As coronavirus continues to grapple India, Ministry of Home Affairs on Friday extended the lockdown for another two weeks. It will now last until May 17. Earlier, the last day of lockdown was set till May 3.

"After a comprehensive review and in view of the lockdown measures having led to significant gains in the COVID-19 situation in the country, MHA has issued an order under the Disaster Management &nbsp;Act, 2005 today to further extend the lockdown period of two weeks beyond May 4," the notice said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-indias-home-ministry-extends-lockdown-by-two-weeks-till-may-17-296127">COVID-19: India's home ministry extends lockdown by two weeks till May 17</a>

Meanwhile, the home ministry also issued new guidelines "to regulate different activities in this period based on the risk profiling of the districts of the country into Red (hotspot), Green and Orange Zones," the MHA said in a statement.

As per the statement, the government will identify Red, Green and Orange Zones based on their risk profile.&nbsp;

Districts with zero confirmed cases till date or in the last 21 days would come under Green Zone, while Red Zone would include coronavirus hotspot districts.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-cases-surge-in-chennai-most-asymptomatic-with-only-one-of-tamil-nadus-37-districts-in-green-zone-296120" hreflang="en">COVID-19 cases surge in Chennai, most asymptomatic with only one of Tamil Nadu’s 37 districts in Green Zone</a>

Districts which are neither defined as Red or as Green would come under Orange Zone, the home ministry said in the statement. Meanwhile, containment zone shall be demarcated within the Red and Orange zone by their respective state/ UT administrations.

The list will be updated by the home ministry on a weekly basis. During the period of lockdown all non essentials services will remain shut including, metro services will also remain suspended. All school, colleges, institutions, cinema halls, gymansiums, shopping malls, sports complexes, pools, bars, theatre.

Here are the list of activities permitted or prohibited in the Green, Orange and Red Zones:

Activities&nbsp;in Red Zone:

Cycle rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, buses, barbershops, spas and salons shall remain shut.&nbsp;

Personal four vehicles will be allowed to have two passengers max besides the driver. In the case of two vehicles, the pillion rider is not allowed.

Business activities: In an urban area, only Special Economic Zones, Industrial estates with access control, manufacturing units of essential goods, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing of IT hardware are permitted. In&nbsp;rural area, all industrial activities are permitted.

All malls, market&nbsp;complexes and markets are directed to remain closed. However, shops which sell essential goods&nbsp;are allowed to stay open.

E-commerce activities are permitted only in respect of essential goods.

Private offices can be operated with up to 33% strength. Remaining workers will work from home.

Activities in Orange Zone

Bus services, be it inter-district or intra, would remain suspended.

Taxis and cabs can operate within the district but only two passengers will be allowed beside the driver of the four-wheeler vehicle.&nbsp;

Activities in the Green Zone

All activities are permitted in the Green Zone except the general restrictions.

Buses can operate with up to 50% of seating capacity.

&nbsp;&nbsp;

As coronavirus continues to grapple India, Ministry of Home Affairs on Friday extended the lockdown for another two weeks. It will now last until May 17. Earlier, the last day of lockdown was set till May 3.

As coronavirus continues to grapple India, Ministry of Home Affairs on Friday extended the lockdown for another two weeks. It will now last until May 17. Earlier, the last day of lockdown was set till May 3. "After a comprehensive review and in view of the lockdown measures having led to significant gains in the COVID-19 situation in the country, MHA has issued an order under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 today to further extend the lockdown period of two weeks beyond May 4," the notice said. Also read: COVID-19: India's home ministry extends lockdown by two weeks till May 17 Meanwhile, the home ministry also issued new guidelines "to regulate different activities in this period based on the risk profiling of the districts of the country into Red (hotspot), Green and Orange Zones," the MHA said in a statement. As per the statement, the government will identify Red, Green and Orange Zones based on their risk profile. Districts with zero confirmed cases till date or in the last 21 days would come under Green Zone, while Red Zone would include coronavirus hotspot districts. Also read: COVID-19 cases surge in Chennai, most asymptomatic with only one of Tamil Nadu’s 37 districts in Green Zone Districts which are neither defined as Red or as Green would come under Orange Zone, the home ministry said in the statement. Meanwhile, containment zone shall be demarcated within the Red and Orange zone by their respective state/ UT administrations. The list will be updated by the home ministry on a weekly basis. During the period of lockdown all non essentials services will remain shut including, metro services will also remain suspended. All school, colleges, institutions, cinema halls, gymansiums, shopping malls, sports complexes, pools, bars, theatre. Here are the list of activities permitted or prohibited in the Green, Orange and Red Zones: Activities in Red Zone: Cycle rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, buses, barbershops, spas and salons shall remain shut. Personal four vehicles will be allowed to have two passengers max besides the driver. In the case of two vehicles, the pillion rider is not allowed. Business activities: In an urban area, only Special Economic Zones, Industrial estates with access control, manufacturing units of essential goods, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing of IT hardware are permitted. In rural area, all industrial activities are permitted. All malls, market complexes and markets are directed to remain closed. However, shops which sell essential goods are allowed to stay open. E-commerce activities are permitted only in respect of essential goods. Private offices can be operated with up to 33% strength. Remaining workers will work from home. Activities in Orange Zone Bus services, be it inter-district or intra, would remain suspended. Taxis and cabs can operate within the district but only two passengers will be allowed beside the driver of the four-wheeler vehicle. Activities in the Green Zone All activities are permitted in the Green Zone except the general restrictions. Buses can operate with up to 50% of seating capacity.

Coronavirus lockdown: List of activities permitted/prohibited in Red, Orange and Green Zone

The approval rating of Prime Minister Narendra Modi soared has since coronavirus outbreak, a &nbsp;US-based survey and research firm called Morning Consult reported on Thursday.

On April 21, PM Modi's approval rating was calculated at 83%. On January 7, his rating was at 76%, according to the data.

Another survey was done by IANS-CVoter which showed that trust in PM Modi has increased to 93.5% by April 21. By March 25, &nbsp;the number was at 76.8%.

India's health ministry said today that 1,718 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 33,050 in the country.

"The recovery rate is now 25.19 per cent. A progressive recovery rate has been observed," India's health ministry official &nbsp;Lav Agrawal said.

In recent months, PM Modi's government has been subjected to criticism over the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act which triggered massive protest across the country and economic slowdown.

But since the coronavirus outbreak, PM Modi and his government have received praise over its swift response by imposing lockdown under preventive measures.

India is under lockdown for over a month now. The current extension of lockdown ends on May 3 and the government is holding various rounds of discussions with state government and cabinet minister over whether there is a need to extend it further.

The approval rating of Prime Minister Narendra Modi soared has since coronavirus outbreak, a US-based survey and research firm called Morning Consult reported on Thursday.

The approval rating of Prime Minister Narendra Modi soared has since coronavirus outbreak, a US-based survey and research firm called Morning Consult reported on Thursday. On April 21, PM Modi's approval rating was calculated at 83%. On January 7, his rating was at 76%, according to the data. Another survey was done by IANS-CVoter which showed that trust in PM Modi has increased to 93.5% by April 21. By March 25, the number was at 76.8%. India's health ministry said today that 1,718 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 33,050 in the country. "The recovery rate is now 25.19 per cent. A progressive recovery rate has been observed," India's health ministry official Lav Agrawal said. In recent months, PM Modi's government has been subjected to criticism over the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act which triggered massive protest across the country and economic slowdown. But since the coronavirus outbreak, PM Modi and his government have received praise over its swift response by imposing lockdown under preventive measures. India is under lockdown for over a month now. The current extension of lockdown ends on May 3 and the government is holding various rounds of discussions with state government and cabinet minister over whether there is a need to extend it further.

Approval rating of PM Modi soar amid coronavirus outbreak

After nearly three weeks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind have been unfollowed by the White House on Twitter.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-antibody-tests-may-give-false-positives-says-new-research-295533" hreflang="en">Coronavirus antibody tests may give false positives, says new research</a>

On April 10, the official Twitter handle of the White House had followed the PM Modi and President Kovind making them the only world leaders to be followed by the account. The White House had also followed President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn), PM Modi's personal Twitter handle, the Prime Minister's Office (@PMO) and the Indian embassy in Washington DC (@IndianEmbassyUS) taking the toll of the 'following' to 19.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-registers-its-one-millionth-positive-case-europe-heading-towards-to-normal-295487" hreflang="en">US registers its one-millionth positive case; Europe heading towards to "normal"</a>

The handle decided to unfollow all the non-US accounts and now is following 13 accounts and has more than 22 million followers.&nbsp;

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India-US friendship hit a speedbump when India refused to lift a ban on hydroxychloroquine and Trump threatened India of 'retaliation'. But agreed to lift the ban and export the medicine to the US.

The significance of the move is unknown to all, although Donald Trump shared a warm tweet thanking PM Modi and India for agreeing on exporting the hydroxychloroquine calling him a "close friend".

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Extraordinary times require even closer cooperation between friends. Thank you India and the Indian people for the decision on HCQ. Will not be forgotten! Thank you Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> for your strong leadership in helping not just India, but humanity, in this fight!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1247950299408498693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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But due to Trump's unpredictable nature, it could also signify bitterness.&nbsp;

Both countries are currently fighting against the global pandemic of coronavirus, the United States remains the worst-hit whereas India's COVID response was lauded by WHO.&nbsp;

After nearly three weeks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind have been unfollowed by the White House on Twitter. Also read: Coronavirus antibody tests may give false positives, says new research On April 10, the official Twitter handle of the White House had followed the PM Modi and President Kovind making them the only world leaders to be followed by the account.

After nearly three weeks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind have been unfollowed by the White House on Twitter. Also read: Coronavirus antibody tests may give false positives, says new research On April 10, the official Twitter handle of the White House had followed the PM Modi and President Kovind making them the only world leaders to be followed by the account. The White House had also followed President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn), PM Modi's personal Twitter handle, the Prime Minister's Office (@PMO) and the Indian embassy in Washington DC (@IndianEmbassyUS) taking the toll of the 'following' to 19. Also read: US registers its one-millionth positive case; Europe heading towards to "normal" The handle decided to unfollow all the non-US accounts and now is following 13 accounts and has more than 22 million followers. India-US friendship hit a speedbump when India refused to lift a ban on hydroxychloroquine and Trump threatened India of 'retaliation'. But agreed to lift the ban and export the medicine to the US. The significance of the move is unknown to all, although Donald Trump shared a warm tweet thanking PM Modi and India for agreeing on exporting the hydroxychloroquine calling him a "close friend". Extraordinary times require even closer cooperation between friends. Thank you India and the Indian people for the decision on HCQ. Will not be forgotten! Thank you Prime Minister @NarendraModi for your strong leadership in helping not just India, but humanity, in this fight! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 8, 2020 × But due to Trump's unpredictable nature, it could also signify bitterness. Both countries are currently fighting against the global pandemic of coronavirus, the United States remains the worst-hit whereas India's COVID response was lauded by WHO.

White House's official Twitter handle unfollows Prime Minister Narendra Modi

India will be sending its medical supplies to Palestine and currently, these supplies are under preparation. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Ramallah, India's representative to the State of Palestine Sunil Kumar said, "recent global battle against the COVID-19 pandemic also witnessed India’s pledge to assist Palestine".

India will be sending its medical supplies to Palestine and currently, these supplies are under preparation. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Ramallah, India's representative to the State of Palestine Sunil Kumar said, "recent global battle against the COVID-19 pandemic also witnessed India’s pledge to assist Palestine".The Representative Office of India is in contact with Indian citizens who reside in the East Jerusalem, West Bank and Gaza Strip to ensure their safety. WION: How is India reaching out to Palestine to help at the time of COVID crisis? Indian PM Modi has assured all possible support. How much medicine --HCQ we sending to it? Sunil Kumar: India’s outreach and support to Palestine isn’t new or recent. Over the long decades of friendly and positive relations that our two friendly nations enjoy, India has always supported Palestine in several fields and on various fronts. In addition to the well-known traditional political, capacity building, budgetary, education, United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), and projects support India extends to Palestine, the recent global battle against the COVID-19 pandemic also witnessed India’s pledge to assist Palestine. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi recently conversed with President Mahmoud Abbas over the phone, appreciated the efforts being made by Palestine to protect its population from the virus and also assured all possible support from India for these efforts. During the telephone conversation, President Abbas expressed his confidence in the ability of India and Indian people under the wise leadership of Prime Minister Modi to overcome this global ordeal (corona-virus) as quickly as possible with minimal loses. Last week over the phone, Hon’ble External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar and Palestinian Foreign Minister Dr Riad Malki also discussed mutual efforts to fight the global pandemic. Dr. Jaishankar highlighted the strong historical relations between the two countries, the friendship between the two peoples and assured India’s medical assistance to Palestine at this critical time in which unified efforts of humanity is needed to overcome the pandemic. The medical supplies from India are currently being prepared and will reach Palestine very soon. WION: What has been the situation on the ground in Palestine..this when Ramazan is on? Sunil Kumar: As of now, the virus outbreak in Palestine is under control with around 495 detected cases, out of which 83 have recovered and only 4 deaths have been reported. The situation would have been worse but due to the promptness and early preemptive measures adopted by the Government of Palestine, the situation hasn’t aggravated and the total number of cases haven’t soared like in other countries of the region, in spite of all odds faced and the relatively limited resources that Palestine has. The holy month of Ramadan in Palestine is usually celebrated with lots of enthusiasm, joy and social outreach amongst the citizens. Unfortunately, Ramadan, this year comes at a very critical time in the history of humanity. In line with the measures taken by the Government of Palestine to counter the spread of the virus which include prohibiting public gatherings and closure of places of worship, but nonetheless the people are doing their best to keep the spirit of Ramadan alive since they truly believe that at times of hardship collective efforts towards compassion, patience and harmony must prevail. WION: Any Indian pilgrims in the territory. How has been the 800-year-old Indian hospice Jerusalem, it has been used by Indians. Sunil Kumar: Due to the prevailing political situation in Palestine, the Indian community here is quite limited. The Representative Office of India is in frequent contact with our citizens whom reside in the East Jerusalem, West Bank and Gaza Strip to ensure their safety and any needs in case required. Additionally our Mission has put to service a 24 hours/7 days a week emergency helpline for members of our Indian community in Palestine. The Indian Hospice in the Old City of Jerusalem is a true beacon of friendship and historic bonds that link our two peoples. Initially founded by Indian pilgrims at the dwelling place of Indian Sufi Hazrat Farid ud-Din Ganj Shakar (Baba Farid) around the year 1200, and throughout the following centuries, the Hospice adjacent to Al-Aqsa Masjid has served as a shrine, a pilgrims’ lodge, and a leave camp for the Indian Fourth Infantry division in 1948. During the 1967 Six-Day War, the Hospice was bombarded and sustained severe damages. In the early 1990’s the Hospice witnessed massive renovations and life reflowed back to it. Prominently standing with the Tri-Colour within the historic walls of ancient Jerusalem, the Hospice today houses a library, a prayer chamber and guest rooms where Indian officials, guests, pilgrims and visitors reside during their visits to the City.

