per day. The government is going to ensure that ICMR gets over 7 lakh rapid test kits. With the new quick test kits, ICMR says India can test over a lakh people each day. Tablighi Jamaat, the religious congregation held at Delhi's Nizamuddin shrine in mid-march has emerged as the latest hotspot. Government estimate suggests that over 8,000 people -- including foreigners -- attended the event. Over 1,400 cases are linked to the event. That's one-third of the cases detected in India. The health ministry has said that these cases have spread across 17 states and union territories. The number of cases in India is doubling much faster. Earlier, the number of cases doubled once in a week. Now, the health ministry has said that the number of cases is doubling once every 4 days. This is largely attributed to the Tablighi Jamaat event along with increased testing. The centre has identified 22 potential hotspots even as new coronavirus hotspots emerging in India. Hotspots are areas with a disproportionate number of COVID-19 cases. There are three such virus hotspots within a 50-kilometre radius of the national capital. In terms of states -- five states contribute over 60 per cent cases recorded across the country. Maharashtra leads with over 700 cases. So far, the lockdown has made it easier to keep the cases in check. During the daily briefing today, health secretary Luv Agarwal quoted an ICMR study to highlight the use of social distancing and lockdown. He said the study indicated that one COVID-19 patient can infect 406 people in 30 days if he or she does not follow the lockdown. There is widespread speculation over whether PM Modi will extend the nationwide lockdown after April 14. If remarks of some chief ministers are anything to go by, the lockdown is certain to be lifted, though it may be done in a staggered manner.

India ramps up testing as the country's fight against coronavirus continues

The total number of coronavirus cases in India today jumped to 4,067 after nearly 700 new infections were reported in past 24 hours, according to the latest data from Health Ministry.

COVID-19 Cases doubling in India every 4.1 days

The central government on Monday ruled that in order to fight the epidemic Coronavirus spreading in the country, the salaries of members of parliament and central cabinet ministers for one year will now be cut by 30%. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar informed that the Union Cabinet has approved an Ordinance amending the Members of Parliament Act, 1954 which reduce Members' salary, allowances and pension by 30% w.e.f. April 1 for a year.

India's President, VP, States' Governors voluntarily decide to take a pay cut to fight COVID-19

The US President Donald Trump requested Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to supply Hydroxychloroquine tablets to the United States, so that the drug can be used to treat COVID-19 patients.

US seeks India's help amid coronavirus outbreak

India has got requests from 30 countries for hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malarial drug to fight COVID-19. Several world leaders have personally raised the request with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the recent conversation they had with him.

From the US to Latin America to Europe, the request has come from several places which shows India's importance in the global pharma sector.&nbsp;

The government officials said while New Delhi is looking into the requests but will review domestic requirements first. Domestically India has allowed the use of hydroxychloroquine by medical and health care workers dealing with COVID-19 patients.

Indian PM Modi has spoken to 15 world leaders since the outbreak which includes German German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Emmanuel Macron, US President Donald Trump, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad al Thani, Prime Minister of Spain Pedro Sanchez Perez-Castejon, Saudi Crown prince Mohammed bin Salman. One of the main aims of the conversation is to chalk out a global strategy to deal with the crisis.&nbsp;

PM Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have spoken twice in the last few weeks. Readout from the Indian government on April 3rd talks said, "The leaders explored possible collaboration between India and Israel in fighting the pandemic, including by improving availability of pharmaceutical supplies"

India has confirmed that it has received American request for hydroxychloroquine and is looking into the request. US President Donald Trump had on Saturday said he has requested India to release hydroxychloroquine it had ordered.

US President said, "I called PM Modi of India...they make large amounts of hydroxychloroquine, very large amounts frankly. And I said, they had a hold, they have 1.5 billion people, and I said, I would appreciate it if they would release the amounts we have ordered and they are giving it serious consideration. India makes a lot of it."

