The West Bengal government on Thursday said the lockdown in containment zones in the state will be extended till August 31.

Earlier, the state had said the shutdown in containment zones will be in force till July 31.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-1-million-recovered-in-india-from-coronavirus-health-ministry-317101">Over 1 million recovered in India from coronavirus: Health ministry</a>

There will be a complete lockdown across the state on August 5, August 8, August 16-17, August 23-24 and August 31, as announced earlier, a notification issued by Chief Secretary Rajiva Sinha said.

Educational centres, coaching institutes, cinema halls, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres, bars, auditoriums and assembly halls will remain closed till August 31, it said.

During the complete lockdown days in August, all government and private offices, commercial establishments, public and private transport, including flight services, will be cease to operate, the notification said.

Essential services including healthcare, agriculture operations and home delivery of food, have been exempted on such days.

However, gyms and yoga institutes outside containment zones will be allowed to function from August 5, barring the total lockdown days, the notification added. 
&nbsp;

The West Bengal government on Thursday said the lockdown in containment zones in the state will be extended till August 31. Earlier, the state had said the shutdown in containment zones will be in force till July 31.

The West Bengal government on Thursday said the lockdown in containment zones in the state will be extended till August 31. Earlier, the state had said the shutdown in containment zones will be in force till July 31. Also read | Over 1 million recovered in India from coronavirus: Health ministry There will be a complete lockdown across the state on August 5, August 8, August 16-17, August 23-24 and August 31, as announced earlier, a notification issued by Chief Secretary Rajiva Sinha said. Educational centres, coaching institutes, cinema halls, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres, bars, auditoriums and assembly halls will remain closed till August 31, it said. During the complete lockdown days in August, all government and private offices, commercial establishments, public and private transport, including flight services, will be cease to operate, the notification said. Essential services including healthcare, agriculture operations and home delivery of food, have been exempted on such days. However, gyms and yoga institutes outside containment zones will be allowed to function from August 5, barring the total lockdown days, the notification added.

West Bengal extends lockdown in containment zones till Aug 31

With life returning to normalcy amid restrictions easing down, Bollywood celebrities are also getting back to work. The first actor resume work from the A-listers is our very own Akshay Kumar who has started work on six different TV commercials. Soon after that, Akshay will be leaving for Scotland to start shooting for his forthcoming film 'Bell Bottom'. With Akshay joining back work, it gives hope to almost 400 technicians who have found instant amid coronavirus crisis.

Akshay Kumar is back on set, first actor to resume work as lockdown restrictions ease

Gold jumped more than 1% on Wednesday to its highest in nearly nine years, driven by a weaker dollar and as expectations of more stimulus to revive pandemic-hit economies lifted the metal’s appeal as an inflation-hedge.

Spot gold was up 0.8% at $1,856.13 per ounce by 0501 GMT, after hitting its highest since September 2011 at $1,865.35 earlier in the session. U.S. gold futures rose 0.7% to $1,856.80.

“The spectre of these stimulus packages has pushed investors back into non-yielding assets like gold,” said ANZ analyst Daniel Hynes.

“The likelihood of interest rates remaining low for the foreseeable future and the weaker U.S. dollar have really boosted investor appetite.”

European Union leaders on Tuesday sealed a 750 billion euro recovery plan, while White House officials and top congressional Democrats discussed another round of relief that would include extended unemployment insurance and more money for schools.

Helping bullion’s rally, the dollar index held near a more than four-month low. [USD/]

Coronavirus cases continued to surge in the United States, with President Donald Trump warning the virus would probably get worse before it gets better.

Underscoring the pandemic’s impact, Japan’s factory activity contracted for a 15th straight month in July.

Central banks have slashed interest rates and rolled out a wave of stimulus measures to cushion the economic damage from the pandemic, helping gold prices surge over 22% so far this year.

Silver continued to strengthen, rising 4.7% to $22.33 per ounce, its highest since October 2013.

“Silver spot prices have outperformed gold so far this month, an interesting reversal of the norm,” said Cailin Birch, global economist at The EIU, adding that it reflected market optimism for global industry, as silver has many industrial uses.

“Overall, we expect demand for safe-haven assets like gold and silver to remain relatively strong for the remainder of 2020.”

Palladium fell 1.1% to $2,133.32 and platinum lost 0.7% to $875.49.

Gold jumped more than 1% on Wednesday to its highest in nearly nine years, driven by a weaker dollar and as expectations of more stimulus to revive pandemic-hit economies lifted the metal’s appeal as an inflation-hedge.

Gold jumped more than 1% on Wednesday to its highest in nearly nine years, driven by a weaker dollar and as expectations of more stimulus to revive pandemic-hit economies lifted the metal’s appeal as an inflation-hedge. Spot gold was up 0.8% at $1,856.13 per ounce by 0501 GMT, after hitting its highest since September 2011 at $1,865.35 earlier in the session. U.S. gold futures rose 0.7% to $1,856.80. “The spectre of these stimulus packages has pushed investors back into non-yielding assets like gold,” said ANZ analyst Daniel Hynes. “The likelihood of interest rates remaining low for the foreseeable future and the weaker U.S. dollar have really boosted investor appetite.” European Union leaders on Tuesday sealed a 750 billion euro recovery plan, while White House officials and top congressional Democrats discussed another round of relief that would include extended unemployment insurance and more money for schools. Helping bullion’s rally, the dollar index held near a more than four-month low. [USD/] Coronavirus cases continued to surge in the United States, with President Donald Trump warning the virus would probably get worse before it gets better. Underscoring the pandemic’s impact, Japan’s factory activity contracted for a 15th straight month in July. Central banks have slashed interest rates and rolled out a wave of stimulus measures to cushion the economic damage from the pandemic, helping gold prices surge over 22% so far this year. Silver continued to strengthen, rising 4.7% to $22.33 per ounce, its highest since October 2013. “Silver spot prices have outperformed gold so far this month, an interesting reversal of the norm,” said Cailin Birch, global economist at The EIU, adding that it reflected market optimism for global industry, as silver has many industrial uses. “Overall, we expect demand for safe-haven assets like gold and silver to remain relatively strong for the remainder of 2020.” Palladium fell 1.1% to $2,133.32 and platinum lost 0.7% to $875.49.

Gold firms near nine-year peak on weaker dollar, stimulus bets

Syrians voted Sunday to elect a new parliament as the Damascus government grapples with international sanctions and a crumbling economy after retaking large parts of the war-torn country.

More than 7,400 polling stations opened across government-held parts of Syria, including for the first time in former opposition strongholds, the electoral commission said.

President Bashar al-Assad's Baath party and its allies are expected to take most of parliament's 250 seats in the third such polls to be held since the war started nine years ago.

On the eve of the polls, one person was killed and another wounded in two blasts in Damascus, state news agency SANA said.

Several lists were allowed to run across the country but any real opposition is absent, and the ruling Baath party is expected to retain its hegemony.

Portraits of the contenders have been displayed across the capital for weeks, with the 1,658 candidates including several prominent businessmen.

The elections, twice postponed from April due to the novel coronavirus pandemic, come at a time when most Syrians are worried about the soaring cost of living.

Many candidates are running on programmes pledging to tackle inflation and improve infrastructure ravaged by the conflict.

"Lawmakers are going to have to make exceptional efforts to improve services," said Umaya, a 31-year-old woman who works in a dentist's practice.

Millions of Syrians living abroad, after fleeing a war that has killed more than 380,000 people, are not eligible to vote.

But for the first time, voting will take place in territory retaken by the government, including in the Eastern Ghouta region outside Damascus and in the south of Idlib province in the country's northwest.

After a string of military victories backed by key ally Russia, the government is back in control of around 70 percent of the country, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says.

In the last polls in 2016, turnout stood at 57 percent.

UNPRECEDENTED HUNGER CRISIS

This year's vote comes as Damascus struggles to redress an economy battered by nine years of war, Western sanctions and the fallout of a financial crisis in neighbouring Lebanon.

Food prices in Syria have shot up by more than 200 percent in the past year and now stand at 20 times their pre-war levels, the World Food Programme says.

In a country where more than 80 percent of people already live in poverty, the UN food agency has warned that Syrians are now facing an "unprecedented hunger crisis".

The elections also come as Assad marked a second decade in power this month, and weeks after the United States imposed new sanctions on Syria including on the president's wife.

The next presidential polls are expected in 2021, and candidates will need the written approval of at least 35 members of parliament.

Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem last month said Assad would remain in power "as long as the Syrian want him to stay".

Syrians voted Sunday to elect a new parliament as the Damascus government grapples with international sanctions and a crumbling economy after retaking large parts of the war-torn country.

