The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday announced that the price for COVID-19 test in Delhi has been fixed at Rs 2,400 as suggested by a high-level committee set up by the home minister on Sunday and now tests will be done via Rapid Antigen methodology.

"In pursuance of decisions taken by HM @AmitShah on 14th June, to double the #COVID19 testing in Delhi; 16,618 test samples collected on June 15 and 16 (till 14th June daily collection varied between 4000-4500). Reports of 6,510 tests received so far, remaining to be received by 18th June," an MHA spokesperson tweeted.

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In pursuance of decisions taken by HM <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmitShah</a> on 14thjune, to double the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> testing in Delhi; 16618 test samples collected on 15&amp;16 June(till 14th June daily collection varied b/w 4000-4500). Reports of 6510 tests received so far,remaining to be received by 18th June.
— Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs/status/1273261517593391105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"As per the directives of HM @AmitShah in providing relief to the common man. High-level expert committee's report on #COVID19 testing rates received by @MoHFW_INDIA has been further sent to Delhi Govt for necessary action. It has been decided to fix the test rate at Rs 2,400," the spokesperson said in another tweet.

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As per the directives of HM <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmitShah</a> in providing relief to the common man. High level expert committee's report on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> testing rates received by <a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoHFW_INDIA</a> has been further sent to Delhi Govt for necessary action. It has been decided to fix the test rate at Rs 2,400.
— Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs/status/1273263094676873219?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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On Sunday, Shah held two high-level meetings with the Delhi Lt Governor Anil Baijal, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, mayors and commissioners of Delhi's three municipal corporations to strengthen the strategy to fight the pandemic.

After the first meeting, a committee was constituted under the chairmanship of V K Paul, Member, NITI Aayog, to ensure that 60 per cent beds are available at private hospitals at lower rates.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday announced that the price for COVID-19 test in Delhi has been fixed at Rs 2,400 as suggested by a high-level committee set up by the home minister on Sunday and now tests will be done via Rapid Antigen methodology.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday announced that the price for COVID-19 test in Delhi has been fixed at Rs 2,400 as suggested by a high-level committee set up by the home minister on Sunday and now tests will be done via Rapid Antigen methodology. "In pursuance of decisions taken by HM @AmitShah on 14th June, to double the #COVID19 testing in Delhi; 16,618 test samples collected on June 15 and 16 (till 14th June daily collection varied between 4000-4500). Reports of 6,510 tests received so far, remaining to be received by 18th June," an MHA spokesperson tweeted. In pursuance of decisions taken by HM @AmitShah on 14thjune, to double the #COVID19 testing in Delhi; 16618 test samples collected on 15&16 June(till 14th June daily collection varied b/w 4000-4500). Reports of 6510 tests received so far,remaining to be received by 18th June. — Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) June 17, 2020 × "As per the directives of HM @AmitShah in providing relief to the common man. High-level expert committee's report on #COVID19 testing rates received by @MoHFW_INDIA has been further sent to Delhi Govt for necessary action. It has been decided to fix the test rate at Rs 2,400," the spokesperson said in another tweet. As per the directives of HM @AmitShah in providing relief to the common man. High level expert committee's report on #COVID19 testing rates received by @MoHFW_INDIA has been further sent to Delhi Govt for necessary action. It has been decided to fix the test rate at Rs 2,400. — Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) June 17, 2020 × On Sunday, Shah held two high-level meetings with the Delhi Lt Governor Anil Baijal, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, mayors and commissioners of Delhi's three municipal corporations to strengthen the strategy to fight the pandemic. After the first meeting, a committee was constituted under the chairmanship of V K Paul, Member, NITI Aayog, to ensure that 60 per cent beds are available at private hospitals at lower rates. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid-19 tests in Delhi to be capped at Rs 2400, says Home Ministry

India has reported its highest single-day spike with 12,881 new cases and 334 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the country’s overall tally to 3, 66,946, with toll at 12,237.

According to the official, out of the 2,134 COVID-19 patients in Mumbai’s Dharavi, 1,055 have already recovered from the infection and discharged from hospitals.

Maharashtra's COVID-19 tally increased by 3,752 cases to 1, 20,504, while 100 more patients succumbed to the infection, said a health department official. The state reported death of 100 people due to coronavirus, taking the toll to 5,751, he said here.

Maharashtra Covid-19 figures are as follows: Positive cases 1, 20,504, new cases 3,752, deaths 5,751, discharged 60,838, active cases 53,901, people tested so far 7, 17,683.

(With inputs from agencies)

India has reported its highest single-day spike with 12,881 new cases and 334 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the country’s overall tally to 3, 66,946, with toll at 12,237.

India has reported its highest single-day spike with 12,881 new cases and 334 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the country’s overall tally to 3, 66,946, with toll at 12,237. According to the official, out of the 2,134 COVID-19 patients in Mumbai’s Dharavi, 1,055 have already recovered from the infection and discharged from hospitals. Maharashtra's COVID-19 tally increased by 3,752 cases to 1, 20,504, while 100 more patients succumbed to the infection, said a health department official. The state reported death of 100 people due to coronavirus, taking the toll to 5,751, he said here. Maharashtra Covid-19 figures are as follows: Positive cases 1, 20,504, new cases 3,752, deaths 5,751, discharged 60,838, active cases 53,901, people tested so far 7, 17,683. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra reports 100 deaths, 28 fresh cases in Mumbai’s Dharavi; total tally at 1, 20,504

Delhi MLA and member of the Political Affairs Committee of Aam Aadmi Party Atishi Marlena has tested positive for coronavirus and has been quarantined at her house.

The 39-year-old national spokesperson of AAP is the MLA from Kalkaji Assembly segment in south Delhi.

"Atishi ji has played an important role in the fight against corona. I hope that she will get healthy soon and again get involved in serving the people," Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi.

"Get well soon Atishi, recover soon from Corona," AAP MLA Saurabh Bhardwaj tweeted.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi MLA and member of the Political Affairs Committee of Aam Aadmi Party Atishi Marlena has tested positive for coronavirus and has been quarantined at her house.

Delhi MLA and member of the Political Affairs Committee of Aam Aadmi Party Atishi Marlena has tested positive for coronavirus and has been quarantined at her house. The 39-year-old national spokesperson of AAP is the MLA from Kalkaji Assembly segment in south Delhi. "Atishi ji has played an important role in the fight against corona. I hope that she will get healthy soon and again get involved in serving the people," Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi. "Get well soon Atishi, recover soon from Corona," AAP MLA Saurabh Bhardwaj tweeted. (With inputs from agencies)

Aam Aadmi Party MLA Atishi Marlena tests positive for COVID-19

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday claimed that the impact of coronavirus in India is not as worse as in several other parts of the world. The death rate is also low as compared to most other nations, he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-380-deaths-in-24-hours-total-toll-rises-to-9900-306188">Also read: India reports 380 deaths in 24 hours; total toll rises to 9,900</a> 
 
The PM also stressed that the economy has started to look up."Because of the efforts made in the last few weeks, green shoots have begun to be visible in our economy," said the PM.

His remarks came during his meeting with the Chief Ministers and heads of 21 States and Union Territories on the Covid-19 situation in the country, held via video conferencing.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi today interacted with Chief Ministers of states &amp; Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories, via video conference. <a href="https://t.co/erWrV7k4VS">pic.twitter.com/erWrV7k4VS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1272856896391667712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Two weeks have passed since Unlock 1, our experience during this time could be beneficial for us in the future. Today I will get to know ground reality from you, your suggestions will help in chalking out future strategy," he said.

"Timing matters a lot in overcoming any crisis. Timely decisions have helped a lot in containing coronavirus in the country," he said.

Meanwhile, coronavirus cases in India are 3, 43,091 and Covid-19 death tally is over 9,900. There are 1, 53,178 coronavirus positive cases in India while 1, 80,012 COVID 19 positive patients have recovered and 9900 people have died due to coronavirus. One has been migrated, as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Apart from Delhi, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh are the worst affected states in the country. Another worrying sign is that north-east states have started recording an increasing number of daily COVID 19 cases.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday claimed that the impact of coronavirus in India is not as worse as in several other parts of the world. The death rate is also low as compared to most other nations, he added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday claimed that the impact of coronavirus in India is not as worse as in several other parts of the world. The death rate is also low as compared to most other nations, he added. Also read: India reports 380 deaths in 24 hours; total toll rises to 9,900 The PM also stressed that the economy has started to look up."Because of the efforts made in the last few weeks, green shoots have begun to be visible in our economy," said the PM. His remarks came during his meeting with the Chief Ministers and heads of 21 States and Union Territories on the Covid-19 situation in the country, held via video conferencing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi today interacted with Chief Ministers of states & Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories, via video conference. pic.twitter.com/erWrV7k4VS — ANI (@ANI) June 16, 2020 × "Two weeks have passed since Unlock 1, our experience during this time could be beneficial for us in the future. Today I will get to know ground reality from you, your suggestions will help in chalking out future strategy," he said. "Timing matters a lot in overcoming any crisis. Timely decisions have helped a lot in containing coronavirus in the country," he said. Meanwhile, coronavirus cases in India are 3, 43,091 and Covid-19 death tally is over 9,900. There are 1, 53,178 coronavirus positive cases in India while 1, 80,012 COVID 19 positive patients have recovered and 9900 people have died due to coronavirus. One has been migrated, as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Apart from Delhi, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh are the worst affected states in the country. Another worrying sign is that north-east states have started recording an increasing number of daily COVID 19 cases. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid-19 situation not that huge in India as in other parts of the world: PM Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with the Chief Ministers on June 16 and 17 through video conferencing at 3 PM. Modi likely to hold a fresh round of consultation with chief ministers as the country gradually emerges out of coronavirus lockdown.

On June 16, Prime Minister will interact with 21 States and Union Territories - Punjab, Assam, Kerala, Uttrakhand, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Tripura, Himachal, Chandigarh, Goa, Manipur, Nagaland, Ladakh, Puducherry, Arunachal, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dadar Nagar Haveli &amp; Daman Diu, Sikkim and Lakshadweep.

This will be PM Modi’s sixth virtual meeting with the chief ministers since the first phase of the lockdown was announced on March 24 to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. On June 8, states lifted several restrictions imposed earlier following the Centre’s directives on ‘Unlock 1’.

The government of India had imposed a nationwide lockdown on 25 March to combat the novel coronavirus spread.

