For the first time in its history, the flag hoisting of Thrissur Pooram, the annual temple festival, was held without the participation of people.

Only five people participated at the flag hoisting ritual held here on Sunday at Paramekkavu and Thiruvambadi temples due to the COVID-19 lockdown guidelines.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-1990-new-cases-india-witnesses-highest-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hour-period-294814">Also read: With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest coronavirus cases in 24-hour period</a>

It was decided earlier this month that this year's festival will be held without gathering of people.

The main attraction of Thrissur Pooram, which showcases fireworks and parading of elephants falls on May 3. But this year it has also been cancelled in the wake of COVID-19.&nbsp;

For the first time in its history, the flag hoisting of Thrissur Pooram, the annual temple festival, was held without the participation of people. Only five people participated at the flag hoisting ritual held here on Sunday at Paramekkavu and Thiruvambadi temples due to the COVID-19 lockdown guidelines.

For the first time in its history, the flag hoisting of Thrissur Pooram, the annual temple festival, was held without the participation of people. Only five people participated at the flag hoisting ritual held here on Sunday at Paramekkavu and Thiruvambadi temples due to the COVID-19 lockdown guidelines. Also read: With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest coronavirus cases in 24-hour period It was decided earlier this month that this year's festival will be held without gathering of people. The main attraction of Thrissur Pooram, which showcases fireworks and parading of elephants falls on May 3. But this year it has also been cancelled in the wake of COVID-19.

Flag-hoisting at Thrissur Pooram festival held without mass gathering

A 52-year-old head constable of Mumbai Police, who was battling coronavirus for past few days, has passed away.

"Mumbai Police regrets to inform you of the sad demise of Head Constable Sandip Surve, aged 52. Shri. Surve had been fighting Coronavirus for the past few days," said Mumbai Police in a tweet.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-complaints-of-faulty-kits-by-several-nations-china-confiscates-89-million-face-masks-294838">Also read:&nbsp;Amid complaints of faulty kits by several nations, China confiscates 89 million face masks</a>

"Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones," it added.

Mumbai had on Saturday confirmed 281 new positive cases and 12 deaths, taking the total number of people infected with coronavirus in the city to 4,870, the state health officials had said.&nbsp;

A 52-year-old head constable of Mumbai Police, who was battling coronavirus for past few days, has passed away. "Mumbai Police regrets to inform you of the sad demise of Head Constable Sandip Surve, aged 52.

A 52-year-old head constable of Mumbai Police, who was battling coronavirus for past few days, has passed away. "Mumbai Police regrets to inform you of the sad demise of Head Constable Sandip Surve, aged 52. Shri. Surve had been fighting Coronavirus for the past few days," said Mumbai Police in a tweet. Also read: Amid complaints of faulty kits by several nations, China confiscates 89 million face masks "Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones," it added. Mumbai had on Saturday confirmed 281 new positive cases and 12 deaths, taking the total number of people infected with coronavirus in the city to 4,870, the state health officials had said.

Mumbai Police head constable succumbs to coronavirus

CPI-M General Secretary Sitaram Yechury has targeted the Central government over its handling of COVID-19 lockdown in the country and demanded that the government transfer Rs 7,500 per month, for the next three months, to the accounts of people who lost their livelihood due to the crisis.

He pointed out that the unemployment rate in the country shot up from 7.5 per cent to 23.6 per cent from early March to April 20.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-lauds-india-post-postmen-for-their-stupendous-efforts-during-lockdown-294785">Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown</a>

"It is imperative that immediately the Central government transfers Rs 7,500 per month for the next three months to all who have lost their livelihoods. Surely, if a staggering Rs 7.76 lakhs of crores of loans taken by the super rich and corporates can be waived off by your government during the last five years, there should be no shortage of funds to feed and support the majority of our people," he said in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The CPI-M leader also questioned the manner in which the lockdown was imposed in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-1990-new-cases-india-witnesses-highest-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hour-period-294814">Also read:&nbsp;With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest coronavirus cases in 24-hour period</a>

"Since the lockdown, the urge among the migrant workers to return to their homes has seen surging crowds in huge numbers seeking to leave for their homes as they have lost all means of livelihood and shelter. This in itself negated one of the objectives of the lockdown, of maintaining physical distancing in order to contain community transmission of the pandemic," he wrote.

"Since the announcement of the lockdown, we had suggested that the Central government must immediately provide free food to all the needy. Huge stocks of foodgrains are rotting in our central godowns. These should be sent to the states for free distribution. Neither of these demands has even been considered by the government with you as the Prime Minister," he added.

India is under a nation-wide lockdown which was imposed on March 25 and later extended on April 14 to May 3 to stem the spread of coronavirus.&nbsp;

CPI-M General Secretary Sitaram Yechury has targeted the Central government over its handling of COVID-19 lockdown in the country and demanded that the government transfer Rs 7,500 per month, for the next three months, to the accounts of people who lost their livelihood due to the crisis.

CPI-M General Secretary Sitaram Yechury has targeted the Central government over its handling of COVID-19 lockdown in the country and demanded that the government transfer Rs 7,500 per month, for the next three months, to the accounts of people who lost their livelihood due to the crisis. He pointed out that the unemployment rate in the country shot up from 7.5 per cent to 23.6 per cent from early March to April 20. Also read: PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown "It is imperative that immediately the Central government transfers Rs 7,500 per month for the next three months to all who have lost their livelihoods. Surely, if a staggering Rs 7.76 lakhs of crores of loans taken by the super rich and corporates can be waived off by your government during the last five years, there should be no shortage of funds to feed and support the majority of our people," he said in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The CPI-M leader also questioned the manner in which the lockdown was imposed in the country. Also read: With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest coronavirus cases in 24-hour period "Since the lockdown, the urge among the migrant workers to return to their homes has seen surging crowds in huge numbers seeking to leave for their homes as they have lost all means of livelihood and shelter. This in itself negated one of the objectives of the lockdown, of maintaining physical distancing in order to contain community transmission of the pandemic," he wrote. "Since the announcement of the lockdown, we had suggested that the Central government must immediately provide free food to all the needy. Huge stocks of foodgrains are rotting in our central godowns. These should be sent to the states for free distribution. Neither of these demands has even been considered by the government with you as the Prime Minister," he added. India is under a nation-wide lockdown which was imposed on March 25 and later extended on April 14 to May 3 to stem the spread of coronavirus.

Govt should provide Rs 7,500 per month for three months to those who lost livelihood in lockdown: Sitaram Yechury

With a rise in the temperature in the country,&nbsp;Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued a set of guidelines compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) advising people about&nbsp;ideal temperature of an air-conditioner during the lockdown.

There has been an increase in the usage of air conditioners and desert coolers as the public has been spending more time at home under the lockdown in the bustling heat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-coronavirus-fight-is-people-driven-says-pm-narendra-modi-in-mann-ki-baat-294821">Also read:&nbsp;India's coronavirus fight is people-driven, says PM Narendra Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat'</a>

Due to this, there have been several concerns over the use of ACs and coolers over what temperature should&nbsp;we use the AC at this point of time.

As per the 18-page guideline, the temperature of the home-run AC should be between 24-30 degrees Celcius and the humidity should be between 40-70 per cent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-lauds-india-post-postmen-for-their-stupendous-efforts-during-lockdown-294785">Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown</a>

"Recirculation of cool air by room air conditioners must be accompanied by outdoor air intake through slightly open windows and exhaust by natural exfiltration," the advisory said.

“Too much humidity leads to higher levels of dust mites and fungi, two of the worst culprits for indoor allergy sufferers. Mold and fungi are known to exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma,” it added.

The centre also advised people to keep rooms ventilated when ACs are not in use, and to keep the windows partly kept open while using electric fans.

For commercial, industrial facilities, the government has suggested ventilation with outdoor air.&nbsp;“The mechanical exhaust air shall be 70-80 percent of the fresh air quantity to maintain necessary positive pressure in the space,” the advisory read.

With a rise in the temperature in the country, Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued a set of guidelines compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) advising people about ideal temperature of an air-conditioner during the lockdown.

With a rise in the temperature in the country, Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued a set of guidelines compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) advising people about ideal temperature of an air-conditioner during the lockdown. There has been an increase in the usage of air conditioners and desert coolers as the public has been spending more time at home under the lockdown in the bustling heat. Also read: India's coronavirus fight is people-driven, says PM Narendra Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat' Due to this, there have been several concerns over the use of ACs and coolers over what temperature should we use the AC at this point of time. As per the 18-page guideline, the temperature of the home-run AC should be between 24-30 degrees Celcius and the humidity should be between 40-70 per cent. Also read: PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown "Recirculation of cool air by room air conditioners must be accompanied by outdoor air intake through slightly open windows and exhaust by natural exfiltration," the advisory said. “Too much humidity leads to higher levels of dust mites and fungi, two of the worst culprits for indoor allergy sufferers. Mold and fungi are known to exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma,” it added. The centre also advised people to keep rooms ventilated when ACs are not in use, and to keep the windows partly kept open while using electric fans. For commercial, industrial facilities, the government has suggested ventilation with outdoor air. “The mechanical exhaust air shall be 70-80 percent of the fresh air quantity to maintain necessary positive pressure in the space,” the advisory read.

24-30 degree celsius is the ideal temperature for your AC, says CPWD in a guideline

The Pakistan government has authorised the Pakistan army to take over if the public violates lockdown rules. The order has been issued specifically keeping in mind the&nbsp;business community and religious clerics. The decision has been taken by Prime Minister Imran Khan to contain the spread of coronavirus.