Syrians voted Sunday to elect a new parliament as the Damascus government grapples with international sanctions and a crumbling economy after retaking large parts of the war-torn country. More than 7,400 polling stations opened across government-held parts of Syria, including for the first time in former opposition strongholds, the electoral commission said. President Bashar al-Assad's Baath party and its allies are expected to take most of parliament's 250 seats in the third such polls to be held since the war started nine years ago. On the eve of the polls, one person was killed and another wounded in two blasts in Damascus, state news agency SANA said. Several lists were allowed to run across the country but any real opposition is absent, and the ruling Baath party is expected to retain its hegemony. Portraits of the contenders have been displayed across the capital for weeks, with the 1,658 candidates including several prominent businessmen. The elections, twice postponed from April due to the novel coronavirus pandemic, come at a time when most Syrians are worried about the soaring cost of living. Many candidates are running on programmes pledging to tackle inflation and improve infrastructure ravaged by the conflict. "Lawmakers are going to have to make exceptional efforts to improve services," said Umaya, a 31-year-old woman who works in a dentist's practice. Millions of Syrians living abroad, after fleeing a war that has killed more than 380,000 people, are not eligible to vote. But for the first time, voting will take place in territory retaken by the government, including in the Eastern Ghouta region outside Damascus and in the south of Idlib province in the country's northwest. After a string of military victories backed by key ally Russia, the government is back in control of around 70 percent of the country, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says. In the last polls in 2016, turnout stood at 57 percent. UNPRECEDENTED HUNGER CRISIS This year's vote comes as Damascus struggles to redress an economy battered by nine years of war, Western sanctions and the fallout of a financial crisis in neighbouring Lebanon. Food prices in Syria have shot up by more than 200 percent in the past year and now stand at 20 times their pre-war levels, the World Food Programme says. In a country where more than 80 percent of people already live in poverty, the UN food agency has warned that Syrians are now facing an "unprecedented hunger crisis". The elections also come as Assad marked a second decade in power this month, and weeks after the United States imposed new sanctions on Syria including on the president's wife. The next presidential polls are expected in 2021, and candidates will need the written approval of at least 35 members of parliament. Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem last month said Assad would remain in power "as long as the Syrian want him to stay".

Syrians vote for new parliament amid war, economic turmoil

An Ecuadorean teenager has set up an improvised school under a tree in a poor neighborhood of northern Guayaquil for some 40 students who haven't been able to study during the COVID-19 lockdown for lack of internet access.

Ecuador teen teaches class under a tree for kids without internet

Post-lockdown, the Roman arena has been transformed within just one month into a coronavirus-friendly outdoor venue for the Rome Opera House's summer performances.

How you turn a chariot racing arena into an opera venue

India’s domestic car and SUV sales fell by 50% in June compared to the same period last year, owing to the economic slump caused by the coronavirus crisis.

According to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), passenger car sales fell 58% to 55,497 in June from a year ago, while sales of two-wheelers - widely seen as an indicator of the health of the rural economy - fell 39%.

The numbers provide a glimpse into economic activity in Asia’s third-largest economy, which has struggled to compile official figures on key indicators as strict stay-at-home measures to contain the virus affected data collection.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, fighting the nation’s worst economic downturn in decades, opened up most activities last month in an effort to revive sentiment and growth. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

India’s domestic car and SUV sales fell by 50% in June compared to the same period last year, owing to the economic slump caused by the coronavirus crisis. According to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), passenger car sales fell 58% to 55,497 in June from a year ago, while sales of two-wheelers - widely seen as an indicator of the health of the rural economy - fell 39%.

India’s domestic car and SUV sales fell by 50% in June compared to the same period last year, owing to the economic slump caused by the coronavirus crisis. According to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), passenger car sales fell 58% to 55,497 in June from a year ago, while sales of two-wheelers - widely seen as an indicator of the health of the rural economy - fell 39%. The numbers provide a glimpse into economic activity in Asia’s third-largest economy, which has struggled to compile official figures on key indicators as strict stay-at-home measures to contain the virus affected data collection. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, fighting the nation’s worst economic downturn in decades, opened up most activities last month in an effort to revive sentiment and growth. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s passenger vehicle sales slump in June, hit by economic gloom due to lockdowns

Limited human activity amid lockdown improved Mediterranean marine life

Countries that were forced to re-impose local lockdowns to curb surge in COVID-19 cases

Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets in the Argentine capital of Buenos Aires on Thursday (July 9) to protest against the national government and the quarantine measures imposed in the city, during Argentina's independence day amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Argentines protest against strict lockdown measures

From Latin America to Asia several nations around the world have reimposed lockdown measures to deal with COVID-19 pandemic.

Countries reimpose lockdown to deal with COVID-19 resurgence

As the Asutralian cities are going in another lockdown, Australia's&nbsp;second-most populous state Victoria, may allow almost 3,000 residents to exit from the isolated buildings, as per the officials.

Amid rising number of positive coronavirus cases in the country, especially in the state of Victoria,&nbsp;state premier Daniel Andrews said on Thursday that the state is thinking of relaxing few restrictions and allowing many of the 3,000 people locked down in nine public-housing towers to step outside.

Nearly ten buildings have been on a complete lockdown as new clusters of coronavirus cases were found in the buildings few weeks back.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-recurring-nightmare-australia-reimposes-lockdown-amid-fears-of-second-wave-of-coronavirus-311906">Have a look|&nbsp;A recurring nightmare: Australia reimposes lockdown amid fears of second wave of coronavirus</a>

"There are such numbers of positive cases, together with known close contacts, that the assumption has got to be that everybody in that tower is a close contact of someone who is positive," Andrews said of the tower that will remain in lockdown.

The decision of relaxations came after the residents of the said residential towers resorted to putting messages on their windows asking for 'help'. The officials faced criticism for imposing a strict sudden lockdown, and the residents claimed that many of them did not even have access to essentials.

"We must continue to follow those social distancing protocols all around Australia, even in states or territories where the number of cases is effectively zero," Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

"They are making the decision that two weeks and that cost is worth it to get out of Victoria," deputy premier Stephen Miles said in a televised news conference.

As the Asutralian cities are going in another lockdown, Australia's second-most populous state Victoria, may allow almost 3,000 residents to exit from the isolated buildings, as per the officials.

As the Asutralian cities are going in another lockdown, Australia's second-most populous state Victoria, may allow almost 3,000 residents to exit from the isolated buildings, as per the officials. Amid rising number of positive coronavirus cases in the country, especially in the state of Victoria, state premier Daniel Andrews said on Thursday that the state is thinking of relaxing few restrictions and allowing many of the 3,000 people locked down in nine public-housing towers to step outside. Nearly ten buildings have been on a complete lockdown as new clusters of coronavirus cases were found in the buildings few weeks back. Have a look| A recurring nightmare: Australia reimposes lockdown amid fears of second wave of coronavirus "There are such numbers of positive cases, together with known close contacts, that the assumption has got to be that everybody in that tower is a close contact of someone who is positive," Andrews said of the tower that will remain in lockdown. The decision of relaxations came after the residents of the said residential towers resorted to putting messages on their windows asking for 'help'. The officials faced criticism for imposing a strict sudden lockdown, and the residents claimed that many of them did not even have access to essentials. "We must continue to follow those social distancing protocols all around Australia, even in states or territories where the number of cases is effectively zero," Prime Minister Scott Morrison. "They are making the decision that two weeks and that cost is worth it to get out of Victoria," deputy premier Stephen Miles said in a televised news conference.

Australia decides to release most from sealed buildings despite surge in COVID-19 cases

Lockdown will be imposed in containment zones in West Bengal for seven days from 5 pm on Thursday to check the surge in novel coronavirus cases, chief minister Mamata Banerjee said on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-records-lowest-single-day-spike-toll-crosses-5000-311581">Also Read:&nbsp;Mumbai records lowest single-day spike, toll crosses 5,000</a>

The situation will be reviewed after the seven days and the next course of action will be decided, she said at the state secretariat.

"This lockdown in containment zones in West Bengal will continue for seven days from 5 pm Thursday. Will review the situation after seven days and then decide next course of action on lockdown," the chief minister said.

If it is seen that the number of cases are coming down during this period, then some relaxations will be announced, Banerjee added. The West Bengal chief minister urged people to maintain physical distance and wear face masks.

Banerjee directed the police to be strict with those violating norms and send back people home, if they are found without masks. The West Bengal government had on Tuesday decided to expand the areas under lockdown and impose tougher restrictions from July 9 to stem the relentless spike in COVID-19 cases.

Meanwhile, &nbsp;the Delhi High Court Wednesday asked the Delhi government to set a committee of its officers to look into the problems faced by critical patients, who are unable to receive treatment at Fortis Institute of Renal Science and Transplantation at Vasant Kunj since the institute has been converted into a COVID-19 facility.

Justice Navin Chawla, who conducted the hearing through video conferencing, said the Delhi government's panel will inspect the private hospital and also consult with its officials and submit its report before the court within 10 days.

The high court listed for July 21, hearing on a plea seeking quashing of a June 9 notice of the Delhi government's health department to the extent that it declared and allocated 100 per cent of the facilities and the beds at the hospital for COVID-19 treatment.

The petition filed by Rameshwar Dutt Kaushik and three other patients submitted that they are suffering from chronic renal failure and are in need for regular dialysis support at least thrice in a week, for four hours each, and also various tests on a regular basis which are critical to their lives. 
' 
Advocates Arjun Kakkar and Karan Kakkar, representing the patients, claimed that critically ill patients who were availing treatment at Fortis Hospital and who require life-saving support and health services on a regular/day-to-day basis, such as cancer patients for radiotherapy, dialysis, renal failure and Thalassemia have been deeply aggrieved by the government order as this hospital was a specialist treatment facility.

