While the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">covid</a> cases have been constantly on decline, the Australian government has decided to stick to its plan of reopening its borders to the rest of the world only from the middle of next year.

The Scott Morrison government has been facing increasing pressure from international leaders and groups about reopening the country's border and let residents return.

However,&nbsp;the Australian government has resisted the pressure citing 'safety of citizens first' as a reason to keeping borders closed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-carries-out-first-repatriation-flight-from-india-after-travel-ban-385348" hreflang="en">Australia carries out first repatriation flight from India after travel ban</a>

Morrison closed international borders for all non-nationals and non-residents in March 2020 when the coronavirus pandemic took over the world. Since then, the country has only allowed limited international travellers, in addition to citizens living abroad.

"All the way through we will be guided by the medical advice," said Morrison in a televised briefing. "We will be guided by the economic advice."

The officials have also supported the policy of border closure as they believe this has 'served us very well through this crisis,' Treasurer Josh Frydenberg told the local media.

These statements have come a few hours after Australia welcomed citizens and permanent residents from India back to the country. The flight was an initiative taken by the Australian government after the government was criticised for imposing strict restrictions including monetary penalty and months behind jail for people entering Australia from India.

While the covid cases have been constantly on decline, the Australian government has decided to stick to its plan of reopening its borders to the rest of the world only from the middle of next year.

While the covid cases have been constantly on decline, the Australian government has decided to stick to its plan of reopening its borders to the rest of the world only from the middle of next year. The Scott Morrison government has been facing increasing pressure from international leaders and groups about reopening the country's border and let residents return. However, the Australian government has resisted the pressure citing 'safety of citizens first' as a reason to keeping borders closed. Also read | Australia carries out first repatriation flight from India after travel ban Morrison closed international borders for all non-nationals and non-residents in March 2020 when the coronavirus pandemic took over the world. Since then, the country has only allowed limited international travellers, in addition to citizens living abroad. "All the way through we will be guided by the medical advice," said Morrison in a televised briefing. "We will be guided by the economic advice." The officials have also supported the policy of border closure as they believe this has 'served us very well through this crisis,' Treasurer Josh Frydenberg told the local media. These statements have come a few hours after Australia welcomed citizens and permanent residents from India back to the country. The flight was an initiative taken by the Australian government after the government was criticised for imposing strict restrictions including monetary penalty and months behind jail for people entering Australia from India.

Australia to keep international borders closed till middle of 2022: Officials

Indian state of West Bengal on Saturday announced a complete lockdown from May 16 till May 30 in order to contain spread of coronavirus in the state.

"We are taking some strict measures to contain the pandemic, starting Sunday 6 am till 6 pm of May 30," Chief Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay said.

During this period, all government and private offices, shopping complexes, malls, bars, sports complexes, pubs and beauty parlours will remain closed, he said.

Movement of private vehicles, taxis, buses, metro rail, suburban trains will also be disallowed during the 15- day lockdown period.

"Petrol pumps will remain open and essential services like milk, water, medicine, electricity, fire, law and order and media will not come under the purview of it," he added.

E-commerce and home delivery services will be allowed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian state of West Bengal on Saturday announced a complete lockdown from May 16 till May 30 in order to contain spread of coronavirus in the state. "We are taking some strict measures to contain the pandemic, starting Sunday 6 am till 6 pm of May 30," Chief Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay said.

Indian state of West Bengal on Saturday announced a complete lockdown from May 16 till May 30 in order to contain spread of coronavirus in the state. "We are taking some strict measures to contain the pandemic, starting Sunday 6 am till 6 pm of May 30," Chief Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay said. During this period, all government and private offices, shopping complexes, malls, bars, sports complexes, pubs and beauty parlours will remain closed, he said. Movement of private vehicles, taxis, buses, metro rail, suburban trains will also be disallowed during the 15- day lockdown period. "Petrol pumps will remain open and essential services like milk, water, medicine, electricity, fire, law and order and media will not come under the purview of it," he added. E-commerce and home delivery services will be allowed. (With inputs from agencies)

West Bengal announces complete lockdown to stop Covid spread

India's Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has postponed the Civil Services preliminary exam 2021&nbsp;due to an unprecedented surge in the number of COVID-19 cases in the country.

The Prelims 2021 was scheduled for June 27, 2021, but now it will be held on October 10.

The commission conducts civil services examination annually in three stages — preliminary, main and interview — to select officers of Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS) and Indian Police Service (IPS) among others.

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The Union Public Service Commission has deferred the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2021, which was scheduled to be held on 27th June 2021. 
 
✅Now, this Examination will be held on 10th October 2021. 
 
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"Due to the prevailing conditions caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the Union Public Service Commission has deferred the civil services (preliminary) examination, 2021, which was scheduled to be held on June 27, 2021. Now, this examination will be held on October 10, 2021," a statement issued by the commission said.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has postponed the Civil Services preliminary exam 2021 due to an unprecedented surge in the number of COVID-19 cases in the country.

India's Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has postponed the Civil Services preliminary exam 2021 due to an unprecedented surge in the number of COVID-19 cases in the country. The Prelims 2021 was scheduled for June 27, 2021, but now it will be held on October 10. The commission conducts civil services examination annually in three stages — preliminary, main and interview — to select officers of Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS) and Indian Police Service (IPS) among others. The Union Public Service Commission has deferred the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2021, which was scheduled to be held on 27th June 2021. ✅Now, this Examination will be held on 10th October 2021. Read here: https://t.co/sAVDDfZjXv — PIB India (@PIB_India) May 13, 2021 × "Due to the prevailing conditions caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the Union Public Service Commission has deferred the civil services (preliminary) examination, 2021, which was scheduled to be held on June 27, 2021. Now, this examination will be held on October 10, 2021," a statement issued by the commission said. (With inputs from agencies)

India's UPSC postpones civil services prelim exams to October 10 due to COVID-19

Hollywood actor and comedian Chris Rock says he used his time during the Covid-19 induced lockdown to have lots of therapy to tackle issues from his past, as success does not erase trauma. 
 
Asked if his experiences of childhood racism still have an impact, he said,"Yeah, it`s weird. I`ve been doing therapy. That`s what I did during Covid -- lots of therapy. Success does not erase trauma. It just doesn`t. So, I definitely had to go back through therapy and really go through my childhood." 
 
Rock says has "forgiven" anyone who has done wrong in the past and doesn`t see the benefit of calling people out now for things they did decades ago. 
 
"The key thing is, I forgive everybody that was involved. I don`t want to criticise the culture of whatever, but what happened to me happened 30 years ago. I could out everybody that called me a n***** and everybody that hit me, and put their faces on Instagram, and say their names and all that stuff, right?" Rock told Telegraph magazine. 
 
He added: "And they would never work again. Their lives would be absolutely destroyed. So I`m gonna pray that they learnt their lesson. I got kids going to college -- wouldn`t that suck if some kid couldn`t go to college because their dad called me a n***** in 1979? So I`m not gonna do that. I`m gonna take the very high road." 
 
Rock has two daughters, Lola, 19, and Zahra, 16, with former wife Malaak Compton-Rock.

Hollywood actor and comedian Chris Rock says he used his time during the Covid-19 induced lockdown to have lots of therapy to tackle issues from his past, as success does not erase trauma.

Hollywood actor and comedian Chris Rock says he used his time during the Covid-19 induced lockdown to have lots of therapy to tackle issues from his past, as success does not erase trauma. Asked if his experiences of childhood racism still have an impact, he said,"Yeah, it`s weird. I`ve been doing therapy. That`s what I did during Covid -- lots of therapy. Success does not erase trauma. It just doesn`t. So, I definitely had to go back through therapy and really go through my childhood." Rock says has "forgiven" anyone who has done wrong in the past and doesn`t see the benefit of calling people out now for things they did decades ago. "The key thing is, I forgive everybody that was involved. I don`t want to criticise the culture of whatever, but what happened to me happened 30 years ago. I could out everybody that called me a n***** and everybody that hit me, and put their faces on Instagram, and say their names and all that stuff, right?" Rock told Telegraph magazine. He added: "And they would never work again. Their lives would be absolutely destroyed. So I`m gonna pray that they learnt their lesson. I got kids going to college -- wouldn`t that suck if some kid couldn`t go to college because their dad called me a n***** in 1979? So I`m not gonna do that. I`m gonna take the very high road." Rock has two daughters, Lola, 19, and Zahra, 16, with former wife Malaak Compton-Rock.

Chris Rock: Success does not erase trauma

Washington is to lift pandemic restrictions&nbsp;on&nbsp;most&nbsp;businesses&nbsp;and public venues in less than two weeks, with the daily toll of new&nbsp;Covid cases in the US&nbsp;capital&nbsp;at its lowest level in almost a year.

As the vaccination drive gathers pace, the city's famed Smithsonian museums and zoo, as well as shops, restaurants, places of worship and numerous other venues, will see capacity&nbsp;curbs&nbsp;removed entirely by&nbsp;May&nbsp;21.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="US is likely 'undercounting' Covid deaths, says Dr Fauci">US is likely 'undercounting' Covid deaths, says Dr Fauci</a>

Bars, nightclubs and large entertainment venues and sports stadiums will have to wait until June 11 to fully reopen, Mayor Muriel Bowser's office said in a public health update.

Masks will still be required indoors for people not eating or drinking.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="US turning a corner on pandemic, says White House coordinator">US turning a corner on pandemic, says White House coordinator</a>

'On&nbsp;Friday,&nbsp;May&nbsp;21&nbsp;we will be turning&nbsp;on&nbsp;substantially more activity in the district,'&nbsp;Bowser told reporters.

"And we anticipate three weeks following that,&nbsp;on&nbsp;June 11 that we will be able to turn up activity in the district, all the way."&nbsp;

The city has seen new daily infections&nbsp;drop&nbsp;into single figures per 100,000 people since an alarming January peak of more than 40, with the infection rate now at its lowest in 10 months.&nbsp;

Infections are similarly down in neighboring Virginia and Maryland.

The District of Columbia has fully vaccinated 226,566 of its population of around 700,000.

The&nbsp;capital&nbsp;began easing pandemic&nbsp;curbs&nbsp;on&nbsp;May&nbsp;1, allowing shops to increase from 25 per cent to 50 per cent capacity and restaurants to seat 10 people per table.

According to a survey conducted in March by the Kaiser Family Foundation, 25 per cent of Americans aged 18 to 29 are adopting a 'wait and see'&nbsp;attitude towards being vaccinated.

President Joe Biden wants 70 per cent of adults nationwide to have received at least one shot by Independence Day&nbsp;on&nbsp;July 4, and Washington has joined several other cities in offering incentives in a bid to overcome vaccine hesitancy.

Bowser has urged residents to 'come get vaccinated and grab a beer,&nbsp;on&nbsp;us'&nbsp;at the John F&nbsp;Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

"Throughout this process, I have said how proud I am of DC residents and&nbsp;businesses&nbsp;who have responded, who have followed health guidance and have worked together to help protect our community throughout the pandemic, and we see it in these numbers today," the mayor said on Monday.&nbsp;

Washington is to lift pandemic restrictions on most businesses and public venues in less than two weeks, with the daily toll of new Covid cases in the US capital at its lowest level in almost a year.