The Indian read out of PM Modi-US president talks said both leaders "agreed to deploy the full strength of the India – US partnership to resolutely and effectively combat COVID-19" and exchanged notes on the "respective steps taken in each country for mitigating the health and economic impacts of the pandemic."

Trump has backed hydroxychloroquine as a solution to the COVID-19 crisis calling it "game-changer", though it is not back completely by the medical community.&nbsp;

In an order issued on April 4th, India's Directorate General of Foreign Trade announced the total prohibition of the export of hydroxychloroquine &amp; formulations made of hydroxychloroquine "without exception".

In an earlier order issued on March 25th, the DGFT had announced export hydroxychloroquine except under three exceptions which have been deleted in the new order. 
&nbsp;

India has got requests from 30 countries for hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malarial drug to fight COVID-19. Several world leaders have personally raised the request with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the recent conversation they had with him.

India has got requests from 30 countries for hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malarial drug to fight COVID-19. Several world leaders have personally raised the request with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the recent conversation they had with him. From the US to Latin America to Europe, the request has come from several places which shows India's importance in the global pharma sector. The government officials said while New Delhi is looking into the requests but will review domestic requirements first. Domestically India has allowed the use of hydroxychloroquine by medical and health care workers dealing with COVID-19 patients. Indian PM Modi has spoken to 15 world leaders since the outbreak which includes German German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Emmanuel Macron, US President Donald Trump, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad al Thani, Prime Minister of Spain Pedro Sanchez Perez-Castejon, Saudi Crown prince Mohammed bin Salman. One of the main aims of the conversation is to chalk out a global strategy to deal with the crisis. PM Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have spoken twice in the last few weeks. Readout from the Indian government on April 3rd talks said, "The leaders explored possible collaboration between India and Israel in fighting the pandemic, including by improving availability of pharmaceutical supplies" India has confirmed that it has received American request for hydroxychloroquine and is looking into the request. US President Donald Trump had on Saturday said he has requested India to release hydroxychloroquine it had ordered. US President said, "I called PM Modi of India...they make large amounts of hydroxychloroquine, very large amounts frankly. And I said, they had a hold, they have 1.5 billion people, and I said, I would appreciate it if they would release the amounts we have ordered and they are giving it serious consideration. India makes a lot of it." The Indian read out of PM Modi-US president talks said both leaders "agreed to deploy the full strength of the India – US partnership to resolutely and effectively combat COVID-19" and exchanged notes on the "respective steps taken in each country for mitigating the health and economic impacts of the pandemic." Trump has backed hydroxychloroquine as a solution to the COVID-19 crisis calling it "game-changer", though it is not back completely by the medical community. In an order issued on April 4th, India's Directorate General of Foreign Trade announced the total prohibition of the export of hydroxychloroquine & formulations made of hydroxychloroquine "without exception". In an earlier order issued on March 25th, the DGFT had announced export hydroxychloroquine except under three exceptions which have been deleted in the new order.

WION Exclusive: India gets request from 30 countries for hydroxychloroquine

An intranasal vacccine for COVID-19 is under development by Indian pharma company Bharat Biotech. It announced yesterday that a unique intranasal vacccine named 'CoroFlu' is under development.

Indian pharma begins development and testing of COVID-19 vaccine

The government on Friday said there is no shortage of medical supplies across the country to fight COVID-19 outbreak.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-urges-citizens-to-light-diyas-candles-on-sunday-at-9-pm-for-9-mins-to-dispel-darkness-brought-by-coronavirus-290268" hreflang="en">PM Modi urges citizens to light diyas, candles on Sunday at 9 pm for 9 mins</a>

"Government of India is making sure that all the essential medical supplies are in place to fight COVID-19. 62 lifeline Udan flights transported over 15.4 tons of essential medical supplies in last five days," Union Minister for Chemical and Fertilizers D V Sadanada Gowda said in a tweet.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-kovind-expresses-concern-over-attacks-on-police-medical-personnel-290394" hreflang="en">President Kovind expresses concern over attacks on police, medical personnel</a>

The government is also paying full attention to the manufacturing activities of essential items like pharmaceuticals and hospital devices. For this, over 200&nbsp;units in SEZs are operational, he added.