COVID-19: Indian medical supplies to reach Palestine soon 

The extension of lockdown in the country was discussed in the video-conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers of nine states on Monday. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-cases-in-india-rise-to-27892-with-872-deaths-click-for-state-wise-status-294960">Coronavirus cases in India rise to 27,892 with 872 deaths | click for state-wise status</a> 
 
PM Modi assured the states that the economy is in good shape and there is no need to worry.

The chief ministers who attended the meeting included Arvind Kejriwal (Delhi), Uddhav Thackeray (Maharashtra), E K Palaniswami (Tamil Nadu), Conrad Sangma (Meghalaya) Trivendra Singh Rawat (Uttarakhand) and Yogi Adityanath (Uttar Pradesh).

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According to the reports more than seven states have asked for lockdown extension. Few CMs wanted lockdown should be eased in non-corona zones and economic activities be allowed.

Odisha has requested for one more month of lockdown and Bihar has asked more PPE kits.

"I have demanded that lockdown should continue otherwise we can't face these things in Odisha. Let it be one month more, then, we will see what is going on," Odisha Health Minister Naba Das, who was present along with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at the video conference, said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
This was the fourth such interaction since March 22 when he first spoke to them on the pandemic, Modi also highlighted the importance for states to enforce prescribed guidelines strictly in the coronavirus hotspots zones, the government said in a statement.

What PM Modi said in the meeting?

<ul>
	<li>Lockdown has yielded positive results, the country has managed to save thousands of lives in the past 1.5 months.</li>
	<li>Our aim must be the rapid response, need to follow the mantra of ‘do gaz doori’.</li>
	<li>PM said that efforts of states should be directed towards converting the red zones into orange and thereafter to green zones.</li>
	<li>We have to be brave and bring in reforms that touch the lives of common citizens.</li>
	<li>We have to give importance to the economy as well as continue the fight against covid-19.</li>
	<li>Impact of coronavirus will remain visible in the coming months, masks and face covers will be part of our life.</li>
	<li>CMs provide feedback, suggest measures to meet economic challenges and boost health infrastructure.</li>
</ul>

 
Today's meeting comes just a week ahead of the scheduled ending of the nationwide lockdown. On March 24, the Prime Minister had announced a 21-day lockdown as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of COVID-19. The lockdown was later extended till May 3.

(With inputs from agencies)

The extension of lockdown in the country was discussed in the video-conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers of nine states on Monday.

The extension of lockdown in the country was discussed in the video-conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers of nine states on Monday. Coronavirus cases in India rise to 27,892 with 872 deaths | click for state-wise status PM Modi assured the states that the economy is in good shape and there is no need to worry. The chief ministers who attended the meeting included Arvind Kejriwal (Delhi), Uddhav Thackeray (Maharashtra), E K Palaniswami (Tamil Nadu), Conrad Sangma (Meghalaya) Trivendra Singh Rawat (Uttarakhand) and Yogi Adityanath (Uttar Pradesh). According to the reports more than seven states have asked for lockdown extension. Few CMs wanted lockdown should be eased in non-corona zones and economic activities be allowed. Odisha has requested for one more month of lockdown and Bihar has asked more PPE kits. "I have demanded that lockdown should continue otherwise we can't face these things in Odisha. Let it be one month more, then, we will see what is going on," Odisha Health Minister Naba Das, who was present along with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at the video conference, said. This was the fourth such interaction since March 22 when he first spoke to them on the pandemic, Modi also highlighted the importance for states to enforce prescribed guidelines strictly in the coronavirus hotspots zones, the government said in a statement. What PM Modi said in the meeting? Lockdown has yielded positive results, the country has managed to save thousands of lives in the past 1.5 months. Our aim must be the rapid response, need to follow the mantra of ‘do gaz doori’. PM said that efforts of states should be directed towards converting the red zones into orange and thereafter to green zones. We have to be brave and bring in reforms that touch the lives of common citizens. We have to give importance to the economy as well as continue the fight against covid-19. Impact of coronavirus will remain visible in the coming months, masks and face covers will be part of our life. CMs provide feedback, suggest measures to meet economic challenges and boost health infrastructure. Today's meeting comes just a week ahead of the scheduled ending of the nationwide lockdown. On March 24, the Prime Minister had announced a 21-day lockdown as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of COVID-19. The lockdown was later extended till May 3. (With inputs from agencies)

Lockdown has yielded positive results, says PM; States want extension with relaxations

Expressing gratitude to the people for India of doing whatever can be done in their capacity, PM Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the coronavirus fight in India is people-driven.&nbsp;

"This fight is being fought by the people and the administration together. Every citizen as a soldier is fighting this war," PM Modi said in his monthly radio address "Mann Ki Baat".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-1990-new-cases-india-witnesses-highest-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hour-period-294814">With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest coronavirus cases in 24-hour period</a>

The prime minister also said that farmers in India are ensuring that no one sleeps hungry in our country. &nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat</a> | 'The last time we celebrated Ramzan, nobody thought the next time would be during such situations... We should work hard so that we can celebrate Eid as always', says Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://t.co/4oU7cX27C2">pic.twitter.com/4oU7cX27C2</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1254288898861043719?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-lauds-india-post-postmen-for-their-stupendous-efforts-during-lockdown-294785">PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown</a>

"Each person is fighting this war as per their capacity. Some are waiving off house rent, some labourers who are in quarantine at a school are whitewashing the school," he said.&nbsp;

PM Modi also spoke about the government's digital platform: http://covidwarriors.gov.in, where volunteers, people from civil society, and local administration would stay connected. He also said that 1.25 crore people including doctors, nurses, NCC cadets have already joined the platform.&nbsp;

He also said that the Centre, state governments and other institutions are working together to provide prompt relief from the crisis.&nbsp;

The prime minister also touched upon how lives would change post-COVID-19 crisis, saying that people are getting aware of the ill effects of spitting in public and the habit must be done away with.&nbsp;

Masks are becoming a part of our lives and of the civil society and one must wear it to protect himself and others&nbsp;from the virus, PM Modi said.&nbsp;

He also praised the state governments for taking a "proactive" approach to deal with the COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;

Expressing gratitude to the people for India of doing whatever can be done in their capacity, PM Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the coronavirus fight in India is people-driven.

Expressing gratitude to the people for India of doing whatever can be done in their capacity, PM Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the coronavirus fight in India is people-driven. "This fight is being fought by the people and the administration together. Every citizen as a soldier is fighting this war," PM Modi said in his monthly radio address "Mann Ki Baat". Also read | With 1,990 new cases, India witnesses highest coronavirus cases in 24-hour period The prime minister also said that farmers in India are ensuring that no one sleeps hungry in our country. #MannKiBaat | 'The last time we celebrated Ramzan, nobody thought the next time would be during such situations... We should work hard so that we can celebrate Eid as always', says Prime Minister @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/4oU7cX27C2 — WION (@WIONews) April 26, 2020 × Also read | PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown "Each person is fighting this war as per their capacity. Some are waiving off house rent, some labourers who are in quarantine at a school are whitewashing the school," he said. PM Modi also spoke about the government's digital platform: http://covidwarriors.gov.in, where volunteers, people from civil society, and local administration would stay connected. He also said that 1.25 crore people including doctors, nurses, NCC cadets have already joined the platform. He also said that the Centre, state governments and other institutions are working together to provide prompt relief from the crisis. The prime minister also touched upon how lives would change post-COVID-19 crisis, saying that people are getting aware of the ill effects of spitting in public and the habit must be done away with. Masks are becoming a part of our lives and of the civil society and one must wear it to protect himself and others from the virus, PM Modi said. He also praised the state governments for taking a "proactive" approach to deal with the COVID-19 outbreak.

India's coronavirus fight is people-driven, says PM Narendra Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat'

India has briefed European Union on the methodology it is following in combating the spread of COVID-19 including "macro-level response of the government since January 2020". Speaking to WION's Principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, India's envoy to EU Gaitri Issar Kumar said mission swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide Indian students on accommodation, services etc and New Delhi has made sure that continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU.

WION: How is the situation in EU now and role played by the Indian mission in Brussels in taking care of Indian citizens?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: The EU has been affected more directly in a way, as the virus seems to have reached directly and spread very rapidly in Europe – first in Italy followed by Spain, Belgium, Germany and the other EU Member States. Today, the situation in the EU, after a worrisome period, seems to be improving as per reports. The lockdown and containment measures – including the closing of borders --&nbsp;though challenging for EU citizens and governments alike, have proven to be successful.

The EU leadership quickly took steps to ensure the uninterrupted flow of essential supplies through the EU’s internal borders by creating “green lanes” and that helped to avoid shortages in supermarkets across the EU. Healthcare systems are being revamped across the European Union, people seem to have settled down into the new normal and social distancing rules are being followed with considerable discipline. &nbsp;Of course, as in the rest of the world, the pandemic has caused a shut down of normal economic activity in the EU.

I am glad to say that by and large, the Indian community in Belgium and Luxembourg has stayed safe and well. As for our Mission, we have been complying with the Belgian Government’s advisories and encouraging Indian nationals and the Indian-origin community in Belgium and Luxembourg to do so as well.

Fortunately, as we are in close touch with the Indian community leaders, we were able to alert and advise them, render consular services and help many to depart from here well before the lockdown in Belgium (March 18, 2020) – which was before the announcement, by Government of India, of restrictions on travel to India.

Since then, Indian nationals who stayed back, professionals employed here and students &nbsp;- those who have contacted us seeking information or help have been attended to individually. They have been briefed about the lockdown in India – the necessary quarantine of incoming travellers and advised that till flights to India and within India are restored, the best thing to do would be to prepare for an extended stay wherever they are. In many cases, our Mission has connected stranded visitors and students with local doctors, grocers or suppliers of ready meals. As required, we have, in consultation with local authorities, assisted Indian nationals in securing an extension of their visas. In order to avoid uncertainty and stress to Indian students, our Mission’s officers swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide our students accurate information about measures being taken by them to facilitate accommodation, services etc in the unforeseen situation.

I am happy to say that our officers have received very positive feedback, and they continue to take care to reassure each caller, note the particular circumstances in each case and prioritise requests received for assisted departures.

WION: How are India and EU collaborating in the fight against COVID pandemic?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: We have been consulting closely. We decided to postpone the India-EU Summit which had been scheduled for March 13, 2020; once the lockdown was announced in India, we coordinated to ensure the continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU and the repatriation of European nationals. About 20,000 EU citizens in the different states of India have been assisted in taking special flights back to the EU Member States. Our Government has evacuated Indian nationals from Italy and Hague (stranded en route from US/Canada to India).

Our leaders have been speaking to each other, sharing experiences and discussing joint efforts for reviving the global economy. On March 24, 2020, Hon'ble Prime Minister received a call from H.E. Ursula Von Der Leyen, President of the European Commission – the two leaders discussed the global situation in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, PM&nbsp;expressed his condolences at the loss of life in the European Union due to COVID-19 and emphasized the need for coordination and cooperation among all nations to fight the pandemic. The PM &nbsp;spoke about the steps taken by India to contain the spread of the Coronavirus. President Von Der Leyen praised PM’s leadership in taking early measures – which, she said, had been key to containing the spread of the virus in India.

She also expressed her appreciation for the assistance rendered to the European citizens stranded in India in this situation. Von Der Leyen emphasized the importance of maintaining a steady supply of essential items - including medicines - and coordinating research as well as vaccine development; and the two leaders discussed possible cooperation, within the G-20 framework, to address the health crisis and revive global economic growth.

The EU’s High Representative in charge of the EU’s Foreign and Security Policy, Mr Josep Borrell and Hble External Affairs Minister of India have, similarly, spoken and exchanged views on the challenges India and the EU are facing respectively; and India’s &nbsp;Foreign Secretary and his EU counterpart, Mme Helga Schmid, Secretary-General of the European External Action Services have also spoken telephonically.

India and the EU, in any case, share a deep commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development, preserving a rules-based international order, rules-based international trade with WTO at its core and we have a convergence on most global issues – whether it is climate change or connectivity, EU is supportive of India’s International Solar Alliance (ISA) initiative and the Climate and Disaster Resilience Initiatives (CDRI). Now, all these are most relevant – perhaps a reprioritization of some elements of our co-operation &nbsp;– such as healthcare and research - would be necessary in response to the emerging world scenario and infusion of a greater sense of urgency in others areas - like climate change, enhancing trade and investment flows in both directions etc.

WION: Have we shared any Indian model?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: As a part of our regular exchanges, our Mission here has been sharing the developments in India, briefing EU partners on the methodology that we have followed in combating SPREAD of COVID 19 in India including the macro-level response of Government since January 2020.

WION: How are Indian diplomats doing, how has diplomacy changed due to COVID?

Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: So far we have been coping fairly well. Of course, we have been working from home. We have faced no difficulty in reaching our Embassy whenever it has been necessary to go into the office - with due precautions. We have meticulously complied with the local Government’s advisories and ensured that the Indian Mission and community co-operate and contribute to making the Belgian Government’s containment strategy work. One of our main priorities, naturally, has been to co-ordinate closely local authorities in assisting the Indian diaspora with their visa issues and resolving any other problems faced by stranded Indians.

We are engaging – almost as smoothly as before - with our counterparts in the Foreign Ministries of Belgium and Luxembourg and the European Commission/European External Action Services in the context of our normal diplomatic work. However, naturally, it is not business as usual; for example, we have certainly lost valuable time in implementing the India-EU Road Map due to the postponement of the 15th India EU Summit. But we remain positive and look forward to a strengthened India-EU partnership. But we all agree that in diplomacy, face to face meetings and negotiations are almost indispensable. So much of communication relies on a personal touch. Presently we are drawing on a bank of goodwill built-in energetic pre-COVID diplomatic efforts.

India has briefed European Union on the methodology it is following in combating the spread of COVID-19 including "macro-level response of the government since January 2020".