Lockdown will be imposed in containment zones in West Bengal for seven days from 5 pm on Thursday to check the surge in novel coronavirus cases, chief minister Mamata Banerjee said on Wednesday.

Lockdown will be imposed in containment zones in West Bengal for seven days from 5 pm on Thursday to check the surge in novel coronavirus cases, chief minister Mamata Banerjee said on Wednesday. Also Read: Mumbai records lowest single-day spike, toll crosses 5,000 The situation will be reviewed after the seven days and the next course of action will be decided, she said at the state secretariat. "This lockdown in containment zones in West Bengal will continue for seven days from 5 pm Thursday. Will review the situation after seven days and then decide next course of action on lockdown," the chief minister said. If it is seen that the number of cases are coming down during this period, then some relaxations will be announced, Banerjee added. The West Bengal chief minister urged people to maintain physical distance and wear face masks. Banerjee directed the police to be strict with those violating norms and send back people home, if they are found without masks. The West Bengal government had on Tuesday decided to expand the areas under lockdown and impose tougher restrictions from July 9 to stem the relentless spike in COVID-19 cases. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court Wednesday asked the Delhi government to set a committee of its officers to look into the problems faced by critical patients, who are unable to receive treatment at Fortis Institute of Renal Science and Transplantation at Vasant Kunj since the institute has been converted into a COVID-19 facility. Justice Navin Chawla, who conducted the hearing through video conferencing, said the Delhi government's panel will inspect the private hospital and also consult with its officials and submit its report before the court within 10 days. The high court listed for July 21, hearing on a plea seeking quashing of a June 9 notice of the Delhi government's health department to the extent that it declared and allocated 100 per cent of the facilities and the beds at the hospital for COVID-19 treatment. The petition filed by Rameshwar Dutt Kaushik and three other patients submitted that they are suffering from chronic renal failure and are in need for regular dialysis support at least thrice in a week, for four hours each, and also various tests on a regular basis which are critical to their lives. ' Advocates Arjun Kakkar and Karan Kakkar, representing the patients, claimed that critically ill patients who were availing treatment at Fortis Hospital and who require life-saving support and health services on a regular/day-to-day basis, such as cancer patients for radiotherapy, dialysis, renal failure and Thalassemia have been deeply aggrieved by the government order as this hospital was a specialist treatment facility.

Lockdown in containment zones in West Bengal for seven days: Chief minister Mamata Banerjee

Owing to the changes triggered by the coronavirus pandemic, not only in our lifestyle but in the restricted movement that has accompanied this change, cases of sexual abuse against may have risen in the United Kingdom.

Children are currently out of school, forced to stay at home, and for many in care homes. As a result, most of their time is spent online. However, they may be poached by predators on social media and even gaming platforms, which may have led to a spike in the unreported instances of abuse.

Dodgy data

After the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the country has not updated its data on sexual abuse against children. As per 2020 numbers of the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), over 300,000 people in the country are susceptible to committing child abuse, taking into account both the physical and digital world.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/entertainment/sexual-abuse-victims-of-harvey-weinstein-win-19-million-settlement-309840" hreflang="en">Sexual abuse victims of Harvey Weinstein win $19 million settlement</a>

This is way more than 140,000 reported in the last year same time. The Guardian also received figures from the NCA which claimed that during 13 weeks of lockdown in the country, over 350 cases of online abuse against children. This marks a 10 per cent increase in the number of cases compared to last year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/opinions-blogs/the-vatican-must-probe-cover-up-of-child-sexual-abuse-275752" hreflang="en">Sex scandal shocks Mexico: The Vatican must probe cover-up of child sexual abuse</a>

Additionally, data from the Internet Watch Foundation claims that during the lockdown in the UK, three prominent internet companies reported 8.8 millions pings of imagery related to sexual abuse of children in the UK alone! The IWF is a charity that tracks and removes online child abuse.

Homes not safe

England and Wales have 2,360 children homes, where the vulnerability is more. Many homes have reported how kids were coaxed into leaving the premises by predators online and then abducted. Most of them were reached out by social media.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/95-increase-in-online-traffic-of-child-sexual-abuse-content-in-india-ncpcr-issues-notice-294837" hreflang="en">95% increase in online traffic of child sexual abuse content in India; NCPCR issues notice</a>

Perhaps nowhere are vulnerable children more likely to be found in greater numbers than in England and Wales’s 2,360 children homes.

Sajid Javid, a British politician has launched an inquiry into child sex abuse and exploitation with the UK’s Centre for Social Justice (CSJ). The findings are set to be published later in the year.

Many analysts also argue that increased online presence due to lockdown restrictions has caused a surge of silent cases that are not reported.

Owing to the changes triggered by the coronavirus pandemic, not only in our lifestyle but in the restricted movement that has accompanied this change, cases of sexual abuse against may have risen in the United Kingdom.

Owing to the changes triggered by the coronavirus pandemic, not only in our lifestyle but in the restricted movement that has accompanied this change, cases of sexual abuse against may have risen in the United Kingdom. Children are currently out of school, forced to stay at home, and for many in care homes. As a result, most of their time is spent online. However, they may be poached by predators on social media and even gaming platforms, which may have led to a spike in the unreported instances of abuse. Dodgy data After the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the country has not updated its data on sexual abuse against children. As per 2020 numbers of the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), over 300,000 people in the country are susceptible to committing child abuse, taking into account both the physical and digital world. Also read: Sexual abuse victims of Harvey Weinstein win $19 million settlement This is way more than 140,000 reported in the last year same time. The Guardian also received figures from the NCA which claimed that during 13 weeks of lockdown in the country, over 350 cases of online abuse against children. This marks a 10 per cent increase in the number of cases compared to last year. Also read: Sex scandal shocks Mexico: The Vatican must probe cover-up of child sexual abuse Additionally, data from the Internet Watch Foundation claims that during the lockdown in the UK, three prominent internet companies reported 8.8 millions pings of imagery related to sexual abuse of children in the UK alone! The IWF is a charity that tracks and removes online child abuse. Homes not safe England and Wales have 2,360 children homes, where the vulnerability is more. Many homes have reported how kids were coaxed into leaving the premises by predators online and then abducted. Most of them were reached out by social media. Also read: 95% increase in online traffic of child sexual abuse content in India; NCPCR issues notice Perhaps nowhere are vulnerable children more likely to be found in greater numbers than in England and Wales’s 2,360 children homes. Sajid Javid, a British politician has launched an inquiry into child sex abuse and exploitation with the UK’s Centre for Social Justice (CSJ). The findings are set to be published later in the year. Many analysts also argue that increased online presence due to lockdown restrictions has caused a surge of silent cases that are not reported.

United Kingdom lodges more cases of child sexual abuse during lockdown

After being able to contain the spread of coronavirus to a certain satisfactory limit, Ireland has decided to delay easing of the travel restrictions until July 20.

The Ireland government had earlier planned to ease travelling restrictions from July 09. However, the date has now been pushed to July 20 to make sure that the government is ready with all the necessaty protocols and arrangements.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-uk-to-invest-10-million-in-a-new-study-health-minister-thanks-locals-310849">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: UK to invest 10 million in a new study; Health Minister thanks locals</a>

The officials have said they are coming up with ways to allow travelers coming in the country from "green list" to be exempted from the compulsory 14-day quarantine rule. The countries in this "green list" will be the ones that have the similar, if not less, rate of coronavirus cases to Ireland.

"A so-called green list... will be published on July 20, or prior to that," Transport Minister&nbsp;Eamon Ryan said on Sunday. "The green list will be operating after that" date, he said.

Ryan also said that while every traveler will not be tested at the airport, the government is trying to come up with ways to conduct as many and accurate COVID-19 tests.

Ireland has, till this date, recorded 25,498 cases, including 1,740 deaths.

After being able to contain the spread of coronavirus to a certain satisfactory limit, Ireland has decided to delay easing of the travel restrictions until July 20.

After being able to contain the spread of coronavirus to a certain satisfactory limit, Ireland has decided to delay easing of the travel restrictions until July 20. The Ireland government had earlier planned to ease travelling restrictions from July 09. However, the date has now been pushed to July 20 to make sure that the government is ready with all the necessaty protocols and arrangements. Also read| COVID 19: UK to invest 10 million in a new study; Health Minister thanks locals The officials have said they are coming up with ways to allow travelers coming in the country from "green list" to be exempted from the compulsory 14-day quarantine rule. The countries in this "green list" will be the ones that have the similar, if not less, rate of coronavirus cases to Ireland. "A so-called green list... will be published on July 20, or prior to that," Transport Minister Eamon Ryan said on Sunday. "The green list will be operating after that" date, he said. Ryan also said that while every traveler will not be tested at the airport, the government is trying to come up with ways to conduct as many and accurate COVID-19 tests. Ireland has, till this date, recorded 25,498 cases, including 1,740 deaths.

COVID 19: Ireland delays lifting travelling ban to make quarantine arrangements

The Tamil Nadu government on Monday extended the lockdown in the state till July 31. The state reported 62 deaths in the past 24 hours, taking the toll to 1141. Currently, there are 37,331 active cases in the state.

Meanwhile, With Unlock 1.0 completing a month now, coronavirus cases are increasing at a rapid rate. On Monday, India recorded a spike of 19,459 cases and 380 deaths in the last 24 hours. Positive cases in India stand at 5, 48,318 including 2, 10,120 active cases, 3, 21,723 cured/discharged/migrated and 16,475 deaths.