The decision came out after a meeting that took place at the ISI Headquarters in Rawalpindi on April 23. The meeting was attended by Imran Khan, COAS Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, DG-ISI Lt. Gen Faiz Hameed, some of the Cabinet ministers and advisors. The motive of the meeting was to discuss the tense situation in the country and to plan counter measures in case of emergencies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-mosques-could-close-forever-due-to-coronavirus-lockdown-says-muslim-council-of-britain-294493">Also read:&nbsp;UK mosques could close forever due to coronavirus lockdown, says Muslim Council of Britain</a>

This is not the first time Imran Khan has been overpowered by the country's army. On March 22, Prime Minister addressed the nation and explained his reasons for not imposing a complete lockdown, stating that a lot of people would lose their jobs. However, few hours later&nbsp;Pakistan Army spokesperson Major General Babar Iftikhar announced a complete lockdown. Following the announcement, military was deployed in the country&nbsp;an was seen handling the COVID-19 response through the National Core Committee, a body set up to coordinate policy between the national and provincial governments.

However, business community and religious clerics have claimed they will continue to operate their day-to-day life normal.&nbsp;According to sources, it was agreed in principle during the meeting that police, rangers and even troops can be used to maintain law and order if the business community and religious clerics attempt to cross their limit and violate the lockdown instructions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ramzan-amitabh-bachchan-sonam-kapoor-others-wish-fans-urge-people-to-stay-at-home-294517">Also read:&nbsp;Ramzan: Amitabh Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor &amp; others wish fans, urge people to stay at home</a>

Ramazan is an important month for the Muslim community all over the world. While the community is doing its best to stay indoors and celebrate from their homes, the situation seems to be tense in Pakistan.&nbsp;

Several violators were reportedly arrested in Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Peshawar, Rawalpindi, Islamabad and other cities on the first day of the holy month of Ramadan.

"The situation will worsen soon if the government would not ease its restrictions since poor people are very frustrated of not getting food and other basic amenities," the sources said, adding "government system is not effective".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-to-keep-mosques-open-during-ramadan-coronavirus-outbreak-294348">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan to keep mosques open during Ramadan | Coronavirus Outbreak</a>

Total number of reported positive coronavirus cases have risen to&nbsp;12,723 with a death toll of 269. However, several questions have been raised on whether the actual number is as reported. The Pakistan government, following the figures, extended the lockdown till May 09.

The health officials of the country have been staging protests for weeks claiming that the&nbsp;hospitals are suffering from acute&nbsp;shortage&nbsp;of safety gear.

"Overall circumstances are not short of civilian disobedience if the government does not relax its strict measures to maintain lockdown effectively, it will face a difficult position," sources said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-reject-afghan-ceasefire-offer-during-ramadan-294562">Also read:&nbsp;Taliban reject Afghan ceasefire offer during Ramadan</a>

Dismissing reports of having made a vaccine for coronavirus, Advisor on Health Zafar Mirza informed the media that there is no coronavirus vaccine presently

“Let me clarify that while there are several initiatives to develop vaccines across the world, there is no such initiative in Pakistan at the moment," he said.

However, he confirmed the reports of a Chinese and Japanese manufacturer contacting the country for developing a vaccine.&nbsp;“We have asked for more information from them," Mirza said.

The Pakistan government has authorised the Pakistan army to take over if the public violates lockdown rules. The order has been issued specifically keeping in mind the business community and religious clerics.

The Pakistan government has authorised the Pakistan army to take over if the public violates lockdown rules. The order has been issued specifically keeping in mind the business community and religious clerics. The decision has been taken by Prime Minister Imran Khan to contain the spread of coronavirus. The decision came out after a meeting that took place at the ISI Headquarters in Rawalpindi on April 23. The meeting was attended by Imran Khan, COAS Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, DG-ISI Lt. Gen Faiz Hameed, some of the Cabinet ministers and advisors. The motive of the meeting was to discuss the tense situation in the country and to plan counter measures in case of emergencies. Also read: UK mosques could close forever due to coronavirus lockdown, says Muslim Council of Britain This is not the first time Imran Khan has been overpowered by the country's army. On March 22, Prime Minister addressed the nation and explained his reasons for not imposing a complete lockdown, stating that a lot of people would lose their jobs. However, few hours later Pakistan Army spokesperson Major General Babar Iftikhar announced a complete lockdown. Following the announcement, military was deployed in the country an was seen handling the COVID-19 response through the National Core Committee, a body set up to coordinate policy between the national and provincial governments. However, business community and religious clerics have claimed they will continue to operate their day-to-day life normal. According to sources, it was agreed in principle during the meeting that police, rangers and even troops can be used to maintain law and order if the business community and religious clerics attempt to cross their limit and violate the lockdown instructions. Also read: Ramzan: Amitabh Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor & others wish fans, urge people to stay at home Ramazan is an important month for the Muslim community all over the world. While the community is doing its best to stay indoors and celebrate from their homes, the situation seems to be tense in Pakistan. Several violators were reportedly arrested in Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Peshawar, Rawalpindi, Islamabad and other cities on the first day of the holy month of Ramadan. "The situation will worsen soon if the government would not ease its restrictions since poor people are very frustrated of not getting food and other basic amenities," the sources said, adding "government system is not effective". Also read: Pakistan to keep mosques open during Ramadan | Coronavirus Outbreak Total number of reported positive coronavirus cases have risen to 12,723 with a death toll of 269. However, several questions have been raised on whether the actual number is as reported. The Pakistan government, following the figures, extended the lockdown till May 09. The health officials of the country have been staging protests for weeks claiming that the hospitals are suffering from acute shortage of safety gear. "Overall circumstances are not short of civilian disobedience if the government does not relax its strict measures to maintain lockdown effectively, it will face a difficult position," sources said. Also read: Taliban reject Afghan ceasefire offer during Ramadan Dismissing reports of having made a vaccine for coronavirus, Advisor on Health Zafar Mirza informed the media that there is no coronavirus vaccine presently “Let me clarify that while there are several initiatives to develop vaccines across the world, there is no such initiative in Pakistan at the moment," he said. However, he confirmed the reports of a Chinese and Japanese manufacturer contacting the country for developing a vaccine. “We have asked for more information from them," Mirza said.

Imran Khan's government authorises army to take over in case of lockdown violations

<p content="BANGALORE, India, April 25, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown." data-reactid="12" type="text">To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown.

<p content="BANGALORE, India, April 25, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown." data-reactid="12" type="text">The COVID e-Pass system is an application where the state nodal officers will approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company will then be allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota. The companies will be able to do this&nbsp;on their own, without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass will be delivered to the applicant in a PDF format and an SMS. Carrying a photo identification card will be compulsory for all the applicants.

<p content="The COVID e-Pass system is a trust-based application where the state nodal officers must approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company is then allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota, on their own without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass is delivered to the applicant in pdf and SMS with an instruction to carry a valid photo ID. State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute." data-reactid="13" type="text"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-coronavirus-pandemic-is-this-a-world-war-in-disguise-294597">Also read:&nbsp;WION Edit: Coronavirus pandemic - is this a world war in disguise?</a>

<p content="The COVID e-Pass system is a trust-based application where the state nodal officers must approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company is then allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota, on their own without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass is delivered to the applicant in pdf and SMS with an instruction to carry a valid photo ID. State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute." data-reactid="13" type="text">State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute.

<p content="This easy to use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry &amp;amp; Karnataka State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, expressed satisfaction with the working of the system and stated that the solution will provide relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel for managing nationwide supply chains." data-reactid="14" type="text">This easy-to-use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry and Karnataka.

<p content="This easy to use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry &amp;amp; Karnataka State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, expressed satisfaction with the working of the system and stated that the solution will provide relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel for managing nationwide supply chains." data-reactid="14" type="text">State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, said he is very much satisfied with this system as it provides relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel while managing nationwide supply chains.

<p content="This easy to use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry &amp;amp; Karnataka State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, expressed satisfaction with the working of the system and stated that the solution will provide relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel for managing nationwide supply chains." data-reactid="14" type="text"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ramzan-in-the-times-of-coronavirus-294615">Also read:&nbsp;Ramzan in the times of coronavirus</a>

<p content="The e-Pass platform has also been integrated with Aarogya Setu, government's COVID-19 contact tracing app which has an estimated one million new users registering every hour, and a total of 70 million registrants. The first phase of this integration will allow the e-Pass system to poll Aarogya Setu to check the health indicator of the individuals before generating the ePass. The copy of the ePass is also deposited in the individual's Aarogya Setu app for easyaccess and verification." data-reactid="15" type="text">The e-Pass platform has also been integrated with Aarogya Setu, government's COVID-19 contact tracing app. The first phase of this integration will allow the e-Pass system to poll Aarogya Setu to check the health indicator of the individuals before generating the ePass. The copy of the ePass is also deposited in the individual's Aarogya Setu app for easy access and verification.

<p content="'The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones'- Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated 'Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown.' About eGov Foundation eGov Foundation was established in 2003 by Nandan Nilekani and Srikanth Nadhamuni to partner with city administrators in their drive to leverage the transformative power of technology for a better quality of life in our cities and to make them sustainable." data-reactid="16" type="text">"The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly, it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones," said&nbsp;Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation.

<p content="'The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones'- Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated 'Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown.' About eGov Foundation eGov Foundation was established in 2003 by Nandan Nilekani and Srikanth Nadhamuni to partner with city administrators in their drive to leverage the transformative power of technology for a better quality of life in our cities and to make them sustainable." data-reactid="16" type="text">Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated "Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown."

To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown.