Currently, the country is under the fifth phase of the lockdown which entails much more relaxations than the previous ones including rail, road and domestic air travel. However, the relaxations do not imply to the containment zones, which need to follow strict guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs from time to time. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with the Chief Ministers on June 16 and 17 through video conferencing at 3 PM. Modi likely to hold a fresh round of consultation with chief ministers as the country gradually emerges out of coronavirus lockdown.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with the Chief Ministers on June 16 and 17 through video conferencing at 3 PM. Modi likely to hold a fresh round of consultation with chief ministers as the country gradually emerges out of coronavirus lockdown. On June 16, Prime Minister will interact with 21 States and Union Territories - Punjab, Assam, Kerala, Uttrakhand, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Tripura, Himachal, Chandigarh, Goa, Manipur, Nagaland, Ladakh, Puducherry, Arunachal, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dadar Nagar Haveli & Daman Diu, Sikkim and Lakshadweep. This will be PM Modi’s sixth virtual meeting with the chief ministers since the first phase of the lockdown was announced on March 24 to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. On June 8, states lifted several restrictions imposed earlier following the Centre’s directives on ‘Unlock 1’. The government of India had imposed a nationwide lockdown on 25 March to combat the novel coronavirus spread. Currently, the country is under the fifth phase of the lockdown which entails much more relaxations than the previous ones including rail, road and domestic air travel. However, the relaxations do not imply to the containment zones, which need to follow strict guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs from time to time. (With inputs from agencies)

Unlock Phase 1: PM Modi to hold fresh interaction with chief ministers on June 16-17

Maharashtra's Covid-19 positive cases have crossed the one-lakh mark on Friday with the reporting of 3,493 new positive cases in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

It has registered a total of 1,01,141 infections and 3,717 deaths, according to the state’s health department bulletin released on Friday.

With a daily increase of 10,956 in total cases, India’s tally has risen from 286,579 to 297,535, an increase of 3.8%. The death toll has reached 8,498 with 396 new fatalities, the most ever in a day.

The number of active cases across India has increased by 4,394, compared with 3,816 on Thursday. States that have reported the biggest 24-hour jump inactive cases are Maharashtra (1,894), Delhi (1,290), Tamil Nadu (480), Haryana (305), and West Bengal (221).

With 6,166 new recoveries being reported, India’s recovery rate has improved to 49.5%; death rate has increased marginally to 2.9%.

(With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra's Covid-19 positive cases have crossed the one-lakh mark on Friday with the reporting of 3,493 new positive cases in the last 24 hours. It has registered a total of 1,01,141 infections and 3,717 deaths, according to the state’s health department bulletin released on Friday.

Maharashtra's Covid-19 positive cases have crossed the one-lakh mark on Friday with the reporting of 3,493 new positive cases in the last 24 hours. It has registered a total of 1,01,141 infections and 3,717 deaths, according to the state’s health department bulletin released on Friday. With a daily increase of 10,956 in total cases, India’s tally has risen from 286,579 to 297,535, an increase of 3.8%. The death toll has reached 8,498 with 396 new fatalities, the most ever in a day. The number of active cases across India has increased by 4,394, compared with 3,816 on Thursday. States that have reported the biggest 24-hour jump inactive cases are Maharashtra (1,894), Delhi (1,290), Tamil Nadu (480), Haryana (305), and West Bengal (221). With 6,166 new recoveries being reported, India’s recovery rate has improved to 49.5%; death rate has increased marginally to 2.9%. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: Maharashtra crosses 1 lakh cases, Mumbai at 55451

Movement of people will remain prohibited across the country from 9 pm to 5 am during the ongoing 'Unlock 1', but there are no restrictions on plying of buses with passengers and goods trucks on highways, the Centre said on Friday.

In a communication to all states, Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla also said that the purpose of restricting the movement of individuals during the night was primarily intended at preventing congregation of people and ensuring social distancing, but not hampering supply chains and logistics.

He said that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had issued guidelines prohibiting the movement of people between 9 pm and 5 am throughout the country, except for essential activities. Bhalla said that the MHA has noticed that some states and union territories (UTs) are restricting the movement of people and vehicles on highways between 9 pm and 5 am, which is hindering their smooth passage.

"I would like to clarify that the purpose of restricting the movement of individuals, except for essential activities, between 9 pm and 5 am, is primarily intended to prevent congregation of persons and to ensure social distancing," he said.

"The restriction does not apply to instances of loading/unloading of goods (as part of supply chains and logistics); buses carrying persons and trucks and goods carriers plying on state and national highways; or persons travelling to their destinations after disembarking from buses, trains and flights," Bhalla said.

The Union home secretary said, accordingly, states and UTs are advised not to prevent such movement. He said that necessary instructions to this effect should be issued to district and local authorities. The nationwide lockdown was first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 24 for 21 days in a bid to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The lockdown was first extended till May 3 and then again till May 17. It was further extended till May 31. The lockdown is now restricted only to containment zones across the country and will continue till June 30.

A large number of social, economic, religious and sports activities are currently allowed to function, under what the MHA has termed as 'Unlock 1'.

Movement of people will remain prohibited across the country from 9 pm to 5 am during the ongoing 'Unlock 1', but there are no restrictions on plying of buses with passengers and goods trucks on highways, the Centre said on Friday.

Movement of people will remain prohibited across the country from 9 pm to 5 am during the ongoing 'Unlock 1', but there are no restrictions on plying of buses with passengers and goods trucks on highways, the Centre said on Friday. In a communication to all states, Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla also said that the purpose of restricting the movement of individuals during the night was primarily intended at preventing congregation of people and ensuring social distancing, but not hampering supply chains and logistics. He said that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had issued guidelines prohibiting the movement of people between 9 pm and 5 am throughout the country, except for essential activities. Bhalla said that the MHA has noticed that some states and union territories (UTs) are restricting the movement of people and vehicles on highways between 9 pm and 5 am, which is hindering their smooth passage. "I would like to clarify that the purpose of restricting the movement of individuals, except for essential activities, between 9 pm and 5 am, is primarily intended to prevent congregation of persons and to ensure social distancing," he said. "The restriction does not apply to instances of loading/unloading of goods (as part of supply chains and logistics); buses carrying persons and trucks and goods carriers plying on state and national highways; or persons travelling to their destinations after disembarking from buses, trains and flights," Bhalla said. The Union home secretary said, accordingly, states and UTs are advised not to prevent such movement. He said that necessary instructions to this effect should be issued to district and local authorities. The nationwide lockdown was first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 24 for 21 days in a bid to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. The lockdown was first extended till May 3 and then again till May 17. It was further extended till May 31. The lockdown is now restricted only to containment zones across the country and will continue till June 30. A large number of social, economic, religious and sports activities are currently allowed to function, under what the MHA has termed as 'Unlock 1'.

Buses, trucks can ply on highways amid '9 pm-5 am curfew', says Centre

Global poverty could rise to over one billion people due to the COVID-19 pandemic and more than half of the 395 million additional extreme poor would be located in South Asia, which would be the hardest-hit region in the world, according to a new report.

Researchers from King's College London and Australian National University published the new paper with the United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER) which said the COVID-19 pandemic could drive global poverty back over one billion people as the world's poorest face up to USD 500 million per day in lost income.

The paper, 'Precarity and the Pandemic: COVID-19 and Poverty Incidence, Intensity and Severity in Developing Countries,' finds that extreme poverty could rise to over one billion people globally as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.

The cost of the crisis in lost income could reach USD 500 million per day for the world's poorest people, and the intensity and severity of poverty are likely to be exacerbated dramatically.

The report also noted that poverty is likely to increase dramatically in middle-income developing countries and there could be a significant change in the distribution of global poverty.

The location of global poverty could shift back towards developing countries in South Asia and East Asia.

The report said that based on the USD 1.90 a day poverty line and a 20 per cent contraction, more than half of the 395 million additional extreme poor would be located in South Asia, which would become the hardest-hit region in the world '' mainly driven by the weight of populous India'' followed by sub-Saharan Africa which would comprise 30 per cent, or 119 million, of the additional poor.

The report added that as the value of the poverty line increases, a larger share of the additional poor will be concentrated in regions where the corresponding poverty line is more relevant given the average income level.

For instance, the regional distribution of the world's poor changes drastically when looking at the USD 5.50 a day poverty line the median poverty line among upper-middle-income countries.

At this level, almost 41 per cent of the additional half a billion poor under a 20 per cent contraction scenario would live in East Asia and the Pacific, chiefly China; a fourth would still reside in South Asia; and a combined 18 per cent would live in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), whose individual shares are close to that recorded for sub-Saharan Africa.

''India plays a significant role in driving the potential increases in global extreme poverty documented previously, comprising almost half the estimated additional poor regardless of the contraction scenario,'' the report said.

Nonetheless, there are other populous, low and lower-middle- income countries in South Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and East Asia and the Pacific accounting for a sizeable share of the estimates: Nigeria, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, and Indonesia come next, in that order, concentrating a total of 18-19 per cent of the new poor, whereas the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Pakistan, Kenya, Uganda, and the Philippines could jointly add 11-12 per cent.

''Taken together, these figures imply that three quarters of the additional extreme poor globally could be living in just ten populous countries.''

The report added that this high concentration of the additional extreme poor is ''staggering'' although not necessarily unexpected given the size of each country's population.

On one hand, data shows that three of these ten countries (Ethiopia, India, and Nigeria) were among the top ten by number of extreme poor people in 1990 and remained within the ranks of that group until 2018.

Despite this crude fact, two of these countries have managed to achieve a sustained reduction in their incidence of poverty since the early 1990s, namely Ethiopia and India, reaching their lowest poverty headcount ratio ever recorded at about 22 and 13 per cent, respectively.

Nonetheless, the potential contraction in per capita income/consumption imposed by the pandemic's economic effects could erase some of this progress.

The researchers are now calling for urgent global leadership from the G7, G20, and the multilateral system, and propose a three-point plan to address the impact of the COVID-19 on global poverty quickly.

Professor of International Development at King's College London and a Senior Non-Resident Research Fellow at UNU-WIDER Andy Sumner said the COVID-19 crisis could take extreme poverty back over one billion people because millions of people live just above poverty.

''Millions of people live in a precarious position one shock away from poverty. And the current crisis could be that shock that pushes them into poverty.'' Professor Kunal Sen, Director of UNU-WIDER said the new estimates about the level of poverty in the world and the cost of the COVID-19 pandemic to the world's poor are sobering.

''We cannot stand by and see the hard work and effort of so many be eradicated. We will know what the real impact is in time, but the necessary action to ensure we achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 needs to be planned now,'' Sen said.

Global poverty could rise to over one billion people due to the COVID-19 pandemic and more than half of the 395 million additional extreme poor would be located in South Asia, which would be the hardest-hit region in the world, according to a new report.