India's health ministry said today that the gap between recoveries and active cases of COVID-19 is 1, 11,602."So far, as many as 3, 21,722 patients have been cured. The recovery rate is 58.67 per cent," the health ministry stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Tamil Nadu government on Monday extended the lockdown in the state till July 31. The state reported 62 deaths in the past 24 hours, taking the toll to 1141. Currently, there are 37,331 active cases in the state.

The Tamil Nadu government on Monday extended the lockdown in the state till July 31. The state reported 62 deaths in the past 24 hours, taking the toll to 1141. Currently, there are 37,331 active cases in the state. Meanwhile, With Unlock 1.0 completing a month now, coronavirus cases are increasing at a rapid rate. On Monday, India recorded a spike of 19,459 cases and 380 deaths in the last 24 hours. Positive cases in India stand at 5, 48,318 including 2, 10,120 active cases, 3, 21,723 cured/discharged/migrated and 16,475 deaths. India's health ministry said today that the gap between recoveries and active cases of COVID-19 is 1, 11,602."So far, as many as 3, 21,722 patients have been cured. The recovery rate is 58.67 per cent," the health ministry stated. (With inputs from agencies)

Lockdown in Tamil Nadu extended till July 31 as state registers 3949 new cases

Coronavirus second wave hits countries as lockdown ends

EU countries have started to reopen their borders for neighbouring countries. However with the recent spike in number of cases in U.S. experts in Europe have advised against internation travel.

EU Countries reopening borders | Attempt to revive tourism | WION

People were enjoying beaches across the Spanish peninsula on Sunday (June 21) as Spain opened its borders to most European countries and ended a state of emergency imposed to contain the coronavirus.

Spaniards enjoy the Mediterranean post COVID lockdown

After a review of the two-metre rule is being conducted in the UK, country's Health Minister Matt Hancock has said the government will soon be revealing a plan of easing the lockdown.

A nationwide lockdown was imposed in the country to contain the wide spread of the novel coronavirus, which has affected nearly 303,000 people in the UK.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-announce-the-review-of-two-metre-social-distancing-review-soon-307278">Also read|&nbsp;UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon</a>

"We're about to see another step in the plan," Hancock said in a local interview. "This week we will announce further details of the measures we can take to relieve some of the national lockdown measures at the start of July, including on July 4."

Talking about if the two-metre social distancing rule in the UK can be changed for the betterment of the employers, Hancock hinted towards a possible good news by saying, "I very much hope that we can."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-to-allow-british-tourists-to-visit-from-sunday-without-need-for-quarantine-spanish-foreign-minister-307363">Also read|&nbsp;Spain to allow British tourists to visit from Sunday without need for quarantine: Spanish foreign minister</a>

"The proposals that we will bring forward are how you can safely, safely reduce the two metres with the sort of mitigations we have been talking about," he said.

"I get the problems with the two-metre rule of course, ultimately there are problems with the fact that there`s a virus and the challenge for the country, for all countries is how to get as much of normal life as possible going again."

As the new social distancing rule is expected to allow more pubs and clubs to reopen, Hancock has also said that there is a possibility people might have to register their details before entering such social spaces.

The announcement is expected on July 04.

After a review of the two-metre rule is being conducted in the UK, country's Health Minister Matt Hancock has said the government will soon be revealing a plan of easing the lockdown.

After a review of the two-metre rule is being conducted in the UK, country's Health Minister Matt Hancock has said the government will soon be revealing a plan of easing the lockdown. A nationwide lockdown was imposed in the country to contain the wide spread of the novel coronavirus, which has affected nearly 303,000 people in the UK. Also read| UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon "We're about to see another step in the plan," Hancock said in a local interview. "This week we will announce further details of the measures we can take to relieve some of the national lockdown measures at the start of July, including on July 4." Talking about if the two-metre social distancing rule in the UK can be changed for the betterment of the employers, Hancock hinted towards a possible good news by saying, "I very much hope that we can." Also read| Spain to allow British tourists to visit from Sunday without need for quarantine: Spanish foreign minister "The proposals that we will bring forward are how you can safely, safely reduce the two metres with the sort of mitigations we have been talking about," he said. "I get the problems with the two-metre rule of course, ultimately there are problems with the fact that there`s a virus and the challenge for the country, for all countries is how to get as much of normal life as possible going again." As the new social distancing rule is expected to allow more pubs and clubs to reopen, Hancock has also said that there is a possibility people might have to register their details before entering such social spaces. The announcement is expected on July 04.

UK to start easing lockdown soon; plans to be revealed this week: Health Minister

After almost three months, Bangladesh's national carrier&nbsp;Biman Bangladesh Airlines has resumed its international flights on Sunday.

Bangladesh had temporarily halted all international flights three months back as the country closed its international borders to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The first flight, BG001 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft, took off from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport for London with 187 passengers on board.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-crew-stranded-on-cruise-ships-in-uk-appeal-for-repatriation-307303">Also read:&nbsp;Indian crew stranded on cruise ships in UK appeal for repatriation</a>

Passengers from Dhaka to London route do not require health certificates declaring that they are not infected with COVID-19, said Air Vice Marshal M Mafidur Rahman, chairman of Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB).

But they will have to fill-up a health declaration form as per the International Civil Aviation Organization's guidelines, he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hardeep-singh-puri-confident-and-hopeful-about-air-indias-divestment-disinvestment-plans-307332">Also read:&nbsp;Hardeep Singh Puri 'confident and hopeful' about Air India's divestment, disinvestment plans</a>

As per the rules of the UK, the&nbsp;passengers will have to, however, quarantine themselves for 14 days.

The service has only resumed for the&nbsp;Dhaka-London-Dhaka route, and will operate only on Sundays.

The passengers were provided hand sanitizers,&nbsp;gloves and masks. The in-flight meal was also converted to&nbsp;dry meals in food boxes, in line with guidelines provided by the International Civil Aviation Organization following the global COVID-19 pandemic, with a miss of any cold beverages.

(With inputs from PTI)

After almost three months, Bangladesh's national carrier Biman Bangladesh Airlines has resumed its international flights on Sunday. Bangladesh had temporarily halted all international flights three months back as the country closed its international borders to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus.

After almost three months, Bangladesh's national carrier Biman Bangladesh Airlines has resumed its international flights on Sunday. Bangladesh had temporarily halted all international flights three months back as the country closed its international borders to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. The first flight, BG001 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft, took off from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport for London with 187 passengers on board. Also read: Indian crew stranded on cruise ships in UK appeal for repatriation Passengers from Dhaka to London route do not require health certificates declaring that they are not infected with COVID-19, said Air Vice Marshal M Mafidur Rahman, chairman of Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB). But they will have to fill-up a health declaration form as per the International Civil Aviation Organization's guidelines, he added. Also read: Hardeep Singh Puri 'confident and hopeful' about Air India's divestment, disinvestment plans As per the rules of the UK, the passengers will have to, however, quarantine themselves for 14 days. The service has only resumed for the Dhaka-London-Dhaka route, and will operate only on Sundays. The passengers were provided hand sanitizers, gloves and masks. The in-flight meal was also converted to dry meals in food boxes, in line with guidelines provided by the International Civil Aviation Organization following the global COVID-19 pandemic, with a miss of any cold beverages. (With inputs from PTI)

COVID 19: Bangladesh resumes international flights

The Pakistan government has allowed resumption of international flight operations to and from all international airports in the country, except Gwadar and Turbat airports, from Saturday.

Spokesman for the Aviation Division Abdul Sattar Khokhar said in a statement on Friday that the permission for international flight operations would be subject to restrictions and limitations as decided by the competent authority from time to time in the light of the current COVID-19 situation and implementation of health protocols, reports Dawn news.

Additionally, cargo, special and diplomatic flights would continue to be authorised as per procedure in vogue, the spokesman said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistani-spy-drone-carrying-weapons-shot-down-by-bsf-at-jammu-and-kashmirs-kathua-307250">Also read: Pakistani spy drone carrying weapons shot down by BSF at Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua</a>

Adherence to the relevant applicable standard operating procedures would be mandatory for all airline operators, he said.

The government on Wednesday had announced a new policy for inbound passengers with a resolve to transport approximately 200,000 people within a month.

The implementation of the new policy will start from Saturday which the government said would bring significant enhancement in the capacity to bring back stranded Pakistanis from across the world.

(With inputs from PTI)

The Pakistan government has allowed resumption of international flight operations to and from all international airports in the country, except Gwadar and Turbat airports, from Saturday.

The Pakistan government has allowed resumption of international flight operations to and from all international airports in the country, except Gwadar and Turbat airports, from Saturday. Spokesman for the Aviation Division Abdul Sattar Khokhar said in a statement on Friday that the permission for international flight operations would be subject to restrictions and limitations as decided by the competent authority from time to time in the light of the current COVID-19 situation and implementation of health protocols, reports Dawn news. Additionally, cargo, special and diplomatic flights would continue to be authorised as per procedure in vogue, the spokesman said. Also read: Pakistani spy drone carrying weapons shot down by BSF at Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua Adherence to the relevant applicable standard operating procedures would be mandatory for all airline operators, he said. The government on Wednesday had announced a new policy for inbound passengers with a resolve to transport approximately 200,000 people within a month. The implementation of the new policy will start from Saturday which the government said would bring significant enhancement in the capacity to bring back stranded Pakistanis from across the world. (With inputs from PTI)

Pak to resume international flights from today

Welcome back: Singapore locals rejoice as malls reopen; PM urges caution

When Manchester City wanted some tips ahead of the Premier League restart, the defending champions turned to a team trying to avoid relegation.