To simplify the process of issuing e-passes for essential goods and service providers during lockdown, eGov foundation has launched COVID e-Pass system. The platform is expected to reduce the operational burden of government officials and help in ensuring a seamless supply of essential goods and services during the lockdown. The COVID e-Pass system is an application where the state nodal officers will approve one-time registration requests from the companies along with setting the daily quota of passes for each company. The designated authority from the company will then be allowed to generate bulk passes for company employees/partners, within the set quota. The companies will be able to do this on their own, without having to reach out to the district administration for inter-city movement. The pass will be delivered to the applicant in a PDF format and an SMS. Carrying a photo identification card will be compulsory for all the applicants. Also read: WION Edit: Coronavirus pandemic - is this a world war in disguise? State Nodal Officers will work with police authorities for verification and validation of the e-Pass during the commute. This easy-to-use and intelligent system has already been up and running in Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Odisha, Punjab, Puducherry and Karnataka. State nodal officer for Karnataka, Shri Kapil Mohan (IAS), Principal Secretary Infrastructure Development, said he is very much satisfied with this system as it provides relief to companies for inter-district and inter-state movement of personnel while managing nationwide supply chains. Also read: Ramzan in the times of coronavirus The e-Pass platform has also been integrated with Aarogya Setu, government's COVID-19 contact tracing app. The first phase of this integration will allow the e-Pass system to poll Aarogya Setu to check the health indicator of the individuals before generating the ePass. The copy of the ePass is also deposited in the individual's Aarogya Setu app for easy access and verification. "The creation of the National e-Pass platform in less than a week is a beautiful moment. Firstly, it manifests how digital infra like eGov's DIGIT platform can be leveraged to create highly contextual solutions at scale and speed. It also brings out the power of co-creation that foundations like ours are uniquely placed to catalyze - we collaborated with volunteers from iSpirit, Aragoya Setu team at MeitY, State Governments, AWS and Consumer products companies to build this solution. And finally, this is a testament of the team that worked on this initiative - the team got together in an instant to respond to a real problem India faced. The team put the mission ahead of themselves and put in an extreme amount of hard work, while going through the same stresses of managing groceries, worrying about their loved ones," said Viraj Tyagi, CEO, eGov Foundation. Hiren Doshi, VP, eGov Foundation stated "Ensuring the availability and seamless supply of essential items across the nation, we are working with States and have developed a simple mechanism for them to issue the permits digitally with ease. Noting that the availability of essential goods take place through consumer product companies, organized retail stores and e-commerce companies, this platform will allow companies to generate digital passes for their employees and ensure smooth supply of daily use essentials, amidst this lockdown."

eGov Foundation Launches COVID e-Pass Platform to make transportation of essential goods easier

As social distancing has taken over the world, a lot of businesses have suffered losses. However,&nbsp;a young Taiwanese sommelier has decided to not let the lockdown get the better of him. To keep his business afloat,&nbsp;Peter Petrus is teaching the art of wine tasting to his online audience by live streaming from his studio in Taipei.

“So I started contemplating if there might be a way to work around this situation - at the end of the day the company has to keep going,” said Peter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warship-sails-through-sensitive-taiwan-strait-for-the-second-time-in-a-month-294403">Also read: US warship sails through sensitive Taiwan Strait for the second time in a month</a>

Peter sends different wine samples to his online students and then the students who receive the samples join him for an online class. He films the videos and livestreams via his smartphone. While he has been able to keep his students happy, sometime he feels that "The problem with wine is that it starts oxidation once you open the bottle."

His students, too, have been enjoying these online classes and find the idea of this class to be quite special.

“It feels just the same (as being there) with a bit of additional warmth and chill-out, because it’s so cozy at home,” says Candice Yang, a 32-year-old maths teacher.

Taiwan has managed to contain the spread of the virus. There are only 429 reported positive cases, 6 deaths and 275 recovered patients. However, the rules of social distancing still apply in Taiwan.

As social distancing has taken over the world, a lot of businesses have suffered losses. However, a young Taiwanese sommelier has decided to not let the lockdown get the better of him.

As social distancing has taken over the world, a lot of businesses have suffered losses. However, a young Taiwanese sommelier has decided to not let the lockdown get the better of him. To keep his business afloat, Peter Petrus is teaching the art of wine tasting to his online audience by live streaming from his studio in Taipei. “So I started contemplating if there might be a way to work around this situation - at the end of the day the company has to keep going,” said Peter. Also read: US warship sails through sensitive Taiwan Strait for the second time in a month Peter sends different wine samples to his online students and then the students who receive the samples join him for an online class. He films the videos and livestreams via his smartphone. While he has been able to keep his students happy, sometime he feels that "The problem with wine is that it starts oxidation once you open the bottle." His students, too, have been enjoying these online classes and find the idea of this class to be quite special. “It feels just the same (as being there) with a bit of additional warmth and chill-out, because it’s so cozy at home,” says Candice Yang, a 32-year-old maths teacher. Taiwan has managed to contain the spread of the virus. There are only 429 reported positive cases, 6 deaths and 275 recovered patients. However, the rules of social distancing still apply in Taiwan.

Taiwan sommelier teaches  wine tasting through online classes to fight lockdown blues

As coronavirus cases on a rise in Tamil Nadu,&nbsp;Chief Minister K Palaniswami ordered a complete lockdown in five cities -- Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem and Madurai. The lockdown will&nbsp;be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai, and for the same timings from April 26 to April 28 in&nbsp;Tiruppur and Salem.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-government-announces-complete-lockdown-in-five-cities-including-chennai-and-coimbatore-294568">Also read:&nbsp;Tamil Nadu government announces complete lockdown in five cities, including Chennai and Coimbatore</a>

The decision of the complete lockdown was taken in a review meeting after the coronavirus cases toll crossed 1,600.&nbsp;After the announcement was made on Friday, people flocked to the markets from early morning on Saturday. Long queues were spotted outside various supermarkets and vegetable markets. People rushed to stock up on enough groceries and dairy items to sustain them for the next four days.&nbsp;People hoping to stay at home and order through food delivery apps were unable to do so due to the long queues and unavailability of essentials.

The online vegetable and food delivery apps will be allowed to home deliver groceries and food, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys. However, people, who have till now been used to going to the market anytime between 6am-1pm, panicked fearing uncertainty about the lockdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1684-more-cases-reported-in-last-24-hours-taking-indias-covid-19-tally-to-23077-294444">Also read:&nbsp;1,684 more cases reported in last 24 hours taking India's COVID-19 tally to 23,077</a>

The idea of the lockdown was to contain the spread of the virus by completely shutting down the movement of public in the streets. However, as people rushed to the markets on Saturday morning, the crowded streets did not see a lot of precautions related to social distancing.

According to the data released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 72 new coronavirus cases were reported as of April&nbsp;25 morning in the state. This brings the total reported positive cases of coronavirus&nbsp;to 1,755 in Tamil Nadu, with 22 deaths and 886 recovered patients.

As Tamil Nadu is one of the worst-hit states in the country, the state has identified hotspots.&nbsp;As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu.

As coronavirus cases on a rise in Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister K Palaniswami ordered a complete lockdown in five cities -- Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem and Madurai.

As coronavirus cases on a rise in Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister K Palaniswami ordered a complete lockdown in five cities -- Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem and Madurai. The lockdown will be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai, and for the same timings from April 26 to April 28 in Tiruppur and Salem. Also read: Tamil Nadu government announces complete lockdown in five cities, including Chennai and Coimbatore The decision of the complete lockdown was taken in a review meeting after the coronavirus cases toll crossed 1,600. After the announcement was made on Friday, people flocked to the markets from early morning on Saturday. Long queues were spotted outside various supermarkets and vegetable markets. People rushed to stock up on enough groceries and dairy items to sustain them for the next four days. People hoping to stay at home and order through food delivery apps were unable to do so due to the long queues and unavailability of essentials. The online vegetable and food delivery apps will be allowed to home deliver groceries and food, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys. However, people, who have till now been used to going to the market anytime between 6am-1pm, panicked fearing uncertainty about the lockdown. Also read: 1,684 more cases reported in last 24 hours taking India's COVID-19 tally to 23,077 The idea of the lockdown was to contain the spread of the virus by completely shutting down the movement of public in the streets. However, as people rushed to the markets on Saturday morning, the crowded streets did not see a lot of precautions related to social distancing. According to the data released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 72 new coronavirus cases were reported as of April 25 morning in the state. This brings the total reported positive cases of coronavirus to 1,755 in Tamil Nadu, with 22 deaths and 886 recovered patients. As Tamil Nadu is one of the worst-hit states in the country, the state has identified hotspots. As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu.

Panic buying reported in Tamil Nadu ahead of complete lockdown; 72 new cases

Expressing concerns over the Centre's decision to stop the hike in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief to all government employees and pensioners, Congress leader and former PM Manmohan Singh on Saturday said that it is not necessary to impose hardships on government servants.

"I sincerely believe it is not necessary at this stage to impose hardships on government servants and also on the armed forces people," said the former Prime Minister in a video message put out on Congress' Twitter handle.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
As <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID</a> spreads, Modi Govt hurts 1.1cr Central Govt employees instead of providing relief. Withdrawing DA instead of cutting wasteful expenditure like Central Vista project is insensitive &amp; inhumane. Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh, Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> &amp; others express deep concern. <a href="https://t.co/M6WQ0tojxG">pic.twitter.com/M6WQ0tojxG</a>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1253877689926193153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Ministry of Finance on Thursday stopped a hike in dearness allowance (DA) for the central government employees and dearness relief (DR) for the central government pensioners till July next year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-sonia-gandhi-urges-government-to-provide-relief-package-for-msme-sector-294217">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus: Sonia Gandhi urges government to provide relief package for MSME sector</a>

According to the order issued, no arrears will be paid for the period from January 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021.

"In view of the crisis arising out of COVID-19, it has been decided that the additional instalment of dearness allowance payable to Central Government employees and dearness relief to Central Government pensioners, due from January 1, 2020, shall not be paid," the order said.