India has briefed European Union on the methodology it is following in combating the spread of COVID-19 including "macro-level response of the government since January 2020". Speaking to WION's Principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, India's envoy to EU Gaitri Issar Kumar said mission swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide Indian students on accommodation, services etc and New Delhi has made sure that continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU. WION: How is the situation in EU now and role played by the Indian mission in Brussels in taking care of Indian citizens? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: The EU has been affected more directly in a way, as the virus seems to have reached directly and spread very rapidly in Europe – first in Italy followed by Spain, Belgium, Germany and the other EU Member States. Today, the situation in the EU, after a worrisome period, seems to be improving as per reports. The lockdown and containment measures – including the closing of borders -- though challenging for EU citizens and governments alike, have proven to be successful. The EU leadership quickly took steps to ensure the uninterrupted flow of essential supplies through the EU’s internal borders by creating “green lanes” and that helped to avoid shortages in supermarkets across the EU. Healthcare systems are being revamped across the European Union, people seem to have settled down into the new normal and social distancing rules are being followed with considerable discipline. Of course, as in the rest of the world, the pandemic has caused a shut down of normal economic activity in the EU. I am glad to say that by and large, the Indian community in Belgium and Luxembourg has stayed safe and well. As for our Mission, we have been complying with the Belgian Government’s advisories and encouraging Indian nationals and the Indian-origin community in Belgium and Luxembourg to do so as well. Fortunately, as we are in close touch with the Indian community leaders, we were able to alert and advise them, render consular services and help many to depart from here well before the lockdown in Belgium (March 18, 2020) – which was before the announcement, by Government of India, of restrictions on travel to India. Since then, Indian nationals who stayed back, professionals employed here and students - those who have contacted us seeking information or help have been attended to individually. They have been briefed about the lockdown in India – the necessary quarantine of incoming travellers and advised that till flights to India and within India are restored, the best thing to do would be to prepare for an extended stay wherever they are. In many cases, our Mission has connected stranded visitors and students with local doctors, grocers or suppliers of ready meals. As required, we have, in consultation with local authorities, assisted Indian nationals in securing an extension of their visas. In order to avoid uncertainty and stress to Indian students, our Mission’s officers swiftly liaised with universities in Belgium to provide our students accurate information about measures being taken by them to facilitate accommodation, services etc in the unforeseen situation. I am happy to say that our officers have received very positive feedback, and they continue to take care to reassure each caller, note the particular circumstances in each case and prioritise requests received for assisted departures. WION: How are India and EU collaborating in the fight against COVID pandemic? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: We have been consulting closely. We decided to postpone the India-EU Summit which had been scheduled for March 13, 2020; once the lockdown was announced in India, we coordinated to ensure the continued flow of essential medical supplies from India to the EU and the repatriation of European nationals. About 20,000 EU citizens in the different states of India have been assisted in taking special flights back to the EU Member States. Our Government has evacuated Indian nationals from Italy and Hague (stranded en route from US/Canada to India). Our leaders have been speaking to each other, sharing experiences and discussing joint efforts for reviving the global economy. On March 24, 2020, Hon'ble Prime Minister received a call from H.E. Ursula Von Der Leyen, President of the European Commission – the two leaders discussed the global situation in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, PM expressed his condolences at the loss of life in the European Union due to COVID-19 and emphasized the need for coordination and cooperation among all nations to fight the pandemic. The PM spoke about the steps taken by India to contain the spread of the Coronavirus. President Von Der Leyen praised PM’s leadership in taking early measures – which, she said, had been key to containing the spread of the virus in India. She also expressed her appreciation for the assistance rendered to the European citizens stranded in India in this situation. Von Der Leyen emphasized the importance of maintaining a steady supply of essential items - including medicines - and coordinating research as well as vaccine development; and the two leaders discussed possible cooperation, within the G-20 framework, to address the health crisis and revive global economic growth. The EU’s High Representative in charge of the EU’s Foreign and Security Policy, Mr Josep Borrell and Hble External Affairs Minister of India have, similarly, spoken and exchanged views on the challenges India and the EU are facing respectively; and India’s Foreign Secretary and his EU counterpart, Mme Helga Schmid, Secretary-General of the European External Action Services have also spoken telephonically. India and the EU, in any case, share a deep commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development, preserving a rules-based international order, rules-based international trade with WTO at its core and we have a convergence on most global issues – whether it is climate change or connectivity, EU is supportive of India’s International Solar Alliance (ISA) initiative and the Climate and Disaster Resilience Initiatives (CDRI). Now, all these are most relevant – perhaps a reprioritization of some elements of our co-operation – such as healthcare and research - would be necessary in response to the emerging world scenario and infusion of a greater sense of urgency in others areas - like climate change, enhancing trade and investment flows in both directions etc. WION: Have we shared any Indian model? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: As a part of our regular exchanges, our Mission here has been sharing the developments in India, briefing EU partners on the methodology that we have followed in combating SPREAD of COVID 19 in India including the macro-level response of Government since January 2020. WION: How are Indian diplomats doing, how has diplomacy changed due to COVID? Amb Gaitri Issar Kumar: So far we have been coping fairly well. Of course, we have been working from home. We have faced no difficulty in reaching our Embassy whenever it has been necessary to go into the office - with due precautions. We have meticulously complied with the local Government’s advisories and ensured that the Indian Mission and community co-operate and contribute to making the Belgian Government’s containment strategy work. One of our main priorities, naturally, has been to co-ordinate closely local authorities in assisting the Indian diaspora with their visa issues and resolving any other problems faced by stranded Indians. We are engaging – almost as smoothly as before - with our counterparts in the Foreign Ministries of Belgium and Luxembourg and the European Commission/European External Action Services in the context of our normal diplomatic work. However, naturally, it is not business as usual; for example, we have certainly lost valuable time in implementing the India-EU Road Map due to the postponement of the 15th India EU Summit. But we remain positive and look forward to a strengthened India-EU partnership. But we all agree that in diplomacy, face to face meetings and negotiations are almost indispensable. So much of communication relies on a personal touch. Presently we are drawing on a bank of goodwill built-in energetic pre-COVID diplomatic efforts.

India briefed EU on methodology followed in combating spread of COVID-19: India's envoy to EU Gaitri Issar Kumar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday lauded the India Post and the postmen for their contribution in maintaining the supply of essentials, and medical equipment&nbsp;across the country during lockdown phase.

Re-tweeting a tweet shared by Communications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, PM Modi said, "Kudos to the India Post Office Network, our hardworking postmen for their stupendous efforts in assisting people during this time.

"Earlier, quoting an article from an English daily RS Prasad had highlighted the contributions of the India Post Office Network, which is one of the world`s largest postal networks, during the lockdown phase.

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Kudos to the <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaPostOffice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaPostOffice</a> Network, our hardworking postmen for their stupendous efforts in assisting people during this time. <a href="https://t.co/fN9aMQdEXX">https://t.co/fN9aMQdEXX</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1254053038559342594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"From doorstep delivery of Essentials, Financial transactions, Medical equipment, etc to ensuring food and ration for the needy. During Lockdown India Post Office is delivering Hope, Assurance, and Happiness to citizens through its services," Prasad`s tweet read.

Amid the challenges posed by the Coronavirus, India Post is making efforts to provide relief to people by delivering life-saving drugs to patients living in remote areas and providing pension and social security benefits through Aadhar-enabled payment system.

(With inputs from ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday lauded the India Post and the postmen for their contribution in maintaining the supply of essentials, and medical equipment across the country during lockdown phase.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday lauded the India Post and the postmen for their contribution in maintaining the supply of essentials, and medical equipment across the country during lockdown phase. Re-tweeting a tweet shared by Communications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, PM Modi said, "Kudos to the India Post Office Network, our hardworking postmen for their stupendous efforts in assisting people during this time. "Earlier, quoting an article from an English daily RS Prasad had highlighted the contributions of the India Post Office Network, which is one of the world`s largest postal networks, during the lockdown phase. Kudos to the @IndiaPostOffice Network, our hardworking postmen for their stupendous efforts in assisting people during this time. https://t.co/fN9aMQdEXX — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 25, 2020 × "From doorstep delivery of Essentials, Financial transactions, Medical equipment, etc to ensuring food and ration for the needy. During Lockdown India Post Office is delivering Hope, Assurance, and Happiness to citizens through its services," Prasad`s tweet read. Amid the challenges posed by the Coronavirus, India Post is making efforts to provide relief to people by delivering life-saving drugs to patients living in remote areas and providing pension and social security benefits through Aadhar-enabled payment system. (With inputs from ANI)

PM Modi lauds India Post, postmen for their 'stupendous efforts' during lockdown

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking a financial package for MSME sector.&nbsp;

''If ignored, MSME crisis has the potential of having a devastating and expansive ripple effect on our economy,'' the Congress president said in her letter.&nbsp;

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Congress President Sonia Gandhi writes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the grave economic crisis facing the nation. She reiterated the concerns of MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) &amp; suggested five concrete ideas for redressal: Congress. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://t.co/XPVTHvjDOS">pic.twitter.com/XPVTHvjDOS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1254016024585830401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Congress party has sought Rs 1 lakh crore 'MSME Wage Protection' package, credit guarantee of an equivalent amount, along with 24X7 helpline to guide them, according to the letter.

Every single day of the lockdown comes at a cost of Rs 30,000 crore to the sector, she said and added, all MSMEs have lost sales orders, and seen a complete cessation of their work.&nbsp;

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking a financial package for MSME sector. ''If ignored, MSME crisis has the potential of having a devastating and expansive ripple effect on our economy,'' the Congress president said in her letter.

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking a financial package for MSME sector. ''If ignored, MSME crisis has the potential of having a devastating and expansive ripple effect on our economy,'' the Congress president said in her letter. Congress President Sonia Gandhi writes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the grave economic crisis facing the nation. She reiterated the concerns of MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) & suggested five concrete ideas for redressal: Congress. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/XPVTHvjDOS — ANI (@ANI) April 25, 2020 × Congress party has sought Rs 1 lakh crore 'MSME Wage Protection' package, credit guarantee of an equivalent amount, along with 24X7 helpline to guide them, according to the letter. Every single day of the lockdown comes at a cost of Rs 30,000 crore to the sector, she said and added, all MSMEs have lost sales orders, and seen a complete cessation of their work.

Sonia Gandhi writes to PM Modi, seeks financial package for MSME sector

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the biggest lesson that the coronavirus crisis has taught the country is to become self-reliant.

"The corona crisis has given us its biggest message, that we have to become self-reliant. Villages, districts and states at their levels as well the country should be self-dependent for their needs. This has become very essential," the Prime Minister said while interacting with Sarpanchs from across the nation via video conferencing, on the occasion of Panchayati Raj Diwas.

He also launched a unified e-GramSwaraj Portal and Mobile App and 'Swamitva Scheme'. E-GramSwaraj Portal, which is an initiative of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj that will provide the Gram Panchayats with a single interface to prepare and implement their Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP).

'Swamitva Scheme' will ensure the demarcation of inhabited land in rural areas with the use of the latest surveying methods including the use of drones.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the biggest lesson that the coronavirus crisis has taught the country is to become self-reliant. "The corona crisis has given us its biggest message, that we have to become self-reliant.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the biggest lesson that the coronavirus crisis has taught the country is to become self-reliant. "The corona crisis has given us its biggest message, that we have to become self-reliant. Villages, districts and states at their levels as well the country should be self-dependent for their needs. This has become very essential," the Prime Minister said while interacting with Sarpanchs from across the nation via video conferencing, on the occasion of Panchayati Raj Diwas. He also launched a unified e-GramSwaraj Portal and Mobile App and 'Swamitva Scheme'. E-GramSwaraj Portal, which is an initiative of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj that will provide the Gram Panchayats with a single interface to prepare and implement their Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP). 'Swamitva Scheme' will ensure the demarcation of inhabited land in rural areas with the use of the latest surveying methods including the use of drones.

Biggest lesson taught by coronavirus is to be self-reliant, says PM Modi via video conference

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with Sarpanchs from across the nation on the occasion of Panchayati Raj Day, being observed amid the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown.

"At 11 AM today, PM Narendra Modi would be interacting with Sarpanchs from across the nation via video conferencing. All Sarpanchs will be able to join this interaction through Doordarshan, from their respective homes adhering to social distancing norms," the official twitter handle of PMO said.

"Those Sarpanchs who will be sharing their views with PM Narendra Modi will be doing so by joining the interaction at a Common Service Centre close to them," it added. On the occasion of Panchayati Raj Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had in a letter to Panchayati Raj Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said: "The members of the Panchayati Raj system, who are fighting in a committed manner against this challenge like brave warriors act as a source of inspiration for the rest of us. This combined force is our strength in this fight. We will definitely defeat this pandemic by staying strong through our unity."&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with Sarpanchs from across the nation on the occasion of Panchayati Raj Day, being observed amid the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with Sarpanchs from across the nation on the occasion of Panchayati Raj Day, being observed amid the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown. "At 11 AM today, PM Narendra Modi would be interacting with Sarpanchs from across the nation via video conferencing. All Sarpanchs will be able to join this interaction through Doordarshan, from their respective homes adhering to social distancing norms," the official twitter handle of PMO said. "Those Sarpanchs who will be sharing their views with PM Narendra Modi will be doing so by joining the interaction at a Common Service Centre close to them," it added. On the occasion of Panchayati Raj Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had in a letter to Panchayati Raj Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said: "The members of the Panchayati Raj system, who are fighting in a committed manner against this challenge like brave warriors act as a source of inspiration for the rest of us. This combined force is our strength in this fight. We will definitely defeat this pandemic by staying strong through our unity."

Narendra Modi to interact through video call with Sarpanchs on Panchayti Raj Day

Microsoft co-founder&nbsp;Bill Gates on Wednesday in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended his leadership and proactive measures the government took to flatten the curve.&nbsp;

''We commend your leadership and the proactive measures you and your government have taken to flatten the curve of the COVID-19 infection rate in India, such as adopting a national lockdown expanding focused testing to identify hot spots for isolation, quarantining, and care, and significantly increasing health expenditures to strengthen the health system response and promote R&amp;D and digital innovation,'' Gates wrote in the letter.

''Grateful to see that you’re seeking to balance public health imperatives with the need to ensure adequate social protection for all Indians,'' he added.

Gates also lauded the Modi government for fully utilising&nbsp;its exceptional digital capabilities.

''I’m glad your government is fully utilizing its exceptional digital capabilities in its COVID-19 response and has launched the Aarogya Setu digital app for coronavirus tracking, contact tracing, and to connect people to health services,'' he added.

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates on Wednesday in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended his leadership and proactive measures the government took to flatten the curve.

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates on Wednesday in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended his leadership and proactive measures the government took to flatten the curve. ''We commend your leadership and the proactive measures you and your government have taken to flatten the curve of the COVID-19 infection rate in India, such as adopting a national lockdown expanding focused testing to identify hot spots for isolation, quarantining, and care, and significantly increasing health expenditures to strengthen the health system response and promote R&D and digital innovation,'' Gates wrote in the letter. ''Grateful to see that you’re seeking to balance public health imperatives with the need to ensure adequate social protection for all Indians,'' he added. Gates also lauded the Modi government for fully utilising its exceptional digital capabilities. ''I’m glad your government is fully utilizing its exceptional digital capabilities in its COVID-19 response and has launched the Aarogya Setu digital app for coronavirus tracking, contact tracing, and to connect people to health services,'' he added.