Global poverty could rise to over one billion people due to the COVID-19 pandemic and more than half of the 395 million additional extreme poor would be located in South Asia, which would be the hardest-hit region in the world, according to a new report. Researchers from King's College London and Australian National University published the new paper with the United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER) which said the COVID-19 pandemic could drive global poverty back over one billion people as the world's poorest face up to USD 500 million per day in lost income. The paper, 'Precarity and the Pandemic: COVID-19 and Poverty Incidence, Intensity and Severity in Developing Countries,' finds that extreme poverty could rise to over one billion people globally as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. The cost of the crisis in lost income could reach USD 500 million per day for the world's poorest people, and the intensity and severity of poverty are likely to be exacerbated dramatically. The report also noted that poverty is likely to increase dramatically in middle-income developing countries and there could be a significant change in the distribution of global poverty. The location of global poverty could shift back towards developing countries in South Asia and East Asia. The report said that based on the USD 1.90 a day poverty line and a 20 per cent contraction, more than half of the 395 million additional extreme poor would be located in South Asia, which would become the hardest-hit region in the world '' mainly driven by the weight of populous India'' followed by sub-Saharan Africa which would comprise 30 per cent, or 119 million, of the additional poor. The report added that as the value of the poverty line increases, a larger share of the additional poor will be concentrated in regions where the corresponding poverty line is more relevant given the average income level. For instance, the regional distribution of the world's poor changes drastically when looking at the USD 5.50 a day poverty line the median poverty line among upper-middle-income countries. At this level, almost 41 per cent of the additional half a billion poor under a 20 per cent contraction scenario would live in East Asia and the Pacific, chiefly China; a fourth would still reside in South Asia; and a combined 18 per cent would live in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), whose individual shares are close to that recorded for sub-Saharan Africa. ''India plays a significant role in driving the potential increases in global extreme poverty documented previously, comprising almost half the estimated additional poor regardless of the contraction scenario,'' the report said. Nonetheless, there are other populous, low and lower-middle- income countries in South Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and East Asia and the Pacific accounting for a sizeable share of the estimates: Nigeria, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, and Indonesia come next, in that order, concentrating a total of 18-19 per cent of the new poor, whereas the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Pakistan, Kenya, Uganda, and the Philippines could jointly add 11-12 per cent. ''Taken together, these figures imply that three quarters of the additional extreme poor globally could be living in just ten populous countries.'' The report added that this high concentration of the additional extreme poor is ''staggering'' although not necessarily unexpected given the size of each country's population. On one hand, data shows that three of these ten countries (Ethiopia, India, and Nigeria) were among the top ten by number of extreme poor people in 1990 and remained within the ranks of that group until 2018. Despite this crude fact, two of these countries have managed to achieve a sustained reduction in their incidence of poverty since the early 1990s, namely Ethiopia and India, reaching their lowest poverty headcount ratio ever recorded at about 22 and 13 per cent, respectively. Nonetheless, the potential contraction in per capita income/consumption imposed by the pandemic's economic effects could erase some of this progress. The researchers are now calling for urgent global leadership from the G7, G20, and the multilateral system, and propose a three-point plan to address the impact of the COVID-19 on global poverty quickly. Professor of International Development at King's College London and a Senior Non-Resident Research Fellow at UNU-WIDER Andy Sumner said the COVID-19 crisis could take extreme poverty back over one billion people because millions of people live just above poverty. ''Millions of people live in a precarious position one shock away from poverty. And the current crisis could be that shock that pushes them into poverty.'' Professor Kunal Sen, Director of UNU-WIDER said the new estimates about the level of poverty in the world and the cost of the COVID-19 pandemic to the world's poor are sobering. ''We cannot stand by and see the hard work and effort of so many be eradicated. We will know what the real impact is in time, but the necessary action to ensure we achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 needs to be planned now,'' Sen said.

Extreme poverty could rise to over one billion people globally due to COVID-19 crisis: Report

India's health ministry on Friday reported 10,956 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours taking the total number of COVID-19 cases in the country to 2,97,535.

India has become the fourth worst-affected country due to the pandemic as it added around 10,000 cases for the fourth consecutive day.

According to the Health Ministry data, the doubling rate/time continues to improve and has increased from 3.4 days at the beginning of lockdown to 17.4 days currently.

Apart from improvement in the doubling rate, it said the recovery rate of patients has also become better. "Recovery rate of COVID positive cases continues to increase and is currently stands at 49.47 per cent," the ministry said.

A total of 1,47,194 people have recovered while 1,41,842 patients are under active medical supervision. It said that in the 24 hour period till 8 am, a total of 6,166 patients have been cured of COVID-19. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

India's health ministry on Friday reported 10,956 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours taking the total number of COVID-19 cases in the country to 2,97,535.

India's health ministry on Friday reported 10,956 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours taking the total number of COVID-19 cases in the country to 2,97,535. India has become the fourth worst-affected country due to the pandemic as it added around 10,000 cases for the fourth consecutive day. According to the Health Ministry data, the doubling rate/time continues to improve and has increased from 3.4 days at the beginning of lockdown to 17.4 days currently. Apart from improvement in the doubling rate, it said the recovery rate of patients has also become better. "Recovery rate of COVID positive cases continues to increase and is currently stands at 49.47 per cent," the ministry said. A total of 1,47,194 people have recovered while 1,41,842 patients are under active medical supervision. It said that in the 24 hour period till 8 am, a total of 6,166 patients have been cured of COVID-19. (With inputs from agencies)

Doubling time of coronavirus cases in India improves to 17.4 days: Health Ministry

In a humanitarian gesture, the Indian mission in Singapore has facilitated the travel of a cancer patient to fulfil her last wish to unite with her mother in Tamil Nadu amid global travel restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Indian mission thanked Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, Air India Express and passengers who gave up seats to her and her family.&nbsp;

"Fulfilling the last wish of a person with few days left. Happy to unite a cancer patient with her mother in Trichy," the Indian mission tweeted along with a picture of the patient and her family. &nbsp;

The spread of coronavirus has halted international travel. India has launched the Vande Bharat Mission to bring back its citizens stranded in various nations.&nbsp;

Vistara will operate two repatriation flights - one each on June 14 and June 15- on the Singapore-Delhi-Amritsar route under the Vande Bharat Mission to bring back stranded Indians, the airline said on Thursday.

Singapore today reported 422 new coronavirus cases, majority of them foreign workers living in dormitories, taking the total number of infections in the city-state to 39,387.

In a humanitarian gesture, the Indian mission in Singapore has facilitated the travel of a cancer patient to fulfil her last wish to unite with her mother in Tamil Nadu amid global travel restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In a humanitarian gesture, the Indian mission in Singapore has facilitated the travel of a cancer patient to fulfil her last wish to unite with her mother in Tamil Nadu amid global travel restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Indian mission thanked Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, Air India Express and passengers who gave up seats to her and her family. "Fulfilling the last wish of a person with few days left. Happy to unite a cancer patient with her mother in Trichy," the Indian mission tweeted along with a picture of the patient and her family. The spread of coronavirus has halted international travel. India has launched the Vande Bharat Mission to bring back its citizens stranded in various nations. Vistara will operate two repatriation flights - one each on June 14 and June 15- on the Singapore-Delhi-Amritsar route under the Vande Bharat Mission to bring back stranded Indians, the airline said on Thursday. Singapore today reported 422 new coronavirus cases, majority of them foreign workers living in dormitories, taking the total number of infections in the city-state to 39,387.

Cancer patient flew from Singapore to India to fulfil her last wish

India on Thursday became the fourth worst-hit country by coronavirus, overtaking the UK.

The UK, which was in the fourth spot on the list, has 2,91,588 cases as of now. In terms of corona tally, India is bellow Russia, Brazil and the US. As per updates, Russia has 4.93 lakh cases and Brazil 7.72 lakh tally. The US has the maximum number — more than 20 lakh.&nbsp;

India on Thursday reported 9,996 new coronavirus cases which is the single highest one day rise in COVID-19 cases in the country.

The coronavirus numbers have been increasing exponentially since the May 24, when India entered the list of top 10. It has just 18 days to reach the fourth slot.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, today said that India should convert the Covid-19 crisis into a turning point towards becoming a self-reliant nation. PM Modi also emphasized the need for import-substitution while delivering the inaugural address of the 95th annual plenary session of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) via video conferencing.

The global tally of coronavirus cases stands at 7,500,138 and 419,961 people have died from the disease so far.

(With inputs from agencies)

India on Thursday became the fourth worst-hit country by coronavirus, overtaking the UK. The UK, which was in the fourth spot on the list, has 2,91,588 cases as of now.

India on Thursday became the fourth worst-hit country by coronavirus, overtaking the UK. The UK, which was in the fourth spot on the list, has 2,91,588 cases as of now. In terms of corona tally, India is bellow Russia, Brazil and the US. As per updates, Russia has 4.93 lakh cases and Brazil 7.72 lakh tally. The US has the maximum number — more than 20 lakh. India on Thursday reported 9,996 new coronavirus cases which is the single highest one day rise in COVID-19 cases in the country. The coronavirus numbers have been increasing exponentially since the May 24, when India entered the list of top 10. It has just 18 days to reach the fourth slot. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, today said that India should convert the Covid-19 crisis into a turning point towards becoming a self-reliant nation. PM Modi also emphasized the need for import-substitution while delivering the inaugural address of the 95th annual plenary session of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) via video conferencing. The global tally of coronavirus cases stands at 7,500,138 and 419,961 people have died from the disease so far. (With inputs from agencies)

India overtakes UK's tally becomes 4th worst-hit nation by coronavirus

India's total number of coronavirus cases has jumped to 290,481, and death toll to 8,143, in the country's biggest-ever spike in the number of cases and deaths in a single day.

There is no community transmission of Covid-19 at the national level, while the lockdown measures helped in controlling the spread of the deadly virus until now, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Director-General Balram Bhargava said on Thursday.

Addressing a press conference, Health Ministry Joint Secretary Lav Agarwal said that the recovery rate in the country is 49.21%. he said the number of patients recovered at present exceeds the number of active patients in the country.

“We found that about 0.73% of the population in these 15 districts showed a prevalence of past exposure to infection. It means that lockdown measures were successful in keeping it low and preventing rapid spread,” Balram Bhargava, DG, ICMR, said in the press meet.

“There is a heightened debate on community transmission. WHO has not given definition on it. India is such a large country and the prevalence is so low. The prevalence is less than one per cent in small districts. It is slightly higher in urban areas. In the containment areas, it may be slightly higher. But, we are definite that India is not in community transmission,” Bhargava said at the daily press briefing.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's total number of coronavirus cases has jumped to 290,481, and death toll to 8,143, in the country's biggest-ever spike in the number of cases and deaths in a single day.