Expressing concerns over the Centre's decision to stop the hike in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief to all government employees and pensioners, Congress leader and former PM Manmohan Singh on Saturday said that it is not necessary to impose hardships on government servants.

Expressing concerns over the Centre's decision to stop the hike in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief to all government employees and pensioners, Congress leader and former PM Manmohan Singh on Saturday said that it is not necessary to impose hardships on government servants. "I sincerely believe it is not necessary at this stage to impose hardships on government servants and also on the armed forces people," said the former Prime Minister in a video message put out on Congress' Twitter handle. As #COVID spreads, Modi Govt hurts 1.1cr Central Govt employees instead of providing relief. Withdrawing DA instead of cutting wasteful expenditure like Central Vista project is insensitive & inhumane. Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh, Shri @RahulGandhi & others express deep concern. pic.twitter.com/M6WQ0tojxG — Congress (@INCIndia) April 25, 2020 × The Ministry of Finance on Thursday stopped a hike in dearness allowance (DA) for the central government employees and dearness relief (DR) for the central government pensioners till July next year. Also read: Coronavirus: Sonia Gandhi urges government to provide relief package for MSME sector According to the order issued, no arrears will be paid for the period from January 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021. "In view of the crisis arising out of COVID-19, it has been decided that the additional instalment of dearness allowance payable to Central Government employees and dearness relief to Central Government pensioners, due from January 1, 2020, shall not be paid," the order said.

No need to halt DA/DR hikes at this stage, says Manmohan Singh in a video message

Tea, beer, garlic: how world copes with lockdown

Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman is facing a backlash for her statement that casinos and other businesses should be reopened amid the coronavirus crisis just to revive the economy.

In a TV interview with CNN, Goodman said, “Assuming that everyone is a carrier, open businesses that generate infections will be closed again.”

She also went on to add that ensuring safety in Casino is not a mayor's job.

The state of Nevada which is home to Las Vegas has seen 163 coronavirus deaths and the number of coronavirus cases is closing to 4,000 mark. Due to the lockdown, Las Vegas is the worst hit as the city will lose over 3,00,000 will be left unemployed.&nbsp;

“Every one of those lives is a tragic loss. But when you count 150 versus 2.3 million, you have to say, ‘We have to open up. We have to go back',” Goodman said.

Ever since the interview, she has faced massive backlash for her views. Netizens across Twitter have slammed Mayor Carolyn Goodman.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Rep. Steven Horsford, a Democrat who represents a part of Las Vegas, said Mayor Goodman’s remarks to <a href="https://twitter.com/andersoncooper?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@andersoncooper</a> were “outrageous:” “I condemn her remarks. My community is not going to be used as an experiment,” he told me
— Manu Raju (@mkraju) <a href="https://twitter.com/mkraju/status/1253346477038096384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The Mayor of Las Vegas: “We offer to be a control group.” 
 
Insane Clown Posse: “We refuse to risk even one Juggalo life.”<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThisIs2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThisIs2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/JoGQOKxk2E">pic.twitter.com/JoGQOKxk2E</a>
— Nelson Carvajal (@nelsoncarvajal) <a href="https://twitter.com/nelsoncarvajal/status/1253381006083543045?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
When I watched that interview with Mayor Goodman I struggled to balance her being completely insane with the fact that Las Vegas is probably uniquely gutted by the shutdown. It’s a one industry town based on packing people into confined spaces and enabling their risky behavior.
— Josh Marshall (@joshtpm) <a href="https://twitter.com/joshtpm/status/1253193276737421314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It appears the mayor of Las Vegas got hold of all the drink tickets before quarantine. <a href="https://t.co/EaxTRQnAuE">pic.twitter.com/EaxTRQnAuE</a>
— Cousin Sal (@TheCousinSal) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheCousinSal/status/1253057252962873344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Famous late night host Jimmy Kimmel joined the netizens and slammed the mayor calling her "dangerously misguided".&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Dear Las <a href="https://twitter.com/Vegas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Vegas</a>. It would appear that your <a href="https://twitter.com/mayoroflasvegas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mayoroflasvegas</a> Carolyn Goodman is dangerously misguided. I am not easily shocked anymore, but the interview she is doing with <a href="https://twitter.com/andersoncooper?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@andersoncooper</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CNN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cnn</a> right now is bonkers.
— Jimmy Kimmel (@jimmykimmel) <a href="https://twitter.com/jimmykimmel/status/1253031854761861120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The United States has the highest number of infected cases in the world with 869,172 cases.&nbsp;

Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman is facing a backlash for her statement that casinos and other businesses should be reopened amid the coronavirus crisis just to revive the economy.

Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman is facing a backlash for her statement that casinos and other businesses should be reopened amid the coronavirus crisis just to revive the economy. In a TV interview with CNN, Goodman said, “Assuming that everyone is a carrier, open businesses that generate infections will be closed again.” She also went on to add that ensuring safety in Casino is not a mayor's job. The state of Nevada which is home to Las Vegas has seen 163 coronavirus deaths and the number of coronavirus cases is closing to 4,000 mark. Due to the lockdown, Las Vegas is the worst hit as the city will lose over 3,00,000 will be left unemployed. “Every one of those lives is a tragic loss. But when you count 150 versus 2.3 million, you have to say, ‘We have to open up. We have to go back',” Goodman said. Ever since the interview, she has faced massive backlash for her views. Netizens across Twitter have slammed Mayor Carolyn Goodman. Rep. Steven Horsford, a Democrat who represents a part of Las Vegas, said Mayor Goodman’s remarks to @andersoncooper were “outrageous:” “I condemn her remarks. My community is not going to be used as an experiment,” he told me — Manu Raju (@mkraju) April 23, 2020 × The Mayor of Las Vegas: “We offer to be a control group.” Insane Clown Posse: “We refuse to risk even one Juggalo life.”#ThisIs2020 pic.twitter.com/JoGQOKxk2E — Nelson Carvajal (@nelsoncarvajal) April 23, 2020 × When I watched that interview with Mayor Goodman I struggled to balance her being completely insane with the fact that Las Vegas is probably uniquely gutted by the shutdown. It’s a one industry town based on packing people into confined spaces and enabling their risky behavior. — Josh Marshall (@joshtpm) April 23, 2020 × It appears the mayor of Las Vegas got hold of all the drink tickets before quarantine. pic.twitter.com/EaxTRQnAuE — Cousin Sal (@TheCousinSal) April 22, 2020 × Famous late night host Jimmy Kimmel joined the netizens and slammed the mayor calling her "dangerously misguided". Dear Las @Vegas. It would appear that your @mayoroflasvegas Carolyn Goodman is dangerously misguided. I am not easily shocked anymore, but the interview she is doing with @andersoncooper @cnn right now is bonkers. — Jimmy Kimmel (@jimmykimmel) April 22, 2020 × The United States has the highest number of infected cases in the world with 869,172 cases.

Netizens troll Las Vegas Mayor for her 'Open Vegas' remarks in an interview

The Muslim Council of Britain has suggested that the UK mosques now face the danger of being shut forever if the financial difficulties worsen.

Harun Khan, secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain, expressed his concern in an interview with a media organization. "Mosques will be hit very substantially. Majority of the mosques are run as charitable organisations. They rely heavily on the support they get from visitors and worshippers. That's almost disappeared overnight," he said.

The mosques in the UK are publicly funded, i.e. through donations from generous believers and when people visit. However, as the lockdown continues in the country, these mosques have been hit hard financially.

The news came on the first day of Ramadan. As Muslims around the world are worried about drastic changes during the month-long Ramadan, Harun Khan said it is a very challenging time and "it&nbsp;will be a Ramadan like never before."

The mosques, during Ramadan usually host various classes for children, gatherings and the congregation comes in five times a day. However, these mosques are now empty as everyone is connecting with each other through various social media platforms.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/messages-exchanged-from-balconies-and-windows-during-global-lockdown-294204">Also read: Messages exchanged from balconies and windows during global lockdown</a>

The head of welfare services at Birmingham's&nbsp;Green Lane Mosque, Salim Ahmed, told a media organization that they are hosting broadcasting their classes and prayers online. "A lot of what we're doing is moving online, we're going to have six hours of content, talks and reminders about Ramadan and Islamic reminders.

"There'll also be live broadcasts of the call to prayer and Quran recitation for those who would usually enjoy coming to the mosque to read the holy book."

In the government's daily briefing, Health Secretary Matt Hancock thanked the British Muslim community. for staying at home and following the protocol. He also thanked the health care workers of the community for their sacrifice of serving the country instead of celebrating with family at home. "Thank you for making changes to these vital parts of your practise. I want to say to you all, Ramadan Mubarak. Thank you for your service and citizenship and thank you for your sacrifice," he said.

The Muslim Council of Britain has suggested that the UK mosques now face the danger of being shut forever if the financial difficulties worsen. Harun Khan, secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain, expressed his concern in an interview with a media organization.