As players were suddenly ordered home and stadiums emptied, Brighton became a voice of the league during the three-month coronavirus pandemic shutdown. The south-coast club's boardroom leaders, coaches and players guided not just their own supporters but the league's wider fan base as well through an unprecedented time in English footballing history.

Financial struggles for clubs even in the world's wealthiest league. Health fears about returning to training "let alone playing"&nbsp;too soon. Concerns about not being allowed to play in home stadiums.

For 11 weeks out of the last 12 &nbsp;"on a Thursday or Friday"&nbsp;gaining regular on-the-record accounts of the trepidations of a Premier League club was just a Zoom call away for the media. Brighton's decision to not step away from questioning during the pandemic often meant that the thoughts of its owner, chief executive, manager or players set the tone for the public debate about how and when the league would resume.

"We haven't set out to be the dominant voice," Brighton CEO Paul Barber said from his sofa at home during one of the Zoom calls. 
"It's just been a by-product of what we've done."

It was a rare chance for Brighton to dominate the news agenda at times. Larger clubs, like Manchester City, know they will be the subject of radio phone-ins and back-page transfer speculation even without there being any games.

"It maybe just fills a small gap in people's lives," Barber said, "when football cannot be played."

Now the competition is resuming, the rest of the league is catching up with Brighton. With social distancing still enforced, even as the national lockdown is eased in England, video calls will replace media going to club training grounds to speak to managers for match previews.

So City's communications team logged into Brighton's Zoom call with manager Graham Potter on Thursday to learn about the technology. City manager Pep Guardiola is due to hold his first virtual news conference on Tuesday on the eve of Arsenal visiting the Etihad Stadium for the league's first games in 100 days.

The fact City is playing at home might owe something to Barber's very public opposition to calls from police for the season to be completed in neutral stadiums. The intention was to prevent fans from congregating outside games that will be closed to spectators, but Barber believed it would have harmed the sporting integrity of the competition.

Now it is likely all remaining 92 games will be played in the stadium of the home teams.

"We're not seeking to get any kind of edge from what we do," Barber said, when recently discussing Brighton's decision to be so public during the shutdown.

"We certainly didn't set out to have the biggest share of voice."

But no other club's top executive faced wider media questioning "especially so regularly"&nbsp;in an attempt to provide some clarity amid so much uncertainty.

"We understand that we're not the oracle on these matters," Barber said.

"It has helped us with our fans and with our sponsors. We get hundreds of emails a week, asking us the question that you (reporters) ask us ... It gives us an opportunity through a range of different media organizations to answer those questions. But we haven't set out to dominate the airwaves."

Still, it gave a platform for players like Brighton striker Glenn Murray to urge against a rush to resuming the league.

"I have children at home," he said in late April.

"I wouldn't want to jeopardize them."

Murray articulated why players could not agree to 30 per cent pay cuts all squads were being asked to take.

"Every player has different situation," he said.

"Some will be very lucky and they will not have a mortgage and they have money to spare."

The calls also provided a deeper insight into the running of a Premier League club. Academy manager John Morling appeared one week to explain how younger players were coping being away from their teammates for so long. The answer was organizing a

"Brighton's Got Talent" where players could show their guitar, skateboard and DJing skills.

"You see the players in a totally different light," Morling said.

"That is something we have got to keep trying to do and keep everything positive because some families are finding it hard." 
Now, though, the priority is staying two points &nbsp;"or more"&nbsp;above the relegation zone. Potter's side hosts Arsenal on Saturday afternoon at the Amex Stadium, and not a neutral venue.

"We're more towards getting things back on track and society moving again," Potter said.

"We want to do what we're paid to do, which is play football and we're ready." And not just to talk a good game.

When Manchester City wanted some tips ahead of the Premier League restart, the defending champions turned to a team trying to avoid relegation. As players were suddenly ordered home and stadiums emptied, Brighton became a voice of the league during the three-month coronavirus pandemic shutdown.

When Manchester City wanted some tips ahead of the Premier League restart, the defending champions turned to a team trying to avoid relegation. As players were suddenly ordered home and stadiums emptied, Brighton became a voice of the league during the three-month coronavirus pandemic shutdown. The south-coast club's boardroom leaders, coaches and players guided not just their own supporters but the league's wider fan base as well through an unprecedented time in English footballing history. Financial struggles for clubs even in the world's wealthiest league. Health fears about returning to training "let alone playing" too soon. Concerns about not being allowed to play in home stadiums. For 11 weeks out of the last 12 "on a Thursday or Friday" gaining regular on-the-record accounts of the trepidations of a Premier League club was just a Zoom call away for the media. Brighton's decision to not step away from questioning during the pandemic often meant that the thoughts of its owner, chief executive, manager or players set the tone for the public debate about how and when the league would resume. "We haven't set out to be the dominant voice," Brighton CEO Paul Barber said from his sofa at home during one of the Zoom calls. "It's just been a by-product of what we've done." It was a rare chance for Brighton to dominate the news agenda at times. Larger clubs, like Manchester City, know they will be the subject of radio phone-ins and back-page transfer speculation even without there being any games. "It maybe just fills a small gap in people's lives," Barber said, "when football cannot be played." Now the competition is resuming, the rest of the league is catching up with Brighton. With social distancing still enforced, even as the national lockdown is eased in England, video calls will replace media going to club training grounds to speak to managers for match previews. So City's communications team logged into Brighton's Zoom call with manager Graham Potter on Thursday to learn about the technology. City manager Pep Guardiola is due to hold his first virtual news conference on Tuesday on the eve of Arsenal visiting the Etihad Stadium for the league's first games in 100 days. The fact City is playing at home might owe something to Barber's very public opposition to calls from police for the season to be completed in neutral stadiums. The intention was to prevent fans from congregating outside games that will be closed to spectators, but Barber believed it would have harmed the sporting integrity of the competition. Now it is likely all remaining 92 games will be played in the stadium of the home teams. "We're not seeking to get any kind of edge from what we do," Barber said, when recently discussing Brighton's decision to be so public during the shutdown. "We certainly didn't set out to have the biggest share of voice." But no other club's top executive faced wider media questioning "especially so regularly" in an attempt to provide some clarity amid so much uncertainty. "We understand that we're not the oracle on these matters," Barber said. "It has helped us with our fans and with our sponsors. We get hundreds of emails a week, asking us the question that you (reporters) ask us ... It gives us an opportunity through a range of different media organizations to answer those questions. But we haven't set out to dominate the airwaves." Still, it gave a platform for players like Brighton striker Glenn Murray to urge against a rush to resuming the league. "I have children at home," he said in late April. "I wouldn't want to jeopardize them." Murray articulated why players could not agree to 30 per cent pay cuts all squads were being asked to take. "Every player has different situation," he said. "Some will be very lucky and they will not have a mortgage and they have money to spare." The calls also provided a deeper insight into the running of a Premier League club. Academy manager John Morling appeared one week to explain how younger players were coping being away from their teammates for so long. The answer was organizing a "Brighton's Got Talent" where players could show their guitar, skateboard and DJing skills. "You see the players in a totally different light," Morling said. "That is something we have got to keep trying to do and keep everything positive because some families are finding it hard." Now, though, the priority is staying two points "or more" above the relegation zone. Potter's side hosts Arsenal on Saturday afternoon at the Amex Stadium, and not a neutral venue. "We're more towards getting things back on track and society moving again," Potter said. "We want to do what we're paid to do, which is play football and we're ready." And not just to talk a good game.

How Brighton was a voice of Premier League during shutdown?

Sri Lanka on Saturday announced further relaxation of the curfew, imposed as part of the COVID-19 lockdown, from next week.

Sri Lanka has so far recorded 1,880 coronavirus cases, 11 deaths due to the disease and 1,196 recoveries. 
The COVID-19 curfew, currently in force from 11 pm to 4 am daily, will be relaxed and enforced for only four hours from midnight to 4 am daily from June 14 onwards, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's office said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/colombo-embraces-new-normal-as-people-attend-drive-in-open-air-concert-303774">Have a look|&nbsp;Colombo embraces new normal as people attend drive-in open-air concert</a>

Sri Lanka has been under a continuous lockdown since March 20, a week after the first local victim of the pandemic was reported. Initially, a nationwide blanket curfew was imposed but it was later eased for about two-thirds of the country.

The government had ordered partial opening of offices and businesses mid-May. From early June, the restrictions were further relaxed with public transport being allowed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/covid-19-indias-tour-of-sri-lanka-and-zimbabwe-called-off-305372">Also read|&nbsp;COVID-19: India's tour of Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe called off</a>

The lockdown relaxations were mostly due to the need to hold the election for a new Parliament. Sri Lanka's twice-postponed parliamentary polls will be held on August 5.