"A Central Control Room has also been set up for close monitoring of the distribution of essential medical items and to address logistic related issues," Gowda said.

The government on Friday said there is no shortage of medical supplies across the country to fight COVID-19 outbreak. Also read: PM Modi urges citizens to light diyas, candles on Sunday at 9 pm for 9 mins "Government of India is making sure that all the essential medical supplies are in place to fight COVID-19.

The government on Friday said there is no shortage of medical supplies across the country to fight COVID-19 outbreak. Also read: PM Modi urges citizens to light diyas, candles on Sunday at 9 pm for 9 mins "Government of India is making sure that all the essential medical supplies are in place to fight COVID-19. 62 lifeline Udan flights transported over 15.4 tons of essential medical supplies in last five days," Union Minister for Chemical and Fertilizers D V Sadanada Gowda said in a tweet. Also read: President Kovind expresses concern over attacks on police, medical personnel The government is also paying full attention to the manufacturing activities of essential items like pharmaceuticals and hospital devices. For this, over 200 units in SEZs are operational, he added. "A Central Control Room has also been set up for close monitoring of the distribution of essential medical items and to address logistic related issues," Gowda said.

No shortage of medical supplies to fight COVID-19 outbreak: Government

President Ram Nath Kovind expressed his concerns over a number of attacks on health and police personnel as he interacted with the vice president, governors, and lieutenant governors and administrators of all the states through video conferencing on Friday. &nbsp;

"President Kovind noted with concern the incidents of attacks on doctors, health workers and police personnel in some parts of the country," the official Twitter handle of the president wrote.&nbsp;

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President Kovind noted with concern the incidents of attacks on doctors, health workers and police personnel in some parts of the country.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1246035780222332928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In the video-conference held to discuss measures to fight COVID-19, the president also said barring a few incidents, the efforts to battle the outbreak "have been in the right direction, and we are moving with firm determination".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-cases-rise-to-2301-in-india-290314">Coronavirus cases rise to 2,301 in India</a>

President Kovind's comments came after several cases reported in India where doctors, medical staff and other police personnel were attacked.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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Two women doctors were wounded on Wednesday after stones were pelted on a five-member team of health personnel as they attempted to trace a person who had come in contact with a COVID-19 patient.&nbsp;

Hyderabad Police also reported a case earlier when relatives of a 49-year-old coronavirus patient assaulted a doctor and the medical staff following the death of the infected patient in a government hospital.&nbsp;

In Delhi, people from Tablighi Jamaat allegedly misbehaved with some even spitting at doctors and medical personnel at a quarantine facility of Railways in Tughalakabad.&nbsp;

A sub-inspector and a constable were seriously injured when a police team who were trying to enforce a lockdown was attacked by a group of villagers in Muzaffarnagar district in Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday.&nbsp;

India is currently under 21-day lockdown enforced to control the COVID-19 outbreak which has infected 2,301 and taken lives of over 50 in the country so far.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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President Ram Nath Kovind expressed his concerns over a number of attacks on health and police personnel as he interacted with the vice president, governors, and lieutenant governors and administrators of all the states through video conferencing on Friday.