India's total number of coronavirus cases has jumped to 290,481, and death toll to 8,143, in the country's biggest-ever spike in the number of cases and deaths in a single day. There is no community transmission of Covid-19 at the national level, while the lockdown measures helped in controlling the spread of the deadly virus until now, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Director-General Balram Bhargava said on Thursday. Addressing a press conference, Health Ministry Joint Secretary Lav Agarwal said that the recovery rate in the country is 49.21%. he said the number of patients recovered at present exceeds the number of active patients in the country. “We found that about 0.73% of the population in these 15 districts showed a prevalence of past exposure to infection. It means that lockdown measures were successful in keeping it low and preventing rapid spread,” Balram Bhargava, DG, ICMR, said in the press meet. “There is a heightened debate on community transmission. WHO has not given definition on it. India is such a large country and the prevalence is so low. The prevalence is less than one per cent in small districts. It is slightly higher in urban areas. In the containment areas, it may be slightly higher. But, we are definite that India is not in community transmission,” Bhargava said at the daily press briefing. (With inputs from agencies)

India not in community transmission phase, recovery rate is 49.21%: Health Ministry

The number of cases in the country's financial capital Mumbai has crossed 50,000 on Tuesday while the death toll reached 1,758. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said in a release that 1,015 new coronavirus patients were detected on Tuesday, taking the tally of cases to 50,878.

The death toll due to the pandemic in Maharashtra's capital increased to 1,758 with 58 deaths recorded in the past 24 hours. 904 patients were discharged from hospitals, taking the number of recovered patients in the city to 22,942.

Meanwhile, With over 50 districts and municipal bodies spread across 15 states and union territories witnessing a spurt in coronavirus cases, the Union Health Ministry on Tuesday said high-level central teams have been deployed there to assist local administrations in containment and management of COVID-19 outbreak.

These multi-disciplinary teams are helping the states and UTs address challenges like testing bottlenecks, low tests per million population, high confirmation rates, risk of capacity shortfall over the next two months, potential bed shortage, growing case fatality rate, high doubling rate and sudden spike in active cases, etc, it said.

These states and UTs are Maharashtra (seven districts/municipalities), Telangana (four), Tamil Nadu (seven), Rajasthan (five), Assam (six), Haryana (four), Gujarat (three), Karnataka (four), Uttarakhand (three), Madhya Pradesh (five), West Bengal (three), Delhi (three), Bihar (four), Uttar Pradesh (four), and Odisha (five).

The districts and municipal bodies that are among the 50 high-case load areas include Chennai, Pune, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Surat, Jaipur, Darbhanga, Karimganj, Ujjain and Hyderabad, Faridabad and Delhi''s north-west, central, west and north districts, officials said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The number of cases in the country's financial capital Mumbai has crossed 50,000 on Tuesday while the death toll reached 1,758. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said in a release that 1,015 new coronavirus patients were detected on Tuesday, taking the tally of cases to 50,878.

The number of cases in the country's financial capital Mumbai has crossed 50,000 on Tuesday while the death toll reached 1,758. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said in a release that 1,015 new coronavirus patients were detected on Tuesday, taking the tally of cases to 50,878. The death toll due to the pandemic in Maharashtra's capital increased to 1,758 with 58 deaths recorded in the past 24 hours. 904 patients were discharged from hospitals, taking the number of recovered patients in the city to 22,942. Meanwhile, With over 50 districts and municipal bodies spread across 15 states and union territories witnessing a spurt in coronavirus cases, the Union Health Ministry on Tuesday said high-level central teams have been deployed there to assist local administrations in containment and management of COVID-19 outbreak. These multi-disciplinary teams are helping the states and UTs address challenges like testing bottlenecks, low tests per million population, high confirmation rates, risk of capacity shortfall over the next two months, potential bed shortage, growing case fatality rate, high doubling rate and sudden spike in active cases, etc, it said. These states and UTs are Maharashtra (seven districts/municipalities), Telangana (four), Tamil Nadu (seven), Rajasthan (five), Assam (six), Haryana (four), Gujarat (three), Karnataka (four), Uttarakhand (three), Madhya Pradesh (five), West Bengal (three), Delhi (three), Bihar (four), Uttar Pradesh (four), and Odisha (five). The districts and municipal bodies that are among the 50 high-case load areas include Chennai, Pune, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Surat, Jaipur, Darbhanga, Karimganj, Ujjain and Hyderabad, Faridabad and Delhi''s north-west, central, west and north districts, officials said. (With inputs from agencies)

With 50, 878 COVID cases Mumbai crosses Wuhan

Maharashtra's Covid-19 cases have climbed to 94,041 on Wednesday with 3,254 new patients, a health official said.

Total 3,438 have died so far due to the deadly coronavirus with 149 new deaths being recorded during the day.

The total number of recovered patients stands at 44,517.

Maharashtra coronavirus figures are as follows: Positive cases 94,041, new cases 3,254, deaths 3,438, discharged 44,517, active cases 46,074, people tested so far 5,93,784.&nbsp;

Meanwhile in India, the total number of coronavirus cases have jumped to 276,583, while 7,745 people have died from the disease so far, showed data released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Wednesday. Close to 6,000 recoveries pushed the total number of cured/discharged patients to 135,206. The count of active cases now stands at 133,632.

Meanwhile, in the past 24 hours, 5,991 patients have been cured, and the recovery rate now stands at 48.88 per cent.

(With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra's Covid-19 cases have climbed to 94,041 on Wednesday with 3,254 new patients, a health official said. Total 3,438 have died so far due to the deadly coronavirus with 149 new deaths being recorded during the day.

Maharashtra's Covid-19 cases have climbed to 94,041 on Wednesday with 3,254 new patients, a health official said. Total 3,438 have died so far due to the deadly coronavirus with 149 new deaths being recorded during the day. The total number of recovered patients stands at 44,517. Maharashtra coronavirus figures are as follows: Positive cases 94,041, new cases 3,254, deaths 3,438, discharged 44,517, active cases 46,074, people tested so far 5,93,784. Meanwhile in India, the total number of coronavirus cases have jumped to 276,583, while 7,745 people have died from the disease so far, showed data released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Wednesday. Close to 6,000 recoveries pushed the total number of cured/discharged patients to 135,206. The count of active cases now stands at 133,632. Meanwhile, in the past 24 hours, 5,991 patients have been cured, and the recovery rate now stands at 48.88 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid-19 cases in Maharashtra inch near 1 lakh mark, death toll at 3,438

The Meghalaya government on Tuesday withdrew its earlier order that allowed religious places to reopen doors to devotees from June 14, and said congregations of any kind would have to be avoided for the time being, given the unrelenting rise in COVID-19 cases.

The state government had earlier drafted safety protocols and said churches and other places of worship in the Christian-dominated state would be given permission to resume normal services from June 14, provided they abide by the guidelines.

"We have withdrawn our previous order allowing places of worships to open, in view of the spike in COVID-19 cases in the state," Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong told PTI.

Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma met the top religious leaders in the state to discuss the matter.

"Based on consultations with different religious organisations this afternoon, the Govt has decided to put on hold the reopening of religious institutions in #Meghalaya that was previously decided for the 14th of June," he tweeted.

Four new coronavirus cases have been detected in the state since Monday, increasing the tally to 40 -- three times of what it was during the second week of May.

Many churches have issued statements, contending that they were not keen on opening the doors anytime soon, as it could expose people to the risk of virus transmission.

"We will continue with online services until people feel safe to come to church," Unitarian Union of North East India president D P Pariat said.

The Meghalaya government on Tuesday withdrew its earlier order that allowed religious places to reopen doors to devotees from June 14, and said congregations of any kind would have to be avoided for the time being, given the unrelenting rise in COVID-19 cases.

The Meghalaya government on Tuesday withdrew its earlier order that allowed religious places to reopen doors to devotees from June 14, and said congregations of any kind would have to be avoided for the time being, given the unrelenting rise in COVID-19 cases. The state government had earlier drafted safety protocols and said churches and other places of worship in the Christian-dominated state would be given permission to resume normal services from June 14, provided they abide by the guidelines. "We have withdrawn our previous order allowing places of worships to open, in view of the spike in COVID-19 cases in the state," Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong told PTI. Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma met the top religious leaders in the state to discuss the matter. "Based on consultations with different religious organisations this afternoon, the Govt has decided to put on hold the reopening of religious institutions in #Meghalaya that was previously decided for the 14th of June," he tweeted. Four new coronavirus cases have been detected in the state since Monday, increasing the tally to 40 -- three times of what it was during the second week of May. Many churches have issued statements, contending that they were not keen on opening the doors anytime soon, as it could expose people to the risk of virus transmission. "We will continue with online services until people feel safe to come to church," Unitarian Union of North East India president D P Pariat said.

Indian state Meghalaya withdraws order to reopen places of worship amid rise of COVID-19 cases

Over 1,600 personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and two other forces have been infected with COVID-19 till now and these combat organizations have registered an overall recovery rate of about 70 per cent, an official data said on Monday.

As per data accessed by PTI, updated till June 6, the recovery tally is led by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), then about 90,000 personnel strong force tasked to guard the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, at 87.89 per cent.

This is followed by the Border Security Force (BSF), with a strength of about 2.5 lakh personnel, with a recovery rate of about 82.94 per cent.

The report said a total of 1,668 personnel of the five CAPFs and the National Security Guard (NSG) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been infected with the pandemic till now after the first case among these forces was detected on March 28.

"Data available till June 6 on coronavirus infections in the CAPFs and two other forces shows that recovery rate among these forces is about 70 per cent."

&nbsp;"The ITBP tops the recovery tally with 87.89 per cent followed by the BSF," an official said quoting the data. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has recorded a recovery rate of 68. 86 per cent while the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has registered a recovery rate of 58.92 per cent," the data said.

Out of the total 1,668 personnel, 1157 have recovered till June 6, it said.

A total of 511 personnel are admitted to COVID-19 designated hospitals, the data said.

Out of these active cases, 149 are in the CRPF, 82 in BSF, 26 in ITBP, 134 in CISF, 63 in SSB, 22 in NSG, and 25 in NDRF.

The data said with 10 casualties reported till June 6, the death rate in these forces is 0.59 per cent. However, deaths from coronavirus in these forces stand at 12 with two CRPF personnel succumbing to the disease since June 6, one of which was reported on Monday.

These central forces, with a combined strength of about 10 lakh personnel, render a variety of security duties, law and order management, border guarding, counter-insurgency and counter-terrorist operations, and disaster rescue and relief.

All of them function under the command of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Over 1,600 personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and two other forces have been infected with COVID-19 till now and these combat organizations have registered an overall recovery rate of about 70 per cent, an official data said on Monday.