The Muslim Council of Britain has suggested that the UK mosques now face the danger of being shut forever if the financial difficulties worsen. Harun Khan, secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain, expressed his concern in an interview with a media organization. "Mosques will be hit very substantially. Majority of the mosques are run as charitable organisations. They rely heavily on the support they get from visitors and worshippers. That's almost disappeared overnight," he said. The mosques in the UK are publicly funded, i.e. through donations from generous believers and when people visit. However, as the lockdown continues in the country, these mosques have been hit hard financially. The news came on the first day of Ramadan. As Muslims around the world are worried about drastic changes during the month-long Ramadan, Harun Khan said it is a very challenging time and "it will be a Ramadan like never before." The mosques, during Ramadan usually host various classes for children, gatherings and the congregation comes in five times a day. However, these mosques are now empty as everyone is connecting with each other through various social media platforms. Also read: Messages exchanged from balconies and windows during global lockdown The head of welfare services at Birmingham's Green Lane Mosque, Salim Ahmed, told a media organization that they are hosting broadcasting their classes and prayers online. "A lot of what we're doing is moving online, we're going to have six hours of content, talks and reminders about Ramadan and Islamic reminders. "There'll also be live broadcasts of the call to prayer and Quran recitation for those who would usually enjoy coming to the mosque to read the holy book." In the government's daily briefing, Health Secretary Matt Hancock thanked the British Muslim community. for staying at home and following the protocol. He also thanked the health care workers of the community for their sacrifice of serving the country instead of celebrating with family at home. "Thank you for making changes to these vital parts of your practise. I want to say to you all, Ramadan Mubarak. Thank you for your service and citizenship and thank you for your sacrifice," he said.

UK mosques could close forever due to coronavirus lockdown, says Muslim Council of Britain

A Mumbai man was arrested by the local police for “outraging religious feelings”. He was arrested from his house after he discriminated with a food delivery boy on the basis of his religion. Gajanan Chaturvedi, a 51-year-old man, was booked under Section 295(A) of the IPC.&nbsp;

Gajanan had placed an online order for groceries through a leading food app. Later him and his wife went to the main gate of their residential complex to collect the order. while his wife was checking the order, he asked the name of the delivery boy. As soon as he realized the delivery boy belonged to a minority community, he refused to accept his order.&nbsp;

According to the officials and reports, the delivery boy was wearing a mask and gloves to avoid contact with anyone. He had taken all other necessary precautions stated by the health experts to avoid any form of risk. However, he was still humiliated by the customer.

The delivery boy, shocked by this behaviour,&nbsp;filed a case against Gajanan at the Kashimira police station. Senior police inspector of Kashimira police station, Sanjay Hazare, said that Gajanan was produced before the Thane session court and was released on a bail of Rs. 15,000 personal surety.

Even after such an incident, the delivery boy said he will continue to keep working as he loves his job which allows him to help people in some way during these testing times.

With a total of 5,652 positive cases, Mumbai has been identified as a hotspot for coronavirus in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

A Mumbai man was arrested by the local police for “outraging religious feelings”. He was arrested from his house after he discriminated with a food delivery boy on the basis of his religion.

A Mumbai man was arrested by the local police for “outraging religious feelings”. He was arrested from his house after he discriminated with a food delivery boy on the basis of his religion. Gajanan Chaturvedi, a 51-year-old man, was booked under Section 295(A) of the IPC. Gajanan had placed an online order for groceries through a leading food app. Later him and his wife went to the main gate of their residential complex to collect the order. while his wife was checking the order, he asked the name of the delivery boy. As soon as he realized the delivery boy belonged to a minority community, he refused to accept his order. According to the officials and reports, the delivery boy was wearing a mask and gloves to avoid contact with anyone. He had taken all other necessary precautions stated by the health experts to avoid any form of risk. However, he was still humiliated by the customer. The delivery boy, shocked by this behaviour, filed a case against Gajanan at the Kashimira police station. Senior police inspector of Kashimira police station, Sanjay Hazare, said that Gajanan was produced before the Thane session court and was released on a bail of Rs. 15,000 personal surety. Even after such an incident, the delivery boy said he will continue to keep working as he loves his job which allows him to help people in some way during these testing times. With a total of 5,652 positive cases, Mumbai has been identified as a hotspot for coronavirus in Maharashtra.

Mumbai man arrested for religious discrimination against a delivery boy

As the nation is under lockdown in the wake of COVID-19, differently-abled persons are facing difficulties in order to cope up with their daily needs like food availability and medicine.

Highlighting the plight of the differently-abled people, executive director of National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP), Arman Ali said, "The daily survival has become a fight. Even they are not able to have food availability and medicine. Most of the differently-abled persons live in rural areas. Differently-abled persons in urban areas are somehow able to survive."

"But those who are poor and their identity is a daily struggle, are finding it difficult to survive in this lockdown. There is a lack of awareness among the differently-abled persons regarding lockdown," Ali added.

However, he pointed out that he has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi asking for implementation of guidelines issued by Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities in the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, and an economic package should be given during the lockdown along with a hike in pension.

"Awareness should be increased through electronic and print media," he added.

"Most of the differently-abled people are under stress regarding food and medicine and employment. There is lack of awareness... We want our dignity. We have requested the Prime Minister to look into the matter. There should be an economic package for the disabled. I hope Prime minister will listen to us," Ali further said.

Afroz Alam, a differently-abled person, said, "During the lockdown, we are having issues regarding clothes and daily needs. It is difficult to replace the wheelchair tyre as there is no mechanic. Food is not a big issue as we are getting it from NGOs. Sometimes we get and sometimes we don't."

Echoing similar sentiments, another differently-abled person named Salim, expressed that food and groceries are an issue along with difficulty in movement during the lockdown.

He said that he has no source of income and is dependent on NGOs for food.

Radha Devi, another differently-abled person said, "We are not able to get clothes. But some are helping us and children by providing food. We do not have clothes as the market is not open."

Satish, a specially-abled person, has urged the government to look into the matter and help the poor and the needy.

As the nation is under lockdown in the wake of COVID-19, differently-abled persons are facing difficulties in order to cope up with their daily needs like food availability and medicine.

As the nation is under lockdown in the wake of COVID-19, differently-abled persons are facing difficulties in order to cope up with their daily needs like food availability and medicine. Highlighting the plight of the differently-abled people, executive director of National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP), Arman Ali said, "The daily survival has become a fight. Even they are not able to have food availability and medicine. Most of the differently-abled persons live in rural areas. Differently-abled persons in urban areas are somehow able to survive." "But those who are poor and their identity is a daily struggle, are finding it difficult to survive in this lockdown. There is a lack of awareness among the differently-abled persons regarding lockdown," Ali added. However, he pointed out that he has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi asking for implementation of guidelines issued by Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities in the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, and an economic package should be given during the lockdown along with a hike in pension. "Awareness should be increased through electronic and print media," he added. "Most of the differently-abled people are under stress regarding food and medicine and employment. There is lack of awareness... We want our dignity. We have requested the Prime Minister to look into the matter. There should be an economic package for the disabled. I hope Prime minister will listen to us," Ali further said. Afroz Alam, a differently-abled person, said, "During the lockdown, we are having issues regarding clothes and daily needs. It is difficult to replace the wheelchair tyre as there is no mechanic. Food is not a big issue as we are getting it from NGOs. Sometimes we get and sometimes we don't." Echoing similar sentiments, another differently-abled person named Salim, expressed that food and groceries are an issue along with difficulty in movement during the lockdown. He said that he has no source of income and is dependent on NGOs for food. Radha Devi, another differently-abled person said, "We are not able to get clothes. But some are helping us and children by providing food. We do not have clothes as the market is not open." Satish, a specially-abled person, has urged the government to look into the matter and help the poor and the needy.

Differently-abled persons face difficulties in obtaining basic needs amid lockdown; they depend on NGOs for food

Fifty terrorists, including several top commanders of Jaish-e-Mohmmad (JeM) and Lashker-e-Tioba (LeT), were killed in counter terrorism operations by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir this year so far, officials said on Friday.

Seventeen security forces personnel lost their lives while fighting the terrorists in the union territory, they said.

Giving details, a senior official told PTI that the slain terrorists included top commanders of JeM, LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen.

He said of the 50 terrorists killed so far this year, 18 were eliminated during the ongoing lockdown imposed to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Four terrorists, including district commander of LeT Muzaffar Ahmed Bhat, were killed in an encounter with security forces in the Dialgam area of Anantnag district in south Kashmir on March 15, the official said, adding they belonged to LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen outfits

On January 25, three terrorists, including JeM self-styled Kashmir chief Qari Yasir, were killed while three soldiers were injured in an encounter between security forces and ultras in the Tral area of south Kashmir's Pulwama district, he said.

On January 23, another top militant commander Abu Saifullah alias Abu Qasim, an associate of Yasir, was killed in the Khrew area of Pulwama district, the official said.

On April 9, top Jaish-e-Mohammed commander Sajad Nawab Dar was killed by security forces in Sopore in Baramulla district in north Kashmir, he said.

A top Hizbul Mujahideen 'commander' Haroon Wani was killed in a fierce encounter with the security forces in the Gundana area of Doda in Jammu and Kashmir on January 15, he said.

Giving further details, the officer said 18 terrorists were killed during the lockdown in the union territory since March 14.

As many as nine civilians were killed by the terrorists during this year, he said. Besides, seventeen security force personnel were killed during the same period, which includes 13 security personnel, three Special Police officers (SPOs) and one policeman, he added.

As many as 160 terrorists were killed and 102 arrested in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, Director General of Police Dilbag Singh had said earlier.&nbsp;

Fifty terrorists, including several top commanders of Jaish-e-Mohmmad (JeM) and Lashker-e-Tioba (LeT), were killed in counter terrorism operations by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir this year so far, officials said on Friday.