President Rajapaksa on March 2 dissolved the Parliament, six months ahead of schedule, and called for snap polls on April 25. However, the election commission in mid-April postponed the elections by nearly two months to June 20 due to the coronavirus outbreak in the island nation.

The commission last month informed the apex court that the polls cannot be held on June 20 because of the raging coronavirus pandemic. The new date, announced on Wednesday, was decided following a unanimous decision reached between the members of the election commission.

Meanwhile, the government plans to resume operation of international airports from August 1. 
Religious places have been allowed to re-open for services. All zoological gardens and national parks would be reopened from June 15.

According to health authorities, since April 30 no new COVID-19 case from the community has been detected. All the patients tested positive for the coronavirus from April 30 onwards were either those who were in the quarantine centres, Navy personnel or their close contacts.

Sri Lanka on Saturday announced further relaxation of the curfew, imposed as part of the COVID-19 lockdown, from next week. Sri Lanka has so far recorded 1,880 coronavirus cases, 11 deaths due to the disease and 1,196 recoveries.

Sri Lanka on Saturday announced further relaxation of the curfew, imposed as part of the COVID-19 lockdown, from next week. Sri Lanka has so far recorded 1,880 coronavirus cases, 11 deaths due to the disease and 1,196 recoveries. The COVID-19 curfew, currently in force from 11 pm to 4 am daily, will be relaxed and enforced for only four hours from midnight to 4 am daily from June 14 onwards, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's office said. Have a look| Colombo embraces new normal as people attend drive-in open-air concert Sri Lanka has been under a continuous lockdown since March 20, a week after the first local victim of the pandemic was reported. Initially, a nationwide blanket curfew was imposed but it was later eased for about two-thirds of the country. The government had ordered partial opening of offices and businesses mid-May. From early June, the restrictions were further relaxed with public transport being allowed. Also read| COVID-19: India's tour of Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe called off The lockdown relaxations were mostly due to the need to hold the election for a new Parliament. Sri Lanka's twice-postponed parliamentary polls will be held on August 5. President Rajapaksa on March 2 dissolved the Parliament, six months ahead of schedule, and called for snap polls on April 25. However, the election commission in mid-April postponed the elections by nearly two months to June 20 due to the coronavirus outbreak in the island nation. The commission last month informed the apex court that the polls cannot be held on June 20 because of the raging coronavirus pandemic. The new date, announced on Wednesday, was decided following a unanimous decision reached between the members of the election commission. Meanwhile, the government plans to resume operation of international airports from August 1. Religious places have been allowed to re-open for services. All zoological gardens and national parks would be reopened from June 15. According to health authorities, since April 30 no new COVID-19 case from the community has been detected. All the patients tested positive for the coronavirus from April 30 onwards were either those who were in the quarantine centres, Navy personnel or their close contacts.

Sri Lanka further relaxes COVID-19 curfew

The world has been under a lockdown, partial or complete, since few months now. As the pandemic took over the world, majority countries closed their economies and people quarantined themselves in their homes.

While some countries are now re-opening economies, citizens of some countries are still in self-isolation.

Some researchers studied this situation and conducted a research on the effect that this self-isolation can have on people.

UCL researchers based at the Wolfson Institute and the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre researched on how while the isolation period can bring up loneliness, it can also&nbsp;result in a decreased desire for social interaction.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/study-virus-may-get-inactive-if-exposed-to-direct-sunlight-305519">Also watch|&nbsp;Study: Virus may get inactive, if exposed to direct sunlight</a>

To understand the paradox, the researchers&nbsp;investigated social behaviour in Zebrafish, a freshwater fish. The researchers chose Zebrafish as most&nbsp;of them demonstrate pro-social behaviour, but approximately 10 per cent are `loner` fish. These loner fishes show different brain activity than the pro-social Zebrafish.

It has also been observed that on a usual basis too, Zebrafish&nbsp;avoid social interaction after a period of isolation.

The researchers tried to test, through this research, if the pro-social behaviour Zebrafish mimic the behaviour of the loner fish, or does it depend on the circumstances.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mutation-could-have-made-coronavirus-more-infectious-study-suggests-305579">Also read|&nbsp;Mutation could have made coronavirus more infectious, study suggests</a>

To test the theory,&nbsp;the researchers isolated typically social zebrafish from other fish for a period of two days and then compared their brain activity to zebrafish, who demonstrated aversion to social interaction without having been isolated.

The isolated fish demonstrated sensitivity to stimuli. It showed increased activity in the areas of brain related to anxiety and stress. However, the activity settled quickly after a dose of an anti-anxiety drug.

The difference between the social and the loner Zebrafish was observed in the&nbsp;hypothalamus, the region of the brain responsible for social rewards.&nbsp;

The loner fish did not show&nbsp;the same pattern of activation during social exposure as the pro-social behaviour one. This proved that the loner fish did&nbsp;not experience rewards in the same way as typical fish during social interactions.

"A detailed view of the zebrafish brain can provide important clues for all of us currently experiencing the effects of social isolation," said Dr Elena Dreosti.

"Our understanding of the neural mechanisms of social behaviour are limited, but we do know that zebrafish and humans share a fundamental drive for social interaction that is controlled by similar brain structures," Dreosti added.

Although the researchers admit that the human brain and behaviour is much more complex, this study does provide an insight that the&nbsp;humans won't be loners after the lockdown, but will be anxious upon returning to normal social lives.

The research has been conducted by&nbsp;PhD students Hande Tunbak and Mireya Vazquez-Prada, Postdoctoral Research Fellow Thomas Ryan, Dr Adam Kampff and Sir Henry Dale Wellcome Fellow Elena Dreosti, and was published&nbsp;in eLife.

(With inputs from agencies)

The world has been under a lockdown, partial or complete, since few months now. As the pandemic took over the world, majority countries closed their economies and people quarantined themselves in their homes.

The world has been under a lockdown, partial or complete, since few months now. As the pandemic took over the world, majority countries closed their economies and people quarantined themselves in their homes. While some countries are now re-opening economies, citizens of some countries are still in self-isolation. Some researchers studied this situation and conducted a research on the effect that this self-isolation can have on people. UCL researchers based at the Wolfson Institute and the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre researched on how while the isolation period can bring up loneliness, it can also result in a decreased desire for social interaction. Also watch| Study: Virus may get inactive, if exposed to direct sunlight To understand the paradox, the researchers investigated social behaviour in Zebrafish, a freshwater fish. The researchers chose Zebrafish as most of them demonstrate pro-social behaviour, but approximately 10 per cent are `loner` fish. These loner fishes show different brain activity than the pro-social Zebrafish. It has also been observed that on a usual basis too, Zebrafish avoid social interaction after a period of isolation. The researchers tried to test, through this research, if the pro-social behaviour Zebrafish mimic the behaviour of the loner fish, or does it depend on the circumstances. Also read| Mutation could have made coronavirus more infectious, study suggests To test the theory, the researchers isolated typically social zebrafish from other fish for a period of two days and then compared their brain activity to zebrafish, who demonstrated aversion to social interaction without having been isolated. The isolated fish demonstrated sensitivity to stimuli. It showed increased activity in the areas of brain related to anxiety and stress. However, the activity settled quickly after a dose of an anti-anxiety drug. The difference between the social and the loner Zebrafish was observed in the hypothalamus, the region of the brain responsible for social rewards. The loner fish did not show the same pattern of activation during social exposure as the pro-social behaviour one. This proved that the loner fish did not experience rewards in the same way as typical fish during social interactions. "A detailed view of the zebrafish brain can provide important clues for all of us currently experiencing the effects of social isolation," said Dr Elena Dreosti. "Our understanding of the neural mechanisms of social behaviour are limited, but we do know that zebrafish and humans share a fundamental drive for social interaction that is controlled by similar brain structures," Dreosti added. Although the researchers admit that the human brain and behaviour is much more complex, this study does provide an insight that the humans won't be loners after the lockdown, but will be anxious upon returning to normal social lives. The research has been conducted by PhD students Hande Tunbak and Mireya Vazquez-Prada, Postdoctoral Research Fellow Thomas Ryan, Dr Adam Kampff and Sir Henry Dale Wellcome Fellow Elena Dreosti, and was published in eLife. (With inputs from agencies)

Humans will be anxious upon returning to normal social lives after lockdown: Researchers

India crossed the mark of three lakh coronavirus cases as it recorded a jump of 11,458 new infections, taking the toll to&nbsp;&nbsp;3,08,993. These tolls include&nbsp;8,884 COVID-19 deaths.

Out of these 3,08,993 cases, there are nearly 1,45,779 active cases in the country.

The government believes that while the number of cases have been on a rise, it is also because of the huge population.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-record-jump-of-11458-new-infections-in-india-cases-cross-3-lakh-mark-305521">Also read|&nbsp;COVID-19: Record jump of 11,458 new infections in India; cases cross 3 lakh mark</a>

Tamil Nadu, a south Indian state, has been observing a steep increase in the cases on a daily basis. On Saturday evening, the state recorder 1,989 new cases and 30 deaths. Total number of cases in the state is now at 42,687, including 18,878 active cases, 23,409 discharged and 397 deaths.