President Ram Nath Kovind expressed his concerns over a number of attacks on health and police personnel as he interacted with the vice president, governors, and lieutenant governors and administrators of all the states through video conferencing on Friday. "President Kovind noted with concern the incidents of attacks on doctors, health workers and police personnel in some parts of the country," the official Twitter handle of the president wrote. President Kovind noted with concern the incidents of attacks on doctors, health workers and police personnel in some parts of the country. — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) April 3, 2020 × In the video-conference held to discuss measures to fight COVID-19, the president also said barring a few incidents, the efforts to battle the outbreak "have been in the right direction, and we are moving with firm determination". Also read | Coronavirus cases rise to 2,301 in India President Kovind's comments came after several cases reported in India where doctors, medical staff and other police personnel were attacked. Watch | Two women doctors were wounded on Wednesday after stones were pelted on a five-member team of health personnel as they attempted to trace a person who had come in contact with a COVID-19 patient. Hyderabad Police also reported a case earlier when relatives of a 49-year-old coronavirus patient assaulted a doctor and the medical staff following the death of the infected patient in a government hospital. In Delhi, people from Tablighi Jamaat allegedly misbehaved with some even spitting at doctors and medical personnel at a quarantine facility of Railways in Tughalakabad. A sub-inspector and a constable were seriously injured when a police team who were trying to enforce a lockdown was attacked by a group of villagers in Muzaffarnagar district in Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday. India is currently under 21-day lockdown enforced to control the COVID-19 outbreak which has infected 2,301 and taken lives of over 50 in the country so far.

President Kovind expresses concern over attacks on police, medical personnel

At a time when donations across the world are rising to fight the coronavirus crisis, kids in the Indian state of Gujarat have decided that they don't want to stay behind in this humanitarian gesture.&nbsp;

A few days ago, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the setting up of Prime Minister's Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund (PM-CARES Fund) and appealed to masses to donate money to deal with any emergency situation, like COVID-19, and provide relief to the affected people.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-urges-citizens-to-light-diyas-candles-on-sunday-at-9-pm-for-9-mins-to-dispel-darkness-brought-by-coronavirus-290268">PM Modi urges citizens to light diyas, candles on Sunday at 9 pm for 9 mins to 'dispel darkness brought by coronavirus'</a>

Four-year-old Paris Vyas received the support of many when she told the media that she is donating whatever amount she has saved in her piggy bank to fight the outbreak and provide respite to the poor.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/do-old-people-constitute-the-majority-of-covid-19-fatalities-290318">Do old people constitute the majority of COVID-19 fatalities?</a>

"I am donating whatever I have saved in my piggy bank. I saw in the TV that many famous people are giving money to fight coronavirus," the girl said.

"If they can do it, I can also give my money. I am giving away all my savings. Everyone should donate money to help the government in fighting coronavirus."

It turned out that the girl from Ankleshwar town in Bharuch district has collected coins and currency notes worth Rs 11,200, which she has donated to the PM-CARES fund.&nbsp;

In another heart-warming gesture, three boys walked into a police station in Ahmedabad with their combined savings of Rs 5,500 which they intend to be used for migrant workers and poor, who have been hard-hit by the lockdown.&nbsp;

The three brothers, aged from four years to 10 years, came up to the police station with their piggy banks with their mother.

"Heartfelt thank you to Zaid, Moin and Amen, who donated Rs 5,500 from their piggy banks after their mother showed them the relief work being done by us," Ahmedabad police said on Twitter on Wednesday.

"We are extremely pleased by the kind gesture of these kids."

In the video, shared by the police on its Twitter handle, one of the boys asked a sub-inspector to donate is money to the poor.&nbsp;

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A heartfelt Thank You ️❤️ to Zaid, Moin, and Amen who donated Rs. 5,500 from their Piggy Bank after their mother showed them relief work being done by us. We are extremely pleased by the kind gesture of the kids. Watch here - <a href="https://t.co/7xugQPXyzQ">https://t.co/7xugQPXyzQ</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronaWarriors?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronaWarriors</a>
— Ahmedabad Police (@AhmedabadPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/AhmedabadPolice/status/1245384084689321985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"What you (police) are doing for the poor people is commendable. Though they have nothing to eat, they feel shy in asking for help directly," the mother of the three kids said in the video.&nbsp;

"We are living in difficult times. Thus, my kids told me to donate their savings to help the poor."&nbsp;

Two days ago, PM Modi's mother Hiraba, who resides in Gandhinagar, donated Rs 25,000 for the fund and her gesture inspired 13-year-old Rudra Patel to urge his family members to not celebrate his birthday and instead donate Rs 1 lakh in the PM-CARES fund.&nbsp;

"I have decided not to celebrate my birthday this time. Upon my request, my parents have decided to donate Rs 1 lakh into the PM-CARES Fund," Rudra said in a news channel, proudly holding the donation cheque.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

At a time when donations across the world are rising to fight the coronavirus crisis, kids in the Indian state of Gujarat have decided that they don't want to stay behind in this humanitarian gesture.