Bill Gates commends PM Modi's leadership, proactive measures amid COVID-19

Ashraf Ghani, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan on Monday thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for medical and food shipments even as the South Asian country is fighting the novel coronavirus.

Ashraf Ghani, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan on Monday thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for medical and food shipments even as the South Asian country is fighting the novel coronavirus. ''Thank you my friend Prime Minister @narendramodi, and thank you India for providing 500K tablets of hydroxychloroquine, 100K tablets of paracetamol, and 75,000 metric tons of wheat that the first consignment of it (5,000) will reach AFG in a day or so, for the Afghan people,'' he tweeted. Thank you my friend Prime Minister @narendramodi , and thank you India for providing 500K tablets of hydroxychloroquine, 100K tablets of paracetamol, and 75,000 metric tons of wheat that the first consignment of it (5,000) will reach AFG in a day or so, for the Afghan people. — Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) April 20, 2020 × In another tweet, he again thanked India for ''further commitments to supply more items including medicines and equipment as availability increases in India''. ''Thank you also for further commitments to supply more items including medicines and equipment as availability increases in India. In the difficult times of #Covid19, closer cooperation between allies and friends will prepare us better to fight this menace and save our people,'' he said in another tweet.

Afghanistan President Ghani thanks PM Modi for medical, food supplies 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tributes to the martyrs of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, saying their valour will inspire Indians for years to come.

"I bow to those martyrs who were killed mercilessly in Jallianwala Bagh on this day. We will never forget their courage and sacrifice," he wrote on Twitter.

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I bow to those martyrs who were killed mercilessly in Jallianwala Bagh on this day. We will never forget their courage and sacrifice. Their valour will inspire Indians for the years to come. <a href="https://t.co/JgDwAoWkAy">pic.twitter.com/JgDwAoWkAy</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1249543753234173952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Their valour will inspire Indians for the years to come, the prime minister said.

British Indian troops on the orders of Brigadier Gen Reginald Dyer had opened fire on a large group of people who had gathered at Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar to celebrate Baisakhi, the harvest festival.

At least 400 people were killed and a thousand were injured.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tributes to the martyrs of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, saying their valour will inspire Indians for years to come.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tributes to the martyrs of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, saying their valour will inspire Indians for years to come. "I bow to those martyrs who were killed mercilessly in Jallianwala Bagh on this day. We will never forget their courage and sacrifice," he wrote on Twitter. I bow to those martyrs who were killed mercilessly in Jallianwala Bagh on this day. We will never forget their courage and sacrifice. Their valour will inspire Indians for the years to come. pic.twitter.com/JgDwAoWkAy — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 13, 2020 × Their valour will inspire Indians for the years to come, the prime minister said. British Indian troops on the orders of Brigadier Gen Reginald Dyer had opened fire on a large group of people who had gathered at Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar to celebrate Baisakhi, the harvest festival. At least 400 people were killed and a thousand were injured.

PM Narendra Modi remembers martyrs of Jallianwala massacre

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation on Tuesday at 10 am, his office said. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 10 AM on 14th April 2020," PMO India tweeted.

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Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> will address the nation at 10 AM on 14th April 2020.
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1249620775679610880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The 21-day nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus ends tomorrow and Modi is likely to talk about its possible extension. 
 
To effectively contain the spread of coronavirus, the Odisha government has already decided to extend the ongoing lockdown in the state till April 30. 
 
States like Maharashtra, Punjab and Telangana have also announced an extension of the lockdown till April 30. 
 
In a meeting with PM through video-conference on Saturday, the chief ministers of most states had asked for an extension of the lockdown period as cases continue to rise.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewsAlert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewsAlert</a> | Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> will address the nation at 10 AM tomorrow! 
 
Keep watching <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WION?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WION</a> for all the updates! <a href="https://t.co/TKEpSFl7xW">pic.twitter.com/TKEpSFl7xW</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1249624461210456064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation on Tuesday at 10 am, his office said. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 10 AM on 14th April 2020," PMO India tweeted.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation on Tuesday at 10 am, his office said. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 10 AM on 14th April 2020," PMO India tweeted. Prime Minister @narendramodi will address the nation at 10 AM on 14th April 2020. — PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 13, 2020 × The 21-day nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus ends tomorrow and Modi is likely to talk about its possible extension. To effectively contain the spread of coronavirus, the Odisha government has already decided to extend the ongoing lockdown in the state till April 30. States like Maharashtra, Punjab and Telangana have also announced an extension of the lockdown till April 30. In a meeting with PM through video-conference on Saturday, the chief ministers of most states had asked for an extension of the lockdown period as cases continue to rise. #NewsAlert | Prime Minister @narendramodi will address the nation at 10 AM tomorrow! Keep watching #WION for all the updates! pic.twitter.com/TKEpSFl7xW — WION (@WIONews) April 13, 2020 ×

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the nation at 10 am on April 14: PMO

On April 6, 2020, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) quietly completed 40 years in Indian politics. Though, as an ideology, it existed from 1951 in the form of Jana Sangh, but it truly tasted electoral and political victory when it was born in the avatar of BJP in 1980. At any other time, BJP’s 40 years would have dominated the news landscape, but now coronavirus pandemic dominates the news priority. &nbsp;

BJP not only truly transformed Indian politics, but also achieved what Jana Sangh could not despite playing an important role in 1967 and 1977. On both occasions, it was with Jana Sangh and RSS’s help that non-Congress parties were able to form governments both at the state level and in Centre.

Unfortunately, Jana Sangh could never become the principal Opposition party in Indian politics. BJP was founded in 1980 and it could achieve this feat in straight just 11 years. In 1991, Atal Bihari Vajpayee became the Leader of Opposition. In 1990, it was because of Left- BJP’s support that VP Singh could become the Prime Minister. BJP got 15 seats in 1980, 2 in 1984 and 89 seats in 1990 Lok Sabha elections. From 1991 till today, BJP has always remained a three-digit party in Lok Sabha and maintained a presence in at least 5 to 6 seats all the time.

The change in fortune was brought about by a change in the strategy. BJP became unapologetic about the Hindu sentiment in Indian politics. It also came up with word pseudo-secularism in 1980s. Many forget that this word was irrelevant till, Indira Gandhi, during emergency, inserted both socialism and secularism in the preamble of the Indian constitution during emergency. Two words on which even the Constituent Assembly could not come to terms with. Nonetheless, Vajpayee took oath as PM in 1996 to resign after 13 days, but by 1998, BJP had emerged&nbsp;on its own and assumed power in the shape of NDA. It subsequently got simple majority on its own in 2014 and 2019.&nbsp;

How does one evaluate BJP’s last 40 years? &nbsp;We can broadly divide it into 7 parts.

Unapologetic Hindutva

After vacating power in 2004, BJP’s relationship with Hindutva became ambivalent. It became more contested because of Gujarat riots and backlash. BJP’s performance deteriorated in 2009. BJP changed the gear and selected Chief Minister Narendra Modi, who was already an undeclared face of strong Hindutva politics. BJP corrected its ambivalent stand on Hindutva and consolidated its core vote around it which broke barriers of dominant caste politics in India. BJP’s Hindutva for the first time subsumed multiple layers of OBCs and Dalits reducing traditional parties to a hump. 2017 elections in UP stands as the best example of this politics where BJP got 300+ seats.&nbsp;

Simple Majority

The second biggest achievement of BJP was to get simple majority in 2014. After Rajiv Gandhi in 1984, BJP became the only party to get simple majority in Lok Sabha. BJP effectively ended bi-polarity in Indian politics which existed from 1996 till 2014. BJP became the new political hegemony in 2014, removing Congress from the scene which ended up with 44 seats. Congress continues to remain in two-digits whereas BJP was able to breach 300-mark in 2019, a feat previously achieved only by the Congress Party.

Renewed Commitment to Core Values

BJP after 2019, renewed its commitment to its core values. Despite being called divisive by many political parties, BJP in its second avatar still did away with Article 370 and brought into force CAA. On both counts, BJP invited resistance from the street. It is a hearty lesson to political parties that despite strong numbers in Lok Sabha, political issues can be contested from streets. The same vigour was also displayed when it came to the issue of triple talaq. The only pending issue with BJP is Uniform Civil Code (UCC).

Non-dynastic Succession

This has been the biggest contribution of BJP in Indian politics. Dynasties in politics cannot be removed, but the inheritance of political party by a family can be challenged. Unfortunately, in India, liberal parties are dynastic in nature. Families control party coffer in India which has become a new form of crony capitalism. BJP too has its share of dynasties, but no single family or individual is in control of BJP. RSS-BJP also showed that no single individual or family gets to dominate the party. Whether it was sidelining of old Jana Sangh leaders or setting aside of Advani for Narendra Modi, RSS-BJP has ensured that a conservative party like BJP remains non-dynastic. It is an irony of sorts. Social and political mobility remains at the heart of liberal politics and by being non-dynastic, BJP implements the central principle of liberalism.

New Territories

Unlike Congress, which in last 50 years, reduced bit by bit and lost presence to regional parties, BJP has been able to make its way to new territories. Whether it is North-East or Jammu and Kashmir, BJP was able to do well in all these areas. Today, Congress does not have a single state in its hand. BJP, on the other hand, has emerged as the principal opposition party in the state of West Bengal by marginalising Left Parties. Territorial expansion of BJP to non-traditional areas of Jana Sangh has been the biggest achievement of the party. This was preceded by BJP gaining a foothold under Advani and Vajpayee in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. Subsequently, in 2005, BJP, in alliance, gained power in Bihar, and in 2008, on its own, in the Southern state of Karnataka.

Paradigm change and New Norms

It was under BJP that second nuclear test was conducted in India. Vajpayee was the PM then. BJP shifted the time of budget presentation in Parliament in the 1990s. BJP also introduced the office of National Security Advisor during Vajpayee’s tenure. It aggressively pursued liberal economic policies kickstarted by Narsimha Rao. It reworked foreign policy by junking SAARC and doing away with Nehruvian consensus in foreign relations. Even in defence, BJP has changed the paradigm by counter strikes and use of Air Force against Pakistan. It also finally created the office of Chief of Defence Staff.

Split Wide Open

Another contribution of BJP in politics has been polarised position which has come to become the hallmark of Indian politics. Every political and economic decision has lost a consensual approach. BJP’s first growth moment came through Ram Temple movement and second has come through a heady mix of nationalism and hard Hindutva.&nbsp;BJP today dominates social media space and remains uncontested at the Centre though it continues to get a challenge from regional parties. It pushed cultural nationalism and reaped the benefits.

Epilogue

BJP today is completely dominated by Narendra Modi, whose influence on India politics surpasses many Prime Ministers. Question is when the time comes for change, how will BJP and RSS family deal with it? My sense is that going by the precedence, change may see hiccups, but RSS will not hesitate to push for it as the true strength of the ‘Parivar’ lies in the primacy of organisation over an individual and that principle will remain uncompromised.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

On April 6, 2020, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) quietly completed 40 years in Indian politics. Though, as an ideology, it existed from 1951 in the form of Jana Sangh, but it truly tasted electoral and political victory when it was born in the avatar of BJP in 1980.

On April 6, 2020, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) quietly completed 40 years in Indian politics. Though, as an ideology, it existed from 1951 in the form of Jana Sangh, but it truly tasted electoral and political victory when it was born in the avatar of BJP in 1980. At any other time, BJP’s 40 years would have dominated the news landscape, but now coronavirus pandemic dominates the news priority. BJP not only truly transformed Indian politics, but also achieved what Jana Sangh could not despite playing an important role in 1967 and 1977. On both occasions, it was with Jana Sangh and RSS’s help that non-Congress parties were able to form governments both at the state level and in Centre. Unfortunately, Jana Sangh could never become the principal Opposition party in Indian politics. BJP was founded in 1980 and it could achieve this feat in straight just 11 years. In 1991, Atal Bihari Vajpayee became the Leader of Opposition. In 1990, it was because of Left- BJP’s support that VP Singh could become the Prime Minister. BJP got 15 seats in 1980, 2 in 1984 and 89 seats in 1990 Lok Sabha elections. From 1991 till today, BJP has always remained a three-digit party in Lok Sabha and maintained a presence in at least 5 to 6 seats all the time. The change in fortune was brought about by a change in the strategy. BJP became unapologetic about the Hindu sentiment in Indian politics. It also came up with word pseudo-secularism in 1980s. Many forget that this word was irrelevant till, Indira Gandhi, during emergency, inserted both socialism and secularism in the preamble of the Indian constitution during emergency. Two words on which even the Constituent Assembly could not come to terms with. Nonetheless, Vajpayee took oath as PM in 1996 to resign after 13 days, but by 1998, BJP had emerged on its own and assumed power in the shape of NDA. It subsequently got simple majority on its own in 2014 and 2019. How does one evaluate BJP’s last 40 years? We can broadly divide it into 7 parts. Unapologetic Hindutva After vacating power in 2004, BJP’s relationship with Hindutva became ambivalent. It became more contested because of Gujarat riots and backlash. BJP’s performance deteriorated in 2009. BJP changed the gear and selected Chief Minister Narendra Modi, who was already an undeclared face of strong Hindutva politics. BJP corrected its ambivalent stand on Hindutva and consolidated its core vote around it which broke barriers of dominant caste politics in India. BJP’s Hindutva for the first time subsumed multiple layers of OBCs and Dalits reducing traditional parties to a hump. 2017 elections in UP stands as the best example of this politics where BJP got 300+ seats. Simple Majority The second biggest achievement of BJP was to get simple majority in 2014. After Rajiv Gandhi in 1984, BJP became the only party to get simple majority in Lok Sabha. BJP effectively ended bi-polarity in Indian politics which existed from 1996 till 2014. BJP became the new political hegemony in 2014, removing Congress from the scene which ended up with 44 seats. Congress continues to remain in two-digits whereas BJP was able to breach 300-mark in 2019, a feat previously achieved only by the Congress Party. Renewed Commitment to Core Values BJP after 2019, renewed its commitment to its core values. Despite being called divisive by many political parties, BJP in its second avatar still did away with Article 370 and brought into force CAA. On both counts, BJP invited resistance from the street. It is a hearty lesson to political parties that despite strong numbers in Lok Sabha, political issues can be contested from streets. The same vigour was also displayed when it came to the issue of triple talaq. The only pending issue with BJP is Uniform Civil Code (UCC). Non-dynastic Succession This has been the biggest contribution of BJP in Indian politics. Dynasties in politics cannot be removed, but the inheritance of political party by a family can be challenged. Unfortunately, in India, liberal parties are dynastic in nature. Families control party coffer in India which has become a new form of crony capitalism. BJP too has its share of dynasties, but no single family or individual is in control of BJP. RSS-BJP also showed that no single individual or family gets to dominate the party. Whether it was sidelining of old Jana Sangh leaders or setting aside of Advani for Narendra Modi, RSS-BJP has ensured that a conservative party like BJP remains non-dynastic. It is an irony of sorts. Social and political mobility remains at the heart of liberal politics and by being non-dynastic, BJP implements the central principle of liberalism. New Territories Unlike Congress, which in last 50 years, reduced bit by bit and lost presence to regional parties, BJP has been able to make its way to new territories. Whether it is North-East or Jammu and Kashmir, BJP was able to do well in all these areas. Today, Congress does not have a single state in its hand. BJP, on the other hand, has emerged as the principal opposition party in the state of West Bengal by marginalising Left Parties. Territorial expansion of BJP to non-traditional areas of Jana Sangh has been the biggest achievement of the party. This was preceded by BJP gaining a foothold under Advani and Vajpayee in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. Subsequently, in 2005, BJP, in alliance, gained power in Bihar, and in 2008, on its own, in the Southern state of Karnataka. Paradigm change and New Norms It was under BJP that second nuclear test was conducted in India. Vajpayee was the PM then. BJP shifted the time of budget presentation in Parliament in the 1990s. BJP also introduced the office of National Security Advisor during Vajpayee’s tenure. It aggressively pursued liberal economic policies kickstarted by Narsimha Rao. It reworked foreign policy by junking SAARC and doing away with Nehruvian consensus in foreign relations. Even in defence, BJP has changed the paradigm by counter strikes and use of Air Force against Pakistan. It also finally created the office of Chief of Defence Staff. Split Wide Open Another contribution of BJP in politics has been polarised position which has come to become the hallmark of Indian politics. Every political and economic decision has lost a consensual approach. BJP’s first growth moment came through Ram Temple movement and second has come through a heady mix of nationalism and hard Hindutva. BJP today dominates social media space and remains uncontested at the Centre though it continues to get a challenge from regional parties. It pushed cultural nationalism and reaped the benefits. Epilogue BJP today is completely dominated by Narendra Modi, whose influence on India politics surpasses many Prime Ministers. Question is when the time comes for change, how will BJP and RSS family deal with it? My sense is that going by the precedence, change may see hiccups, but RSS will not hesitate to push for it as the true strength of the ‘Parivar’ lies in the primacy of organisation over an individual and that principle will remain uncompromised. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