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1989 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> cases &amp; 30 deaths reported in Tamil Nadu today. Total number of cases in the state is now at 42687, including 18878 active cases, 23409 discharged &amp; 397 deaths: State Health Department <a href="https://t.co/0vjnw0ibD4">pic.twitter.com/0vjnw0ibD4</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1271785289007022080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Maharashtra has the highest number of cases in the country. The state reported 3,427 mew cases, and 113 deaths due to the virus. The total toll now stands at 1,04,568, and the death toll now stands at 3830.

Mumbai, being the financial capital, saw a rapid increase in the cases. Dharavi, Asia's biggest slum, was once a hotspot of the city.&nbsp;17 fresh cases were recorded in Dharavi today, taking the total number of cases to 2,030. No new death reported today in the area. Number of fatalities due to the disease stands at 77, according to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation.

Karnataka recorded 308 more cases and 3 deaths today. Total number of cases in the state is now at 6,824, including 3,092 active cases, 3,648 discharged and 84 deaths (3 due to non-COVID causes), as reported by&nbsp;State Health Department.

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11 fresh cases of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> reported in Chandigarh today, taking total number of cases to 345 including 5 deaths and 295 recoveries: Chandigarh Health Department
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1271763713544957957?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Uttrakand state health department reported 35 new cases, taking the toll to 1,759, including 707 active cases, 1,023 recovered and 21 deaths.

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25 new cases of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> reported in Assam, taking the total number of cases to 3718 including 1584 recoveries and 8 deaths. Number of active cases stands at 2123: State Health Department <a href="https://t.co/i93sbeWuqM">pic.twitter.com/i93sbeWuqM</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1271761319381721092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Union&nbsp;Health Ministry also reported a total of&nbsp;"7,135 COVID-19 patients have been cured. Thus, so far, 1,54,329 patients have been cured of COVID-19. The recovery rate is 49.95% amongst COVID-19 patients. There are 1,45,779 active cases an all are under active medical supervision."

India crossed the mark of three lakh coronavirus cases as it recorded a jump of 11,458 new infections, taking the toll to 3,08,993. These tolls include 8,884 COVID-19 deaths.

India crossed the mark of three lakh coronavirus cases as it recorded a jump of 11,458 new infections, taking the toll to 3,08,993. These tolls include 8,884 COVID-19 deaths. Out of these 3,08,993 cases, there are nearly 1,45,779 active cases in the country. The government believes that while the number of cases have been on a rise, it is also because of the huge population. Also read| COVID-19: Record jump of 11,458 new infections in India; cases cross 3 lakh mark Tamil Nadu, a south Indian state, has been observing a steep increase in the cases on a daily basis. On Saturday evening, the state recorder 1,989 new cases and 30 deaths. Total number of cases in the state is now at 42,687, including 18,878 active cases, 23,409 discharged and 397 deaths. 1989 #COVID19 cases & 30 deaths reported in Tamil Nadu today. Total number of cases in the state is now at 42687, including 18878 active cases, 23409 discharged & 397 deaths: State Health Department pic.twitter.com/0vjnw0ibD4 — ANI (@ANI) June 13, 2020 × Maharashtra has the highest number of cases in the country. The state reported 3,427 mew cases, and 113 deaths due to the virus. The total toll now stands at 1,04,568, and the death toll now stands at 3830. Mumbai, being the financial capital, saw a rapid increase in the cases. Dharavi, Asia's biggest slum, was once a hotspot of the city. 17 fresh cases were recorded in Dharavi today, taking the total number of cases to 2,030. No new death reported today in the area. Number of fatalities due to the disease stands at 77, according to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. Karnataka recorded 308 more cases and 3 deaths today. Total number of cases in the state is now at 6,824, including 3,092 active cases, 3,648 discharged and 84 deaths (3 due to non-COVID causes), as reported by State Health Department. 11 fresh cases of #COVID19 reported in Chandigarh today, taking total number of cases to 345 including 5 deaths and 295 recoveries: Chandigarh Health Department — ANI (@ANI) June 13, 2020 × Uttrakand state health department reported 35 new cases, taking the toll to 1,759, including 707 active cases, 1,023 recovered and 21 deaths. 25 new cases of #COVID19 reported in Assam, taking the total number of cases to 3718 including 1584 recoveries and 8 deaths. Number of active cases stands at 2123: State Health Department pic.twitter.com/i93sbeWuqM — ANI (@ANI) June 13, 2020 × The Union Health Ministry also reported a total of "7,135 COVID-19 patients have been cured. Thus, so far, 1,54,329 patients have been cured of COVID-19. The recovery rate is 49.95% amongst COVID-19 patients. There are 1,45,779 active cases an all are under active medical supervision."

COVID 19: Tamil Nadu records 1,989 new cases; India's recovery rate 49.95%

Amid a constant rise in the number of coronavirus cases, the Mayor of Mexico City has announced a possible reopening of the city from Monday.

On Friday, Mexico had reported a record-high 5,000 new positive coronavirus cases.

However, the Mayor of the Mexico City has announced that the national&nbsp;capital will lift restrictions on car traffic and public transport from next week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-mexico-sees-surge-in-deaths-as-lockdown-eases-303974">Also watch|&nbsp;COVID-19: Mexico sees surge in deaths as lockdown eases</a>

The government plans to allow 340,000 factory works to get back to work amid rising number of coronavirus cases.

However, the Mayor feels this would be the right time to reopen the economy as there has been a slight decline in the hospital occupancy due to COVID-19.

"We think next week the city can begin a process of very orderly transition," said Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mexico-visuals-of-police-officer-set-on-fire-during-protest-304715">Also watch|&nbsp;Mexico: Visuals of Police officer set on fire during protest</a>

According to the latest guidelines, the car traffic and public transport will resume from Monday, the factories can reopen from Tuesday, the small shops can reopen from Thursday and the&nbsp;professional services and scientific workers linked to "industry" can go back as of Friday.

The city government also added that if conditions look better, the street markets and the&nbsp;historic center of the city will reopen the week of June 22-28.

All shops and public transport have been guided to properly sanitize the premises before resuming services.

Amid a constant rise in the number of coronavirus cases, the Mayor of Mexico City has announced a possible reopening of the city from Monday. On Friday, Mexico had reported a record-high 5,000 new positive coronavirus cases.

Amid a constant rise in the number of coronavirus cases, the Mayor of Mexico City has announced a possible reopening of the city from Monday. On Friday, Mexico had reported a record-high 5,000 new positive coronavirus cases. However, the Mayor of the Mexico City has announced that the national capital will lift restrictions on car traffic and public transport from next week. Also watch| COVID-19: Mexico sees surge in deaths as lockdown eases The government plans to allow 340,000 factory works to get back to work amid rising number of coronavirus cases. However, the Mayor feels this would be the right time to reopen the economy as there has been a slight decline in the hospital occupancy due to COVID-19. "We think next week the city can begin a process of very orderly transition," said Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum. Also watch| Mexico: Visuals of Police officer set on fire during protest According to the latest guidelines, the car traffic and public transport will resume from Monday, the factories can reopen from Tuesday, the small shops can reopen from Thursday and the professional services and scientific workers linked to "industry" can go back as of Friday. The city government also added that if conditions look better, the street markets and the historic center of the city will reopen the week of June 22-28. All shops and public transport have been guided to properly sanitize the premises before resuming services.

COVID 19: Mexico City to reopen economy from Monday amid rising cases

A Ghanaian footballer, who stuck in India for 74 days because of the nationwide lockdown and slept in an airport, has finally been rescued and shifted to a hospital till the time he leaves for his home.&nbsp;

Randy Juan Muller came to India on November 7 for a six-month contract to play football for ORPC Sports Club in Kerala, a state in southern India.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/igor-stimac-indian-team-has-changed-from-kick-and-chase-football-to-a-more-possession-based-game-300230">Igor Stimac: Indian team has changed from kick and chase football to a more possession based game</a>

As the coronavirus situation in India started becoming serious, Muller booked a flight ticket for March 30 to travel back home.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/klopps-passion-restored-as-english-football-nears-return-302841">Klopp's 'passion' restored as English football nears return</a>

However, India imposed a nationwide lockdown beginning from March 25 and when he reached Mumbai on March 21, he was short of money because of which he had to stay in Mumbai international airport.&nbsp;

"I didn't know anyone so I saw some policemen and told them my story. They told me to go to the airport," Muller said, reported CNN.

India also suspended all international and domestic travel, which meant that Muller could not return to his home soon.&nbsp;

The 23-year-footballer then decided to sleep in the departures hall of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai until international flights resumed services.&nbsp;

"People in the airport were very helpful. They gave me food and helped me a lot," Muller said.&nbsp;

He added that his damaged phone was also replaced by one security guard.&nbsp;

Muller also sought help from Ghanaian Consulate in Mumbai but due to the lockdown even they could not lend their hands to him.&nbsp;

His struggles ended in early June when he posted on Twitter about his troubles after being suggested by a security official.&nbsp;

A local journalist came across his tweets and tagged the ruling Shiv Sena party's leader Aaditya Thackeray, who also heads Mumbai District Football Association.&nbsp;

After a few hours, the footballer was taken to a hotel where he was given accommodation until he finds a flight to reach back home.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"I tried to stay strong and motivated ...There are things in life you can never change." said Muller, who wishes to come back to India if his now-expired contract is renewed.&nbsp;

A Ghanaian footballer, who stuck in India for 74 days because of the nationwide lockdown and slept in an airport, has finally been rescued and shifted to a hospital till the time he leaves for his home.