Fifty terrorists, including several top commanders of Jaish-e-Mohmmad (JeM) and Lashker-e-Tioba (LeT), were killed in counter terrorism operations by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir this year so far, officials said on Friday. Seventeen security forces personnel lost their lives while fighting the terrorists in the union territory, they said. Giving details, a senior official told PTI that the slain terrorists included top commanders of JeM, LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen. He said of the 50 terrorists killed so far this year, 18 were eliminated during the ongoing lockdown imposed to contain the spread of coronavirus. Four terrorists, including district commander of LeT Muzaffar Ahmed Bhat, were killed in an encounter with security forces in the Dialgam area of Anantnag district in south Kashmir on March 15, the official said, adding they belonged to LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen outfits On January 25, three terrorists, including JeM self-styled Kashmir chief Qari Yasir, were killed while three soldiers were injured in an encounter between security forces and ultras in the Tral area of south Kashmir's Pulwama district, he said. On January 23, another top militant commander Abu Saifullah alias Abu Qasim, an associate of Yasir, was killed in the Khrew area of Pulwama district, the official said. On April 9, top Jaish-e-Mohammed commander Sajad Nawab Dar was killed by security forces in Sopore in Baramulla district in north Kashmir, he said. A top Hizbul Mujahideen 'commander' Haroon Wani was killed in a fierce encounter with the security forces in the Gundana area of Doda in Jammu and Kashmir on January 15, he said. Giving further details, the officer said 18 terrorists were killed during the lockdown in the union territory since March 14. As many as nine civilians were killed by the terrorists during this year, he said. Besides, seventeen security force personnel were killed during the same period, which includes 13 security personnel, three Special Police officers (SPOs) and one policeman, he added. As many as 160 terrorists were killed and 102 arrested in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, Director General of Police Dilbag Singh had said earlier.

50 terrorists gunned down in Jammu and Kashmir this year; 18 eliminated during lockdown

This is a goof-up of (literally) epic proportions! We all know that TV serial 'Mahabharat' is being shown on Doordarshan currently amid nationwide lockdown. Now some viewers with hawk-eyes have spotted a major goof-up in the show. 
 
A photo of actor Mukesh Khanna who played Bhishma Pitamah in BR Chopra's show is doing the rounds of social media. The actor dressed in his character is seen sitting on a golden throne and just behind him, a desert cooler is clearly visible.

Twitter was quick enough to draw a comparison to a now-famous image from the sets of the final season of 'Game Of Thrones' last year where a coffee cup had made its way into a crucial scene. 
 
Here's what Twitter said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Bhishma did it way before GOT. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mahabharat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mahabharat</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GameofThrones?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GameofThrones</a> <a href="https://t.co/hO4lR3zdZW">pic.twitter.com/hO4lR3zdZW</a>
— Soni (@Soni_Mishra3) <a href="https://twitter.com/Soni_Mishra3/status/1251799602056974338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Bhishma Pitamah using Air Cooler 😂 
 
Oh bhai maro mujhe maro <a href="https://t.co/rn0ZKweVvB">pic.twitter.com/rn0ZKweVvB</a>
— Saiyaara 🎧 (@BeingKushSharma) <a href="https://twitter.com/BeingKushSharma/status/1252633949563686913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Bhishma pitamah using air cooler<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AD%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%A4?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#महाभारत</a> <a href="https://t.co/7ctOFDHrYF">pic.twitter.com/7ctOFDHrYF</a>
— Mr_d19_ (@sarcastic_king_) <a href="https://twitter.com/sarcastic_king_/status/1252843079913975812?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Coolers were invented in 1951 , 
 
Lo Bhishma pitamah - apun hich bhagwan hai 🆒<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mahabharat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mahabharat</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cooler?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cooler</a> <a href="https://t.co/yKLvLa5Upm">pic.twitter.com/yKLvLa5Upm</a>
— Harsh ⚡ (@whenHVtweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/whenHVtweets/status/1252956760559812609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

 
The re-run of the popular show started after the government announced a complete lockdown in India to curb the spread of novel coronavirus earlier in April.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has decided to televise some of the old classic DD shows amid the lockdown so that the entire family can sit together and watch.

'Ramayan', 'Circus', 'Buniyaad', 'Byomkesh Bakshi' are some of the shows that are being aired on DD currently.

This is a goof-up of (literally) epic proportions! We all know that TV serial 'Mahabharat' is being shown on Doordarshan currently amid nationwide lockdown. Now some viewers with hawk-eyes have spotted a major goof-up in the show.

This is a goof-up of (literally) epic proportions! We all know that TV serial 'Mahabharat' is being shown on Doordarshan currently amid nationwide lockdown. Now some viewers with hawk-eyes have spotted a major goof-up in the show. A photo of actor Mukesh Khanna who played Bhishma Pitamah in BR Chopra's show is doing the rounds of social media. The actor dressed in his character is seen sitting on a golden throne and just behind him, a desert cooler is clearly visible. Twitter was quick enough to draw a comparison to a now-famous image from the sets of the final season of 'Game Of Thrones' last year where a coffee cup had made its way into a crucial scene. Here's what Twitter said. Bhishma did it way before GOT. #Mahabharat #GameofThrones pic.twitter.com/hO4lR3zdZW — Soni (@Soni_Mishra3) April 19, 2020 × Bhishma Pitamah using Air Cooler 😂 Oh bhai maro mujhe maro pic.twitter.com/rn0ZKweVvB — Saiyaara 🎧 (@BeingKushSharma) April 21, 2020 × Bhishma pitamah using air cooler#महाभारत pic.twitter.com/7ctOFDHrYF — Mr_d19_ (@sarcastic_king_) April 22, 2020 × Coolers were invented in 1951 , Lo Bhishma pitamah - apun hich bhagwan hai 🆒#mahabharat#cooler pic.twitter.com/yKLvLa5Upm — Harsh ⚡ (@whenHVtweets) April 22, 2020 × The re-run of the popular show started after the government announced a complete lockdown in India to curb the spread of novel coronavirus earlier in April. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has decided to televise some of the old classic DD shows amid the lockdown so that the entire family can sit together and watch. 'Ramayan', 'Circus', 'Buniyaad', 'Byomkesh Bakshi' are some of the shows that are being aired on DD currently.

Viewers spot an air cooler behind Bhishma in 'Mahabharat'; Twitter compares it to the 'GOT' coffee mug goof up

Air pollution over northern India has plummeted to a 20-year-low for this time of the year, according to satellite data published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

The US space agency's satellite sensors observed aerosol levels at a 20-year low post the countrywide lockdown, implemented to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

"We knew we would see changes in atmospheric composition in many places during the lockdown," said Pawan Gupta, a Universities Space Research Association (USRA) scientist at NASA''s Marshall Space Flight Center. "But I have never seen aerosol values so low in the Indo-Gangetic Plain at this time of year," added Mr Gupta.

Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Alice G Wells tweeted, "These images from NASA were taken each spring starting in 2016 and show a 20-year low in airborne particle levels over India. When India and the world are ready to work and travel again, let's not forget that collaborative action can result in cleaner air."

The data published with maps show aerosol optical depth (AOD) in 2020 compared to the average for 2016-2019. Aerosol optical depth is a measure of how light is absorbed or reflected by airborne particles as it travels through the atmosphere.

If aerosols are concentrated near the surface, an optical depth of 1 or above indicates very hazy conditions. An optical depth, or thickness, of less than 0.1 over the entire atmospheric vertical column is considered "clean." The data were retrieved by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Terra satellite.

In the first few days of the lockdown, it was difficult to observe a change in the pollution signature. "We saw an aerosol decrease in the first week of the shutdown, but that was due to a combination of rain and the lockdown," said Mr Gupta.

Around March 27, heavy rain poured over vast areas of northern India and helped clear the air of aerosols. Aerosol concentrations usually increase again after such heavy precipitation.

"After the rainfall, I was really impressed that aerosol levels did not go up and return to normal. We saw a gradual decrease and things have been staying at the level we might expect without anthropogenic emissions," Mr Gupta said.

On March 25, the Indian government placed its 1.3 billion citizens under a strict lockdown to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The countrywide mandate decreased activity at factories and severely reduced car, bus, truck and aeroplane traffic. Every year, aerosols from anthropogenic (human-made) sources contribute to unhealthy levels of air pollution in many Indian cities.

Aerosols are tiny solid and liquid particles suspended in the air that reduce visibility and can damage the human lungs and heart.

In southern India though, the story is a little hazier. Satellite data show aerosol levels have not yet decreased to the same extent. In fact, levels seem to be slightly higher than in the past four years. The reasons are unclear but could be related to recent weather patterns, agricultural fires, winds or other factors.

"This a model scientific experiment," Robert Levy, program leader for NASA's MODIS aerosol products, said about the lockdown and its effects on pollution.

"We have a unique opportunity to learn how the atmosphere reacts to sharp and sudden reductions in emissions from certain sectors. This can help us separate how natural and human sources of aerosols affect the atmosphere," Mr Levy added.

Air pollution over northern India has plummeted to a 20-year-low for this time of the year, according to satellite data published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

Air pollution over northern India has plummeted to a 20-year-low for this time of the year, according to satellite data published by US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The US space agency's satellite sensors observed aerosol levels at a 20-year low post the countrywide lockdown, implemented to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. "We knew we would see changes in atmospheric composition in many places during the lockdown," said Pawan Gupta, a Universities Space Research Association (USRA) scientist at NASA''s Marshall Space Flight Center. "But I have never seen aerosol values so low in the Indo-Gangetic Plain at this time of year," added Mr Gupta. Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Alice G Wells tweeted, "These images from NASA were taken each spring starting in 2016 and show a 20-year low in airborne particle levels over India. When India and the world are ready to work and travel again, let's not forget that collaborative action can result in cleaner air." The data published with maps show aerosol optical depth (AOD) in 2020 compared to the average for 2016-2019. Aerosol optical depth is a measure of how light is absorbed or reflected by airborne particles as it travels through the atmosphere. If aerosols are concentrated near the surface, an optical depth of 1 or above indicates very hazy conditions. An optical depth, or thickness, of less than 0.1 over the entire atmospheric vertical column is considered "clean." The data were retrieved by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Terra satellite. In the first few days of the lockdown, it was difficult to observe a change in the pollution signature. "We saw an aerosol decrease in the first week of the shutdown, but that was due to a combination of rain and the lockdown," said Mr Gupta. Around March 27, heavy rain poured over vast areas of northern India and helped clear the air of aerosols. Aerosol concentrations usually increase again after such heavy precipitation. "After the rainfall, I was really impressed that aerosol levels did not go up and return to normal. We saw a gradual decrease and things have been staying at the level we might expect without anthropogenic emissions," Mr Gupta said. On March 25, the Indian government placed its 1.3 billion citizens under a strict lockdown to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The countrywide mandate decreased activity at factories and severely reduced car, bus, truck and aeroplane traffic. Every year, aerosols from anthropogenic (human-made) sources contribute to unhealthy levels of air pollution in many Indian cities. Aerosols are tiny solid and liquid particles suspended in the air that reduce visibility and can damage the human lungs and heart. In southern India though, the story is a little hazier. Satellite data show aerosol levels have not yet decreased to the same extent. In fact, levels seem to be slightly higher than in the past four years. The reasons are unclear but could be related to recent weather patterns, agricultural fires, winds or other factors. "This a model scientific experiment," Robert Levy, program leader for NASA's MODIS aerosol products, said about the lockdown and its effects on pollution. "We have a unique opportunity to learn how the atmosphere reacts to sharp and sudden reductions in emissions from certain sectors. This can help us separate how natural and human sources of aerosols affect the atmosphere," Mr Levy added.