40 years of BJP: A Remarkable Journey

Pakistan on Wednesday said that it did not participate in India-led South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) trade officials discussion as SAARC Secretariat was not part of today's video conference on coronavirus.

Trade officials of the SAARC countries except for Pakistan held a video conference, deliberating on creating a larger framework of trade facilitation to offset the adverse impact of the coronavirus pandemic in the region.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-pakistan-participation-in-saarc-commerce-ministry-meet-291388" hreflang="en">No Pakistan participation in SAARC commerce ministry meet</a>

During the meeting, it was stressed that new ways and means be jointly identified to sustain and expand the intra-regional trade until the normal trade channels are fully restored.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-19-pak-minorities-face-discrimination-at-the-hands-of-authorities-291369" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Pak minorities face discrimination at the hands of authorities</a>

"Activities such as today`s Trade Officials'&nbsp;Video-Conference could only be effective if spearheaded by the SAARC Secretariat. Since the SAARC Secretariat was not part of today's Video-Conference, Pakistan chose not to participate. In order for the SAARC process to move forward, the SAARC Secretariat must be enabled to play its due role in any event or activity being organized under SAARC auspices," said Pakistan Foreign Ministry in a statement.

On March 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the video conference with participants from the SAARC nations.

PM Modi had proposed the creation of an emergency fund for the SAARC nations to combat the coronavirus pandemic and pitched India`s initial offer of USD 10 million for this fund.

Pakistan on Wednesday said that it did not participate in India-led South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) trade officials discussion as SAARC Secretariat was not part of today's video conference on coronavirus.

Pakistan on Wednesday said that it did not participate in India-led South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) trade officials discussion as SAARC Secretariat was not part of today's video conference on coronavirus. Trade officials of the SAARC countries except for Pakistan held a video conference, deliberating on creating a larger framework of trade facilitation to offset the adverse impact of the coronavirus pandemic in the region. Also read: No Pakistan participation in SAARC commerce ministry meet During the meeting, it was stressed that new ways and means be jointly identified to sustain and expand the intra-regional trade until the normal trade channels are fully restored. Also read: COVID-19: Pak minorities face discrimination at the hands of authorities "Activities such as today`s Trade Officials' Video-Conference could only be effective if spearheaded by the SAARC Secretariat. Since the SAARC Secretariat was not part of today's Video-Conference, Pakistan chose not to participate. In order for the SAARC process to move forward, the SAARC Secretariat must be enabled to play its due role in any event or activity being organized under SAARC auspices," said Pakistan Foreign Ministry in a statement. On March 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the video conference with participants from the SAARC nations. PM Modi had proposed the creation of an emergency fund for the SAARC nations to combat the coronavirus pandemic and pitched India`s initial offer of USD 10 million for this fund.

Pakistan says SAARC Secretariat's absence was reason for not attending trade officials discussion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said a poster widely being circulated on WhatsApp and other social media platforms, asking people to honour him by giving him a standing ovation on April 12, "seems like mischief to drag me into controversies".

''It has been brought to my attention that some people are running a campaign that to honour Modi stand for 5 minutes. At first glance, it seems like mischief to drag Modi into controversies,'' Modi wrote in Hindi on his Twitter handle.

If you want to honour the PM, then take the responsibility of a poor family as long as coronavirus crisis exists in the country, he added.&nbsp;<img alt="Modi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6fbf4771-5695-402a-acd0-58f22a49ca7e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Modi_0.jpg" />

''Maybe someone is doing out of goodwill, yet I insist that if you have so much love and want to honour Modi, then take the responsibility of a poor family, at least as long as the coronavirus crisis exists,'' he added.&nbsp;

There can be no greater honour for me than this, he noted.

Modi's tweets were in response to an unsigned message circulating online that asked people to give him a standing ovation for five minutes at 5 pm on Sunday for the work he has been doing for the nation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said a poster widely being circulated on WhatsApp and other social media platforms, asking people to honour him by giving him a standing ovation on April 12, "seems like mischief to drag me into controversies".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said a poster widely being circulated on WhatsApp and other social media platforms, asking people to honour him by giving him a standing ovation on April 12, "seems like mischief to drag me into controversies". ''It has been brought to my attention that some people are running a campaign that to honour Modi stand for 5 minutes. At first glance, it seems like mischief to drag Modi into controversies,'' Modi wrote in Hindi on his Twitter handle. If you want to honour the PM, then take the responsibility of a poor family as long as coronavirus crisis exists in the country, he added. ''Maybe someone is doing out of goodwill, yet I insist that if you have so much love and want to honour Modi, then take the responsibility of a poor family, at least as long as the coronavirus crisis exists,'' he added. There can be no greater honour for me than this, he noted. Modi's tweets were in response to an unsigned message circulating online that asked people to give him a standing ovation for five minutes at 5 pm on Sunday for the work he has been doing for the nation.

Modi calls social media poster to honour him 'mischief to drag me in controversies' 

The United States has donated $2.9 million assistance package for India to help the Narendra Modi government brace itself against the coronavirus as countries across the world are coming together to combat the outbreak.

On March 28, the US government, via US Agency for International Development, announced $2.9 million to support India in its response to COVID-19.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-experienced-strength-of-togetherness-of-130-crore-indians-yesterday-pm-modi-290829" hreflang="en">We experienced strength of togetherness of 130 crore Indians yesterday: PM Modi</a>

"It builds on a foundation of over $1.4 billion in health assistance and nearly $3 billion in total assistance that the US provided to India over the last 20 years," the US Embassy in India said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-death-toll-reaches-109-in-india-infections-top-4000-as-govt-draws-aggressive-containment-plan-290788" hreflang="en">COVID-19 death toll reaches 109 in India, infections top 4000 as Govt draws aggressive containment plan</a>

"These new funds will support two organisations, including $2.4 million for USAID's health strengthening project, implemented by Jhpiego, an international non-profit health organisation affiliated with Johns Hopkins University and $500,000 for the World Health Organization (WHO)," the statement said.

The funds will also help India combat the spread of COVID-19, provide care for the affected and support local communities with the tools needed to contain the disease, it added.

Moreover, being a global leader in health and humanitarian response to COVID-19, the US has provided approximately $18.3 million assistance package to ASEAN member countries to fight the contagion.

The funds will be used to prepare laboratories for large-scale testing for the lethal virus, infection prevention and control, enable risk communication, implement public-health emergency plans for border points of entry, activate case-finding and event-based surveillance for influenza-like illnesses, train and equip rapid-responders in investigation and contact-tracing and update training materials for health workers.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The United States has donated $2.9 million assistance package for India to help the Narendra Modi government brace itself against the coronavirus as countries across the world are coming together to combat the outbreak.

The United States has donated $2.9 million assistance package for India to help the Narendra Modi government brace itself against the coronavirus as countries across the world are coming together to combat the outbreak. On March 28, the US government, via US Agency for International Development, announced $2.9 million to support India in its response to COVID-19. Also read: We experienced strength of togetherness of 130 crore Indians yesterday: PM Modi "It builds on a foundation of over $1.4 billion in health assistance and nearly $3 billion in total assistance that the US provided to India over the last 20 years," the US Embassy in India said in a statement. Also read: COVID-19 death toll reaches 109 in India, infections top 4000 as Govt draws aggressive containment plan "These new funds will support two organisations, including $2.4 million for USAID's health strengthening project, implemented by Jhpiego, an international non-profit health organisation affiliated with Johns Hopkins University and $500,000 for the World Health Organization (WHO)," the statement said. The funds will also help India combat the spread of COVID-19, provide care for the affected and support local communities with the tools needed to contain the disease, it added. Moreover, being a global leader in health and humanitarian response to COVID-19, the US has provided approximately $18.3 million assistance package to ASEAN member countries to fight the contagion. The funds will be used to prepare laboratories for large-scale testing for the lethal virus, infection prevention and control, enable risk communication, implement public-health emergency plans for border points of entry, activate case-finding and event-based surveillance for influenza-like illnesses, train and equip rapid-responders in investigation and contact-tracing and update training materials for health workers.

US donates $2.9 million package to help India combat COVID-19

Healthcare professionals have increased scientific sampling and testing of coronavirus suspects across Kashmir region which has seen a surge in cases of the virus.

A total of 14 new cases of COVID-19 positive were detected in Kashmir on Sunday, raising the total number of positive cases in the union territory to 106.

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While two patients have died, four have recovered while another seven have tested negative after undergoing treatment. These patients will undergo another test before they will be discharged from the hospital.

Health authorities&nbsp;said the Jammu and Kashmir Government has established COVID-19 hospitals which are working round-the-clock and performing sample testing swiftly.

Director, Health Services Kashmir, Dr Samir Mattoo said the Government established eight hospitals in Kashmir and three in Jammu, exclusively for COVID-19 cases.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-death-toll-reaches-109-in-india-infections-top-4000-as-govt-draws-aggressive-containment-plan-290788" hreflang="en">COVID-19 death toll reaches 109 in India, infections top 4000 as Govt draws aggressive containment plan</a>

All our eight COVID-19 hospitals are performing well and we have been able to reach out to the people with some sort of relief amid this healthcare crisis,&nbsp;Dr Mattoo said, adding we have also directed our staff to remain on 24X7 shifts for any exigency.

He said the Government has taken a slew of measures in terms of screening of people particularly inbound travellers, surveillance and quarantine, isolation of suspects and is continuously monitoring the situation on a minute-to-minute basis.

He said the healthcare professionals have been able to increase the scientific sampling and testing of suspects across Kashmir region.

Earlier, we were able to collect 70 samples, now we go for up to 150 a day. We are also waiting for some equipment and important reagents from ICMR. We have so far got seven sophisticated machines for testing and we will be again procuring few more,&nbsp;he said.

Meanwhile, strict restrictions on the movement of people in Kashmir to contain the spread of coronavirus remained in force on Monday.

Security forces sealed off the main roads in the valley and erected barriers at several places to check the unwanted movement of the people and to enforce the lockdown, the officials said.

The markets across the valley were shut and public transport was off the roads with only pharmacies and groceries allowed to open, they added.

Educational institutions across Kashmir have been closed, while all public places including gymnasiums, parks, clubs and restaurants have been shut down more than a week before the nationwide lock down announced by the Prime Minister.

While the Prime Minister announced the country-wide lockdown on the evening of March 24, the union territory administration here had on March 22 announced a lockdown across Jammu and Kashmir till 31 March as part of its efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

The administration said essential services including healthcare personnel have been exempted from the restrictions.

Restrictions were first imposed in many parts of the valley on March 19 to contain the spread of the virus infection.

The measures were taken after a 67-year-old woman from Khanyar area of the city, who had returned on 16 March from Saudi Arabia after performing Umrah, tested positive for COVID-19 infection.

Healthcare professionals have increased scientific sampling and testing of coronavirus suspects across Kashmir region which has seen a surge in cases of the virus.

Healthcare professionals have increased scientific sampling and testing of coronavirus suspects across Kashmir region which has seen a surge in cases of the virus. A total of 14 new cases of COVID-19 positive were detected in Kashmir on Sunday, raising the total number of positive cases in the union territory to 106. Also read: We experienced strength of togetherness of 130 crore Indians yesterday: PM Modi While two patients have died, four have recovered while another seven have tested negative after undergoing treatment. These patients will undergo another test before they will be discharged from the hospital. Health authorities said the Jammu and Kashmir Government has established COVID-19 hospitals which are working round-the-clock and performing sample testing swiftly. Director, Health Services Kashmir, Dr Samir Mattoo said the Government established eight hospitals in Kashmir and three in Jammu, exclusively for COVID-19 cases. Also read: COVID-19 death toll reaches 109 in India, infections top 4000 as Govt draws aggressive containment plan All our eight COVID-19 hospitals are performing well and we have been able to reach out to the people with some sort of relief amid this healthcare crisis, Dr Mattoo said, adding we have also directed our staff to remain on 24X7 shifts for any exigency. He said the Government has taken a slew of measures in terms of screening of people particularly inbound travellers, surveillance and quarantine, isolation of suspects and is continuously monitoring the situation on a minute-to-minute basis. He said the healthcare professionals have been able to increase the scientific sampling and testing of suspects across Kashmir region. Earlier, we were able to collect 70 samples, now we go for up to 150 a day. We are also waiting for some equipment and important reagents from ICMR. We have so far got seven sophisticated machines for testing and we will be again procuring few more, he said. Meanwhile, strict restrictions on the movement of people in Kashmir to contain the spread of coronavirus remained in force on Monday. Security forces sealed off the main roads in the valley and erected barriers at several places to check the unwanted movement of the people and to enforce the lockdown, the officials said. The markets across the valley were shut and public transport was off the roads with only pharmacies and groceries allowed to open, they added. Educational institutions across Kashmir have been closed, while all public places including gymnasiums, parks, clubs and restaurants have been shut down more than a week before the nationwide lock down announced by the Prime Minister. While the Prime Minister announced the country-wide lockdown on the evening of March 24, the union territory administration here had on March 22 announced a lockdown across Jammu and Kashmir till 31 March as part of its efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus. The administration said essential services including healthcare personnel have been exempted from the restrictions. Restrictions were first imposed in many parts of the valley on March 19 to contain the spread of the virus infection. The measures were taken after a 67-year-old woman from Khanyar area of the city, who had returned on 16 March from Saudi Arabia after performing Umrah, tested positive for COVID-19 infection.