Washington is to lift pandemic restrictions on most businesses and public venues in less than two weeks, with the daily toll of new Covid cases in the US capital at its lowest level in almost a year. As the vaccination drive gathers pace, the city's famed Smithsonian museums and zoo, as well as shops, restaurants, places of worship and numerous other venues, will see capacity curbs removed entirely by May 21. Also read | US is likely 'undercounting' Covid deaths, says Dr Fauci Bars, nightclubs and large entertainment venues and sports stadiums will have to wait until June 11 to fully reopen, Mayor Muriel Bowser's office said in a public health update. Masks will still be required indoors for people not eating or drinking. Also read | US turning a corner on pandemic, says White House coordinator 'On Friday, May 21 we will be turning on substantially more activity in the district,' Bowser told reporters. "And we anticipate three weeks following that, on June 11 that we will be able to turn up activity in the district, all the way." The city has seen new daily infections drop into single figures per 100,000 people since an alarming January peak of more than 40, with the infection rate now at its lowest in 10 months. Infections are similarly down in neighboring Virginia and Maryland. The District of Columbia has fully vaccinated 226,566 of its population of around 700,000. The capital began easing pandemic curbs on May 1, allowing shops to increase from 25 per cent to 50 per cent capacity and restaurants to seat 10 people per table. According to a survey conducted in March by the Kaiser Family Foundation, 25 per cent of Americans aged 18 to 29 are adopting a 'wait and see' attitude towards being vaccinated. President Joe Biden wants 70 per cent of adults nationwide to have received at least one shot by Independence Day on July 4, and Washington has joined several other cities in offering incentives in a bid to overcome vaccine hesitancy. Bowser has urged residents to 'come get vaccinated and grab a beer, on us' at the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. "Throughout this process, I have said how proud I am of DC residents and businesses who have responded, who have followed health guidance and have worked together to help protect our community throughout the pandemic, and we see it in these numbers today," the mayor said on Monday.

US capital to drop Covid curbs for most businesses on May 21

A key expert has warned that the coronavirus pandemic is far from over after Spaniards celebrated the end of a six-month lockdown with abandon and paid little heed to precautions like masks and social distancing. 
 
In remarks to the national daily El Pais, the president of Spain's Epidemiological Society, Elena Vanessa Martinez, warned there are still many infected people who could pass the virus on, DPA news agency reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="COVID 19 : Spain ends Covid state of emergency">COVID 19 : Spain ends Covid state of emergency</a> 
 
She noted that people having more contact could lead to more infections. 
 
"In this situation, I am concerned about the false security signal sent with the end of the emergency and the end of the night curfew," Martinez said.

Watch |&nbsp;

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Most of restrictions expired at Sunday midnight, including the nationwide night curfew, which was lifted in most places but remains in force in a several others. 
 
Travel within Spain is also allowed again, as are in-person family visits. 
 
"I can finally visit my son, my daughter-in-law and my grandchildren in Cadiz," said Asuncion, an 82-year-old widow. 
 
Spain's left-wing government has also urged caution. "The pandemic is not over yet," Deputy Prime Minister Carmen Calvo on Saturday. 
 
Officials are concerned that the past year could repeat itself: in June the government declared a 'new normal' with many restrictions easing. 
 
By November, coronavirus numbers spiked again and the government had to pull the emergency brake and declare the state of emergency, which formed the legal basis for nationwide restrictions.

A key expert has warned that the coronavirus pandemic is far from over after Spaniards celebrated the end of a six-month lockdown with abandon and paid little heed to precautions like masks and social distancing.

A key expert has warned that the coronavirus pandemic is far from over after Spaniards celebrated the end of a six-month lockdown with abandon and paid little heed to precautions like masks and social distancing. In remarks to the national daily El Pais, the president of Spain's Epidemiological Society, Elena Vanessa Martinez, warned there are still many infected people who could pass the virus on, DPA news agency reported. Also read | COVID 19 : Spain ends Covid state of emergency She noted that people having more contact could lead to more infections. "In this situation, I am concerned about the false security signal sent with the end of the emergency and the end of the night curfew," Martinez said. Watch | Most of restrictions expired at Sunday midnight, including the nationwide night curfew, which was lifted in most places but remains in force in a several others. Travel within Spain is also allowed again, as are in-person family visits. "I can finally visit my son, my daughter-in-law and my grandchildren in Cadiz," said Asuncion, an 82-year-old widow. Spain's left-wing government has also urged caution. "The pandemic is not over yet," Deputy Prime Minister Carmen Calvo on Saturday. Officials are concerned that the past year could repeat itself: in June the government declared a 'new normal' with many restrictions easing. By November, coronavirus numbers spiked again and the government had to pull the emergency brake and declare the state of emergency, which formed the legal basis for nationwide restrictions.

Spain celebrates end of lockdown, expert warns pandemic isn't over

COVID-19: In hope to attract tourists, Greece reopens its beaches

British Prime Minister&nbsp;Boris&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;will set out on Monday the next phase of lockdown easing in England, giving the green light to "cautious hugging" and allowing pubs to serve customers pints inside after months of strict measures.

Aided by one of the fastest vaccine rollouts in the world, Britain's daily case and death numbers have dropped sharply - reporting just two fatalities on Sunday - enabling it to emerge from a lockdown imposed in January to tackle a second wave.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="UK regulators advise under-40s to get alternative to AstraZeneca vaccine">UK regulators advise under-40s to get alternative to AstraZeneca vaccine</a>

The government set out plans on Friday to slowly reopen international travel and&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;is expected on Monday to confirm that the next set of easing will come into force on May 17, with pubs, restaurants and cinemas opening indoors.

People should also be able to meet in groups of up to 30 outdoors, while six people or two households can meet indoors. The government is also expected to say whether the rules around social distancing with friends and family can ease, prompting headlines about "cautious hugging".

"It does look as if the roadmap is on course," junior minister Nadine Dorries told Sky News. "The prime minister will be making an announcement later this afternoon and he will be detailing how we're going to unlock and when."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="UK returns to normalcy as restrictions ease ">UK returns to normalcy as restrictions ease&nbsp;</a>

Asked by the BBC if people would be told to cautiously cuddle, Dorries replied: "I don't think you can cautiously cuddle but the prime minister is going to make the announcement this afternoon."

That reopening will apply to England only, with the devolved governments of Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales setting out their own rules.

Dorries, the minister for mental health, said the government needed to be careful that society did not reopen too quickly however because variants of the coronavirus have been circulating.

According to Johns Hopkins data, Britain has the fifth highest death toll in the world from COVID-19 with 127,605 fatalities. Two thirds of adults in the United Kingdom have had a first vaccine and one third have had both doses.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will set out on Monday the next phase of lockdown easing in England, giving the green light to "cautious hugging" and allowing pubs to serve customers pints inside after months of strict measures.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will set out on Monday the next phase of lockdown easing in England, giving the green light to "cautious hugging" and allowing pubs to serve customers pints inside after months of strict measures. Aided by one of the fastest vaccine rollouts in the world, Britain's daily case and death numbers have dropped sharply - reporting just two fatalities on Sunday - enabling it to emerge from a lockdown imposed in January to tackle a second wave. Also read | UK regulators advise under-40s to get alternative to AstraZeneca vaccine The government set out plans on Friday to slowly reopen international travel and Johnson is expected on Monday to confirm that the next set of easing will come into force on May 17, with pubs, restaurants and cinemas opening indoors. People should also be able to meet in groups of up to 30 outdoors, while six people or two households can meet indoors. The government is also expected to say whether the rules around social distancing with friends and family can ease, prompting headlines about "cautious hugging". "It does look as if the roadmap is on course," junior minister Nadine Dorries told Sky News. "The prime minister will be making an announcement later this afternoon and he will be detailing how we're going to unlock and when." Also read | UK returns to normalcy as restrictions ease Asked by the BBC if people would be told to cautiously cuddle, Dorries replied: "I don't think you can cautiously cuddle but the prime minister is going to make the announcement this afternoon." That reopening will apply to England only, with the devolved governments of Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales setting out their own rules. Dorries, the minister for mental health, said the government needed to be careful that society did not reopen too quickly however because variants of the coronavirus have been circulating. According to Johns Hopkins data, Britain has the fifth highest death toll in the world from COVID-19 with 127,605 fatalities. Two thirds of adults in the United Kingdom have had a first vaccine and one third have had both doses.

'Cautious hugging' and pints: UK PM Johnson to ease England's lockdown

Delhi Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal, has decided to extend the ongoing lockdown in the national capital, New Delhi, by another week.

The lockdown will now stay in place till May 17. In addition to all existing restrictions, the Delhi government has also decided to suspend metro services during this period.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-403738-covid-19-cases-4092-deaths-in-a-day-383796" hreflang="en">India records 4,03,738 COVID-19 cases, 4,092 deaths in a day&nbsp;</a>

Thanking the locals for their support, he reported that the national capital has seen a decrease in the number of daily infections, and the positivity rate has decreased to 23 per cent from 35 per cent. However, he also urged people to keep following the restrictions and warned that this is not the time to give up one’s guard.

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दिल्ली में कोरोना की स्थिति पर महत्वपूर्ण प्रेस वार्ता | LIVE <a href="https://t.co/wERioNDs0M">https://t.co/wERioNDs0M</a>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1391279392978915330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Delhi has been in a city-wide lockdown since April 20, as the city faced an alarming increase in coronavirus infections and an oxygen crisis. Talking about the same, Kejriwal also added that the oxygen supply has increased and improved significantly in the past few days.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/need-to-step-up-measures-for-well-being-protection-of-children-during-covid-19-second-wave-sc-judge-383754" hreflang="en">Need to step up measures for well-being, protection of children during COVID-19 second wave: SC judge</a>

He also urged locals to get vaccinated as soon as possible, although he also added that there is a lack of adequate vaccine stock.

In addition to Delhi, the state of Uttar Pradesh has also announced an extension of a state-wide lockdown till May 17. The decision comes a day after the state recorded 26,847 new infections and 298 deaths.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;India recorded 4,03,738 fresh COVID-19 cases in a day, which pushed the tally to 2,22,96,414, according to the Union health ministry data updated on Sunday.&nbsp;The death toll climbed to 2,42,362 with 4,092 daily deaths, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Delhi Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal, has decided to extend the ongoing lockdown in the national capital, New Delhi, by another week. The lockdown will now stay in place till May 17.