At a time when donations across the world are rising to fight the coronavirus crisis, kids in the Indian state of Gujarat have decided that they don't want to stay behind in this humanitarian gesture. A few days ago, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the setting up of Prime Minister's Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund (PM-CARES Fund) and appealed to masses to donate money to deal with any emergency situation, like COVID-19, and provide relief to the affected people. Also read | PM Modi urges citizens to light diyas, candles on Sunday at 9 pm for 9 mins to 'dispel darkness brought by coronavirus' Four-year-old Paris Vyas received the support of many when she told the media that she is donating whatever amount she has saved in her piggy bank to fight the outbreak and provide respite to the poor. Also read | Do old people constitute the majority of COVID-19 fatalities? "I am donating whatever I have saved in my piggy bank. I saw in the TV that many famous people are giving money to fight coronavirus," the girl said. "If they can do it, I can also give my money. I am giving away all my savings. Everyone should donate money to help the government in fighting coronavirus." It turned out that the girl from Ankleshwar town in Bharuch district has collected coins and currency notes worth Rs 11,200, which she has donated to the PM-CARES fund. In another heart-warming gesture, three boys walked into a police station in Ahmedabad with their combined savings of Rs 5,500 which they intend to be used for migrant workers and poor, who have been hard-hit by the lockdown. The three brothers, aged from four years to 10 years, came up to the police station with their piggy banks with their mother. "Heartfelt thank you to Zaid, Moin and Amen, who donated Rs 5,500 from their piggy banks after their mother showed them the relief work being done by us," Ahmedabad police said on Twitter on Wednesday. "We are extremely pleased by the kind gesture of these kids." In the video, shared by the police on its Twitter handle, one of the boys asked a sub-inspector to donate is money to the poor. A heartfelt Thank You ️❤️ to Zaid, Moin, and Amen who donated Rs. 5,500 from their Piggy Bank after their mother showed them relief work being done by us. We are extremely pleased by the kind gesture of the kids. Watch here - https://t.co/7xugQPXyzQ#CoronaWarriors — Ahmedabad Police (@AhmedabadPolice) April 1, 2020 × "What you (police) are doing for the poor people is commendable. Though they have nothing to eat, they feel shy in asking for help directly," the mother of the three kids said in the video. "We are living in difficult times. Thus, my kids told me to donate their savings to help the poor." Two days ago, PM Modi's mother Hiraba, who resides in Gandhinagar, donated Rs 25,000 for the fund and her gesture inspired 13-year-old Rudra Patel to urge his family members to not celebrate his birthday and instead donate Rs 1 lakh in the PM-CARES fund. "I have decided not to celebrate my birthday this time. Upon my request, my parents have decided to donate Rs 1 lakh into the PM-CARES Fund," Rudra said in a news channel, proudly holding the donation cheque. (With inputs from PTI)

Kids in Gujarat join coronavirus-relief fight with donations from piggy bank

As India witnesses a rising number of novel coronavirus cases from Tablighi Jamaat meet held at Markaz Nizamuddin in New Delhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Thursday that 108 people from Nizamuddin are infected with COVID-19.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arunachal-police-traces-12-more-people-who-attended-nizamuddin-event-290110">Arunachal Police traces 12 more people who attended Nizamuddin event</a>

The CM, in a media briefing, said Delhi has 219 COVID-19 cases, out of which 108 people are from Markaz Nizamuddin. He also said 2,943 people, including 1,810 from Markaz Nizamuddin are being quarantined by the government.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/376-new-covid-19-positive-cases-in-last-24-hours-happened-due-to-nizamuddin-congregation-government-289965">376 new COVID-19 positive cases in last 24 hours happened due to Nizamuddin congregation: Government</a>