Over 1,600 personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and two other forces have been infected with COVID-19 till now and these combat organizations have registered an overall recovery rate of about 70 per cent, an official data said on Monday. As per data accessed by PTI, updated till June 6, the recovery tally is led by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), then about 90,000 personnel strong force tasked to guard the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, at 87.89 per cent. This is followed by the Border Security Force (BSF), with a strength of about 2.5 lakh personnel, with a recovery rate of about 82.94 per cent. The report said a total of 1,668 personnel of the five CAPFs and the National Security Guard (NSG) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been infected with the pandemic till now after the first case among these forces was detected on March 28. "Data available till June 6 on coronavirus infections in the CAPFs and two other forces shows that recovery rate among these forces is about 70 per cent." "The ITBP tops the recovery tally with 87.89 per cent followed by the BSF," an official said quoting the data. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has recorded a recovery rate of 68. 86 per cent while the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has registered a recovery rate of 58.92 per cent," the data said. Out of the total 1,668 personnel, 1157 have recovered till June 6, it said. A total of 511 personnel are admitted to COVID-19 designated hospitals, the data said. Out of these active cases, 149 are in the CRPF, 82 in BSF, 26 in ITBP, 134 in CISF, 63 in SSB, 22 in NSG, and 25 in NDRF. The data said with 10 casualties reported till June 6, the death rate in these forces is 0.59 per cent. However, deaths from coronavirus in these forces stand at 12 with two CRPF personnel succumbing to the disease since June 6, one of which was reported on Monday. These central forces, with a combined strength of about 10 lakh personnel, render a variety of security duties, law and order management, border guarding, counter-insurgency and counter-terrorist operations, and disaster rescue and relief. All of them function under the command of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Over 1,600 COVID-19 cases in CAPFs, other forces; 70 per cent recovery rate

The total number of new COVID-19 cases crossed 100 in Kerala for the second day in a row to settle at 108.

On Friday, for the first time, the state`s case count crossed 100 to reach 111.

State Health Minister K.K. Shailaja said today that of the new cases, 64 came from abroad, while 34 were from within the country. The remaining 10 are local infectees.

"As on date 1,029 people are positive and are under treatment, while 762 have been cured. As many as 1,83,097 people are at present under observation in homes, corona care centres, including 1,615 in hospitals.

"With the addition of 10 more hotspot areas, the total number of hotspots in the state has risen to 138," said Shailaja.

The Kerala government on Saturday came out with a fresh directive saying all those who come from abroad need to go for two-week home quarantine and only those who do not have proper facilities at home for quarantine can opt for institutional quarantine provided by the state government.

The total number of new COVID-19 cases crossed 100 in Kerala for the second day in a row to settle at 108. On Friday, for the first time, the state`s case count crossed 100 to reach 111.

The total number of new COVID-19 cases crossed 100 in Kerala for the second day in a row to settle at 108. On Friday, for the first time, the state`s case count crossed 100 to reach 111. State Health Minister K.K. Shailaja said today that of the new cases, 64 came from abroad, while 34 were from within the country. The remaining 10 are local infectees. "As on date 1,029 people are positive and are under treatment, while 762 have been cured. As many as 1,83,097 people are at present under observation in homes, corona care centres, including 1,615 in hospitals. "With the addition of 10 more hotspot areas, the total number of hotspots in the state has risen to 138," said Shailaja. The Kerala government on Saturday came out with a fresh directive saying all those who come from abroad need to go for two-week home quarantine and only those who do not have proper facilities at home for quarantine can opt for institutional quarantine provided by the state government.

New cases in Kerala cross 100 for second day in a row

Government of India's defence agency DRDO's headquarters in Delhi has been closed for a day for sanitisation after an employee tested positive for COVID-19, sources said.&nbsp;

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is an agency of the Government of India, charged with the military's research and development, headquartered in Delhi.

Meanwhile, Among cities, Mumbai and Delhi are the worse affected due to the highly contagious disease. The central government has been releasing guidelines as part of its Unlocking measures. The search for coronavirus vaccine is still one with many have claimed to enter a crucial clinical trial.

Around the world, over 66 lakh people have been infected by coronavirus and so far over 3.89 lakh, people have died due to COVID 19. The US, Brazil, Russia, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy are the worse affected countries so far, as per data revealed by the Johns Hopkins University and Medicine. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Government of India's defence agency DRDO's headquarters in Delhi has been closed for a day for sanitisation after an employee tested positive for COVID-19, sources said.

Government of India's defence agency DRDO's headquarters in Delhi has been closed for a day for sanitisation after an employee tested positive for COVID-19, sources said. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is an agency of the Government of India, charged with the military's research and development, headquartered in Delhi. Meanwhile, Among cities, Mumbai and Delhi are the worse affected due to the highly contagious disease. The central government has been releasing guidelines as part of its Unlocking measures. The search for coronavirus vaccine is still one with many have claimed to enter a crucial clinical trial. Around the world, over 66 lakh people have been infected by coronavirus and so far over 3.89 lakh, people have died due to COVID 19. The US, Brazil, Russia, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy are the worse affected countries so far, as per data revealed by the Johns Hopkins University and Medicine. (With inputs from agencies)

Portion of DRDO headquarters in Delhi closed after staff tested COVID-19 positive

Maharashtra on Thursday registered the highest single-day spike of 2,933 COVID-19 cases, which took the tally of patients in the state to 77,793, the state health department said.

As 123 coronavirus positive patients died during the day, the death toll increased to 2,710, it said.

The number of discharged patients in the state rose to 33,681 as 1,352 patients were sent back home after recovery, the health department said in a statement.

Of the 123 deaths, 68 were reported in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).

The department said that 30 of these deaths occurred in the last two days, while the rest were from the period between April 30 and June 1.

The number of active cases is 41,402, it said, adding that as many as 5,10,176 people have been tested so far.

There are 3,804 containment zones in the state.

As many as 5,10,176 people have been tested so far.

Currently, 5,60,303 people are in-home quarantine and 30,623 are in institutional quarantine, it said.

The state's COVID-19 recovery rate is 43.29 per cent, while the fatality rate is 3.48 per cent, it added.

Of the total positive cases recorded so far, 58,878 are in the MMR area, where 1,810 patients have succumbed to the infection.

Malegaon city in Nashik district has so far recorded 762 cases and 58 deaths, Pune city has reported 7,700 cases and 351 deaths, Solapur city 1,065 cases and 86 deaths, Aurangabad city 1,668 cases and 87 deaths, Akola city 633 cases and 27 deaths, while Nagpur city has reported 619 cases and 11 deaths.

Maharashtra's COVID tally is as follows: Positive cases: 77,793, deaths: 2,710, recovered: 33,681, active cases: 41,402, people tested so far: 5,10,176.

Maharashtra on Thursday registered the highest single-day spike of 2,933 COVID-19 cases, which took the tally of patients in the state to 77,793, the state health department said.

Maharashtra on Thursday registered the highest single-day spike of 2,933 COVID-19 cases, which took the tally of patients in the state to 77,793, the state health department said. As 123 coronavirus positive patients died during the day, the death toll increased to 2,710, it said. The number of discharged patients in the state rose to 33,681 as 1,352 patients were sent back home after recovery, the health department said in a statement. Of the 123 deaths, 68 were reported in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The department said that 30 of these deaths occurred in the last two days, while the rest were from the period between April 30 and June 1. The number of active cases is 41,402, it said, adding that as many as 5,10,176 people have been tested so far. There are 3,804 containment zones in the state. As many as 5,10,176 people have been tested so far. Currently, 5,60,303 people are in-home quarantine and 30,623 are in institutional quarantine, it said. The state's COVID-19 recovery rate is 43.29 per cent, while the fatality rate is 3.48 per cent, it added. Of the total positive cases recorded so far, 58,878 are in the MMR area, where 1,810 patients have succumbed to the infection. Malegaon city in Nashik district has so far recorded 762 cases and 58 deaths, Pune city has reported 7,700 cases and 351 deaths, Solapur city 1,065 cases and 86 deaths, Aurangabad city 1,668 cases and 87 deaths, Akola city 633 cases and 27 deaths, while Nagpur city has reported 619 cases and 11 deaths. Maharashtra's COVID tally is as follows: Positive cases: 77,793, deaths: 2,710, recovered: 33,681, active cases: 41,402, people tested so far: 5,10,176.

2,933 COVID-19 positive cases reported in Maharashtra in a day; tally 77,793

India reports 9,851 new coronavirus cases and 273 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total coronavirus cases in India have increased to 2,26,770 on Friday.&nbsp;

Out of which, 110960 have been active cases. The number of people who have been cured, discharged or migrated has increased to &nbsp;1,09,461. The death toll, on the other hand, has mounted to 6348.&nbsp;

<img alt="India's Covid-19 tally" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b9f932d9-2adf-4fe3-b5ce-821c2f820217" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/0506_UPDATED_LINE_GRAPH.jpg" />

<img alt="India's Covid-19 tally" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8519d614-4416-4694-8b9c-3c032d833884" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/0506_UPDATED_MAP_INDIA_HOTSPOT.jpg" />

Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan have recorded the most number of covid 19 cases. Among cities, Mumbai and Delhi are the worse affected due to the highly contagious disease. The central government has been releasing guidelines as part of its Unlocking measures. The search for coronavirus vaccine is still one with many have claimed to enter a crucial clinical trial.

Around the world, over 66 lakh people have been infected by coronavirus and so far over 3.89 lakh people have died due to COVID 19. The US, Brazil, Russia, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy are the worse affected countries so far, as per data revealed by the Johns Hopkins University and Medicine.

India reports 9,851 new coronavirus cases and 273 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total coronavirus cases in India have increased to 2,26,770 on Friday. Out of which, 110960 have been active cases.

India reports 9,851 new coronavirus cases and 273 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total coronavirus cases in India have increased to 2,26,770 on Friday. Out of which, 110960 have been active cases. The number of people who have been cured, discharged or migrated has increased to 1,09,461. The death toll, on the other hand, has mounted to 6348. Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan have recorded the most number of covid 19 cases. Among cities, Mumbai and Delhi are the worse affected due to the highly contagious disease. The central government has been releasing guidelines as part of its Unlocking measures. The search for coronavirus vaccine is still one with many have claimed to enter a crucial clinical trial. Around the world, over 66 lakh people have been infected by coronavirus and so far over 3.89 lakh people have died due to COVID 19. The US, Brazil, Russia, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy are the worse affected countries so far, as per data revealed by the Johns Hopkins University and Medicine.

9,851 new COVID-19 cases and 273 deaths in the last 24 hours – highest ever spike

The BJP on Wednesday rejected the allegation that starvation was behind the death of passengers on 'Shramik Special' trains and said the manner in which the issue was being "politicised" was unprecedented.

"None of the deaths in Shramik trains has been caused by hunger or starvation as per postmortem reports.

Natural deaths have occurred on trains earlier too but the manner in which unfortunate deaths of shramiks (labourers) have been politicised is unprecedented without (critics) waiting to know about the exact cause of deaths," the BJP said in a statement.

Its spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain cited details of postmortem reports and comments of some of the deceased's family members to claim that they suffered from pre-existing conditions.