Delhi Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal, has decided to extend the ongoing lockdown in the national capital, New Delhi, by another week. The lockdown will now stay in place till May 17. In addition to all existing restrictions, the Delhi government has also decided to suspend metro services during this period. Also read | India records 4,03,738 COVID-19 cases, 4,092 deaths in a day Thanking the locals for their support, he reported that the national capital has seen a decrease in the number of daily infections, and the positivity rate has decreased to 23 per cent from 35 per cent. However, he also urged people to keep following the restrictions and warned that this is not the time to give up one’s guard. दिल्ली में कोरोना की स्थिति पर महत्वपूर्ण प्रेस वार्ता | LIVE https://t.co/wERioNDs0M — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) May 9, 2021 × Delhi has been in a city-wide lockdown since April 20, as the city faced an alarming increase in coronavirus infections and an oxygen crisis. Talking about the same, Kejriwal also added that the oxygen supply has increased and improved significantly in the past few days. Also read | Need to step up measures for well-being, protection of children during COVID-19 second wave: SC judge He also urged locals to get vaccinated as soon as possible, although he also added that there is a lack of adequate vaccine stock. In addition to Delhi, the state of Uttar Pradesh has also announced an extension of a state-wide lockdown till May 17. The decision comes a day after the state recorded 26,847 new infections and 298 deaths. Meanwhile, India recorded 4,03,738 fresh COVID-19 cases in a day, which pushed the tally to 2,22,96,414, according to the Union health ministry data updated on Sunday. The death toll climbed to 2,42,362 with 4,092 daily deaths, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Delhi, UP extend lockdown till May 17; Metro to stay suspended in capital

In order to curb the rising number of coronavirus infections, authorities in Pakistan are imposing a complete countrywide lockdown from May 8.

Pakistan: 9-Day long lockdown imposed as cases soar

Spain has lifted a state of emergency in place since October to fight the pandemic, allowing Spaniards to travel between regions for the first time in months.

"It's like New Year's," said 28-year-old Oriol Corbella in Barcelona, where the lifting of the curfew was met with shouts, applause and music.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Spain to open tourism, but only for 'Covid passport' holders">Spain to open tourism, but only for 'Covid passport' holders</a>

"We're getting a bit of normality back, of freedom, but we have to keep in mind that the virus is still around," he added.

"I was fed up with not being able to get out of Madrid," jewellery designer Blaca Valls told AFP on Saturday, echoing the relief of many in the country over the easing of restrictions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Spain to enforce quarantine on travellers from India">Spain to enforce quarantine on travellers from India</a>

"I felt frustrated, locked down, with no freedom," added the 46-year-old who plans to go to Galicia, in northwest Spain, next weekend to celebrate a birthday.

Argentina Enriquez, a 37-year-old Mexican student, said she was impatiently waiting to head to the countryside to enjoy barbecues with friends, play the guitar and go for walks.

"Just being together... a lot of emotions," she said.

Although the emergency measure, which expired at midnight (2200 GMT Saturday) will lead to more freedoms, it is a headache for the country's 17 regional governments responsible for health care.

The state of emergency provided them with a legal framework to impose measures -- such as nighttime curfews or a ban on non-essential travel between regions -- that limited freedoms.

Except for a few days over Christmas when the restrictions were lifted, people have not been able to travel to other regions, go on holiday, or see family.

Discouraged by the surge in infections after Christmas, the authorities did not loosen internal travel restrictions during Easter week, normally a peak travel period in Spain.

But what really angered Spaniards was the fact that foreign tourists were able to pour into the country on holiday while they were banned from travelling to the beach or visiting loved ones.

While intra-regional travel bans have ended and curfews have been lifted, not all of the restrictions are being relaxed in Spain, one of Europe's hardest-hit nations with nearly 79,000 deaths and 3.5 million infections.

Regions can still restrict opening hours and impose capacity limits in bars and restaurants.

They can also seek court approval for stricter measures such as reimposing curfews, capping the number allowed at home gatherings or extending a ban on internal travel.

But the courts have offered different rulings, leading to a patchwork of measures across the country.

A court in the eastern Valencia region approved a midnight-to-6:00 am curfew, while the top court in the northern Basque Country said the area could not keep its nighttime curfew.

To avoid this scenario, several regions have lobbied Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's government to extend the emergency.

But his administration has refused, saying the measures could not remain in place indefinitely, pointing out that the infection rate was stable and that Spain's vaccination programme was progressing rapidly.

Even so, it passed a decree allowing regions the right to appeal to the Supreme Court if a local court strikes down a proposed measure.&nbsp;

At the head of a minority government, Sanchez had faced an uphill struggle to cobble together enough support to approve an extension of the state of emergency.

State-owned rail operator&nbsp;Renfe says ticket sales for next week are up 13 percent over the last seven days.

But after more than a year of restrictions, and with the weather turning hot and sunny, the authorities have warned people against letting down their guard.&nbsp;

Spaniards must be careful "not to get the wrong impression about what ending the state of emergency means... it doesn't mean an end to the restrictions," the health ministry's emergencies coordinator Fernando Simon said on Thursday.

Everyone must continue to behave responsibly, he insisted.

"Nothing can be ruled out in terms of the evolution of the pandemic."

Spain has lifted a state of emergency in place since October to fight the pandemic, allowing Spaniards to travel between regions for the first time in months. "It's like New Year's," said 28-year-old Oriol Corbella in Barcelona, where the lifting of the curfew was met with shouts, applause and music.

Spain has lifted a state of emergency in place since October to fight the pandemic, allowing Spaniards to travel between regions for the first time in months. "It's like New Year's," said 28-year-old Oriol Corbella in Barcelona, where the lifting of the curfew was met with shouts, applause and music. Also read | Spain to open tourism, but only for 'Covid passport' holders "We're getting a bit of normality back, of freedom, but we have to keep in mind that the virus is still around," he added. "I was fed up with not being able to get out of Madrid," jewellery designer Blaca Valls told AFP on Saturday, echoing the relief of many in the country over the easing of restrictions. Also read | Spain to enforce quarantine on travellers from India "I felt frustrated, locked down, with no freedom," added the 46-year-old who plans to go to Galicia, in northwest Spain, next weekend to celebrate a birthday. Argentina Enriquez, a 37-year-old Mexican student, said she was impatiently waiting to head to the countryside to enjoy barbecues with friends, play the guitar and go for walks. "Just being together... a lot of emotions," she said. Although the emergency measure, which expired at midnight (2200 GMT Saturday) will lead to more freedoms, it is a headache for the country's 17 regional governments responsible for health care. The state of emergency provided them with a legal framework to impose measures -- such as nighttime curfews or a ban on non-essential travel between regions -- that limited freedoms. Except for a few days over Christmas when the restrictions were lifted, people have not been able to travel to other regions, go on holiday, or see family. Discouraged by the surge in infections after Christmas, the authorities did not loosen internal travel restrictions during Easter week, normally a peak travel period in Spain. But what really angered Spaniards was the fact that foreign tourists were able to pour into the country on holiday while they were banned from travelling to the beach or visiting loved ones. While intra-regional travel bans have ended and curfews have been lifted, not all of the restrictions are being relaxed in Spain, one of Europe's hardest-hit nations with nearly 79,000 deaths and 3.5 million infections. Regions can still restrict opening hours and impose capacity limits in bars and restaurants. They can also seek court approval for stricter measures such as reimposing curfews, capping the number allowed at home gatherings or extending a ban on internal travel. But the courts have offered different rulings, leading to a patchwork of measures across the country. A court in the eastern Valencia region approved a midnight-to-6:00 am curfew, while the top court in the northern Basque Country said the area could not keep its nighttime curfew. To avoid this scenario, several regions have lobbied Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's government to extend the emergency. But his administration has refused, saying the measures could not remain in place indefinitely, pointing out that the infection rate was stable and that Spain's vaccination programme was progressing rapidly. Even so, it passed a decree allowing regions the right to appeal to the Supreme Court if a local court strikes down a proposed measure. At the head of a minority government, Sanchez had faced an uphill struggle to cobble together enough support to approve an extension of the state of emergency. State-owned rail operator Renfe says ticket sales for next week are up 13 percent over the last seven days. But after more than a year of restrictions, and with the weather turning hot and sunny, the authorities have warned people against letting down their guard. Spaniards must be careful "not to get the wrong impression about what ending the state of emergency means... it doesn't mean an end to the restrictions," the health ministry's emergencies coordinator Fernando Simon said on Thursday. Everyone must continue to behave responsibly, he insisted. "Nothing can be ruled out in terms of the evolution of the pandemic."

COVID 19 : Spain ends Covid state of emergency

On his second day of taking the office, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, MK Stalin, has announced a state-wide lockdown due to "unavoidable circumstances" following a covid surge in India.

The lockdown will begin from 4 am on May 10 (Monday) and continue till 4 am on May 24, if not extended further.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sees-record-4187-covid-19-deaths-401078-new-cases-govt-383617" hreflang="en">India sees record 4,187 COVID-19 deaths, 4,01,078 new cases: Govt&nbsp;</a>

However, to ease the shift from day-to-day functioning to a strict lockdown, Stalin has permitted shops to stay open over the weekend, between 6 am to 9 pm.

The decision has been taken after Tamil Nadu state recorded 197 deaths and 24,465 new cases on Friday, taking the toll to 135,355.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-american-physicians-sending-5000-oxygen-concentrators-to-india-383606" hreflang="en">Indian-American physicians sending 5,000 oxygen concentrators to India</a>

For context, even the entire state of Tamil Nadu had seen only a maximum of 6,900-odd COVID-19 cases in the first wave, but now Chennai itself is nearing that number. Tamil Nadu is almost nearing four-times the highest number of daily cases, as was seen in the first wave.&nbsp;

Under this lockdown, all international flights, except for those allowed by Home Ministry, have been banned, and those wanting to enter the state will have to gain an instant approval E-pass.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/oxygen-availability-in-tamil-nadu-critical-stalin-writes-to-pm-modi-383577" hreflang="en">Oxygen availability in Tamil Nadu critical, Stalin writes to PM Modi&nbsp;</a>

All malls, beauty parlours, salons, spa and TASMAC liquor stores will stay shut till further notice. In addition to this, cinema halls, clubs, bars and other entertainment venues have been ordered to stay shut. Beaches, zoos, museums, monuments and tourist destinations such as Nilgiris, Kodaikanal, Yercaud have been ordered to stay shut.

However, standalone grocery, vegetable shops and supermarkets will be allowed to operate till 12 pm without AC, and services such as Dunzo, Swiggy and more can operate to home deliver essentials. All other restaurants and hotels have been ordered to stay closed for dine-in options. Hotels, that already have guests staying with them, can only offer food through room service.

(With inputs from Sidharth MP)

On his second day of taking the office, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, MK Stalin, has announced a state-wide lockdown due to "unavoidable circumstances" following a covid surge in India.