A Ghanaian footballer, who stuck in India for 74 days because of the nationwide lockdown and slept in an airport, has finally been rescued and shifted to a hospital till the time he leaves for his home. Randy Juan Muller came to India on November 7 for a six-month contract to play football for ORPC Sports Club in Kerala, a state in southern India. Also read | Igor Stimac: Indian team has changed from kick and chase football to a more possession based game As the coronavirus situation in India started becoming serious, Muller booked a flight ticket for March 30 to travel back home. Also read | Klopp's 'passion' restored as English football nears return However, India imposed a nationwide lockdown beginning from March 25 and when he reached Mumbai on March 21, he was short of money because of which he had to stay in Mumbai international airport. "I didn't know anyone so I saw some policemen and told them my story. They told me to go to the airport," Muller said, reported CNN. India also suspended all international and domestic travel, which meant that Muller could not return to his home soon. The 23-year-footballer then decided to sleep in the departures hall of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai until international flights resumed services. "People in the airport were very helpful. They gave me food and helped me a lot," Muller said. He added that his damaged phone was also replaced by one security guard. Muller also sought help from Ghanaian Consulate in Mumbai but due to the lockdown even they could not lend their hands to him. His struggles ended in early June when he posted on Twitter about his troubles after being suggested by a security official. A local journalist came across his tweets and tagged the ruling Shiv Sena party's leader Aaditya Thackeray, who also heads Mumbai District Football Association. After a few hours, the footballer was taken to a hotel where he was given accommodation until he finds a flight to reach back home. "I tried to stay strong and motivated ...There are things in life you can never change." said Muller, who wishes to come back to India if his now-expired contract is renewed.

After spending 74 days in Mumbai airport, Ghanaian footballer rescued

For the first time in 68 years, Pakistan's economy is set to contract in the outgoing fiscal year with a negative 0.38 per cent due to the adverse impact of the coronavirus pandemic coupled with the already weak financial situation before the pandemic hit the country, according to the economic survey unveiled on Thursday.

Advisor on Finance Abdul Hafeez Sheikh, releasing the Pakistan Economic Survey 2019-20 said the economy suffered massively due to the coronavirus pandemic which has so far infected about 120,000 people in the country, and forced the government to impose lockdown in March for several weeks.

The pandemic has badly hit the economy in the current fiscal year ending on June 30.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-stimulus-package-is-as-large-as-gdp-of-pakistan-india-tells-imran-khan-after-he-offers-help-305154">Also read|&nbsp;Our stimulus package is as large as GDP of Pakistan: India tells Imran Khan after he offers 'help'</a>

For the first time in 68 years, Pakistan's economy has marginally contracted by 0.38 per cent in the outgoing fiscal year due to adverse impacts of novel coronavirus coupled with economic stabilisation policies that had hit the industrial sector much before the deadly pandemic.

Except for the agriculture sector that grew 2.7 per cent, the industrial and services sectors witnessed negative growth rates, pulling the overall growth rate down to negative 0.38 per cent in the fiscal year 2019-20, ending on June 30, the economic survey said.

The per capita income in dollar terms has also dipped to 1,366 - a contraction of 6.1 per cent, but it increased in rupee terms to Rs 214,539.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cash-strapped-pakistan-wants-to-help-india-imran-offers-to-share-the-cash-transfer-programme-305114">Also read:&nbsp;Cash-strapped Pakistan wants to 'help' India, Imran offers to 'share the cash transfer programme'</a>

Sheikh said the International Monetary Fund (IMF) had warned about the dire impact of COVID-19 on the developing countries due to drop in exports and remittance.

"Exports fell due to a fall in global demand while remittance decreased due to layoffs of Pakistanis employed abroad," he said.

The overall tax collection grew by 10.8 per cent to Rs 3,300.6 billion during July-April 2020 against Rs 2,980 billion in the comparable period last year. The tax collection estimate for this period was Rs 4,510 billion.

He said the current account deficit was reduced by 73.1 per cent to USD 2.8 billion (1.1 per cent of GDP) against USD 10.3 billion last year which was 3.7 per cent of GDP.

"The current account deficit that we inherited was around USD 20 billion but we have reduced that to around USD 3 billion. This is a huge achievement of the government," he said.

He said the government controlled state expenses and did not borrow from the State Bank of Pakistan during the outgoing fiscal year.

"This was the first time, I think, in the country's history, and our primary balance -- meaning our expenses were less than our earnings --&nbsp;went into surplus," he said.

He said Rs 3,000 billion were set aside for payment of loans in the coming year while Rs 5,000 billion were given in the outgoing year. He promised more relief in the new budget and also reduced taxes and not imposed any new tax so that industry should be given relief and incentive to grow.

Minister for Economic Affairs Khusru Bakhtiar said that this government had USD 9 billion forex exchange reserve when it came to power in August 2018 and by the end of this year it would be more than USD 18 billion.

He said that the total external debt of Pakistan was USD 76.5 billion which was negatively impacting Pakistan.

He said the debt was USD 40 billion in 2013 and rose to USD 48 billion by 2013 during the tenure of Pakistan Peoples Party and again increased to USD 73 billion by 2018 in the five years of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz.

The economic survey is considered as the most authentic document of the government and is launched every year before the announcement of the budget of the next year.

The government has already announced that the budget for 2020-21 will be presented in parliament on June 12.

For the first time in 68 years, Pakistan's economy is set to contract in the outgoing fiscal year with a negative 0.38 per cent due to the adverse impact of the coronavirus pandemic coupled with the already weak financial situation before the pandemic hit the country, according to the economic survey unveiled on Thursday.

For the first time in 68 years, Pakistan's economy is set to contract in the outgoing fiscal year with a negative 0.38 per cent due to the adverse impact of the coronavirus pandemic coupled with the already weak financial situation before the pandemic hit the country, according to the economic survey unveiled on Thursday. Advisor on Finance Abdul Hafeez Sheikh, releasing the Pakistan Economic Survey 2019-20 said the economy suffered massively due to the coronavirus pandemic which has so far infected about 120,000 people in the country, and forced the government to impose lockdown in March for several weeks. The pandemic has badly hit the economy in the current fiscal year ending on June 30. Also read| Our stimulus package is as large as GDP of Pakistan: India tells Imran Khan after he offers 'help' For the first time in 68 years, Pakistan's economy has marginally contracted by 0.38 per cent in the outgoing fiscal year due to adverse impacts of novel coronavirus coupled with economic stabilisation policies that had hit the industrial sector much before the deadly pandemic. Except for the agriculture sector that grew 2.7 per cent, the industrial and services sectors witnessed negative growth rates, pulling the overall growth rate down to negative 0.38 per cent in the fiscal year 2019-20, ending on June 30, the economic survey said. The per capita income in dollar terms has also dipped to 1,366 - a contraction of 6.1 per cent, but it increased in rupee terms to Rs 214,539. Also read: Cash-strapped Pakistan wants to 'help' India, Imran offers to 'share the cash transfer programme' Sheikh said the International Monetary Fund (IMF) had warned about the dire impact of COVID-19 on the developing countries due to drop in exports and remittance. "Exports fell due to a fall in global demand while remittance decreased due to layoffs of Pakistanis employed abroad," he said. The overall tax collection grew by 10.8 per cent to Rs 3,300.6 billion during July-April 2020 against Rs 2,980 billion in the comparable period last year. The tax collection estimate for this period was Rs 4,510 billion. He said the current account deficit was reduced by 73.1 per cent to USD 2.8 billion (1.1 per cent of GDP) against USD 10.3 billion last year which was 3.7 per cent of GDP. "The current account deficit that we inherited was around USD 20 billion but we have reduced that to around USD 3 billion. This is a huge achievement of the government," he said. He said the government controlled state expenses and did not borrow from the State Bank of Pakistan during the outgoing fiscal year. "This was the first time, I think, in the country's history, and our primary balance -- meaning our expenses were less than our earnings -- went into surplus," he said. He said Rs 3,000 billion were set aside for payment of loans in the coming year while Rs 5,000 billion were given in the outgoing year. He promised more relief in the new budget and also reduced taxes and not imposed any new tax so that industry should be given relief and incentive to grow. Minister for Economic Affairs Khusru Bakhtiar said that this government had USD 9 billion forex exchange reserve when it came to power in August 2018 and by the end of this year it would be more than USD 18 billion. He said that the total external debt of Pakistan was USD 76.5 billion which was negatively impacting Pakistan. He said the debt was USD 40 billion in 2013 and rose to USD 48 billion by 2013 during the tenure of Pakistan Peoples Party and again increased to USD 73 billion by 2018 in the five years of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz. The economic survey is considered as the most authentic document of the government and is launched every year before the announcement of the budget of the next year. The government has already announced that the budget for 2020-21 will be presented in parliament on June 12.

Pakistan's economy contracts for first time in 68 years by -0.38 pc

India is among a group of 15 high-risk countries where lifting lockdown and relaxing restrictions can lead to a spike in new infections, according to an analysis by securities research firm Nomura.

Lockdown restrictions averted over 530 million COVID-19 cases: Study

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