Air pollution over North India plummets to 20-year-low amid lockdown, says NASA

A migrant couple from Rajasthan, stranded in Tripura due to the coronavirus-enforced lockdown, has named its newborn baby ‘Lockdown’.&nbsp;

Sanjay Bauri said he and his pregnant wife, Manju, had come to Tripura from Dausa district of Rajasthan six months ago to sell toys, steel utensils and plastic products on the streets of Agartala.

“My wife gave birth to a baby boy at the state-run Indira Gandhi Memorial (IGM) Hospital here six days ago. We named him ‘Lockdown’ remembering all the problems we had to face during this tough time,” Bauri told reporters.

The baby was born on April 13.

"The baby is fine. We are getting food from the administration. He is fine," Bauri said.

Many hawkers like the Bauri couple who had come to Tripura from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, got stranded in the northeastern state due to the lockdown.

Including them, 63 migrant vendors are left stranded in Badharghat.

"We tried to return to our native places and went to Badharghat Railway Station, only to find the train services suspended," Bauri said.

Manju wants to return home as soon as the lockdown is lifted. “We will leave for our village as soon as the lockdown is lifted. But we will never forget the kind gesture of the GRP personnel," he said.

Earlier, a Raipur couple named their newborn twins -- Corona and Covid. The twins, they said, would remind them about all the hardships they conquered amid the lockdown.

The twins were born on the intervening night of March 26-27 at a government hospital in Raipur.

However, the couple said they may change their decision later and rename their kids.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/twins-born-during-coronavirus-lockdown-in-raipur-named-corona-and-covid-290283">Also read | Twins, born during coronavirus lockdown in Raipur, named 'Corona' and 'Covid'</a>

A migrant couple from Rajasthan, stranded in Tripura due to the coronavirus-enforced lockdown, has named its newborn baby ‘Lockdown’. Sanjay Bauri said he and his pregnant wife, Manju, had come to Tripura from Dausa district of Rajasthan six months ago to sell toys, steel utensils and plastic products on the streets of Agartala.

A migrant couple from Rajasthan, stranded in Tripura due to the coronavirus-enforced lockdown, has named its newborn baby ‘Lockdown’. Sanjay Bauri said he and his pregnant wife, Manju, had come to Tripura from Dausa district of Rajasthan six months ago to sell toys, steel utensils and plastic products on the streets of Agartala. “My wife gave birth to a baby boy at the state-run Indira Gandhi Memorial (IGM) Hospital here six days ago. We named him ‘Lockdown’ remembering all the problems we had to face during this tough time,” Bauri told reporters. The baby was born on April 13. "The baby is fine. We are getting food from the administration. He is fine," Bauri said. Many hawkers like the Bauri couple who had come to Tripura from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, got stranded in the northeastern state due to the lockdown. Including them, 63 migrant vendors are left stranded in Badharghat. "We tried to return to our native places and went to Badharghat Railway Station, only to find the train services suspended," Bauri said. Manju wants to return home as soon as the lockdown is lifted. “We will leave for our village as soon as the lockdown is lifted. But we will never forget the kind gesture of the GRP personnel," he said. Earlier, a Raipur couple named their newborn twins -- Corona and Covid. The twins, they said, would remind them about all the hardships they conquered amid the lockdown. The twins were born on the intervening night of March 26-27 at a government hospital in Raipur. However, the couple said they may change their decision later and rename their kids. Also read | Twins, born during coronavirus lockdown in Raipur, named 'Corona' and 'Covid'

Rajasthan couple stranded in Tripura names their newborn 'Lockdown'

In the US, more than a dozen states have witnessed anti-lockdown protests. In Brazil, President Jair Bolsonaro joined an anti-lockdown protest. Are leaders putting the economy before lives of the people?

Coronavirus: Why are people protesting against lockdowns? | Gravitas

Perfectly-glazed buns melt-in-your-mouth cakes. The oozing chocolate and an Instagram-able dinner table. Is this the story of your lockdown? Or does it look more like this?

Perfectly-glazed buns melt-in-your-mouth cakes. The oozing chocolate and an Instagram-able dinner table. Is this the story of your lockdown? Or does it look more like this? Sponge cakes too hard for human-teeth? Eggs that look more like a pufferfish? And royal plating disasters! If the lockdown is all about finding your inner chef-- then why fake it till you make it? Those jaw-dropping lemon cakes and the gorgeous cookies don't happen overnight. While the picture-perfect food makes it to Instagram. The numerous trials and errors end up in the dustbin or worse, in the stomachs of blackmailed family members. But not anymore! Thousands in Vietnam are ready to reverse this trend. They are coming out with the grain of truth and posting their culinary disasters online! From alien-looking cakes to charred food. It's all out there for the world to see. It all started in the second week of April. A 37-year-old, Dinh Duc Thanh is a Vietnamese videographer created a Facebook page for culinary catastrophes. Dinh Duc Thanh, administrator of the Facebook group 'Hating kitchen, not addicting to houses'. "I think when there are groups on attractive, delicious dishes and a nice house, we should also have someplace where people can share their failure, so that people may feel more comfortable, being able to share themselves." Within days, thousands were sharing their stories. One netizen laughed at his disastrous ripe cakes. Another woman complained about how her husband thought her banana cream was cat vomit! One mother shared a video of her daughter refusing to eat her sad-looking cake! Another shared photos of burnt potatoes and charred pans. The ash is finally out of the bag. Apart from the smoked flavour, this has given rise to good laughter online and no one is complaining! As everyone knows, cooking and baking isn't everyone's cup of tea.

Discovering real inner chef: Vietnamese post culinary disasters online

Indian artists paint the roads 'aware' to promote social distancing

Wild Boars take over Israeli streets while people beat lockdown blues

Quarantined with some of his family members at his Panvel farmhouse amid lockdown, Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has penned and sung a coronavirus-themed song to spread awareness about the pandemic. 
 
The actor took to Twitter to announce the release of the song and also posted a link to the audio version of the song."Emotionally pass raho aur physically duurr raho na #PyaarKarona, audio out now!" he wrote on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Emotionally paas rahona, physically duurr rahona, aise hi is lockdown tak <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PyaarKarona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PyaarKarona</a> ! 
 
Click here to Watch the premiere - <a href="https://t.co/otzrS4q1dT">https://t.co/otzrS4q1dT</a><a href="https://twitter.com/SajidMusicKhan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SajidMusicKhan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/wajidkhan7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wajidkhan7</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/adityadevmusic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adityadevmusic</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hussainthelal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hussainthelal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/abhiraj21288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@abhiraj21288</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaajanSingh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaajanSingh</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHome</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lockdown</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a>
— Salman Khan (@BeingSalmanKhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/BeingSalmanKhan/status/1252126777616416768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Pyaar karona, Etihaad karona, khayal karona, madad karona, sabr karona, fikr karona, pyaar karona aitbaar karona," Khan is heard singing in the song.

The actor also raps in the song which throws light on the different precautionary measures one must take amid the pandemic. The rap revolves around, working from home, staying at home but at a distance from everyone, not wandering out in the streets unnecessarily and other important measures to fight COVID-19. 
 
The 54-year-old actor also urged people to use leisure time during the lockdown to work on their hobbies like playing the guitar, writing poetry and practicing other artwork. 
 
"Doctors, Police ko salute karona," Khan is heard singing as he urged people to respect the frontline workers.

On Monday afternoon, the actor launched his Youtube channel with music video of the song 'Pyaar karona'.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SoAp7sX65TQ" width="560"></iframe>

The song has been composed by Sajid-Wajid and along with Salman, Hussain Dalal has penned the lyrics.

Quarantined with some of his family members at his Panvel farmhouse amid lockdown, Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has penned and sung a coronavirus-themed song to spread awareness about the pandemic.