In Delhi, four people have died from coronavirus, out of which two are from Markaz Nizamuddin, Kejriwal said.&nbsp;

Earlier, Union Health Ministry said in about 400 COVID-19 cases reported, epidemiological linkage can be traced to Tablighi Jamaat cluster.&nbsp;

As many as 334 people from Tablighi Jamaat group in Delhi are admitted to hospitals, the Ministry of Home Affairs said.&nbsp;

In Tamil Nadu, 173 coronavirus positive cases have been reported and their epidemiological linkage is to the Nizamuddin event.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Karnataka officials said nearly 1,000 people linked to Tablighi Jamaat are being screened and so far 11 tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Thursday said 725 people who attended the religious congregation of Tablighi Jamaat in Delhi`s Nizamuddin have been kept under quarantine.&nbsp;

(with inputs from ANI and PTI)

As India witnesses a rising number of novel coronavirus cases from Tablighi Jamaat meet held at Markaz Nizamuddin in New Delhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Thursday that 108 people from Nizamuddin are infected with COVID-19.

As India witnesses a rising number of novel coronavirus cases from Tablighi Jamaat meet held at Markaz Nizamuddin in New Delhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Thursday that 108 people from Nizamuddin are infected with COVID-19. Also read | Arunachal Police traces 12 more people who attended Nizamuddin event The CM, in a media briefing, said Delhi has 219 COVID-19 cases, out of which 108 people are from Markaz Nizamuddin. He also said 2,943 people, including 1,810 from Markaz Nizamuddin are being quarantined by the government. Also read | 376 new COVID-19 positive cases in last 24 hours happened due to Nizamuddin congregation: Government In Delhi, four people have died from coronavirus, out of which two are from Markaz Nizamuddin, Kejriwal said. Earlier, Union Health Ministry said in about 400 COVID-19 cases reported, epidemiological linkage can be traced to Tablighi Jamaat cluster. As many as 334 people from Tablighi Jamaat group in Delhi are admitted to hospitals, the Ministry of Home Affairs said. In Tamil Nadu, 173 coronavirus positive cases have been reported and their epidemiological linkage is to the Nizamuddin event. Meanwhile, Karnataka officials said nearly 1,000 people linked to Tablighi Jamaat are being screened and so far 11 tested positive for coronavirus. Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Thursday said 725 people who attended the religious congregation of Tablighi Jamaat in Delhi`s Nizamuddin have been kept under quarantine. (with inputs from ANI and PTI)

108 infected with coronavirus in Delhi linked to Nizamuddin event: CM Arvind Kejriwal

Police and medical personnel have been attacked by locals in Munger town of central Bihar when they visited a locality to collect samples from people suspected to have contracted the novel coronavirus, an official said on Thursday.

Stones were thrown at the quick response team (QRT), comprising policemen and an ambulance carrying medical personnel, when they visited the Hazratganj locality late on Wednesday, SHO of Qasim Bazar police station Shailesh Kumar said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-close-to-2000-case-50-deaths-says-health-ministry-290112" hreflang="en">Coronavirus in India: Close to 2000 case; 50 deaths, says Health Ministry</a>

The stone-pelting left a police jeep badly damaged and the situation was brought under control by use of force, he said.

Kumar said the quick response team was in the locality to collect samples from people who were reported to have returned home from elsewhere recently.

Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-who-praises-indias-usd-226-billion-economic-stimulus-plan-290089" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: WHO praises India's USD 22.6 billion economic stimulus plan</a>

Notably, Munger has reported the highest eight COVID-19 cases in the state where altogether 24 people have tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

The pathogen is said to have spread here from a 38-year-old man who returned from Qatar a month ago.

He died at AIIMS, Patna, while undergoing treatment for renal failure, a day before his test results confirmed that he had contracted the virus.