On his second day of taking the office, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, MK Stalin, has announced a state-wide lockdown due to "unavoidable circumstances" following a covid surge in India. The lockdown will begin from 4 am on May 10 (Monday) and continue till 4 am on May 24, if not extended further. Also read | India sees record 4,187 COVID-19 deaths, 4,01,078 new cases: Govt However, to ease the shift from day-to-day functioning to a strict lockdown, Stalin has permitted shops to stay open over the weekend, between 6 am to 9 pm. The decision has been taken after Tamil Nadu state recorded 197 deaths and 24,465 new cases on Friday, taking the toll to 135,355. Also read | Indian-American physicians sending 5,000 oxygen concentrators to India For context, even the entire state of Tamil Nadu had seen only a maximum of 6,900-odd COVID-19 cases in the first wave, but now Chennai itself is nearing that number. Tamil Nadu is almost nearing four-times the highest number of daily cases, as was seen in the first wave. Under this lockdown, all international flights, except for those allowed by Home Ministry, have been banned, and those wanting to enter the state will have to gain an instant approval E-pass. Also read | Oxygen availability in Tamil Nadu critical, Stalin writes to PM Modi All malls, beauty parlours, salons, spa and TASMAC liquor stores will stay shut till further notice. In addition to this, cinema halls, clubs, bars and other entertainment venues have been ordered to stay shut. Beaches, zoos, museums, monuments and tourist destinations such as Nilgiris, Kodaikanal, Yercaud have been ordered to stay shut. However, standalone grocery, vegetable shops and supermarkets will be allowed to operate till 12 pm without AC, and services such as Dunzo, Swiggy and more can operate to home deliver essentials. All other restaurants and hotels have been ordered to stay closed for dine-in options. Hotels, that already have guests staying with them, can only offer food through room service. (With inputs from Sidharth MP)

MK Stalin imposes state-wide lockdown amid covid surge from Monday

Mexican authorities announced Friday a further easing of pandemic&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;measures in the&nbsp;capital&nbsp;and the resumption of earthquake simulation&nbsp;drills, reflecting a decline in new coronavirus cases and deaths.

Mexico City&nbsp;will move next week to yellow status, the second lowest of four under the country's traffic-light system, Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum announced.

The move will&nbsp;ease&nbsp;restrictions on capacity or opening hours for businesses including shops, cinemas, casinos, amusement parks and banks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Relatives of Mexico metro crash victims demand justice">Relatives of Mexico metro crash victims demand justice</a>

The government also announced nationwide plans to restart earthquake and other disaster&nbsp;drills&nbsp;that were suspended last year because of the pandemic.

The exercises, held regularly before the health crisis, aim to prepare the country for the inevitable next major tremor to strike one of the most seismically active regions on Earth.

In&nbsp;Mexico City&nbsp;and other areas of seismic risk, the May 19&nbsp;drills&nbsp;will simulate an earthquake with a magnitude greater than seven, while elsewhere authorities will pick a different type of disaster.

Alarms will ring out in the&nbsp;capital, whose warning system using seismic monitors aims to give residents up to two minutes' warning of earthquakes with epicenters along the Pacific Coast.

Mexico's official Covid-19 death toll of around 218,000 is one of the highest in the world, and the actual figure is believed to be significantly worse.

But in contrast to many parts of the world, new cases and fatalities have declined since a surge in January that the authorities blamed on social gatherings around the New Year.

Hospitalizations for Covid-19 have declined for 16 consecutive weeks, according to the health ministry.

In&nbsp;Mexico City, hospital occupancy has fallen to 16.5 per cent, from a peak of 90 per cent.

The country of 126 million has administered 20.5 million coronavirus vaccine doses, including more than 600,000 on Wednesday -- the most yet in a single day.

Mexican authorities announced Friday a further easing of pandemic lockdown measures in the capital and the resumption of earthquake simulation drills, reflecting a decline in new coronavirus cases and deaths.

Mexican authorities announced Friday a further easing of pandemic lockdown measures in the capital and the resumption of earthquake simulation drills, reflecting a decline in new coronavirus cases and deaths. Mexico City will move next week to yellow status, the second lowest of four under the country's traffic-light system, Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum announced. The move will ease restrictions on capacity or opening hours for businesses including shops, cinemas, casinos, amusement parks and banks. Also read | Relatives of Mexico metro crash victims demand justice The government also announced nationwide plans to restart earthquake and other disaster drills that were suspended last year because of the pandemic. The exercises, held regularly before the health crisis, aim to prepare the country for the inevitable next major tremor to strike one of the most seismically active regions on Earth. In Mexico City and other areas of seismic risk, the May 19 drills will simulate an earthquake with a magnitude greater than seven, while elsewhere authorities will pick a different type of disaster. Alarms will ring out in the capital, whose warning system using seismic monitors aims to give residents up to two minutes' warning of earthquakes with epicenters along the Pacific Coast. Mexico's official Covid-19 death toll of around 218,000 is one of the highest in the world, and the actual figure is believed to be significantly worse. But in contrast to many parts of the world, new cases and fatalities have declined since a surge in January that the authorities blamed on social gatherings around the New Year. Hospitalizations for Covid-19 have declined for 16 consecutive weeks, according to the health ministry. In Mexico City, hospital occupancy has fallen to 16.5 per cent, from a peak of 90 per cent. The country of 126 million has administered 20.5 million coronavirus vaccine doses, including more than 600,000 on Wednesday -- the most yet in a single day.

Mexico to ease capital lockdown, resume quake drills

Demand for workers from British employers soared this month at the fastest rate since the late 1990s as much of the economy reopened following the latest coronavirus lockdown, a survey of recruitment consultants showed on Friday.

World Business Watch: UK jobs market hits full throttle as lockdown eases

Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa on Friday said a lockdown to curb the rise in COVID-19 cases could be inevitable if people do not cooperate.

"People are not following the Janata Curfew properly. They are not abiding by our warnings. Hence, lockdown could be inevitable," he told reporters near Annamma Devi Temple here ahead of a crucial meeting later Friday in view of the alarming rise in coronavirus cases.

According to him, the government will finalise in a day or two about the stringent measures required to control Covid.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083">India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083</a>

"If people wish that stringent measures should not be taken, then people should cooperate by wearing masks and maintaining social distancing," the Chief Minister said.

Otherwise, strong measures will become necessary, he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="COVID-19: 14 days of lockdown in Karnataka starting April 27 night">COVID-19: 14 days of lockdown in Karnataka starting April 27 night</a>

Regarding the oxygen crisis, Yediyurappa said he has been trying to resolve the issue honestly.

To a question on Covid patients and their relatives coming to the CM's house and Vidhana Soudha seeking a hospital bed, he said this was improper and people should stop it.

"I won't say it is wrong to voice their woes. I understand their sufferings and I am trying to resolve their problems because we are pro-people," the Chief Minister said.

He said people should avoid coming to CM House or Vidhana Soudha as the officials would get in touch with them.

The Chief Minister hailed Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya for exposing the hospital bed scam in which the beds reserved for Covid&nbsp;patients in private hospitals were blocked by a few people and allotted for a bribe.

"Tejasvi Surya had obtained the list (of scamsters) after much effort and brought the irregularities in allotment of bed to the Covid&nbsp;patients to the notice of the government," Yediyurappa said.

He, however, took a dig at Congress MLA and former minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan for speaking ill of Tejasvi Surya.

Yediyurappa was referring to the expose`by the young MP and BJP Yuva Morcha president Tejasvi Surya who claimed that 4,065 hospital beds were blocked and allotted for a bribe in the city.

During the live expose, Surya read out the names of 17 Muslims, who were deployed at the Covid war room, seeking their credentials.

The Basavanagudi BJP MLA Ravi Subramanya, who accompanied Surya, asked the officials whether they have converted the Covid War Room into a Madrassa.

Taking strong exception to framing only Muslims, Khan said in a video message in social media as to why Surya did not see anyone else other than Muslims.

"There were 205 employees of Crystal Company, who were deployed in the Covid&nbsp;War Room on contract basis but you singled out only 16 Muslims. How fair is this It shows how venomous you are, Tejasvi Surya," Khan said.

Khan even claimed that only one person, Mohammed Zaid was assigned with the task of bed allotment while others were given different jobs.

The Covid cases in Karnataka have increased at an alarming proportion.

The state is reporting about 50,000 cases daily and has about 5.5 lakh active cases.

The daily fatalities too were exceeding 300.

Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa on Friday said a lockdown to curb the rise in COVID-19 cases could be inevitable if people do not cooperate. "People are not following the Janata Curfew properly.

Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa on Friday said a lockdown to curb the rise in COVID-19 cases could be inevitable if people do not cooperate. "People are not following the Janata Curfew properly. They are not abiding by our warnings. Hence, lockdown could be inevitable," he told reporters near Annamma Devi Temple here ahead of a crucial meeting later Friday in view of the alarming rise in coronavirus cases. According to him, the government will finalise in a day or two about the stringent measures required to control Covid. Also read: India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083 "If people wish that stringent measures should not be taken, then people should cooperate by wearing masks and maintaining social distancing," the Chief Minister said. Otherwise, strong measures will become necessary, he added. Also read: COVID-19: 14 days of lockdown in Karnataka starting April 27 night Regarding the oxygen crisis, Yediyurappa said he has been trying to resolve the issue honestly. To a question on Covid patients and their relatives coming to the CM's house and Vidhana Soudha seeking a hospital bed, he said this was improper and people should stop it. "I won't say it is wrong to voice their woes. I understand their sufferings and I am trying to resolve their problems because we are pro-people," the Chief Minister said. He said people should avoid coming to CM House or Vidhana Soudha as the officials would get in touch with them. The Chief Minister hailed Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya for exposing the hospital bed scam in which the beds reserved for Covid patients in private hospitals were blocked by a few people and allotted for a bribe. "Tejasvi Surya had obtained the list (of scamsters) after much effort and brought the irregularities in allotment of bed to the Covid patients to the notice of the government," Yediyurappa said. He, however, took a dig at Congress MLA and former minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan for speaking ill of Tejasvi Surya. Yediyurappa was referring to the expose`by the young MP and BJP Yuva Morcha president Tejasvi Surya who claimed that 4,065 hospital beds were blocked and allotted for a bribe in the city. During the live expose, Surya read out the names of 17 Muslims, who were deployed at the Covid war room, seeking their credentials. The Basavanagudi BJP MLA Ravi Subramanya, who accompanied Surya, asked the officials whether they have converted the Covid War Room into a Madrassa. Taking strong exception to framing only Muslims, Khan said in a video message in social media as to why Surya did not see anyone else other than Muslims. "There were 205 employees of Crystal Company, who were deployed in the Covid War Room on contract basis but you singled out only 16 Muslims. How fair is this It shows how venomous you are, Tejasvi Surya," Khan said. Khan even claimed that only one person, Mohammed Zaid was assigned with the task of bed allotment while others were given different jobs. The Covid cases in Karnataka have increased at an alarming proportion. The state is reporting about 50,000 cases daily and has about 5.5 lakh active cases. The daily fatalities too were exceeding 300.

Covid in India: Karnataka chief minister says lockdown inevitable if people do not cooperate with curbs

The administrations of Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have announced to enforce a complete lockdown in their respective regions from May 8 to 15 to contain the spread of coronavirus during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays in Pakistan, a media report said on Thursday.

The announcements come as the country continues to witness a tremendous surge in the number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;cases despite the measures being taken by the government, the Express Tribune reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-tightens-borders-as-covid-19-cases-soar-382597">Pakistan tightens borders as Covid-19 cases soar</a>

"The public transport, tourist destinations, parks, business and shopping malls and markets will remain closed during the eight-day lockdown," Punjab Health Minister Yasmin Rashid said.