Quarantined with some of his family members at his Panvel farmhouse amid lockdown, Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has penned and sung a coronavirus-themed song to spread awareness about the pandemic. The actor took to Twitter to announce the release of the song and also posted a link to the audio version of the song."Emotionally pass raho aur physically duurr raho na #PyaarKarona, audio out now!" he wrote on Twitter. Emotionally paas rahona, physically duurr rahona, aise hi is lockdown tak #PyaarKarona ! Click here to Watch the premiere - https://t.co/otzrS4q1dT@SajidMusicKhan @wajidkhan7 @adityadevmusic @hussainthelal @abhiraj21288 #SaajanSingh#StayHome #Lockdown #IndiaFightsCorona — Salman Khan (@BeingSalmanKhan) April 20, 2020 × "Pyaar karona, Etihaad karona, khayal karona, madad karona, sabr karona, fikr karona, pyaar karona aitbaar karona," Khan is heard singing in the song. The actor also raps in the song which throws light on the different precautionary measures one must take amid the pandemic. The rap revolves around, working from home, staying at home but at a distance from everyone, not wandering out in the streets unnecessarily and other important measures to fight COVID-19. The 54-year-old actor also urged people to use leisure time during the lockdown to work on their hobbies like playing the guitar, writing poetry and practicing other artwork. "Doctors, Police ko salute karona," Khan is heard singing as he urged people to respect the frontline workers. On Monday afternoon, the actor launched his Youtube channel with music video of the song 'Pyaar karona'. The song has been composed by Sajid-Wajid and along with Salman, Hussain Dalal has penned the lyrics.

Salman Khan writes and sings coronavirus-themed song 'Pyaar karona'

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

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

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

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

The Delhi government has decided to not relax the ongoing lockdown as of now as the coronavirus appears to be spreading at a "faster pace" in the national capital, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Sunday, asserting that the decision is aimed at saving lives.

Addressing an online media briefing, Kejriwal said the government will assess the situation again after one week. 
According to an order issued by Delhi Chief Secretary Vijay Dev, the government will review the situation on April 27.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-cases-in-india-jump-to-15712-more-than-500-dead-293348">Coronavirus cases in India jump to 15,712; more than 500 dead</a>

"Many people are facing difficulties due to ongoing lockdown... We too want to relax the lockdown which is an easy task. But if we give relaxations and if there is a shortage of ICU, ventilators, oxygen in hospitals and people lose their lives, we wouldn't be able to forgive us. Hence, the decision to not relax lockdown was taken today," Kejriwal said.

As the virus has started spreading at a faster pace, containment zones have been increased, he said, but assured the situation is under control. 
 
In Delhi, there are 11 districts which have hotspot areas and relaxation cannot be given there according to central government's revised guidelines.

Kejriwal also said that there have been instances where people who did not show symptoms were found infected by COVID-19. Out of 736 samples collected recently, 186 people were found to be infected by COVID-19 on Saturday and all of them were asymptomatic, he said, adding they didn't even know they have been infected by the virus.

"When we talked to one of them, he said he was engaged in serving food at a government-run food centre set up during the lockdown. I have ordered for rapid testing of all those who had visited this centre. We will also conduct rapid testing of all people engaged in food distribution at government-run centres across the city," the chief minister said.

He has previously said his government has been serving food to around 10 lakh people daily in the national capital. 
On Sunday, Kejriwal said Delhi has 2 per cent of the country's population but 12 per cent of the total COVID-19 cases.

He cited the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Nizamuddin last month and a major inflow of travellers from other countries as the reason for the spread of the virus in Delhi.

"Delhi is fighting a difficult battle these days. Being the national capital of country, there was a major inflow of travellers from other countries. Delhi bore the brunt of maximum travellers from other countries. Delhi also bore the brunt due to an incident in the markaz," he said.

Kejriwal said Delhi has reported 1,893 COVID-19 cases and 43 deaths, adding that there are currently 26 people in ICU and six on ventilator support. Of the 43 fatalities, 24 were aged above 60.

"If there had been no lockdown, the situation here would have been similar to Italy and Spain," he said.

The Delhi government has declared 76 areas as containment zones to control the further spread of the highly contagious virus.

The Delhi government has decided to not relax the ongoing lockdown as of now as the coronavirus appears to be spreading at a "faster pace" in the national capital, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Sunday, asserting that the decision is aimed at saving lives.

The Delhi government has decided to not relax the ongoing lockdown as of now as the coronavirus appears to be spreading at a "faster pace" in the national capital, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Sunday, asserting that the decision is aimed at saving lives. Addressing an online media briefing, Kejriwal said the government will assess the situation again after one week. According to an order issued by Delhi Chief Secretary Vijay Dev, the government will review the situation on April 27. Also read | Coronavirus cases in India jump to 15,712; more than 500 dead "Many people are facing difficulties due to ongoing lockdown... We too want to relax the lockdown which is an easy task. But if we give relaxations and if there is a shortage of ICU, ventilators, oxygen in hospitals and people lose their lives, we wouldn't be able to forgive us. Hence, the decision to not relax lockdown was taken today," Kejriwal said. As the virus has started spreading at a faster pace, containment zones have been increased, he said, but assured the situation is under control. In Delhi, there are 11 districts which have hotspot areas and relaxation cannot be given there according to central government's revised guidelines. Kejriwal also said that there have been instances where people who did not show symptoms were found infected by COVID-19. Out of 736 samples collected recently, 186 people were found to be infected by COVID-19 on Saturday and all of them were asymptomatic, he said, adding they didn't even know they have been infected by the virus. "When we talked to one of them, he said he was engaged in serving food at a government-run food centre set up during the lockdown. I have ordered for rapid testing of all those who had visited this centre. We will also conduct rapid testing of all people engaged in food distribution at government-run centres across the city," the chief minister said. He has previously said his government has been serving food to around 10 lakh people daily in the national capital. On Sunday, Kejriwal said Delhi has 2 per cent of the country's population but 12 per cent of the total COVID-19 cases. He cited the Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Nizamuddin last month and a major inflow of travellers from other countries as the reason for the spread of the virus in Delhi. "Delhi is fighting a difficult battle these days. Being the national capital of country, there was a major inflow of travellers from other countries. Delhi bore the brunt of maximum travellers from other countries. Delhi also bore the brunt due to an incident in the markaz," he said. Kejriwal said Delhi has reported 1,893 COVID-19 cases and 43 deaths, adding that there are currently 26 people in ICU and six on ventilator support. Of the 43 fatalities, 24 were aged above 60. "If there had been no lockdown, the situation here would have been similar to Italy and Spain," he said. The Delhi government has declared 76 areas as containment zones to control the further spread of the highly contagious virus.

Arvind Kejriwal says no to easing coronavirus relaxations in Delhi

In Chigwell, England, fitness session becomes a highlight amid lockdown. Fitness unites people.

Chigwell: Fitness session becomes a highlight amid lockdown, fitness unites people

Pakistan reports more than 7,000 positive COVID-19 cases, 135 lost their lives. Here is more details in this video..

Pakistan reports more than 7,000 positive COVID-19 cases, 135 people lose their lives

The Pakistan government has decided to extend lockdown till April 30 but on ground situation is something else. Know in this video..

Pak govt decides to extend lockdown till April 30, COVID-19 cases count crosses 7,000

A 35-year-old woman who fell sick while standing in a queue at a shop in Uttar Pradesh's Badaun district to collect free ration being distributed during lockdown died at a hospital, officials said on Saturday.

The incident took place on Friday. Police have sent the body for post-mortem, they said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sufficient-measures-present-to-safeguard-domestic-violence-victims-during-lockdown-aap-govt-to-hc-293292">Sufficient measures present to safeguard domestic violence victims during lockdown: AAP govt to HC</a>

"We got information about the death of a woman while standing in a queue outside a shop to get rice. The district supply officer has been sent to the spot. The cause of death is not yet clear, and it is being said that she died of heart attack. Once the (post-mortem) report comes, her family will be helped," District Magistrate Kumar Prashant said.

District Supply Officer Ramendra Pratap Singh said, "As per the villagers, the woman died of heart attack. The matter is being probed."

"Since the phone network was not proper and the internet was slow, it was taking time to print the vouchers. As a result, the distribution of ration was taking time," he said.

The Uttar Pradesh government is providing free ration to the poor during the nationwide lockdown to stem the spread of the coronavirus. With businesses shut, many have been rendered jobless and have run out of cash to buy food.&nbsp;

A 35-year-old woman who fell sick while standing in a queue at a shop in Uttar Pradesh's Badaun district to collect free ration being distributed during lockdown died at a hospital, officials said on Saturday.

A 35-year-old woman who fell sick while standing in a queue at a shop in Uttar Pradesh's Badaun district to collect free ration being distributed during lockdown died at a hospital, officials said on Saturday. The incident took place on Friday. Police have sent the body for post-mortem, they said. Also read | Sufficient measures present to safeguard domestic violence victims during lockdown: AAP govt to HC "We got information about the death of a woman while standing in a queue outside a shop to get rice. The district supply officer has been sent to the spot. The cause of death is not yet clear, and it is being said that she died of heart attack. Once the (post-mortem) report comes, her family will be helped," District Magistrate Kumar Prashant said. District Supply Officer Ramendra Pratap Singh said, "As per the villagers, the woman died of heart attack. The matter is being probed." "Since the phone network was not proper and the internet was slow, it was taking time to print the vouchers. As a result, the distribution of ration was taking time," he said. The Uttar Pradesh government is providing free ration to the poor during the nationwide lockdown to stem the spread of the coronavirus. With businesses shut, many have been rendered jobless and have run out of cash to buy food.

UP: Woman dies after standing in queue to collect ration

In Kenya, a lawmaker wants all Chinese citizens to leave the country. Meanwhile, in Michigan, armed protesters took to the streets to protest against a lockdown. WION's Palki Sharma brings you the top developments for Thursday.

Gravitas: The big developments for 16th April | Wuhan Coronavirus

Joselito lived through animal-related influenzas like SARS and H1N1, so the Spanish ham producer was one step ahead of the sanitary measures imposed due to the coronavirus outbreak.

E-commerce: How an Iberian ham producer reinvented itself amid the coronavirus pandemic

lockdown

Lockdown, News on Lockdown, stories on Lockdown, articles on Lockdown, Lockdown stories at Wion, Lockdown news, Lockdown latest news