One of his relatives in Lakhisarai and three persons associated with a private hospital in the state capital where he was briefly admitted before being referred to AIIMS, Patna, have also tested positive.

The state government has intensified the process of collection and testing of samples. All those who returned to Bihar from abroad by mid-March or who have come from other parts of the country are being tested, irrespective of whether or not they are having any symptoms.

Police and medical personnel have been attacked by locals in Munger town of central Bihar when they visited a locality to collect samples from people suspected to have contracted the novel coronavirus, an official said on Thursday.

Police and medical personnel have been attacked by locals in Munger town of central Bihar when they visited a locality to collect samples from people suspected to have contracted the novel coronavirus, an official said on Thursday. Stones were thrown at the quick response team (QRT), comprising policemen and an ambulance carrying medical personnel, when they visited the Hazratganj locality late on Wednesday, SHO of Qasim Bazar police station Shailesh Kumar said. Also read: Coronavirus in India: Close to 2000 case; 50 deaths, says Health Ministry The stone-pelting left a police jeep badly damaged and the situation was brought under control by use of force, he said. Kumar said the quick response team was in the locality to collect samples from people who were reported to have returned home from elsewhere recently. Also read: Coronavirus: WHO praises India's USD 22.6 billion economic stimulus plan Notably, Munger has reported the highest eight COVID-19 cases in the state where altogether 24 people have tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The pathogen is said to have spread here from a 38-year-old man who returned from Qatar a month ago. He died at AIIMS, Patna, while undergoing treatment for renal failure, a day before his test results confirmed that he had contracted the virus. One of his relatives in Lakhisarai and three persons associated with a private hospital in the state capital where he was briefly admitted before being referred to AIIMS, Patna, have also tested positive. The state government has intensified the process of collection and testing of samples. All those who returned to Bihar from abroad by mid-March or who have come from other parts of the country are being tested, irrespective of whether or not they are having any symptoms.

Bihar: Police, medical personnel attacked while trying to collect samples for COVID-19 tests

COVID-19 positive cases in India crossed 1,000 mark on Sunday with 27 deaths reported so far. The death toll due to COVID-19 has risen to 27; positive cases increased have gone up to 1024, Health Ministry said.

COVID-19 positive cases in India crossed 1,000 mark on Sunday with 27 deaths reported so far. The death toll due to COVID-19 has risen to 27; positive cases increased have gone up to 1024, Health Ministry said. Earlier in the day Group of Ministers (GoM) chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed situation arising out of COVID-19 pandemic, according to sources. × The GoM deliberated on measures being implemented in the wake of 21-day lockdown. News agency PTI quoting sources said, transportation of essential commodities by train, air and road is smooth and any issue arising locally was being resolved.

Coronavirus cases in India cross 1,000-mark, 27 dead: Health Ministry

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently addressed the nation as part of his “Mann Ki Baat” segment.

The country is currently grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, with over 900 confirmed cases in the country, and 25&nbsp;deaths so far.

The PM started off his address by apologising for the extreme steps taken by his administration in the battle against COVID-19.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-finance-ministry-asks-banks-to-ensure-liquidity-flow-smooth-operations-289173" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: Finance ministry asks banks to ensure liquidity flow, smooth operations</a>

“I apologise for taking these harsh steps which have caused difficulties in your lives, especially the poor people”, he asserted.

Recently, visuals of migrant labourers around the National Capital Region huddling out of the city caused an uproar on social media. Many of them were compelled to undertake the journey to their hometowns on foot in the absence of public transport.

The PM added, “These tough measures were needed to win this battle. It is a tough fight…”

He reiterated the need to keep India safe, and pitched it as collective responsibility of everybody.

Turns out, the PM has been in constant touch with people on the frontlines of fighting the pandemic.