She said to ensure complete lockdown police, Rangers, and Army personnel will be deployed in the province in line with the decision of the National Command and Operations Centre (NCOC) to restrict the movement of people during the Eid holidays.

Rashid said that pharmacies, medical stores, coronavirus vaccination centres, petrol pumps, food takeaways, small grocery stores, dairy, vegetable and fruit shops and meat shops will remain open during the lockdown.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hospitals-in-lahore-almost-out-of-oxygen-supply-amid-rising-covid-19-cases-377292">Hospitals in Lahore almost out of oxygen supply amid rising COVID-19 cases</a>

Notices regarding the lockdowns were also issued by the administration of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh and PoK. 
Planning Minister Asad Umar, who heads the NCOC, had said recently that stricter precautionary measures along with an expanded vaccination drive have had a positive impact.

The pandemic first emerged in the country in February last year. It started ebbing in July after seeing its peak in June, the report said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-19-pakistanis-forced-to-opt-for-expensive-jabs-from-private-markets-amid-slow-govt-vaccination-drive-377310">COVID-19: Pakistanis forced to opt for expensive jabs from private markets amid slow govt vaccination drive</a>

However, the cases spiked towards the end of the year, dubbed by the experts as the second wave.

The third wave of the disease started in March, the report added.

So far over 18,537 COVID-19 deaths have been reported in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan">Pakistan</a> since the beginning of the pandemic last year while the number of active Covid-19 cases is 845,833 as of May 5, media reports said.

The administrations of Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have announced to enforce a complete lockdown in their respective regions from May 8 to 15 to contain the spread of coronavirus during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays in Pakistan, a media report said on Thursday.

The administrations of Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have announced to enforce a complete lockdown in their respective regions from May 8 to 15 to contain the spread of coronavirus during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays in Pakistan, a media report said on Thursday. The announcements come as the country continues to witness a tremendous surge in the number of coronavirus cases despite the measures being taken by the government, the Express Tribune reported. Also read | Pakistan tightens borders as Covid-19 cases soar "The public transport, tourist destinations, parks, business and shopping malls and markets will remain closed during the eight-day lockdown," Punjab Health Minister Yasmin Rashid said. She said to ensure complete lockdown police, Rangers, and Army personnel will be deployed in the province in line with the decision of the National Command and Operations Centre (NCOC) to restrict the movement of people during the Eid holidays. Rashid said that pharmacies, medical stores, coronavirus vaccination centres, petrol pumps, food takeaways, small grocery stores, dairy, vegetable and fruit shops and meat shops will remain open during the lockdown. Also read | Hospitals in Lahore almost out of oxygen supply amid rising COVID-19 cases Notices regarding the lockdowns were also issued by the administration of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh and PoK. Planning Minister Asad Umar, who heads the NCOC, had said recently that stricter precautionary measures along with an expanded vaccination drive have had a positive impact. The pandemic first emerged in the country in February last year. It started ebbing in July after seeing its peak in June, the report said. Also read | COVID-19: Pakistanis forced to opt for expensive jabs from private markets amid slow govt vaccination drive However, the cases spiked towards the end of the year, dubbed by the experts as the second wave. The third wave of the disease started in March, the report added. So far over 18,537 COVID-19 deaths have been reported in Pakistan since the beginning of the pandemic last year while the number of active Covid-19 cases is 845,833 as of May 5, media reports said.

COVID-19: Several regions in Pakistan announce complete lockdown during Eid holidays

Vietnam&nbsp;has extended the quarantine period for anyone arriving in the country to three weeks, authorities said Wednesday, following a fresh community outbreak of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>.

The nation has so far kept case numbers low,&nbsp;recording&nbsp;just over 3,000 cases and 35 deaths, thanks to strict quarantine measures and extensive contact tracing.

But&nbsp;Vietnam&nbsp;reported its first community outbreak in weeks last Thursday, and other clusters have since emerged.

Several cases have been linked to people who tested positive after their two-week stay in hotel quarantine had ended.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vietnamese-envoy-gets-first-dose-of-indian-covid-19-vaccine-covaxin-377081">Vietnamese envoy gets first dose of Indian COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin</a>

"The Ministry of Health has decided to extend the period of mandatory quarantine for people who have made close contact with COVID-19 patients and people who have entered&nbsp;Vietnam," said health minister Nguyen Thanh Long.

The new quarantine period will be 21 days.

The announcement came after one of the country's best hospitals,&nbsp;which has treated many COVID-19 patients, went into lockdown Wednesday after a doctor tested positive for the virus.

Fourteen others at the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Hanoi were later found to be infected.

About 800 medical workers, patients as well as any relatives who were visiting at the time the lockdown was announced must remain in the hospital for two weeks, authorities said.

Vietnam&nbsp;has also detected cases in the community of a COVID-19 variant believed to be behind a devastating surge in infections in India.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnams-pandemic-response-leader-sworn-in-as-president-375407">Vietnam's pandemic response leader sworn in as president</a>

The last community outbreak, centred on the northern city of Hai Duong, was successfully contained last month.

But the country has been on high alert amid a spiralling outbreak in other parts of Southeast Asia including Cambodia and Laos, which both share a border with&nbsp;Vietnam.

Vietnam has extended the quarantine period for anyone arriving in the country to three weeks, authorities said Wednesday, following a fresh community outbreak of the coronavirus.

Vietnam has extended the quarantine period for anyone arriving in the country to three weeks, authorities said Wednesday, following a fresh community outbreak of the coronavirus. The nation has so far kept case numbers low, recording just over 3,000 cases and 35 deaths, thanks to strict quarantine measures and extensive contact tracing. But Vietnam reported its first community outbreak in weeks last Thursday, and other clusters have since emerged. Several cases have been linked to people who tested positive after their two-week stay in hotel quarantine had ended. Also read | Vietnamese envoy gets first dose of Indian COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin "The Ministry of Health has decided to extend the period of mandatory quarantine for people who have made close contact with COVID-19 patients and people who have entered Vietnam," said health minister Nguyen Thanh Long. The new quarantine period will be 21 days. The announcement came after one of the country's best hospitals, which has treated many COVID-19 patients, went into lockdown Wednesday after a doctor tested positive for the virus. Fourteen others at the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Hanoi were later found to be infected. About 800 medical workers, patients as well as any relatives who were visiting at the time the lockdown was announced must remain in the hospital for two weeks, authorities said. Vietnam has also detected cases in the community of a COVID-19 variant believed to be behind a devastating surge in infections in India. Also read | Vietnam's pandemic response leader sworn in as president The last community outbreak, centred on the northern city of Hai Duong, was successfully contained last month. But the country has been on high alert amid a spiralling outbreak in other parts of Southeast Asia including Cambodia and Laos, which both share a border with Vietnam.

Vietnam extends quarantine for arrivals after new virus outbreak

Amid a surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> cases, the Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday decided to increase the duration of the weekend lockdown till 7 am on May 10, an official spokesman said here.

"The corona curfew from Friday 8 pm to Tuesday 7 am, which was extended on May 3 for 48 hours and is in force till May 6 till 7 am has been further extended till Monday (May 10) 7 am," an official spokesman said here.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-in-india-bihar-to-go-into-lockdown-night-curfew-to-continue-in-chandigarh-382759">COVID-19 in India: Bihar to go into lockdown; night curfew to continue in Chandigarh</a>

All shops and establishments will now remain closed till Monday 7 am.

The official said that further decision to extend the curfew will be taken on Sunday.

The decision for extension has been taken for breaking the chain of coronavirus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-immediate-concern-is-to-break-the-chain-of-covid-infection-382627">India's immediate concern is to break the chain of Covid infection</a>

During this period, all essential services will be allowed and vaccination drive will continue, a senior official said, but refused to term it as a "lockdown", preferring "closure" instead.

On April 29, the state government had announced that weekend lockdowns will now cover Mondays too and on May 3 it was extended till May 6.

Amid a surge in coronavirus cases, the Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday decided to increase the duration of the weekend lockdown till 7 am on May 10, an official spokesman said here.

Amid a surge in coronavirus cases, the Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday decided to increase the duration of the weekend lockdown till 7 am on May 10, an official spokesman said here. "The corona curfew from Friday 8 pm to Tuesday 7 am, which was extended on May 3 for 48 hours and is in force till May 6 till 7 am has been further extended till Monday (May 10) 7 am," an official spokesman said here. Also read | COVID-19 in India: Bihar to go into lockdown; night curfew to continue in Chandigarh All shops and establishments will now remain closed till Monday 7 am. The official said that further decision to extend the curfew will be taken on Sunday. The decision for extension has been taken for breaking the chain of coronavirus. Also read | India's immediate concern is to break the chain of Covid infection During this period, all essential services will be allowed and vaccination drive will continue, a senior official said, but refused to term it as a "lockdown", preferring "closure" instead. On April 29, the state government had announced that weekend lockdowns will now cover Mondays too and on May 3 it was extended till May 6.

COVID-19: Curfew in Uttar Pradesh extended till May 10

New&nbsp;York&nbsp;Governor Andrew Cuomo announced a major easing of coronavirus restrictions Monday, including the imminent resumption of 24-hour&nbsp;operations&nbsp;on the city&nbsp;subway.

The announcement highlights how far the Big Apple, once the epicentre of the United States's outbreak, has come in getting the virus under control.

From May 19, percentage limits on occupancy will be scrapped for many business and cultural venues in the city,&nbsp;including shops, restaurants, cinemas and museums, Cuomo said.

These limits currently vary between 33 and 75 per cent capacity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="EU set to let vaccinated US tourists visit this summer">EU set to let vaccinated US tourists visit this summer</a>

Businesses will be allowed to welcome as many people as they want provided six feet of social distancing is maintained, as recommended by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"It's fully open, subject to six feet," Cuomo told reporters. The six-feet rule does not apply if all customers provide proof of vaccination or a negative test.

"All the arrows are pointing in the right direction," he added, pointing to declining Covid-19 positivity rates and hospitalizations, which are at their lowest since November, and rising vaccination levels.

Outdoor gathering limits will double from 250 to 500 people, while 250 people will be able to get together indoors, up from 100.

Larger gatherings will be allowed if everyone in attendance is either vaccinated or recently tested negative.&nbsp;

The announcement paves the way for&nbsp;New&nbsp;York's famous theaters to plan their return.

"We look forward to reopening at full capacity and are working to safely welcome audiences and employees back to Broadway theatres this fall," said the Broadway League trade association.

Large-scale indoor event venues will be able to operate at 30 percent capacity, up from 10 percent currently, while outdoor sports stadia will operate at 33 percent.

Cuomo said underground trains services in the Big Apple will resume around the clock on May 17.

In May 2020, when&nbsp;New&nbsp;York&nbsp;was being ravaged by the disease, services were halted overnight to allow for trains to be disinfected. Services currently stop running between 2:00 am and 4:00 am.

Monday's announcement, made in coordination with the neighboring states of&nbsp;New&nbsp;Jersey and Connecticut, came as 80,000 city government workers returned to offices, according to Mayor Bill de Blasio.