Dashrath Prajapati (30) suffered from chronic kidney disease, the health of Ram Ratan Ground (63) had been deteriorating, Ibrar Ahmed's postmortem report found brain stroke as cause of death and not dehydration while Arbina Khatoon suffered from pre-existing mental ailment, Hussain said, referring to some of those who died during their journey.

"We are not here to do petty politics. Government believes in tackling the problems head-on, and addressing it," he said.

The BJP's statement came after Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi hit out at the central government, saying this has been "admitted" that at least 81 deaths have happened and there are allegations that more fatalities occurred but were not being declared by the railways.

The opposition party demanded the resignation of Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, accusing the government of distorting facts on payments for these train services.

The Congress said the central government has not spent a single penny on running special trains for migrant workers returning home as Solicitor General Tushar Mehta has made it clear before the Supreme Court that state governments receiving or sending migrants were to pay for them.

Hussain reiterated that the Railways bore 85 per cent of the total cost of getting the migrants back to their home states, while the remaining 15 per cent was charged from the states.

The solicitor general also said the same in the Supreme Court when asked who will pay the fare which is covered by the state, Hussain said.

'Shramik Special' trains are being supplied with multiple meals and adequate drinking water, with over 1. 5 crore meals and two crore packaged water bottles having been provided by the railways free of cost, he said.

As many as 4197 of these special trains have carried 58 lakh passengers to their home states between May 1 and June 3, the BJP leader said.

The BJP on Wednesday rejected the allegation that starvation was behind the death of passengers on 'Shramik Special' trains and said the manner in which the issue was being "politicised" was unprecedented.

The BJP on Wednesday rejected the allegation that starvation was behind the death of passengers on 'Shramik Special' trains and said the manner in which the issue was being "politicised" was unprecedented. "None of the deaths in Shramik trains has been caused by hunger or starvation as per postmortem reports. Natural deaths have occurred on trains earlier too but the manner in which unfortunate deaths of shramiks (labourers) have been politicised is unprecedented without (critics) waiting to know about the exact cause of deaths," the BJP said in a statement. Its spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain cited details of postmortem reports and comments of some of the deceased's family members to claim that they suffered from pre-existing conditions. Dashrath Prajapati (30) suffered from chronic kidney disease, the health of Ram Ratan Ground (63) had been deteriorating, Ibrar Ahmed's postmortem report found brain stroke as cause of death and not dehydration while Arbina Khatoon suffered from pre-existing mental ailment, Hussain said, referring to some of those who died during their journey. "We are not here to do petty politics. Government believes in tackling the problems head-on, and addressing it," he said. The BJP's statement came after Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi hit out at the central government, saying this has been "admitted" that at least 81 deaths have happened and there are allegations that more fatalities occurred but were not being declared by the railways. The opposition party demanded the resignation of Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, accusing the government of distorting facts on payments for these train services. The Congress said the central government has not spent a single penny on running special trains for migrant workers returning home as Solicitor General Tushar Mehta has made it clear before the Supreme Court that state governments receiving or sending migrants were to pay for them. Hussain reiterated that the Railways bore 85 per cent of the total cost of getting the migrants back to their home states, while the remaining 15 per cent was charged from the states. The solicitor general also said the same in the Supreme Court when asked who will pay the fare which is covered by the state, Hussain said. 'Shramik Special' trains are being supplied with multiple meals and adequate drinking water, with over 1. 5 crore meals and two crore packaged water bottles having been provided by the railways free of cost, he said. As many as 4197 of these special trains have carried 58 lakh passengers to their home states between May 1 and June 3, the BJP leader said.

'Issue being politicised': BJP says no death in Shramik trains due to starvation

A pregnant elephant died in the Indian state of Kerala after eating a pineapple stuffed with firecrackers. The incident has raised several uncomfortable questions across the country. WION's Palki Sharma has some food for thought.

Gravitas: Food for thought | Pregnant elephant's death shakes India

COVID-19 fatalities in Maharashtra spiked by 122 on Wednesday, the highest in a single day, including 49 from worst-hit Mumbai, taking the death toll to 2,587, Health department said.

The number of cases shot up by 2,560 to 74,860, it said.

A total of 996 patients were discharged from hospitals in the day, taking the tally of the recovered cases to 32,329 so far, a statement said.

The number of active cases in the state now stands at 39,935, it said, adding that a total of 4,97,276 samples have been tested so far.

"Of the 122 deaths, 60 fatalities were reported from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), including 49 from Mumbai alone," the statement said.

Pune city, another major hotspot, reported 19 more deaths in a day, it added.

Mumbai on Wednesday reported 1,276 new COVID-19 cases and 49 deaths, taking the case count to 43,262 and the number of fatalities to 1,417, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said.

A total of 259 patients were discharged from hospitals in the last 24 hours from various COVID facilities, taking the tally of recovered cases to 17,472, it said.

The number of active cases now stands at 24,373.

"27 of the 49 deceased had pre-existing underlying health conditions," the BMC said in a release.

A total of 795 new suspected patients have been admitted in various hospitals.

Meanwhile, as rains lashed parts of Mumbai and suburbs earlier in the day, the civic body has issued an advisory fearing a rise in monsoon-related diseases in addition to the coronavirus infections.

"All citizens are requested not to ignore any fever and not to self-medicate," it said.

The civic body also asked citizens to visit nearby clinics or inform community health volunteers if they experience symptoms like fever with chills, joint pains, rashes, cough, breathlessness, diarrhea, vomiting, sore throat, and jaundice.

"All high-risk citizens having co-morbidities should continue to take their prescribed medicines and senior citizens take special care and not to go out of house," it said.

The civic body appealed to citizens to maintain premises of their residential buildings and surrounding areas clean to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes in any disposed articles.

It also asked people to void outside food and to follow personal hygiene.

The MMR accounts for 56,794 coronavirus cases and 1,742 deaths, it stated.

The total number of cases in Pune Municipal Corporation limits now stands at 7,390 with 343 deaths, while the Aurangabad city has reported 1,609 cases and 83 fatalities, it said.

The case count for Solapur city stood at 973 and fatalities at 80.

Malegaon, a hotspot in Nashik district, did not report any fresh case or death on Wednesday.

As of Tuesday, it had reported 762 cases and 58 deaths, it said.

The tally of cases in Nagpur city is 596 with 11 deaths.

601 cases with 27 fatalities have been recorded in Akola city till date.

The number of containment zones in Maharashtra now stands at 3,661.

The COVID 19 tally in Maharashtra: total cases 74,860, recoveries 32,329, deaths 2,587, active cases 39,935 and people tested 4,97,276.

COVID-19 fatalities in Maharashtra spiked by 122 on Wednesday, the highest in a single day, including 49 from worst-hit Mumbai, taking the death toll to 2,587, Health department said.

COVID-19 fatalities in Maharashtra spiked by 122 on Wednesday, the highest in a single day, including 49 from worst-hit Mumbai, taking the death toll to 2,587, Health department said. The number of cases shot up by 2,560 to 74,860, it said. A total of 996 patients were discharged from hospitals in the day, taking the tally of the recovered cases to 32,329 so far, a statement said. The number of active cases in the state now stands at 39,935, it said, adding that a total of 4,97,276 samples have been tested so far. "Of the 122 deaths, 60 fatalities were reported from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), including 49 from Mumbai alone," the statement said. Pune city, another major hotspot, reported 19 more deaths in a day, it added. Mumbai on Wednesday reported 1,276 new COVID-19 cases and 49 deaths, taking the case count to 43,262 and the number of fatalities to 1,417, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said. A total of 259 patients were discharged from hospitals in the last 24 hours from various COVID facilities, taking the tally of recovered cases to 17,472, it said. The number of active cases now stands at 24,373. "27 of the 49 deceased had pre-existing underlying health conditions," the BMC said in a release. A total of 795 new suspected patients have been admitted in various hospitals. Meanwhile, as rains lashed parts of Mumbai and suburbs earlier in the day, the civic body has issued an advisory fearing a rise in monsoon-related diseases in addition to the coronavirus infections. "All citizens are requested not to ignore any fever and not to self-medicate," it said. The civic body also asked citizens to visit nearby clinics or inform community health volunteers if they experience symptoms like fever with chills, joint pains, rashes, cough, breathlessness, diarrhea, vomiting, sore throat, and jaundice. "All high-risk citizens having co-morbidities should continue to take their prescribed medicines and senior citizens take special care and not to go out of house," it said. The civic body appealed to citizens to maintain premises of their residential buildings and surrounding areas clean to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes in any disposed articles. It also asked people to void outside food and to follow personal hygiene. The MMR accounts for 56,794 coronavirus cases and 1,742 deaths, it stated. The total number of cases in Pune Municipal Corporation limits now stands at 7,390 with 343 deaths, while the Aurangabad city has reported 1,609 cases and 83 fatalities, it said. The case count for Solapur city stood at 973 and fatalities at 80. Malegaon, a hotspot in Nashik district, did not report any fresh case or death on Wednesday. As of Tuesday, it had reported 762 cases and 58 deaths, it said. The tally of cases in Nagpur city is 596 with 11 deaths. 601 cases with 27 fatalities have been recorded in Akola city till date. The number of containment zones in Maharashtra now stands at 3,661. The COVID 19 tally in Maharashtra: total cases 74,860, recoveries 32,329, deaths 2,587, active cases 39,935 and people tested 4,97,276.

Maharashtra COVID-19 cases up by 2,560 to 74,860; 122 die in one day

India reported 9,304 new COVID-19 cases and 260 deaths in the last 24 hours. As per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data released on Thursday, a total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 2,16,919 including 1,06,737 active cases.

As many as 1,04,107 people have been cured/discharged/migrated. The death toll has now reached 6,075.

The Coronavirus outbreak (officially known as Covid-19), which started in China, has so far killed over 382,479 people across the globe and infected 6,451,966 (as on June 3, 2020). The virus has spread to 187 countries. 
 
Of the total 42,42,718 COVID-19 samples tested so far, 1,39,485 samples have been tested in the past 24 hours, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

Of the total 2,16,919 &nbsp;COVID-19 cases across the nation as many as 1,04,107 patients were cured of the viral disease, said the health ministry on Thursday. This took India's COVID-19 recovery rate to 47.99 per cent.&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Health Ministry issues guidelines for ENT (ear, nose, and throat) &nbsp;practice during the pandemic and informed that COVID-19 patients having symptoms suggestive of either ENT or respiratory symptoms, should be seen in separate screening clinic and not in ENT OPD, the health ministry issued the guideline.

(With inputs from agencies)

India reported 9,304 new COVID-19 cases and 260 deaths in the last 24 hours. As per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data released on Thursday, a total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 2,16,919 including 1,06,737 active cases.