Restrictions remain in force in Kashmir, sampling of coronavirus suspects increased

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that people from every section of the society and age group demonstrated unity on Sunday by responding to the Prime Minister '9 pm-9 minute'&nbsp;appeal and strengthened the resolve to the fight against COVID-19.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-fight-against-coronavirus-sets-distinct-example-for-world-pm-modi-290822" hreflang="en">India's fight against coronavirus sets distinct example for world: PM Modi</a>

"We experienced yesterday at 9 pm, the strength of togetherness of 130 crores people of our country," said PM Modi.

He further praised the citizens of the country for their support to the lockdown imposed across India in the wake of coronavirus threat.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-foreign-missions-enthusiastically-take-part-in-pm-modis-solidarity-call-290734" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Foreign missions take part in Modi's solidarity call</a>

"The maturity shown by the people during the lockdown, in a large country like India, is unprecedented. No one could have imagined that the people will abide by this with such obedience and sense of service," said Prime Minister Modi.

"I state it with full responsibility that this is a long war against coronavirus pandemic. But we do not have to get tired or take a rest in this war. We have to emerge victoriously. Today, the country has only one goal and one resolve - to win this war," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-modi-dials-sonia-gandhi-former-presidents-and-pm-amid-covid-19-spread-290681" hreflang="en">PM Modi dials Sonia Gandhi, former presidents amid COVID-19 spread</a>

The Prime Minister continued saying, that the government has developed an Aarogya Setu app through which one can get information regarding the infected cases around them.

"I request all of you to tell people about it, everyone should make sure that at least 40 others install it. They will get info through it about possibly infected cases around them. In these tough times, we have to ensure this," he added.

The Prime Minister also advised everyone to take necessary preventive measures and stay protected by adopting the mantra of social distancing.

"Always remember, whenever you go out your face should be covered, I say you should keep your face covered even at your homes. The mantra today for the whole world is social distancing and discipline," he added.

Prime Minister Modi addressed the BJP workers and the nation on the occasion of the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) 40th Foundation Day.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that people from every section of the society and age group demonstrated unity on Sunday by responding to the Prime Minister '9 pm-9 minute' appeal and strengthened the resolve to the fight against COVID-19.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that people from every section of the society and age group demonstrated unity on Sunday by responding to the Prime Minister '9 pm-9 minute' appeal and strengthened the resolve to the fight against COVID-19. Also read: India's fight against coronavirus sets distinct example for world: PM Modi "We experienced yesterday at 9 pm, the strength of togetherness of 130 crores people of our country," said PM Modi. He further praised the citizens of the country for their support to the lockdown imposed across India in the wake of coronavirus threat. Also read: COVID-19: Foreign missions take part in Modi's solidarity call "The maturity shown by the people during the lockdown, in a large country like India, is unprecedented. No one could have imagined that the people will abide by this with such obedience and sense of service," said Prime Minister Modi. "I state it with full responsibility that this is a long war against coronavirus pandemic. But we do not have to get tired or take a rest in this war. We have to emerge victoriously. Today, the country has only one goal and one resolve - to win this war," he added. Also read: PM Modi dials Sonia Gandhi, former presidents amid COVID-19 spread The Prime Minister continued saying, that the government has developed an Aarogya Setu app through which one can get information regarding the infected cases around them. "I request all of you to tell people about it, everyone should make sure that at least 40 others install it. They will get info through it about possibly infected cases around them. In these tough times, we have to ensure this," he added. The Prime Minister also advised everyone to take necessary preventive measures and stay protected by adopting the mantra of social distancing. "Always remember, whenever you go out your face should be covered, I say you should keep your face covered even at your homes. The mantra today for the whole world is social distancing and discipline," he added. Prime Minister Modi addressed the BJP workers and the nation on the occasion of the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) 40th Foundation Day.

We experienced strength of togetherness of 130 crore Indians yesterday: PM Modi

US President Donald Trump has requested Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to supply hydroxychloroquine tablets to the US so that the drug can be used to treat COVID-19 patients. &nbsp;The two leaders spoke on the telephone to assess the situation with respect to the coronavirus pandemic. 
&nbsp; 
The US President Donald Trump said that the Indian administration led by Prime Minister Modi was giving serious consideration to export hydroxy-chloroquine to the US.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-trump-agree-to-deploy-full-strength-of-india-us-partnership-to-fight-covid-19-290605">Modi, Trump agree to deploy full strength of India-US partnership to fight COVID-19</a>

Until now, India which manufactures a massive amount of hydroxychloroquine, has put a hold on the export of this drug and its formulations. 
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Hydroxychloroquine is an anti-malarial drug which is being used to treat patients suffering from COVID-19.

Also read: PM Modi's call to switch off lights on Sunday creates panic

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The Trump administration has asked for large quantities of this drug, as the combination of it with some anti-viral drugs helped treat close to 1,500 COVID-19 patients in New York.

Trump also went on to say that he would not shy away from taking the tablet himself.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed deep condolences to people who had lost members of their family to the deadly coronavirus and wished early recovery for those who were still suffering from the disease. 
&nbsp; 
PM Modi also stressed the special relationship between the US and India and reiterated the country's solidarity with the US in fighting this pandemic. 
&nbsp; 
The two leaders exchanged ideas on how to combat the global health crisis and examined methods adopted in each of their countries to effectively reduce the economic and financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic. 
&nbsp; 
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also had a separate telephonic conversation with Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez to deliberate upon the impact of the novel coronavirus on our lives. 
&nbsp; 
As of now, the lethal coronavirus which reached almost all countries has infected more than one million has killed over 64,000 people worldwide.

US President Donald Trump has requested Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to supply hydroxychloroquine tablets to the US so that the drug can be used to treat COVID-19 patients.

US President Donald Trump has requested Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to supply hydroxychloroquine tablets to the US so that the drug can be used to treat COVID-19 patients. The two leaders spoke on the telephone to assess the situation with respect to the coronavirus pandemic. The US President Donald Trump said that the Indian administration led by Prime Minister Modi was giving serious consideration to export hydroxy-chloroquine to the US. Also read: Modi, Trump agree to deploy full strength of India-US partnership to fight COVID-19 Until now, India which manufactures a massive amount of hydroxychloroquine, has put a hold on the export of this drug and its formulations. Hydroxychloroquine is an anti-malarial drug which is being used to treat patients suffering from COVID-19. Also read: PM Modi's call to switch off lights on Sunday creates panic × The Trump administration has asked for large quantities of this drug, as the combination of it with some anti-viral drugs helped treat close to 1,500 COVID-19 patients in New York. Trump also went on to say that he would not shy away from taking the tablet himself. Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed deep condolences to people who had lost members of their family to the deadly coronavirus and wished early recovery for those who were still suffering from the disease. PM Modi also stressed the special relationship between the US and India and reiterated the country's solidarity with the US in fighting this pandemic. The two leaders exchanged ideas on how to combat the global health crisis and examined methods adopted in each of their countries to effectively reduce the economic and financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also had a separate telephonic conversation with Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez to deliberate upon the impact of the novel coronavirus on our lives. As of now, the lethal coronavirus which reached almost all countries has infected more than one million has killed over 64,000 people worldwide.

Coronavirus: Trump requests PM Modi to supply hydroxychloroquine tablets

Several foreign missions took part in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's solidarity call of switching off lights of the missions and residence of diplomats and lighting up diyas, candles and touches tonight.&nbsp;

More than 10 foreign mission confirmed participation.

The Iconic Nepal embassy at Mandi House in Delhi switched off the light over PM Modi's solidarity call. Nepal Envoy Nilamber Acharya along with other Nepali diplomats light up diyas and candles.

Bangladesh Envoy Mohammad Imran joined in the call and the mission turned off its light to light up diyas.&nbsp;

Afghan envoy Tahir Qadiry, who has been very busy leading the evacuation of Afghan nations also enthusiastically supported the call. He said, "This is the right time to remember all those great souls and heroes, nurses and the doctors, who are fighting in the front line. Let us all pledge to regard the social distancing and take all right precautions"

Aminath Shabeena Maldivian Acting High Commissioner who took part in a message she said, "Maldives is fighting COVID-19 alongside our many close friends, such as India."

Outside the mission of neighbouring countries, missions of several countries participated. Vietnam's Ambassador to India Pham Sanh Chau was part of the solidarity call at the mission along with 30 diplomatic residences and offices of Vietnam who joined Prime Minister Modi’s call to show solidarity in the fight against Coronavirus by lightning up candles at 9:00 pm sunday night.

Polish Envoy Adam Burakowski had a message of Poland and India friendship. He said,"This is the sign of polish Indian friendship. Poland stand united with India in the fight against coronavirus"

A small polish community of Delhi also joined the call by lighting up diyas.&nbsp;

The solidarity call was celebrated at the Indonesian mission by envoy Sidharto Suryodipuro, by the mexican envoy Federico Salas and Kyrgystan's envoy Asein Isaev.

At UK mission, acting high commissioner Jan Thompson along with other British diplomats took part while at the Australian High Commission families joined India in its efforts to come together for 9 mins at 9pm at their respective households.

Chinese Envoy Sun Weidong posted on twitter page a picture of diya he lit up. in a tweet he said, "Light a Diya to stand in solidarity with people of #India in the fight against #COVID19. Pay tribute to all medical workers. At this difficult time, #Chinese &amp; Indian people are standing together through thick &amp; thin. Wish India an early victory against the epidemic. #9pm9minute"

Indian missions globally also marked it. In Bhutan and Bangladesh, Indian missions switched off lights with Indian envoys Ruchira Kamboj and Riva Ganguly Das led the solidarity call. Members of the Indian High Commission in Pakistan and their families also joined "in demonstrating collective resolve and positivity by lighting diyas and candles.", a tweet by the mission said.

Several foreign missions took part in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's solidarity call of switching off lights of the missions and residence of diplomats and lighting up diyas, candles and touches tonight.

Several foreign missions took part in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's solidarity call of switching off lights of the missions and residence of diplomats and lighting up diyas, candles and touches tonight. More than 10 foreign mission confirmed participation. The Iconic Nepal embassy at Mandi House in Delhi switched off the light over PM Modi's solidarity call. Nepal Envoy Nilamber Acharya along with other Nepali diplomats light up diyas and candles. Bangladesh Envoy Mohammad Imran joined in the call and the mission turned off its light to light up diyas. Afghan envoy Tahir Qadiry, who has been very busy leading the evacuation of Afghan nations also enthusiastically supported the call. He said, "This is the right time to remember all those great souls and heroes, nurses and the doctors, who are fighting in the front line. Let us all pledge to regard the social distancing and take all right precautions" Aminath Shabeena Maldivian Acting High Commissioner who took part in a message she said, "Maldives is fighting COVID-19 alongside our many close friends, such as India." Outside the mission of neighbouring countries, missions of several countries participated. Vietnam's Ambassador to India Pham Sanh Chau was part of the solidarity call at the mission along with 30 diplomatic residences and offices of Vietnam who joined Prime Minister Modi’s call to show solidarity in the fight against Coronavirus by lightning up candles at 9:00 pm sunday night. Polish Envoy Adam Burakowski had a message of Poland and India friendship. He said,"This is the sign of polish Indian friendship. Poland stand united with India in the fight against coronavirus" A small polish community of Delhi also joined the call by lighting up diyas. The solidarity call was celebrated at the Indonesian mission by envoy Sidharto Suryodipuro, by the mexican envoy Federico Salas and Kyrgystan's envoy Asein Isaev. At UK mission, acting high commissioner Jan Thompson along with other British diplomats took part while at the Australian High Commission families joined India in its efforts to come together for 9 mins at 9pm at their respective households. Chinese Envoy Sun Weidong posted on twitter page a picture of diya he lit up. in a tweet he said, "Light a Diya to stand in solidarity with people of #India in the fight against #COVID19. Pay tribute to all medical workers. At this difficult time, #Chinese & Indian people are standing together through thick & thin. Wish India an early victory against the epidemic. #9pm9minute" Indian missions globally also marked it. In Bhutan and Bangladesh, Indian missions switched off lights with Indian envoys Ruchira Kamboj and Riva Ganguly Das led the solidarity call. Members of the Indian High Commission in Pakistan and their families also joined "in demonstrating collective resolve and positivity by lighting diyas and candles.", a tweet by the mission said.

COVID-19: Foreign missions enthusiastically take part in PM Modi's solidarity call 

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

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

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

WION Exclusive: India gets request from 30 countries for hydroxychloroquine

Several foreign missions will be taking part in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's solidarity call of switching off lights of the missions and residence of diplomats and lighting up diyas, candles and touches tonight.&nbsp;

Indian PM Modi has called for switching off lights for nine minutes at nine pm today as a mark of solidarity as the world fights the challenge of COVID-19.

In the of the South Asian region--Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Maldives missions have confirmed that they will be part of the nationwide solidarity call against COVID-19.

Nepal's envoy Nilamber Acharya told WION, "We, Nepal and India, are all in full solidarity in this fight against COVID-19 pandemic".

"We will participate in the nationwide collective resolve to defeat coronavirus", echoed the sentiment Bangladesh Envoy Mohammad Imran

Afghan envoy Tahir Qadiry, who has been very busy leading the evacuation of Afghan nations also enthusiastically supported the call. He said, "I will be switching off lights and lighting a candle at 9 pm tonight for 9 minutes to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to showcase our solidarity and our concerted efforts in a battle against the Corona Virus pandemic."

Adding, "Let’s all pledge to diligently maintain social distancing and take right precautions."

Outside the south Asian region, missions and diplomats from Vietnam, Japan, Australia, Israel, German, Tunisia, Mexico have confirmed participation.&nbsp;

German envoy Walter J. Lindner in response to WION question on the mission's participation said, "Will do! Underlining our common effort to get through this together!!&nbsp;

British acting high commissioner Jan Thompson also confirmed to WION that she will take part in PM's solidarity call.