De Blasio has said he hopes&nbsp;New&nbsp;York&nbsp;City can "fully reopen" by July 1.

Many private employers have yet to set a return date though, and the business districts in Midtown and Wall Street remain deserted with many staff still working from home.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced a major easing of coronavirus restrictions Monday, including the imminent resumption of 24-hour operations on the city subway.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced a major easing of coronavirus restrictions Monday, including the imminent resumption of 24-hour operations on the city subway. The announcement highlights how far the Big Apple, once the epicentre of the United States's outbreak, has come in getting the virus under control. From May 19, percentage limits on occupancy will be scrapped for many business and cultural venues in the city, including shops, restaurants, cinemas and museums, Cuomo said. These limits currently vary between 33 and 75 per cent capacity. Also read: EU set to let vaccinated US tourists visit this summer Businesses will be allowed to welcome as many people as they want provided six feet of social distancing is maintained, as recommended by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "It's fully open, subject to six feet," Cuomo told reporters. The six-feet rule does not apply if all customers provide proof of vaccination or a negative test. "All the arrows are pointing in the right direction," he added, pointing to declining Covid-19 positivity rates and hospitalizations, which are at their lowest since November, and rising vaccination levels. Outdoor gathering limits will double from 250 to 500 people, while 250 people will be able to get together indoors, up from 100. Larger gatherings will be allowed if everyone in attendance is either vaccinated or recently tested negative. The announcement paves the way for New York's famous theaters to plan their return. "We look forward to reopening at full capacity and are working to safely welcome audiences and employees back to Broadway theatres this fall," said the Broadway League trade association. Large-scale indoor event venues will be able to operate at 30 percent capacity, up from 10 percent currently, while outdoor sports stadia will operate at 33 percent. Cuomo said underground trains services in the Big Apple will resume around the clock on May 17. In May 2020, when New York was being ravaged by the disease, services were halted overnight to allow for trains to be disinfected. Services currently stop running between 2:00 am and 4:00 am. Monday's announcement, made in coordination with the neighboring states of New Jersey and Connecticut, came as 80,000 city government workers returned to offices, according to Mayor Bill de Blasio. De Blasio has said he hopes New York City can "fully reopen" by July 1. Many private employers have yet to set a return date though, and the business districts in Midtown and Wall Street remain deserted with many staff still working from home.

New York to lift many COVID-19 restrictions on transit, eateries, museums, theatres

As the COVID-19 pandemic rages Bangladesh, the country has decided to extend the nationwide lockdown till May 16. This decision has taken place to contain and combat the surge of coronavirus.

Nationwide lockdown in Bangladesh extended till May 16

Nepal has halted all domestic and international flights till May 14. The bus services have also been completely halted in the country since April 29 as people scramble to leave Kathmandu. Nepal is currently under a 15 day lockdown.

Nepal halts domestic & international flights amid COVID-19 surge

Expressing concern over surging coronavirus cases in India, America's top public health expert and White House Chief Medical Adviser Dr Anthony Fauci on Monday recommended a nationwide lockdown, massive vaccination drive and the construction of a large number of makeshift hospitals.&nbsp;

"It is quite obvious to everyone that the situation in India is extremely serious," Dr Fauci, who is considered one of the world's top infectious disease specialists, said in an interview.&nbsp;

"When you have so many people getting infected, the lack of the capability to take adequate care of everyone; when you have shortages of hospital beds and oxygen and shortages of supplies, that really becomes a very desperate situation. Which is the reason why we feel it's important for the rest of the world to help out, to the extent they can," Dr Fauci said.&nbsp;

Keeping a close tab on developments in India, given that US President Joe Biden has geared up the administration to help India, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases said there are certain things that India can do immediately, mid-term and long-term basis.&nbsp;

"First of all right now, they should start getting as many people vaccinated as they possibly can, with both the vaccines that they develop themselves in India as well as supplies of vaccines that they may be able to procure from other suppliers, be that the United States, be that Russia, whatever country is willing whenever companies are willing to supply vaccine," Dr Fauci said.&nbsp;

However, getting someone 'vaccinated now' does not solve today's problem, he noted, adding that it helps prevent a problem several weeks from now. &nbsp;

"But the solution immediately right now is, and I know India is already doing it, so I'm not telling you something that you are not already doing. A few days ago, I recommended and I believe at least parts of India are doing it, that you shut down the country in lockdown," he said. &nbsp;

"Because other countries, including for example what China did last year, what Australia did when they had an outbreak, what New Zealand did, what other countries did is to completely lock down for a relatively limited period of time. You don't have to lock down for six months. You can lock down for a few weeks. Because when you walk down, it is well known, with the experience of other countries that locking down, definitely interferes with the dynamics of the viral outbreak and you could interfere with the continuity and the transmission of infection," Dr Fauci said. &nbsp;

He also recommended taking the help of the armed forces to immediately build makeshift field hospitals.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Expressing concern over surging coronavirus cases in India, America's top public health expert and White House Chief Medical Adviser Dr Anthony Fauci on Monday recommended a nationwide lockdown, massive vaccination drive and the construction of a large number of makeshift hospitals.

Expressing concern over surging coronavirus cases in India, America's top public health expert and White House Chief Medical Adviser Dr Anthony Fauci on Monday recommended a nationwide lockdown, massive vaccination drive and the construction of a large number of makeshift hospitals. "It is quite obvious to everyone that the situation in India is extremely serious," Dr Fauci, who is considered one of the world's top infectious disease specialists, said in an interview. "When you have so many people getting infected, the lack of the capability to take adequate care of everyone; when you have shortages of hospital beds and oxygen and shortages of supplies, that really becomes a very desperate situation. Which is the reason why we feel it's important for the rest of the world to help out, to the extent they can," Dr Fauci said. Keeping a close tab on developments in India, given that US President Joe Biden has geared up the administration to help India, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases said there are certain things that India can do immediately, mid-term and long-term basis. "First of all right now, they should start getting as many people vaccinated as they possibly can, with both the vaccines that they develop themselves in India as well as supplies of vaccines that they may be able to procure from other suppliers, be that the United States, be that Russia, whatever country is willing whenever companies are willing to supply vaccine," Dr Fauci said. However, getting someone 'vaccinated now' does not solve today's problem, he noted, adding that it helps prevent a problem several weeks from now. "But the solution immediately right now is, and I know India is already doing it, so I'm not telling you something that you are not already doing. A few days ago, I recommended and I believe at least parts of India are doing it, that you shut down the country in lockdown," he said. "Because other countries, including for example what China did last year, what Australia did when they had an outbreak, what New Zealand did, what other countries did is to completely lock down for a relatively limited period of time. You don't have to lock down for six months. You can lock down for a few weeks. Because when you walk down, it is well known, with the experience of other countries that locking down, definitely interferes with the dynamics of the viral outbreak and you could interfere with the continuity and the transmission of infection," Dr Fauci said. He also recommended taking the help of the armed forces to immediately build makeshift field hospitals. (With inputs from agencies)

Fauci's advice to India: Clamp nationwide lockdown, start massive vaccination

At a times when India's Coronavirus cases and casualties are rising exponentially, Confederation of Indian Industry has urged the government to take the “strongest national steps” and to curtail economic activity to save lives.

World Business Watch: CII chief calls for strict curbs to battle COVID-19 pandemic

To break the chain of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> transmission in the state, the Haryana government on Sunday announced a weeklong lockdown starting Monday.

State Home and Health Minister Anil Vij announced the decision to impose "complete lockdown" in a tweet.

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Earlier, the government had ordered weekend lockdown in nine districts,&nbsp;Panchkula, Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonepat, Rohtak, Karnal, Hisar, Sirsa and Fatehabad, that would end at 5 am on Monday. 
 
Haryana had reported 13,588 new Covid cases and 125 fatalities on Saturday.

To break the chain of coronavirus transmission in the state, the Haryana government on Sunday announced a weeklong lockdown starting Monday. State Home and Health Minister Anil Vij announced the decision to impose "complete lockdown" in a tweet.

To break the chain of coronavirus transmission in the state, the Haryana government on Sunday announced a weeklong lockdown starting Monday. State Home and Health Minister Anil Vij announced the decision to impose "complete lockdown" in a tweet. 3 मई दिन सोमवार से 7 दिन के लिए सारे हरियाणा में पूर्ण लॉक डाउन घोषित । — ANIL VIJ MINISTER HARYANA (@anilvijminister) May 2, 2021 × Earlier, the government had ordered weekend lockdown in nine districts, Panchkula, Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonepat, Rohtak, Karnal, Hisar, Sirsa and Fatehabad, that would end at 5 am on Monday. Haryana had reported 13,588 new Covid cases and 125 fatalities on Saturday.

Seven-day lockdown in Haryana from Monday

Police broke up an anti-lockdown party in Brussels on Saturday using water canon and tear gas. The assembly took place in Brussels park and was attended by several hundred people.

The crowd of mostly young people responded to a post on Facebook announcing the unauthorised party. It took place a month after police cleared 2,000 people who gathered in the same Bois de la Cambre park for la Boum (the party), an event that had begun as an April Fool's joke.

The follow-up Boum 2 event on May 1, a traditional day for demonstrations, was held a week before the Belgian government allows cafe and bar terraces to open and lets groups of more than four people meet outside in a relaxation of COVID-19 rules.

Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo on Friday urged Belgians to stay united and not "fall into this trap".

Facebook also took down the Boum 2 post on Thursday after a request from Belgian prosecutors, who warned partygoers they risked being detained or fined

Police said several hundred people still attended.

Emile Breuillot, a 23-year-old dental student, said he had come to see people enjoy themselves and to defend their rights to gather.

After a calm start with groups chanting "freedom", the police announced on social media that attendees were not observing public safety measures and that they would intervene. Many people were not wearing masks, a requirement anywhere in public in the Belgian capital.

Hundreds of people also marched in central Brussels and through the eastern city of Liege demanding a relaxation of coronavirus measures.

(With inputs from agencies)

Police broke up an anti-lockdown party in Brussels on Saturday using water canon and tear gas. The assembly took place in Brussels park and was attended by several hundred people.

Police broke up an anti-lockdown party in Brussels on Saturday using water canon and tear gas. The assembly took place in Brussels park and was attended by several hundred people. The crowd of mostly young people responded to a post on Facebook announcing the unauthorised party. It took place a month after police cleared 2,000 people who gathered in the same Bois de la Cambre park for la Boum (the party), an event that had begun as an April Fool's joke. The follow-up Boum 2 event on May 1, a traditional day for demonstrations, was held a week before the Belgian government allows cafe and bar terraces to open and lets groups of more than four people meet outside in a relaxation of COVID-19 rules. Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo on Friday urged Belgians to stay united and not "fall into this trap". Facebook also took down the Boum 2 post on Thursday after a request from Belgian prosecutors, who warned partygoers they risked being detained or fined Police said several hundred people still attended. Emile Breuillot, a 23-year-old dental student, said he had come to see people enjoy themselves and to defend their rights to gather. After a calm start with groups chanting "freedom", the police announced on social media that attendees were not observing public safety measures and that they would intervene. Many people were not wearing masks, a requirement anywhere in public in the Belgian capital. Hundreds of people also marched in central Brussels and through the eastern city of Liege demanding a relaxation of coronavirus measures. (With inputs from agencies)

Police break up anti-lockdown party in Brussels

Ireland will press ahead with plans to reopen all retail stores, personal services and non-residential construction in May with hotels, restaurants and bars to follow sooner than expected in early June, Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said on Thursday.