India reported 9,304 new COVID-19 cases and 260 deaths in the last 24 hours. As per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data released on Thursday, a total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 2,16,919 including 1,06,737 active cases. As many as 1,04,107 people have been cured/discharged/migrated. The death toll has now reached 6,075. The Coronavirus outbreak (officially known as Covid-19), which started in China, has so far killed over 382,479 people across the globe and infected 6,451,966 (as on June 3, 2020). The virus has spread to 187 countries. Of the total 42,42,718 COVID-19 samples tested so far, 1,39,485 samples have been tested in the past 24 hours, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Of the total 2,16,919 COVID-19 cases across the nation as many as 1,04,107 patients were cured of the viral disease, said the health ministry on Thursday. This took India's COVID-19 recovery rate to 47.99 per cent. Meanwhile, Health Ministry issues guidelines for ENT (ear, nose, and throat) practice during the pandemic and informed that COVID-19 patients having symptoms suggestive of either ENT or respiratory symptoms, should be seen in separate screening clinic and not in ENT OPD, the health ministry issued the guideline. (With inputs from agencies)

9,304 new COVID-19 cases and 260 deaths in the last 24 hours – highest ever spike

Widespread anger erupted in India, with common people, central government, and celebrities speaking against the horrific killing of a pregnant elephant in Kerala.&nbsp;

A few days ago, a pregnant elephant lost her life after she was fed with a pineapple full of firecrackers.&nbsp;

Prominent sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik made his trademark sand art on a beach at Puri in eastern India to pay his tributes to the deceased animal. He shared his artwork on social media, which said, "Humanity has failed again". He further said that his latest artwork is for a cause to save elephants.&nbsp;

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Humanity has failed again........... 
One of my SandArt on save <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Elephant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Elephant</a>. <a href="https://t.co/nzcM4PNDvr">pic.twitter.com/nzcM4PNDvr</a>
— Sudarsan Pattnaik (@sudarsansand) <a href="https://twitter.com/sudarsansand/status/1268206270168723460?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The post immediately went viral, with over 56,000 likes and more than 10,000 retweets.

Earlier today, the Central government also took cognizance with Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar saying that the Central government has taken a "serious note" of the incident.&nbsp;

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Central Government has taken a very serious note of the killing of an elephant in Mallapuram, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a>. We will not leave any stone unturned to investigate properly and nab the culprit(s). This is not an Indian culture to feed fire crackers and kill.<a href="https://twitter.com/moefcc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@moefcc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHindi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIBHindi</a>
— Prakash Javadekar (@PrakashJavdekar) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrakashJavdekar/status/1268381204782465027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"We will not leave any stone unturned to investigate properly and nab the culprit(s). This is not an Indian culture to feed firecrackers and kill," Javadekar said in a Twitter post.&nbsp;

BJP MP and environmental activist Maneka Gandhi slammed the state government of Kerala for the incident. She further said that one elephant is killed in Kerala in every three days. She also expressed her concern over the declining population of elephants in the country.&nbsp;

Kerala's Forest Minister K Raju told news agency ANI that strict actions would be taken against culprits who did this act.&nbsp;

One of India's prominent industrialist Ratan Tata on Twitter wrote: "Such criminal acts against innocent animals are no different than acts of meditated murder against other humans".&nbsp;

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— Ratan N. Tata (@RNTata2000) <a href="https://twitter.com/RNTata2000/status/1268202497216319489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Justice needs to prevail," he added.

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Maybe animals are less wild and humans less human. What happened with that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/elephant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#elephant</a> is heartbreaking, inhumane and unacceptable! Strict action should be taken against the culprits. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AllLivesMatter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AllLivesMatter</a> <a href="https://t.co/sOmUsL3Ayc">pic.twitter.com/sOmUsL3Ayc</a>
— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) <a href="https://twitter.com/akshaykumar/status/1268162503520862208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Film star Akshay Kumar also slammed the inhumane act and comedian Kapil Sharma endorsing the petition demanding justice for the elephant.&nbsp;

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My eyes start tearing whenever I even think of this story. Glad its getting the attention it is online &amp; in politics. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaElephantMurder?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaElephantMurder</a> <a href="https://t.co/oKNK98esya">https://t.co/oKNK98esya</a>
— Priyanka Deo (@priyankadeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankadeo/status/1268420969049157632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Shame on Humanity. She trusted humans that was her fault. 
Pregnant elephant was fed a pineapple stuffed with firecrackers. 
 
The earth was made for all BEINGS, not just for Human Beings. 
 
End Of Humanity.. 😢<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaElephantMurder?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaElephantMurder</a> <a href="https://t.co/KGLxnXnKEo">pic.twitter.com/KGLxnXnKEo</a>
— Fareed Ahmed (@_Fareedahmed_) <a href="https://twitter.com/_Fareedahmed_/status/1268437054658142208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In social media too, users expressed their grief and anger on the incident, with words like "cruel humanity", "end of humanity" being used widely.&nbsp;

Widespread anger erupted in India, with common people, central government, and celebrities speaking against the horrific killing of a pregnant elephant in Kerala.

Widespread anger erupted in India, with common people, central government, and celebrities speaking against the horrific killing of a pregnant elephant in Kerala. A few days ago, a pregnant elephant lost her life after she was fed with a pineapple full of firecrackers. Prominent sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik made his trademark sand art on a beach at Puri in eastern India to pay his tributes to the deceased animal. He shared his artwork on social media, which said, "Humanity has failed again". He further said that his latest artwork is for a cause to save elephants. Humanity has failed again........... One of my SandArt on save #Elephant. pic.twitter.com/nzcM4PNDvr — Sudarsan Pattnaik (@sudarsansand) June 3, 2020 × The post immediately went viral, with over 56,000 likes and more than 10,000 retweets. Earlier today, the Central government also took cognizance with Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar saying that the Central government has taken a "serious note" of the incident. Central Government has taken a very serious note of the killing of an elephant in Mallapuram, #Kerala. We will not leave any stone unturned to investigate properly and nab the culprit(s). This is not an Indian culture to feed fire crackers and kill.@moefcc @PIB_India @PIBHindi — Prakash Javadekar (@PrakashJavdekar) June 4, 2020 × "We will not leave any stone unturned to investigate properly and nab the culprit(s). This is not an Indian culture to feed firecrackers and kill," Javadekar said in a Twitter post. BJP MP and environmental activist Maneka Gandhi slammed the state government of Kerala for the incident. She further said that one elephant is killed in Kerala in every three days. She also expressed her concern over the declining population of elephants in the country. Kerala's Forest Minister K Raju told news agency ANI that strict actions would be taken against culprits who did this act. One of India's prominent industrialist Ratan Tata on Twitter wrote: "Such criminal acts against innocent animals are no different than acts of meditated murder against other humans". pic.twitter.com/sFwcDyxcgA — Ratan N. Tata (@RNTata2000) June 3, 2020 × "Justice needs to prevail," he added. Maybe animals are less wild and humans less human. What happened with that #elephant is heartbreaking, inhumane and unacceptable! Strict action should be taken against the culprits. #AllLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/sOmUsL3Ayc — Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) June 3, 2020 × Film star Akshay Kumar also slammed the inhumane act and comedian Kapil Sharma endorsing the petition demanding justice for the elephant. My eyes start tearing whenever I even think of this story. Glad its getting the attention it is online & in politics. #KeralaElephantMurder https://t.co/oKNK98esya — Priyanka Deo (@priyankadeo) June 4, 2020 × Shame on Humanity. She trusted humans that was her fault. Pregnant elephant was fed a pineapple stuffed with firecrackers. The earth was made for all BEINGS, not just for Human Beings. End Of Humanity.. 😢#KeralaElephantMurder pic.twitter.com/KGLxnXnKEo — Fareed Ahmed (@_Fareedahmed_) June 4, 2020 × In social media too, users expressed their grief and anger on the incident, with words like "cruel humanity", "end of humanity" being used widely.

'Humanity failed again': Artists, common man join chorus against horrific elephant killing

With the biggest single-day spike at 8,909 cases in the last 24 hours India now has the fourth-highest number of active cases in the world.

The country reported 8,908 cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of coronavirus infections in India crossed the 2 lakh-mark to reach 2,07,614 on Wednesday. This includes including 5,815 deaths and 1,00,302 cured/ discharged.

As many as 217 people have died in the last 24 hours across the country.

Authorities, however, said the recovery rate of COVID-19 patients was improving consistently in India and it was in a much better position in handling the pandemic, which has seen more than 63 lakh people testing positive for this virus since its emergence in China last December and over 3.7 lakh having lost their lives globally.

With the biggest single-day spike at 8,909 cases in the last 24 hours India now has the fourth-highest number of active cases in the world. The country reported 8,908 cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of coronavirus infections in India crossed the 2 lakh-mark to reach 2,07,614 on Wednesday.

With the biggest single-day spike at 8,909 cases in the last 24 hours India now has the fourth-highest number of active cases in the world. The country reported 8,908 cases in the last 24 hours, the total number of coronavirus infections in India crossed the 2 lakh-mark to reach 2,07,614 on Wednesday. This includes including 5,815 deaths and 1,00,302 cured/ discharged. As many as 217 people have died in the last 24 hours across the country. Authorities, however, said the recovery rate of COVID-19 patients was improving consistently in India and it was in a much better position in handling the pandemic, which has seen more than 63 lakh people testing positive for this virus since its emergence in China last December and over 3.7 lakh having lost their lives globally.

India COVID-19 tally crosses 2.07 lakh, death toll at 5,815

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-cases-cross-198-lakh-mark-in-india-death-toll-at-5598-302533">Also read: COVID-19 cases cross 1.98 lakh-mark in India; death toll at 5,598</a> 
 
“While it is true that coronavirus has slowed down our growth, India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1. So in a way, we have already started getting our growth back. I have confidence in India’s capabilities, crisis management,” PM Modi said.

PM Modi was attending the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Annual Session 2020- “Getting Growth Back” where he addressed the issue of economic slowdown due to coronavirus and how to revive it as alarm bells ring for Indian economy.

Here are the highlights of PM Modi's speech:&nbsp;

1: Coronavirus is an unprecedented crisis where we have several priorities as we handle the situation — we have to revive the economy while keeping the welfare of the poor in mind. 
&nbsp; 
2: Getting growth back is what we also have our motto as we reopen the economy. I have full faith in India's crisis management, talent, technology, innovation, and intellect. 
&nbsp; 
3: I have faith in India's farmers, entrepreneurs, industry leaders. Therefore, yes, we will get our growth back. India will get its growth back. Friends, coronavirus may have impeded our speed, but the reality today is that we have left the lockdown phase behind and now we are in the Unlock 1.0 phase. 
&nbsp; 
4: A large part of the economy has reopened. The rest will reopen on June 8.&nbsp;

5: We were able to do all this because even as the rest of the world was struggling in the grips of coronavirus, we took the right steps at the right time. 
 