Meanwhile, Polish envoy Adam Burakowski told wion,"Poland stands united with India and with all the World to fight the coronavirus. I am sure that if we all take preventive measures, the threat will be much lower and that we would recover soon. Long live Polish-Indian friendship!"

The Polish community in Delhi will also participate in the event.

Vietnam's Ambassador to India, Pham Sanh Chau said, "All our 30 diplomatic residences and offices will join in Prime Minister Modi’s call to show solidarity in the fight against Coronavirus by lightning up candles at 9:00 pm tonight."

In a tweet, Israeli deputy chief of mission Maya Kadosh said," I gathered all my candle holders and places them out of my windows #9pm9minutes"

Earlier in March, when Indian Prime Minister called for Janta curfew and everyone coming out at 5 pm and ringing bells, missions and foreign diplomats had participated in that too.&nbsp; 
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Several foreign missions will be taking part in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's solidarity call of switching off lights of the missions and residence of diplomats and lighting up diyas, candles and touches tonight.

Several foreign missions will be taking part in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's solidarity call of switching off lights of the missions and residence of diplomats and lighting up diyas, candles and touches tonight. Indian PM Modi has called for switching off lights for nine minutes at nine pm today as a mark of solidarity as the world fights the challenge of COVID-19. In the of the South Asian region--Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Maldives missions have confirmed that they will be part of the nationwide solidarity call against COVID-19. Nepal's envoy Nilamber Acharya told WION, "We, Nepal and India, are all in full solidarity in this fight against COVID-19 pandemic". "We will participate in the nationwide collective resolve to defeat coronavirus", echoed the sentiment Bangladesh Envoy Mohammad Imran Afghan envoy Tahir Qadiry, who has been very busy leading the evacuation of Afghan nations also enthusiastically supported the call. He said, "I will be switching off lights and lighting a candle at 9 pm tonight for 9 minutes to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to showcase our solidarity and our concerted efforts in a battle against the Corona Virus pandemic." Adding, "Let’s all pledge to diligently maintain social distancing and take right precautions." Outside the south Asian region, missions and diplomats from Vietnam, Japan, Australia, Israel, German, Tunisia, Mexico have confirmed participation. German envoy Walter J. Lindner in response to WION question on the mission's participation said, "Will do! Underlining our common effort to get through this together!! British acting high commissioner Jan Thompson also confirmed to WION that she will take part in PM's solidarity call. Meanwhile, Polish envoy Adam Burakowski told wion,"Poland stands united with India and with all the World to fight the coronavirus. I am sure that if we all take preventive measures, the threat will be much lower and that we would recover soon. Long live Polish-Indian friendship!" The Polish community in Delhi will also participate in the event. Vietnam's Ambassador to India, Pham Sanh Chau said, "All our 30 diplomatic residences and offices will join in Prime Minister Modi’s call to show solidarity in the fight against Coronavirus by lightning up candles at 9:00 pm tonight." In a tweet, Israeli deputy chief of mission Maya Kadosh said," I gathered all my candle holders and places them out of my windows #9pm9minutes" Earlier in March, when Indian Prime Minister called for Janta curfew and everyone coming out at 5 pm and ringing bells, missions and foreign diplomats had participated in that too. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

COVID-19: Foreign missions to participate in PM Modi's solidarity call; to turn off lights, light up candles 

In the wake of coronavirus spread, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to opposition leaders including former President Pranab Mukherjee and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Sunday. The PM called the opposition leaders and held a discussion on coronavirus which is spreading rapidly in the country.

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He also called up leaders of various political parties like Sonia Gandhi, Mulayam Singh Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav, Mamata Banerjee, Naveen Patnaik, K Chandrashekar Rao, MK Stalin and Parkash Singh Badal. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coronavirus</a> <a href="https://t.co/V7hL8FIh5F">https://t.co/V7hL8FIh5F</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1246720648560414721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Among others, PM Modi also spoke to leaders of various political parties, including, Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, Samajwadi Party's Mulayam Singh Yadav and Akhilesh Yadav; West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee; Odisha Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal president Naveen Patnaik. &nbsp;The chief minister of Telangana Chandrashekar Rao (Telangana Rashtra Samithi), President of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam's MK Stalin and Shiromani Akali Dal's Parkash Singh Badal were also among the list.

The total number of confirmed coronavirus case in India rose to 3,374 on Sunday, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Out of these cases, 3030 are active cases, 267 have been cured or discharged while 77 others have succumbed to the deadly virus.

Meanwhile, in a bid to see whether the coronavirus is getting transmitted in the hotspot areas, ICMR has set a fresh protocol for healthcare workers to start with a rapid antibody-based blood test for COVID-19.

The top medical research body has framed a newer strategy for areas reporting in clusters (containment zone), in large migration gatherings and evacuee's centres, where a large number of COVID-19 cases are arising. ICMR stated that cases of Influenza-like Illness (ILI) are to be monitored in health facilities.&nbsp;

Any surge in cases are to be monitored and brought to the notice of surveillance officer or chief medical officer for additional investigation.

In the wake of coronavirus spread, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to opposition leaders including former President Pranab Mukherjee and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Sunday.

In the wake of coronavirus spread, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to opposition leaders including former President Pranab Mukherjee and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Sunday. The PM called the opposition leaders and held a discussion on coronavirus which is spreading rapidly in the country. He also called up leaders of various political parties like Sonia Gandhi, Mulayam Singh Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav, Mamata Banerjee, Naveen Patnaik, K Chandrashekar Rao, MK Stalin and Parkash Singh Badal. #Coronavirus https://t.co/V7hL8FIh5F — ANI (@ANI) April 5, 2020 × Among others, PM Modi also spoke to leaders of various political parties, including, Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, Samajwadi Party's Mulayam Singh Yadav and Akhilesh Yadav; West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee; Odisha Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal president Naveen Patnaik. The chief minister of Telangana Chandrashekar Rao (Telangana Rashtra Samithi), President of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam's MK Stalin and Shiromani Akali Dal's Parkash Singh Badal were also among the list. The total number of confirmed coronavirus case in India rose to 3,374 on Sunday, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Out of these cases, 3030 are active cases, 267 have been cured or discharged while 77 others have succumbed to the deadly virus. Meanwhile, in a bid to see whether the coronavirus is getting transmitted in the hotspot areas, ICMR has set a fresh protocol for healthcare workers to start with a rapid antibody-based blood test for COVID-19. The top medical research body has framed a newer strategy for areas reporting in clusters (containment zone), in large migration gatherings and evacuee's centres, where a large number of COVID-19 cases are arising. ICMR stated that cases of Influenza-like Illness (ILI) are to be monitored in health facilities. Any surge in cases are to be monitored and brought to the notice of surveillance officer or chief medical officer for additional investigation.

Prime Minister Modi dials Sonia Gandhi, former presidents and PM amid COVID-19 spread

Sale of diyas (earthen lamps) increased in India on Sunday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed citizens to either light a candle, diya or flashlight at 9 pm to dispel the darkness and gloom brought by the rapidly spreading coronavirus.

Sale of diyas (earthen lamps) increased in India on Sunday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed citizens to either light a candle, diya or flashlight at 9 pm to dispel the darkness and gloom brought by the rapidly spreading coronavirus. "Sales of diyas have increased to 50 per cent and we also got orders. It has happened because of Modi ji's appeal. We are with him in this," news agency ANI quoted a shopkeeper as saying. Also read: Coronavirus - Trump requests PM Modi to supply hydroxychloroquine tablets "We were not getting customers due to lockdown. But from tomorrow, customers started coming to our shop. We also got some orders on the phone. I hope that we will get customers today as well." Amid a nationwide COVID-19 lockdown, Prime Minister Modi asked the people to turn off all the lights in their homes and stand at doors or balconies and light candles or diyas, torches or mobile flashlights for 9 minutes on April 5. Also read: UK to evacuate its citizens from India amid COVID-19 spread In Bihar's Patna as well, several shopkeepers reported sale increase in the market which are otherwise are deserted nowadays due to the lockdown. "I have bought 50 diyas for today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that people have to light the diyas for nine minutes after switching off light at home," a resident of Patna said. Meanwhile, The total number of confirmed coronavirus case in India rose to 3,374 on Sunday, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Out of these cases, 3030 are active cases, 267 have been cured or discharged while 77 others have succumbed to the deadly virus. In a bid to see whether the coronavirus is getting transmitted in the hotspot areas, ICMR has set a fresh protocol for healthcare workers to start with a rapid antibody-based blood test for COVID-19.

India all set for PM Modi's '9 pm- 9 mins' event today

In what could be seen as an announcement of India's next set of measures to control the coronavirus outbreak, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday morning will address the nation.&nbsp;

"At 9 AM tomorrow morning, I’ll share a small video message with my fellow Indians," PM Modi said in a tweet.&nbsp;

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At 9 AM tomorrow morning, I’ll share a small video message with my fellow Indians. 
 
कल सुबह 9 बजे देशवासियों के साथ मैं एक वीडियो संदेश साझा करूंगा।
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1245678985620549632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, coronavirus cases in India stand at 2,069 with death toll jumping to 53. In the last 24 hours, India recorded 200 more positive cases and 12 new deaths.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-total-number-of-cases-climb-to-2069-53-deaths-says-health-ministry-290112">Coronavirus in India: Total number of cases climb to 2,069; 53 deaths, says Health Ministry</a>

Earlier, PM Modi hinted of a common strategy implemented by various governments to deal with the movement of people after the end of a 21-day nationwide lockdown on April 14.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-global-cases-cross-900000-death-toll-rises-to-47522-290148">Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 900000; death toll rises to 47,522</a>

"Important to formulate common exit strategy to ensure staggered re-emergence of population once lockdown ends," PM Modi said in a statement.&nbsp;

In the national capital Delhi, confirmed COVID-19 cases jumped to 293, out of which 182 were from Nizamuddin Merkaz, officials said.&nbsp;

On Thursday too, a steady rise in the number of cases was largely due to the Tablighi Jamaat's religious congregation that was held more than two weeks ago at Nizamuddin Merkaz in New Delhi.

Various states reported coronavirus positive cases that were linked to Nizamuddin Merkaz.&nbsp;

Nearly 9,000 people of Tablighi Jamaat and their primary contacts have been identified and put under quarantine, various officials said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

In Maharashtra, COVID-19 infected tally rose to 416 with 81 more cases and two deaths.&nbsp;

In Madhya Pradesh, the infected cases rose to 107, including eight deaths.&nbsp;

Karnataka recorded 14 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the infected tally to 124, including three deaths. Out of the total infected cases in Karnataka, 11 are linked to the Nizamuddin event.&nbsp;

At least 24 more cases were confirmed in Telangana as the infected number stood at 154, including nine deaths.&nbsp;

Also, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal said the state government would give Rs 5,000 each to autorickshaw pullers, gramin-sewa workers, and e-rickshaw drivers.&nbsp;

The Union ministry also informed states that anyone who would violate lockdown could face a jail term of upto 2 years.&nbsp;

PM Modi also interacted today with&nbsp;chief ministers through a video conference and instructed them to focus on containment measures: testing, tracing, isolation, and quarantine.

It was imperative to work on a war footing, identify COVID-19 hotspots, encircle them and ensure that the infections don't spread, PM Modi told CMs.&nbsp;

(With PTI, ANI inputs)

In what could be seen as an announcement of India's next set of measures to control the coronavirus outbreak, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday morning will address the nation.

In what could be seen as an announcement of India's next set of measures to control the coronavirus outbreak, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday morning will address the nation. "At 9 AM tomorrow morning, I’ll share a small video message with my fellow Indians," PM Modi said in a tweet. At 9 AM tomorrow morning, I’ll share a small video message with my fellow Indians. कल सुबह 9 बजे देशवासियों के साथ मैं एक वीडियो संदेश साझा करूंगा। — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 2, 2020 × Meanwhile, coronavirus cases in India stand at 2,069 with death toll jumping to 53. In the last 24 hours, India recorded 200 more positive cases and 12 new deaths. Also read | Coronavirus in India: Total number of cases climb to 2,069; 53 deaths, says Health Ministry Earlier, PM Modi hinted of a common strategy implemented by various governments to deal with the movement of people after the end of a 21-day nationwide lockdown on April 14. Also read | Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 900000; death toll rises to 47,522 "Important to formulate common exit strategy to ensure staggered re-emergence of population once lockdown ends," PM Modi said in a statement. In the national capital Delhi, confirmed COVID-19 cases jumped to 293, out of which 182 were from Nizamuddin Merkaz, officials said. On Thursday too, a steady rise in the number of cases was largely due to the Tablighi Jamaat's religious congregation that was held more than two weeks ago at Nizamuddin Merkaz in New Delhi. Various states reported coronavirus positive cases that were linked to Nizamuddin Merkaz. Nearly 9,000 people of Tablighi Jamaat and their primary contacts have been identified and put under quarantine, various officials said on Tuesday. In Maharashtra, COVID-19 infected tally rose to 416 with 81 more cases and two deaths. In Madhya Pradesh, the infected cases rose to 107, including eight deaths. Karnataka recorded 14 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the infected tally to 124, including three deaths. Out of the total infected cases in Karnataka, 11 are linked to the Nizamuddin event. At least 24 more cases were confirmed in Telangana as the infected number stood at 154, including nine deaths. Also, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal said the state government would give Rs 5,000 each to autorickshaw pullers, gramin-sewa workers, and e-rickshaw drivers. The Union ministry also informed states that anyone who would violate lockdown could face a jail term of upto 2 years. PM Modi also interacted today with chief ministers through a video conference and instructed them to focus on containment measures: testing, tracing, isolation, and quarantine. It was imperative to work on a war footing, identify COVID-19 hotspots, encircle them and ensure that the infections don't spread, PM Modi told CMs. (With PTI, ANI inputs)

PM Narendra Modi to address nation today with video message

Superstar Shah Rukh Khan pledged his support to combat coronavirus through his various group companies. The superstar did not disclose the amount he would be contributing to various relief funds, including the Prime Minister`s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations (PM-CARES) fund and the Maharashtra Chief Minister`s Relief Fund&nbsp; but gave a detailed account of how he plans to help daily wage earners in this hour of crisis. 
 
The 54-year-old actor took to Twitter and shared that his companies -- Kolkata Knight Riders, Red Chillies Entertainment, Meer Foundation and Red Chillies VFX -- are taking several initiatives to support the relief efforts. In a long detailed statement, the actor mentioned that along with his wife Gauri Khan, business partners Jay Mehta and Juhi Chawla, the actor would be contributing to several organisations for relief work. 
 
He tweeted, "In these times its imp to make everyone around u working tirelessly for u.. not related to u.. perhaps even unknown to u... to feel they are not alone and by themselves. Let`s just make sure we all do our little bit to look after each other. India and all Indians are One Family." 
 