The government committed a month ago to reopening all shops for the first time this year in May and hotels in June if it could avoid a fourth wave of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> disease and speed up its vaccine programme — criteria that it has met.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/women-lost-nearly-800-billion-in-income-due-to-coronavirus-pandemic-381418" hreflang="en">Women lost nearly $800 billion in income due to coronavirus pandemic</a>

Coveney said the plan to be signed off by ministers later on Thursday would permit hotels to open their doors again on June 2 with restaurants and pubs - not mentioned a month ago - allowed to serve guests outdoors from June 7.

Ireland has one of the lowest COVID-19 infection rates in Europe but is opting for a slower reopening of its economy than most of its European peers after a relaxation of measures in December triggered a huge spike in cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/young-people-who-recovered-from-covid-19-face-risk-of-reinfection-study-381384" hreflang="en">Young people who recovered from COVID-19 face risk of reinfection: Study</a>

Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar told parliament that in May alone, as many as 15,000 business could reopen with up to 200,000 people being offered their jobs back.

The number of people claiming temporary coronavirus-related jobless benefits stood at 403,000 this week. The total fell as low as 206,000 last September before restrictions began to be reimposed.

Including those claiming regular jobless benefits, Ireland's unemployment rate stood at 24.2 per cent at the end of March.

Ireland has also put in place the EU's toughest restrictions on international travel and Varadkar said that a plan for a phased return to international travel this summer should be agreed by the end of May.

Welcoming the reopening plan, the incoming chief executive of Ireland's largest hotel operator told Reuters that the Dalata Hotel Group (DHG.I) expects very strong occupancy levels outside Dublin this summer and a recovery in the capital from September with the hoped-for return of international travel.

Ireland will press ahead with plans to reopen all retail stores, personal services and non-residential construction in May with hotels, restaurants and bars to follow sooner than expected in early June, Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said on Thursday.

Ireland will press ahead with plans to reopen all retail stores, personal services and non-residential construction in May with hotels, restaurants and bars to follow sooner than expected in early June, Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said on Thursday. The government committed a month ago to reopening all shops for the first time this year in May and hotels in June if it could avoid a fourth wave of COVID-19 disease and speed up its vaccine programme — criteria that it has met. Women lost nearly $800 billion in income due to coronavirus pandemic Coveney said the plan to be signed off by ministers later on Thursday would permit hotels to open their doors again on June 2 with restaurants and pubs - not mentioned a month ago - allowed to serve guests outdoors from June 7. Ireland has one of the lowest COVID-19 infection rates in Europe but is opting for a slower reopening of its economy than most of its European peers after a relaxation of measures in December triggered a huge spike in cases. Also read | Young people who recovered from COVID-19 face risk of reinfection: Study Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar told parliament that in May alone, as many as 15,000 business could reopen with up to 200,000 people being offered their jobs back. The number of people claiming temporary coronavirus-related jobless benefits stood at 403,000 this week. The total fell as low as 206,000 last September before restrictions began to be reimposed. Including those claiming regular jobless benefits, Ireland's unemployment rate stood at 24.2 per cent at the end of March. Ireland has also put in place the EU's toughest restrictions on international travel and Varadkar said that a plan for a phased return to international travel this summer should be agreed by the end of May. Welcoming the reopening plan, the incoming chief executive of Ireland's largest hotel operator told Reuters that the Dalata Hotel Group (DHG.I) expects very strong occupancy levels outside Dublin this summer and a recovery in the capital from September with the hoped-for return of international travel.

Ireland to reopen all shops in May, hospitality in early June

With an increasing number of Covid cases in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the government has decided to implement full lockdown in 11 districts, from Thursday&nbsp;7 pm till Monday 7 am.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir has been reporting more than 3,000 cases per day in the last week. The death toll has also gone up to 20 per day, which is the highest this year.&nbsp;

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The total number of covid cases in Jammu and Kashmir is 24,313. Around 14,795 active cases are in Kashmir, while Jammu has 9,518 active cases, at present. The union territory&nbsp;has witnessed 2,227 deaths so far. Kashmir division has had 1,372 deaths while Jammu has had 855 covid-related deaths.&nbsp;

''There will be complete lockdown in the Srinagar district from 7 pm Thursday (29/04/2021) to 7 am Monday (03/05/2021). Exemptions apply to essential services,'' said Ajaz Asad, DC Srinagar. ''In view of massive spurt in positive cases in District Srinagar and after due deliberations, Section 144 CrPc is imposed hereby within the municipal limits of the district to contain further spread of the epidemic. Assembly of five or more persons is banned with immediate effect.&nbsp;

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The districts of the valley going under full lockdown&nbsp;include Srinagar, Anantnag, Baramulla, Budgam, Kulgam, Pulwama, Ganderbal, Jammu, Kathua, Reasi, and Udhampur.

Essential services would be exempted from the lockdown. All employees working for these services will be allowed to go to their&nbsp;respective&nbsp;offices. All schools, colleges, and universities were shut last week after the surge of covid cases in the UT.&nbsp;

With an increasing number of Covid cases in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the government has decided to implement full lockdown in 11 districts, from Thursday 7 pm till Monday 7 am.

With an increasing number of Covid cases in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the government has decided to implement full lockdown in 11 districts, from Thursday 7 pm till Monday 7 am. Jammu and Kashmir has been reporting more than 3,000 cases per day in the last week. The death toll has also gone up to 20 per day, which is the highest this year. Also read | Art for all: Keeping 'paper mache' alive in India through braille The total number of covid cases in Jammu and Kashmir is 24,313. Around 14,795 active cases are in Kashmir, while Jammu has 9,518 active cases, at present. The union territory has witnessed 2,227 deaths so far. Kashmir division has had 1,372 deaths while Jammu has had 855 covid-related deaths. ''There will be complete lockdown in the Srinagar district from 7 pm Thursday (29/04/2021) to 7 am Monday (03/05/2021). Exemptions apply to essential services,'' said Ajaz Asad, DC Srinagar. ''In view of massive spurt in positive cases in District Srinagar and after due deliberations, Section 144 CrPc is imposed hereby within the municipal limits of the district to contain further spread of the epidemic. Assembly of five or more persons is banned with immediate effect. Also read | Specially-abled artisans saving the Pashmina and Sozni craft The districts of the valley going under full lockdown include Srinagar, Anantnag, Baramulla, Budgam, Kulgam, Pulwama, Ganderbal, Jammu, Kathua, Reasi, and Udhampur. Essential services would be exempted from the lockdown. All employees working for these services will be allowed to go to their respective offices. All schools, colleges, and universities were shut last week after the surge of covid cases in the UT.

Jammu and Kashmir to go into complete lockdown from tonight

A 15-day prohibitory border was enforced in the national capital Kathmandu and other districts in Nepal on Thursday, as the country grapples to contain the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Besides Kathmandu, the prohibitory order has been put in place in Bhaktapur and Lalitpur districts from 6 am on Thursday till the midnight of May 12, according to a press release issued here.

The order has been issued by the the three chief district officers following a joint meeting in Kathmandu. 
Only essential services will operate and most of the services will remain closed until the prohibitory order is lifted, it said.

Movement of vehicles is banned in the valley during the prohibitory period. Markets supplying essential products, including food items, are open till 10 am in the morning and from 5 pm to 7 pm in the evening to ensure smooth supply of goods, the release said.

Nepal on Wednesday reported 4,774 new cases of coronavirus, taking the total tally of infections to 312,699. The total number of coronavirus-related deaths in the country stands at 3,211.

A 15-day prohibitory border was enforced in the national capital Kathmandu and other districts in Nepal on Thursday, as the country grapples to contain the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A 15-day prohibitory border was enforced in the national capital Kathmandu and other districts in Nepal on Thursday, as the country grapples to contain the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Besides Kathmandu, the prohibitory order has been put in place in Bhaktapur and Lalitpur districts from 6 am on Thursday till the midnight of May 12, according to a press release issued here. The order has been issued by the the three chief district officers following a joint meeting in Kathmandu. Only essential services will operate and most of the services will remain closed until the prohibitory order is lifted, it said. Movement of vehicles is banned in the valley during the prohibitory period. Markets supplying essential products, including food items, are open till 10 am in the morning and from 5 pm to 7 pm in the evening to ensure smooth supply of goods, the release said. Nepal on Wednesday reported 4,774 new cases of coronavirus, taking the total tally of infections to 312,699. The total number of coronavirus-related deaths in the country stands at 3,211.

Nepal: Kathmandu, other cities under 15-day prohibitory order to contain COVID-19

Turkey has been put under a nationwide full lockdown for three weeks in an attempt to curb a surge in COVID-19 infections and deaths. The lockdown starting Thursday (April 29) will last until the May 17.

Erdogan announces full lockdown from April 29 to curb COVID-19 surge in Turkey

Thailand`s government slapped restrictions on travel from India on Monday over concerns of imported coronavirus cases and closed more venues in Bangkok, even as it came under fire for not doing enough to contain a spike in infections. 
 
The government has ordered parks, gyms, cinemas and day-care centres in its capital, the epicentre of the latest wave of infections, to shut from April 26 until May 9. 
 
It has also introduced a fine of up to 20,000 baht ($635) for not wearing masks in public, with even the prime minister falling foul of mask-wearing rules. 
 
But unlike last year, malls and restaurants have been allowed to operate with earlier closing times, fuelling concerns this could quickly lead to more infection clusters and prompting calls for the resignation of the country`s health minister. 
 
Comparing the government`s COVID-19 response to playing a game of Whac-A-Mole, Thira Woratanarat, a professor at Chulalongkorn University`s Preventive and Social Medicine, warned "shutting places and activities one at a time would not be enough". 
 
People should prepare for more clusters especially in work places, food courts and public transportation, he cautioned in a post on Facebook. 
 
Thailand has managed to keep its caseload lower than many countries, but the latest outbreak has resulted in 57,508 infections and 148 deaths in just under 30 days. It reported 2,048 new cases on Monday, of which 901 were in Bangkok. 
 
"They shouldn`t wait until there is a new outbreak to come up with regulations," said Ungkana Kesornphud, who owns a massage shop in Bangkok. 
 
The president of Thailand`s Thoracic Society, Nithiphat Chiarakun, also urged the government to take "decisive measures to stop the movement of people as quickly as possible". 
 
An online petition on Change.org calling for the resignation of health minister Anutin Charnvirankul had garnered over 160,000 signatures in two days. 
 
Anutin has said he will not resign. 
 
The city of Bangkok fined Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha 6,000 baht ($190) after he posted a photo of him not wearing a mask during a meeting. 
 
The photo was later removed. 
 