“During the last few days, I have spoken to many people over the phone, to boost their zeal, in turn, they have increased my enthusiasm too”, he said, while adding that we all should learn from their experiences.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-the-covid-19-pandemic-threatening-ongoing-vaccination-programmes-289229" hreflang="en">Is the COVID-19 pandemic threatening ongoing vaccination programmes?</a>

The PM further invoked the hardships faced by first-responders and soldiers during the crisis.

“Many soldiers are fighting the virus from outside the confines of their homes. These are our front line soldiers, especially our brothers and sisters on duty as nurses, doctors, and paramedical staff”, he said.

He also spoke extensively about the healthcare workers and the hardships faced by them amid the crisis.

"To know the capability with which we are dealing with this pandemic at medical level, I spoke to doctors who are leading the frontline in this battle. Their daily activity is synchronous with that of their patients," Modi said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/paramilitary-forces-report-first-covid-19-cases-bsf-officer-cisf-jawan-test-positive-289169" hreflang="en">Paramilitary forces report first COVID-19 cases: BSF officer, CISF jawan test positive</a>

2020 is the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife. While referring to this, he called it a coincidence for it to fall on the same year as the killer COVID-19 pandemic.

"At many places, people have taken their responsibilities very seriously. They quarantined themselves even when they were not showing any symptoms. So when people are behaving so responsibly, it is unfair to ill-treat them," the PM said, probably referring to reports of people harassing health workers.

To culminate his address, the PM asked people to keep up the fight against the virus. “I am with you”, he asserted.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently addressed the nation as part of his “Mann Ki Baat” segment. The country is currently grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, with over 900 confirmed cases in the country, and 25 deaths so far.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently addressed the nation as part of his “Mann Ki Baat” segment. The country is currently grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, with over 900 confirmed cases in the country, and 25 deaths so far. The PM started off his address by apologising for the extreme steps taken by his administration in the battle against COVID-19. Also read: Coronavirus: Finance ministry asks banks to ensure liquidity flow, smooth operations “I apologise for taking these harsh steps which have caused difficulties in your lives, especially the poor people”, he asserted. Recently, visuals of migrant labourers around the National Capital Region huddling out of the city caused an uproar on social media. Many of them were compelled to undertake the journey to their hometowns on foot in the absence of public transport. The PM added, “These tough measures were needed to win this battle. It is a tough fight…” He reiterated the need to keep India safe, and pitched it as collective responsibility of everybody. Turns out, the PM has been in constant touch with people on the frontlines of fighting the pandemic. “During the last few days, I have spoken to many people over the phone, to boost their zeal, in turn, they have increased my enthusiasm too”, he said, while adding that we all should learn from their experiences. Also read: Is the COVID-19 pandemic threatening ongoing vaccination programmes? The PM further invoked the hardships faced by first-responders and soldiers during the crisis. “Many soldiers are fighting the virus from outside the confines of their homes. These are our front line soldiers, especially our brothers and sisters on duty as nurses, doctors, and paramedical staff”, he said. He also spoke extensively about the healthcare workers and the hardships faced by them amid the crisis. "To know the capability with which we are dealing with this pandemic at medical level, I spoke to doctors who are leading the frontline in this battle. Their daily activity is synchronous with that of their patients," Modi said. Also read: Paramilitary forces report first COVID-19 cases: BSF officer, CISF jawan test positive 2020 is the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife. While referring to this, he called it a coincidence for it to fall on the same year as the killer COVID-19 pandemic. "At many places, people have taken their responsibilities very seriously. They quarantined themselves even when they were not showing any symptoms. So when people are behaving so responsibly, it is unfair to ill-treat them," the PM said, probably referring to reports of people harassing health workers. To culminate his address, the PM asked people to keep up the fight against the virus. “I am with you”, he asserted.

'I'm with you', assures PM Modi during his coronavirus-centred 'Mann Ki Baat' address

People in Chandigarh are now allowed to purchase essential items. People will be allowed to go to market on foot. Curfew has been relaxed in certain areas of Himachal Pradesh as well.

India: Curfew relaxed in Chandigarh | WION News

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