6:&nbsp;To bring India back on track for fast-paced growth five things are very important: Intent, Inclusion, Investment, Infrastructure, Innovation. 
 
7: Under PM Gareeb Kalyan Yojana, Rs 53,000 crore worth of financial assistance has already been provided to the poor. 
&nbsp; 
8: During the lockdown, the govt provided 80 million LPG cylinders right at the doorstep of the poor.

9: We have made decisions to make our economy and sectors future-ready. Our reforms are not scattered; rather, our reforms are planned, futuristic. For us, reforms mean taking it to the logical conclusion.

10: The private sector's participation across sectors of the economy are now truly a reality.

11: If a country like ours, which is the biggest storehouse of coal, had to import coal for its requirements, there were policy bottlenecks that needed reform.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1. Also read: COVID-19 cases cross 1.98 lakh-mark in India; death toll at 5,598 “While it is true that coronavirus has slowed down our growth, India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1. Also read: COVID-19 cases cross 1.98 lakh-mark in India; death toll at 5,598 “While it is true that coronavirus has slowed down our growth, India has now left the lockdown behind and has entered unlock phase 1. So in a way, we have already started getting our growth back. I have confidence in India’s capabilities, crisis management,” PM Modi said. PM Modi was attending the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Annual Session 2020- “Getting Growth Back” where he addressed the issue of economic slowdown due to coronavirus and how to revive it as alarm bells ring for Indian economy. Here are the highlights of PM Modi's speech: 1: Coronavirus is an unprecedented crisis where we have several priorities as we handle the situation — we have to revive the economy while keeping the welfare of the poor in mind. 2: Getting growth back is what we also have our motto as we reopen the economy. I have full faith in India's crisis management, talent, technology, innovation, and intellect. 3: I have faith in India's farmers, entrepreneurs, industry leaders. Therefore, yes, we will get our growth back. India will get its growth back. Friends, coronavirus may have impeded our speed, but the reality today is that we have left the lockdown phase behind and now we are in the Unlock 1.0 phase. 4: A large part of the economy has reopened. The rest will reopen on June 8. 5: We were able to do all this because even as the rest of the world was struggling in the grips of coronavirus, we took the right steps at the right time. 6: To bring India back on track for fast-paced growth five things are very important: Intent, Inclusion, Investment, Infrastructure, Innovation. 7: Under PM Gareeb Kalyan Yojana, Rs 53,000 crore worth of financial assistance has already been provided to the poor. 8: During the lockdown, the govt provided 80 million LPG cylinders right at the doorstep of the poor. 9: We have made decisions to make our economy and sectors future-ready. Our reforms are not scattered; rather, our reforms are planned, futuristic. For us, reforms mean taking it to the logical conclusion. 10: The private sector's participation across sectors of the economy are now truly a reality. 11: If a country like ours, which is the biggest storehouse of coal, had to import coal for its requirements, there were policy bottlenecks that needed reform.

India has left lockdown behind, will get our growth back, says PM Modi

Data by America’s Johns Hopkins University showed that India has overtaken China in terms of deaths related to Coronavirus and is now placed ninth in the world in the list of the most-affected nations.

Highest spike of 7,466 new COVID-19 cases and 175 deaths in the last 24 hours have been reported in the country.&nbsp;

Total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 1,65,799 including 89,987 active cases, 71,105 cured/discharged/migrated.&nbsp;

The total death toll has now reached 4,706 deaths, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said in its latest update on Friday.&nbsp;

Of the total 4,167 fatalities, Maharashtra tops the tally with 1,982 deaths followed by Gujarat with 960 deaths, Madhya Pradesh with 321, Delhi with 316, West Bengal with 295, Rajasthan with 180, Uttar Pradesh with 197, Tamil Nadu with 145, Telangana with 67 deaths and Andhra Pradesh 59.

India's count of recoveries is the tenth-largest now after the US, Brazil, Germany, Russia, Spain, Italy, Turkey, Iran and China.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs agencies)

Data by America’s Johns Hopkins University showed that India has overtaken China in terms of deaths related to Coronavirus and is now placed ninth in the world in the list of the most-affected nations.

Data by America’s Johns Hopkins University showed that India has overtaken China in terms of deaths related to Coronavirus and is now placed ninth in the world in the list of the most-affected nations. Highest spike of 7,466 new COVID-19 cases and 175 deaths in the last 24 hours have been reported in the country. Total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 1,65,799 including 89,987 active cases, 71,105 cured/discharged/migrated. The total death toll has now reached 4,706 deaths, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said in its latest update on Friday. Of the total 4,167 fatalities, Maharashtra tops the tally with 1,982 deaths followed by Gujarat with 960 deaths, Madhya Pradesh with 321, Delhi with 316, West Bengal with 295, Rajasthan with 180, Uttar Pradesh with 197, Tamil Nadu with 145, Telangana with 67 deaths and Andhra Pradesh 59. India's count of recoveries is the tenth-largest now after the US, Brazil, Germany, Russia, Spain, Italy, Turkey, Iran and China. (With inputs agencies)

India stands 9th on Covid-19 worst-hit nations' list, surpassing China

India on Thursday morning reported a spike of 6,566 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the number of COVID-19 cases in the country rose to 1,58,333. India also reported 194 deaths since Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

Currently, there are 86,110 active coronavirus cases in the country, while 67,691 have recovered from the disease so far. One patient migrated to another country.&nbsp;

States like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Delhi and Rajasthan have reported the maximum number of coronavirus infection cases.

Meanwhile, the government is reportedly reviewing the 60-day lockdown period to chalk out strategy after May 310 – the day when the lockdown 4.0 is scheduled to end.

According to reports, the Prime Minister’s Office is concerned about the rapidly increasing coronavirus cases as well as the number of people under quarantine. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced a complete lockdown on March 25 which has been extended thrice so far.

(With inputs from agencies)

India on Thursday morning reported a spike of 6,566 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the number of COVID-19 cases in the country rose to 1,58,333.

India on Thursday morning reported a spike of 6,566 coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the number of COVID-19 cases in the country rose to 1,58,333. India also reported 194 deaths since Wednesday morning. Currently, there are 86,110 active coronavirus cases in the country, while 67,691 have recovered from the disease so far. One patient migrated to another country. States like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Delhi and Rajasthan have reported the maximum number of coronavirus infection cases. Meanwhile, the government is reportedly reviewing the 60-day lockdown period to chalk out strategy after May 310 – the day when the lockdown 4.0 is scheduled to end. According to reports, the Prime Minister’s Office is concerned about the rapidly increasing coronavirus cases as well as the number of people under quarantine. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced a complete lockdown on March 25 which has been extended thrice so far. (With inputs from agencies)

6,566 new cases, 194 deaths in last 24 hours; India COVID-19 tally reaches 1,58,333

India witnessed a spike of 6,387 new COVID-19 cases and 170 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in the country now stands at 1,51,767 including 83,004 active cases. As many as 64,425 people have been cured/discharged. The death toll stands at 4,337, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said in its latest update on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Maharashtra continued to be the worst-affected state by coronavirus with &nbsp;2,091 new COVID-19 cases and 97 fatalities reported in the state. The total tally of cases in the state now stands at 54,758, &nbsp;while 1,168 patients were discharged from hospital, taking the number of recovered patients to 16,954, state health officials informed. In Pune alone, the COVID-19 death toll mounted to 289 with 9 more fatalities and till Tuesday. A total of 327 new COVID-19 cases were reported in the district taking the total tally to 6,480.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the Health Ministry said that the recovery rate in coronavirus cases in the country has improved considerably while the fatality rate has also been observed as declining.

India witnessed a spike of 6,387 new COVID-19 cases and 170 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in the country now stands at 1,51,767 including 83,004 active cases.

India witnessed a spike of 6,387 new COVID-19 cases and 170 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in the country now stands at 1,51,767 including 83,004 active cases. As many as 64,425 people have been cured/discharged. The death toll stands at 4,337, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said in its latest update on Wednesday. Maharashtra continued to be the worst-affected state by coronavirus with 2,091 new COVID-19 cases and 97 fatalities reported in the state. The total tally of cases in the state now stands at 54,758, while 1,168 patients were discharged from hospital, taking the number of recovered patients to 16,954, state health officials informed. In Pune alone, the COVID-19 death toll mounted to 289 with 9 more fatalities and till Tuesday. A total of 327 new COVID-19 cases were reported in the district taking the total tally to 6,480. On Tuesday, the Health Ministry said that the recovery rate in coronavirus cases in the country has improved considerably while the fatality rate has also been observed as declining.

Covid-19 tally in India cross 1.5 lakh-mark with 6,387 new cases in past 24 hours

India on Tuesday maintained its higher daily spikes in COVID-19 cases as it recorded 6,535 new positive cases and 146 deaths in the last 24 hours.

As per the latest Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data The total number of cases in the country now at 1,45,380 including 80,722 active cases, 60,490 cured/discharged and 4167 deaths.

Maharashtra has emerged as the worst affected state with over 50,000 patients. Delhi, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and others are also registering hundreds of COVID-19 cases on a daily basis.

Meanwhile, domestic air travel has resumed in the country despite some of the states opposing the idea amid the rising numbers of coronavirus cases. However, several flights had to be cancelled on the first day of resumption of services – May 25 – after the Centre announced that there would no flights to cyclone Amphan-hit West Bengal and also to Andhra Pradesh. Major airports such as Mumbai, Hyderabad and Chennai resumed limited operations which resulted in a limited number of flights being operated.

India on Tuesday maintained its higher daily spikes in COVID-19 cases as it recorded 6,535 new positive cases and 146 deaths in the last 24 hours. As per the latest Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data The total number of cases in the country now at 1,45,380 including 80,722 active cases, 60,490 cured/discharged and 4167 deaths.

India on Tuesday maintained its higher daily spikes in COVID-19 cases as it recorded 6,535 new positive cases and 146 deaths in the last 24 hours. As per the latest Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data The total number of cases in the country now at 1,45,380 including 80,722 active cases, 60,490 cured/discharged and 4167 deaths. Maharashtra has emerged as the worst affected state with over 50,000 patients. Delhi, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and others are also registering hundreds of COVID-19 cases on a daily basis. Meanwhile, domestic air travel has resumed in the country despite some of the states opposing the idea amid the rising numbers of coronavirus cases. However, several flights had to be cancelled on the first day of resumption of services – May 25 – after the Centre announced that there would no flights to cyclone Amphan-hit West Bengal and also to Andhra Pradesh. Major airports such as Mumbai, Hyderabad and Chennai resumed limited operations which resulted in a limited number of flights being operated.

6,535 new positive cases, 146 deaths in the last 24 hours: India continues its high daily spikes

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