Thailand plans to procure more vaccines from several producers with a vaccination goal of 300,000 doses per day to inoculate at least 50 million people by end-2021, the prime minister posted. 
 
Thailand has a population of about 66.1 million. 
 
INDIA TRAVEL CURBS 
 
Thailand will consider additional restrictions later this week, Apisamai Srirangsan, a spokeswoman for its coronavirus taskforce said at a briefing, after the country announced curbs on travel from India where infections have set a global record for a fifth straight day. 
 
The Thai embassy in New Delhi said in a statement that certificates of entry for non-Thai nationals travelling from India will be suspended until further notice. 
 
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) denied reports that private jets carrying wealthy people from India were flying into Thailand. 
 
"We confirm that no chartered flights from Indian millionaires have sought permission from the CAAT to come to Thailand," it said in a statement over the weekend.

Thailand`s government slapped restrictions on travel from India on Monday over concerns of imported coronavirus cases and closed more venues in Bangkok, even as it came under fire for not doing enough to contain a spike in infections.

Thailand`s government slapped restrictions on travel from India on Monday over concerns of imported coronavirus cases and closed more venues in Bangkok, even as it came under fire for not doing enough to contain a spike in infections. The government has ordered parks, gyms, cinemas and day-care centres in its capital, the epicentre of the latest wave of infections, to shut from April 26 until May 9. It has also introduced a fine of up to 20,000 baht ($635) for not wearing masks in public, with even the prime minister falling foul of mask-wearing rules. But unlike last year, malls and restaurants have been allowed to operate with earlier closing times, fuelling concerns this could quickly lead to more infection clusters and prompting calls for the resignation of the country`s health minister. Comparing the government`s COVID-19 response to playing a game of Whac-A-Mole, Thira Woratanarat, a professor at Chulalongkorn University`s Preventive and Social Medicine, warned "shutting places and activities one at a time would not be enough". People should prepare for more clusters especially in work places, food courts and public transportation, he cautioned in a post on Facebook. Thailand has managed to keep its caseload lower than many countries, but the latest outbreak has resulted in 57,508 infections and 148 deaths in just under 30 days. It reported 2,048 new cases on Monday, of which 901 were in Bangkok. "They shouldn`t wait until there is a new outbreak to come up with regulations," said Ungkana Kesornphud, who owns a massage shop in Bangkok. The president of Thailand`s Thoracic Society, Nithiphat Chiarakun, also urged the government to take "decisive measures to stop the movement of people as quickly as possible". An online petition on Change.org calling for the resignation of health minister Anutin Charnvirankul had garnered over 160,000 signatures in two days. Anutin has said he will not resign. The city of Bangkok fined Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha 6,000 baht ($190) after he posted a photo of him not wearing a mask during a meeting. The photo was later removed. Thailand plans to procure more vaccines from several producers with a vaccination goal of 300,000 doses per day to inoculate at least 50 million people by end-2021, the prime minister posted. Thailand has a population of about 66.1 million. INDIA TRAVEL CURBS Thailand will consider additional restrictions later this week, Apisamai Srirangsan, a spokeswoman for its coronavirus taskforce said at a briefing, after the country announced curbs on travel from India where infections have set a global record for a fifth straight day. The Thai embassy in New Delhi said in a statement that certificates of entry for non-Thai nationals travelling from India will be suspended until further notice. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) denied reports that private jets carrying wealthy people from India were flying into Thailand. "We confirm that no chartered flights from Indian millionaires have sought permission from the CAAT to come to Thailand," it said in a statement over the weekend.

Thailand starts stricter COVID-19 shutdown, but experts say not enough

Bars, restaurants, cinemas and concert halls were reopening across Italy on Monday in a boost for coronavirus-hit businesses, while parliament was to debate the government's 220-billion-euro ($266-billion) EU-funded recovery plan.

After months of stop-start restrictions imposed to manage second and third waves of Covid, Italy hopes this latest easing will mark the start of something like a normal summer.

Prime Minister Mario Draghi has admitted to taking a "calculated risk" with the reopenings, as infection rates and intensive care admissions have fallen but Covid deaths still mount by hundreds every day and now total more than 119,000.

Three-quarters of regions dropped on Monday into the lower-risk "yellow" category, with bars and restaurants permitted to restart table service outside -- including, for the first time in six months, in the evening, although a 10 pm curfew remains in place.

"Finally!" said Daniele Vespa, the 26-year-old head waiter at Baccano, a restaurant near Rome's Trevi Fountain, as he made preparations for the return of customers.

"Hopefully... we can soon reopen inside as well," he told AFP, adding: "It's the start of a return to normality."

Cinemas, theatres and concert halls can also open at 50-per cent capacity, followed by the staggered opening of swimming pools, gyms, sporting events and theme parks by July 1.

In Milan, the Beltrade cinema claimed the title of being the first to reopen after six months of inaction with a special 06:00 am screening of "Caro Diario," a classic Italian film from the 1990s.

The show was sold out, despite people having to wake up before dawn to catch it.&nbsp;

"I went with my husband, and it was great to be back together in a cinema and do this crazy thing," Francesca Pierangeli, one of the 82 people who got a seat, told AFP.&nbsp;

Draghi had been under intense pressure to ease restrictions, including from far-right leader Matteo Salvini and increasingly vocal anti-lockdown street protests, as Italy battles its deepest recession since World War II.

The vaccination programme is gaining pace with 17.75 million jabs administered so far and 5.2 million people fully vaccinated in a population of around 60 million, but experts doubt this could be enough to stave off a new health crisis.&nbsp;

"Clearly if the gradual reopening is interpreted as a 'free-for-all', a new surge in infections risks compromising the summer season," warned Nino Cartabellotta, head of the GIMBE Foundation health think tank.

Already at the weekend, throngs of people took advantage of the warm weather and packed the streets of central Rome and other cities, many not wearing masks. In the capital, police closed off a shopping avenue and a few squares that had become too crowded.

Italy was the first European country to be hit by the pandemic in early 2020 and remains one of the worst affected, with the EU's highest reported death toll and one of the deepest recessions.

The economy contracted by a staggering 8.9 percent last year and a million jobs have been lost.

Italy is pinning its hopes on a 222.1-billion-euro investment and reform plan funded largely by the European Union. Rome is the biggest recipient of the bloc's 750-billion-euro post-pandemic recovery fund.

In parliament on Monday, Draghi will formally present the programme he hopes will boost growth by 3.6 percentage points by 2026, ahead of a Friday deadline to submit the package to Brussels.

The government said Sunday the plan was a "historic intervention" that would repair the damage caused by the pandemic and address "the structural weaknesses" of the economy, while putting it on a greener footing.

Priorities include infrastructure, notably high-speed railways; green energy, including hydrogen power projects; investment in internet services and digitalisation of public administration.

There will be money to help women and young people, who have disproportionately lost out during the pandemic, while around 40 percent will be targeted at historically under-performing southern Italy.

Draghi, a former European Central Bank chief, has also highlighted the importance of tax reform and speeding up the snail-paced justice system.

Disputes over the spending plan brought down the previous prime minister and his coalition, after which Draghi was parachuted in to lead a national unity government in February.

His broad support in parliament "gives him significant room for manoeuvre to deliver the necessary reforms", noted Natixis economist Jesus Castillo.

Bars, restaurants, cinemas and concert halls were reopening across Italy on Monday in a boost for coronavirus-hit businesses, while parliament was to debate the government's 220-billion-euro ($266-billion) EU-funded recovery plan.

Bars, restaurants, cinemas and concert halls were reopening across Italy on Monday in a boost for coronavirus-hit businesses, while parliament was to debate the government's 220-billion-euro ($266-billion) EU-funded recovery plan. After months of stop-start restrictions imposed to manage second and third waves of Covid, Italy hopes this latest easing will mark the start of something like a normal summer. Prime Minister Mario Draghi has admitted to taking a "calculated risk" with the reopenings, as infection rates and intensive care admissions have fallen but Covid deaths still mount by hundreds every day and now total more than 119,000. Three-quarters of regions dropped on Monday into the lower-risk "yellow" category, with bars and restaurants permitted to restart table service outside -- including, for the first time in six months, in the evening, although a 10 pm curfew remains in place. "Finally!" said Daniele Vespa, the 26-year-old head waiter at Baccano, a restaurant near Rome's Trevi Fountain, as he made preparations for the return of customers. "Hopefully... we can soon reopen inside as well," he told AFP, adding: "It's the start of a return to normality." Cinemas, theatres and concert halls can also open at 50-per cent capacity, followed by the staggered opening of swimming pools, gyms, sporting events and theme parks by July 1. In Milan, the Beltrade cinema claimed the title of being the first to reopen after six months of inaction with a special 06:00 am screening of "Caro Diario," a classic Italian film from the 1990s. The show was sold out, despite people having to wake up before dawn to catch it. "I went with my husband, and it was great to be back together in a cinema and do this crazy thing," Francesca Pierangeli, one of the 82 people who got a seat, told AFP. Draghi had been under intense pressure to ease restrictions, including from far-right leader Matteo Salvini and increasingly vocal anti-lockdown street protests, as Italy battles its deepest recession since World War II. The vaccination programme is gaining pace with 17.75 million jabs administered so far and 5.2 million people fully vaccinated in a population of around 60 million, but experts doubt this could be enough to stave off a new health crisis. "Clearly if the gradual reopening is interpreted as a 'free-for-all', a new surge in infections risks compromising the summer season," warned Nino Cartabellotta, head of the GIMBE Foundation health think tank. Already at the weekend, throngs of people took advantage of the warm weather and packed the streets of central Rome and other cities, many not wearing masks. In the capital, police closed off a shopping avenue and a few squares that had become too crowded. Italy was the first European country to be hit by the pandemic in early 2020 and remains one of the worst affected, with the EU's highest reported death toll and one of the deepest recessions. The economy contracted by a staggering 8.9 percent last year and a million jobs have been lost. Italy is pinning its hopes on a 222.1-billion-euro investment and reform plan funded largely by the European Union. Rome is the biggest recipient of the bloc's 750-billion-euro post-pandemic recovery fund. In parliament on Monday, Draghi will formally present the programme he hopes will boost growth by 3.6 percentage points by 2026, ahead of a Friday deadline to submit the package to Brussels. The government said Sunday the plan was a "historic intervention" that would repair the damage caused by the pandemic and address "the structural weaknesses" of the economy, while putting it on a greener footing. Priorities include infrastructure, notably high-speed railways; green energy, including hydrogen power projects; investment in internet services and digitalisation of public administration. There will be money to help women and young people, who have disproportionately lost out during the pandemic, while around 40 percent will be targeted at historically under-performing southern Italy. Draghi, a former European Central Bank chief, has also highlighted the importance of tax reform and speeding up the snail-paced justice system. Disputes over the spending plan brought down the previous prime minister and his coalition, after which Draghi was parachuted in to lead a national unity government in February. His broad support in parliament "gives him significant room for manoeuvre to deliver the necessary reforms", noted Natixis economist Jesus Castillo.

'Finally!' Italy reopens as parliament debates recovery plan

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