The `Raees` actor said that he and his team have discussed ways to contribute and they have come up with a series of initiatives. 
 
He also lauded the efforts of the government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uddhav Thackeray, Mamata Banerjee and Arvind Kejriwal and all other states and Union Territories leaders have been commendable in fighting this pandemic. 
Shah Rukh announced that his initial efforts will be focused on the three cities -- Mumbai, Kolkata and New Delhi with the realisation that this is a start and "we stand ready to contribute in whichever way possible going forward." 
 
"At a time when the human race is facing an immense crisis, there can only be one true response: The expression of Humanity itself. This is a moment for all of us to come together in a collective effort to make each other kinder, stronger and braver to face the days ahead. This crisis is not going to pass in a hurry, it will take its time and its toll on all of us. It will also show us that there isn`t really a choice between looking out for ourselves and looking out for one another. 
There`s nothing more obvious in the spread of this pandemic than the fact that each one of us is inextricably connected to each other, without any distinction. So, while we do whatever we can to support each other in our own small ways, the compassion we show to those who are likely to face the most brutal brunt of both, the pandemic and its economic consequences, will define us as a generation and as a Nation," he added.

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In these times it’s imp to make everyone around u working tirelessly for u.. not related to u.. perhaps even unknown to u... to feel they are not alone and by themselves. Let’s just make sure we all do our little bit to look after each other. India and all Indians are One Family. <a href="https://t.co/LWz4wQGaPe">https://t.co/LWz4wQGaPe</a>
— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsrk/status/1245718174726680579?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The `My Name is Khan` actor shared that his donations will be evenly distributed to: 
 
1. PM-CARES Fund: Kolkata Knight Riders, the IPL franchise, has committed to contribute to the PM-CARES Fund. 
 
2. Maharashtra Chief Minister`s Relief Fund: Red Chillies Entertainment has planned to contribute to the Maharashtra CM`s Relief Fund 
 
3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Healthcare Providers: KKR and Meer Foundation will work with West Bengal and Maharashtra governments and contribute 50,000 PPE kits. 
 
4. Ek Saath - The Earth Foundation: Meer Foundation along with Ek Saath will provide daily food requirements to over 5,500 families for at least a month in Mumbai. 
 
5. Roti Foundation: Meer Foundation in association with Roti Foundation will provide 3 lakh meal kits with 10,000 people per day for at least a month. 
 
6. Working People`s Charter: Meer Foundation in association with them will provide basic essentials and grocery items for at least a month to over 2500 daily wage workers who have been identified across Delhi. 
 
7. Support for acid attack survivors: Meer Foundation to provide a monthly stipend to over 100 acid attack survivors which will take care of their basic needs. The survivors identified are across UP, Delhi, Bihar, West Bengal and Uttarakhand.

(With inputs from ANI)

&nbsp;

Superstar Shah Rukh Khan pledged his support to combat coronavirus through his various group companies. The superstar did not disclose the amount he would be contributing to various relief funds, including the Prime Minister`s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations (PM-CARES) fund and the Maharashtra Chief Minister`s Relief Fund but gave a detailed account of how he plans to help daily wage earners in this hour of crisis.

Superstar Shah Rukh Khan pledged his support to combat coronavirus through his various group companies. The superstar did not disclose the amount he would be contributing to various relief funds, including the Prime Minister`s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations (PM-CARES) fund and the Maharashtra Chief Minister`s Relief Fund but gave a detailed account of how he plans to help daily wage earners in this hour of crisis. The 54-year-old actor took to Twitter and shared that his companies -- Kolkata Knight Riders, Red Chillies Entertainment, Meer Foundation and Red Chillies VFX -- are taking several initiatives to support the relief efforts. In a long detailed statement, the actor mentioned that along with his wife Gauri Khan, business partners Jay Mehta and Juhi Chawla, the actor would be contributing to several organisations for relief work. He tweeted, "In these times its imp to make everyone around u working tirelessly for u.. not related to u.. perhaps even unknown to u... to feel they are not alone and by themselves. Let`s just make sure we all do our little bit to look after each other. India and all Indians are One Family." The `Raees` actor said that he and his team have discussed ways to contribute and they have come up with a series of initiatives. He also lauded the efforts of the government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uddhav Thackeray, Mamata Banerjee and Arvind Kejriwal and all other states and Union Territories leaders have been commendable in fighting this pandemic. Shah Rukh announced that his initial efforts will be focused on the three cities -- Mumbai, Kolkata and New Delhi with the realisation that this is a start and "we stand ready to contribute in whichever way possible going forward." "At a time when the human race is facing an immense crisis, there can only be one true response: The expression of Humanity itself. This is a moment for all of us to come together in a collective effort to make each other kinder, stronger and braver to face the days ahead. This crisis is not going to pass in a hurry, it will take its time and its toll on all of us. It will also show us that there isn`t really a choice between looking out for ourselves and looking out for one another. There`s nothing more obvious in the spread of this pandemic than the fact that each one of us is inextricably connected to each other, without any distinction. So, while we do whatever we can to support each other in our own small ways, the compassion we show to those who are likely to face the most brutal brunt of both, the pandemic and its economic consequences, will define us as a generation and as a Nation," he added. In these times it’s imp to make everyone around u working tirelessly for u.. not related to u.. perhaps even unknown to u... to feel they are not alone and by themselves. Let’s just make sure we all do our little bit to look after each other. India and all Indians are One Family. https://t.co/LWz4wQGaPe — Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) April 2, 2020 × The `My Name is Khan` actor shared that his donations will be evenly distributed to: 1. PM-CARES Fund: Kolkata Knight Riders, the IPL franchise, has committed to contribute to the PM-CARES Fund. 2. Maharashtra Chief Minister`s Relief Fund: Red Chillies Entertainment has planned to contribute to the Maharashtra CM`s Relief Fund 3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Healthcare Providers: KKR and Meer Foundation will work with West Bengal and Maharashtra governments and contribute 50,000 PPE kits. 4. Ek Saath - The Earth Foundation: Meer Foundation along with Ek Saath will provide daily food requirements to over 5,500 families for at least a month in Mumbai. 5. Roti Foundation: Meer Foundation in association with Roti Foundation will provide 3 lakh meal kits with 10,000 people per day for at least a month. 6. Working People`s Charter: Meer Foundation in association with them will provide basic essentials and grocery items for at least a month to over 2500 daily wage workers who have been identified across Delhi. 7. Support for acid attack survivors: Meer Foundation to provide a monthly stipend to over 100 acid attack survivors which will take care of their basic needs. The survivors identified are across UP, Delhi, Bihar, West Bengal and Uttarakhand. (With inputs from ANI)

Shah Rukh Khan pledges support to PM-CARES fund and six other organisations to battle coronavirus

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a meeting, via video conferencing, with 40 top sportspersons from different sports and discussed the situation surrounding COVID-19 in India. Among the top 40 sportspersons to join the meeting with PM Modi were Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Virat Kohli, PV Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu, Hima Das, Mary Kom, among others.&nbsp;

This was the first time that PM Modi interacted with sports icons of India since the 21-day lockdown was enforced to curb the spread of the deadly virus in the country. With the COVID-19 virus spreading like a wildfire in the nation, PM Modi asked all the sportspersons to spread the message of social&nbsp;distancing in a bid to combat the dreaded virus.&nbsp;

The other prominent athletes included PT Usha, Pullela Gopichand, Vishwanathan Anand, Hima Das, Bajrang Punia, Rohit Sharma, Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Manu Bhaker, Sharad Kumar, Ajay Thakur and Cheteshwar Pujara, among others.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi held meeting with 40 top sportspersons from various sports via video conferencing today, on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> situation in the country. <a href="https://t.co/NGzl4mL45x">pic.twitter.com/NGzl4mL45x</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1245957238193369088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-virus-rewriting-history-books-in-tennis-mahesh-bhupathi-opens-up-on-wimbledon-cancellation-life-in-lockdown-and-more-290212" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Virus rewriting history books in tennis' - Mahesh Bhupathi opens up on Wimbledon cancellation, life in lockdown and more</a>

The likes of Ganguly, Tendulkar, Kohli, Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu&nbsp;and Hima Das offered their suggestions surrounding the COVID-19 situation in the country to PM Modi.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi held meeting with 40 top sportspersons, including Sachin Tendulkar, PV Sindhu and Hima Das, via video conferencing today, on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> situation in the country. <a href="https://t.co/eC4xKceL4a">pic.twitter.com/eC4xKceL4a</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1245958634028306432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, earlier on Friday, PM Modi urged people to gather for a unique exercise on April 5 at 9 PM to display the unity in the fight against COVID-19. PM Modi asked everyone to turn off all the lights at 9 PM, on April 5, and light a diya, candle, torch or flashlight for 9 minutes as a display of unity in these tough times.

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From sharing videos that reaffirm the importance of fitness, helping the poor and needy, emphasising on social distancing as well as contributing to efforts such as PM-CARES, our sportspersons are doing excellent towards making India free from COVID-19.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1245987822525267968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-deepak-chahar-opens-up-on-life-in-lockdown-injuries-regaining-rhythm-and-love-for-guitar-289712" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Deepak Chahar opens up on life in lockdown, injuries, regaining rhythm and love for guitar</a>

"On this Sunday, April 5, we will challenge the darkness of coronavirus threat together. On April 5, at 9 pm, I need your 9 minutes. At 9 pm, turn off all the lights in your houses and light a Diya, candle, torch or flashlight for 9 minutes at your doors, or balcony," PM Modi said on Friday.

The sporting calendar has been shredded into pieces by the COVID-19 pandemic with almost all the major tournaments and events getting either cancelled or postponed in the wake of the deadly virus.&nbsp;

In India, the total number of positive cases has rapidly risen to 2,069, as of Thursday morning, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare with the death toll now at 53.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a meeting, via video conferencing, with 40 top sportspersons from different sports and discussed the situation surrounding COVID-19 in India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a meeting, via video conferencing, with 40 top sportspersons from different sports and discussed the situation surrounding COVID-19 in India. Among the top 40 sportspersons to join the meeting with PM Modi were Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Virat Kohli, PV Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu, Hima Das, Mary Kom, among others. This was the first time that PM Modi interacted with sports icons of India since the 21-day lockdown was enforced to curb the spread of the deadly virus in the country. With the COVID-19 virus spreading like a wildfire in the nation, PM Modi asked all the sportspersons to spread the message of social distancing in a bid to combat the dreaded virus. The other prominent athletes included PT Usha, Pullela Gopichand, Vishwanathan Anand, Hima Das, Bajrang Punia, Rohit Sharma, Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Manu Bhaker, Sharad Kumar, Ajay Thakur and Cheteshwar Pujara, among others. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held meeting with 40 top sportspersons from various sports via video conferencing today, on #COVID19 situation in the country. pic.twitter.com/NGzl4mL45x — ANI (@ANI) April 3, 2020 × ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Virus rewriting history books in tennis' - Mahesh Bhupathi opens up on Wimbledon cancellation, life in lockdown and more The likes of Ganguly, Tendulkar, Kohli, Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu and Hima Das offered their suggestions surrounding the COVID-19 situation in the country to PM Modi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held meeting with 40 top sportspersons, including Sachin Tendulkar, PV Sindhu and Hima Das, via video conferencing today, on #COVID19 situation in the country. pic.twitter.com/eC4xKceL4a — ANI (@ANI) April 3, 2020 × Meanwhile, earlier on Friday, PM Modi urged people to gather for a unique exercise on April 5 at 9 PM to display the unity in the fight against COVID-19. PM Modi asked everyone to turn off all the lights at 9 PM, on April 5, and light a diya, candle, torch or flashlight for 9 minutes as a display of unity in these tough times. From sharing videos that reaffirm the importance of fitness, helping the poor and needy, emphasising on social distancing as well as contributing to efforts such as PM-CARES, our sportspersons are doing excellent towards making India free from COVID-19. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 3, 2020 × ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Deepak Chahar opens up on life in lockdown, injuries, regaining rhythm and love for guitar "On this Sunday, April 5, we will challenge the darkness of coronavirus threat together. On April 5, at 9 pm, I need your 9 minutes. At 9 pm, turn off all the lights in your houses and light a Diya, candle, torch or flashlight for 9 minutes at your doors, or balcony," PM Modi said on Friday. The sporting calendar has been shredded into pieces by the COVID-19 pandemic with almost all the major tournaments and events getting either cancelled or postponed in the wake of the deadly virus. In India, the total number of positive cases has rapidly risen to 2,069, as of Thursday morning, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare with the death toll now at 53.

PM Modi holds meeting with 40 sportspersons including Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar, PV Sindhu to discuss COVID-19 situation in India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a telephone conversation with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday in which the two leaders discussed the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of international collaboration to fight the health crisis.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-launches-aarogyasetu-app-to-assess-alert-people-about-coronavirus-patient-290210" hreflang="en">India launches 'AarogyaSetu' app to assess, alert people about coronavirus patient</a>

A PMO release said that the two leaders discussed the situation in their respective countries relating to COVID 19 and shared views on inadequate availability of medicines and medical equipment required during the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/international-flights-resumption-after-april-15-subject-to-from-where-they-are-coming-aviation-minister-290166" hreflang="en">International flights resumption after April 15 subject to from where they are coming: Aviation minister</a>

They agreed to explore avenues of cooperation in this regard. The German Chancellor agreed with Prime Minister that the COVID-19 pandemic is an important turning point in modern history, and offers an opportunity to forge a new vision of globalisation focused on the shared interests of humanity as a whole.

The Prime Minister informed the German leader about recent Indian initiatives to disseminate simple yoga exercises and immunity-enhancing Ayurvedic remedies for people of the world.

The Chancellor agreed that such practices could be very beneficial for enhancing psychological and physical health, especially under the present lockdown conditions.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a telephone conversation with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday in which the two leaders discussed the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of international collaboration to fight the health crisis.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a telephone conversation with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday in which the two leaders discussed the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of international collaboration to fight the health crisis. Also read: India launches 'AarogyaSetu' app to assess, alert people about coronavirus patient A PMO release said that the two leaders discussed the situation in their respective countries relating to COVID 19 and shared views on inadequate availability of medicines and medical equipment required during the pandemic. Also read: International flights resumption after April 15 subject to from where they are coming: Aviation minister They agreed to explore avenues of cooperation in this regard. The German Chancellor agreed with Prime Minister that the COVID-19 pandemic is an important turning point in modern history, and offers an opportunity to forge a new vision of globalisation focused on the shared interests of humanity as a whole. The Prime Minister informed the German leader about recent Indian initiatives to disseminate simple yoga exercises and immunity-enhancing Ayurvedic remedies for people of the world. The Chancellor agreed that such practices could be very beneficial for enhancing psychological and physical health, especially under the present lockdown conditions.

PM Modi, German Chancellor discuss COVID-19 situation, inadequate availability of medicines

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