A day after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package for the poor of the country, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Friday said that Indian banking sector is safe and deposit of bank customers is safe. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-announces-coronavirus-stimulus-package-promises-cash-transfer-food-provision-288637">Also read: Centre announces coronavirus stimulus package; promises cash transfer, food provision</a> 
 
"Public should not worry about their deposit in private sector banks, they should not resort to panic withdrawal," said RBI governor.

Here are the top highlights of RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das's press conference

<ul>
	<li>RBI cuts repo rate by 75 bps to 4.4% from 5.15%. It cuts reverse repo rates by 90 basis points.</li>
	<li>Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) cut by 1% to 3%.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Minimum daily CRR maintenance will be 80%</li>
	<li>All Banks, HFCs, NBFCs allowed 3 months moratorium for EMI</li>
</ul>

On Thursday, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package under Garib Kalyan Yojana — in the wake of the lockdown imposed due to the spurt in coronavirus cases in the country. The tally now stands at&nbsp;735 — with 17 deaths.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a 21-day lockdown to stem the growth of coronavirus in the country.

Meanwhile, Moody's Investors Service on Friday slashed its estimate of India's GDP growth during the 2020 calendar year to 2.5 per cent from an earlier estimate of 5.3 per cent, on account of the rising economic cost of the coronavirus pandemic.

This compares to 5 per cent growth in 2019.

Moody's said, at the 2020 estimated growth rate, a sharp fall in incomes in India is likely, further weighing on domestic demand and the pace of recovery in 2021.

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package for the poor of the country, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Friday said that Indian banking sector is safe and deposit of bank customers is safe.

A day after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package for the poor of the country, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Friday said that Indian banking sector is safe and deposit of bank customers is safe. Also read: Centre announces coronavirus stimulus package; promises cash transfer, food provision "Public should not worry about their deposit in private sector banks, they should not resort to panic withdrawal," said RBI governor. Here are the top highlights of RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das's press conference RBI cuts repo rate by 75 bps to 4.4% from 5.15%. It cuts reverse repo rates by 90 basis points. Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) cut by 1% to 3%. Minimum daily CRR maintenance will be 80% All Banks, HFCs, NBFCs allowed 3 months moratorium for EMI On Thursday, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package under Garib Kalyan Yojana — in the wake of the lockdown imposed due to the spurt in coronavirus cases in the country. The tally now stands at 735 — with 17 deaths. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a 21-day lockdown to stem the growth of coronavirus in the country. Meanwhile, Moody's Investors Service on Friday slashed its estimate of India's GDP growth during the 2020 calendar year to 2.5 per cent from an earlier estimate of 5.3 per cent, on account of the rising economic cost of the coronavirus pandemic. This compares to 5 per cent growth in 2019. Moody's said, at the 2020 estimated growth rate, a sharp fall in incomes in India is likely, further weighing on domestic demand and the pace of recovery in 2021. (With inputs from agencies)

No need to panic, Indian banks are safe and stable, says RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das

The United States just set a record, but a grim one. The country now has the highest number of recorded coronavirus cases in the world.

Overtaking the toll of China and Italy, the US now has over 85,000 cases.

However, the fatality rate in the country is much lower than Italy and China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jinping-says-china-and-us-must-unite-to-fight-coronavirus-288850" hreflang="en">Jinping says China and US must 'unite to fight coronavirus'</a>

In the US, the current fatality rate is 1.4 per cent, as opposed to Italy’s ten per cent and China’s four per cent.

Regardless, the surge in cases has overwhelmed the American health infrastructure.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-global-cases-cross-530000-death-toll-rises-to-24070-288799" hreflang="en">Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 530,000; death toll rises to 24,070</a>

As of now, 40 per cent of the American population is under a partial lockdown to contain the infection.

According to the US President Donald Trump, the number of cases can be attributed to the country’s rampant testing. While stating so, Trump expressed doubts about the cases registered in China.

<img alt="iiii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3681eb3c-632e-41f3-af13-10937dc767bd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%289%29_28.jpg" />

“I think it's a tribute to testing, you know, number one you don't know what the numbers are in china. China, tell us your numbers. I'm speaking to president Xi tonight, I believe, we'll have a good conversation I'm sure, but you just don't know, what are the numbers?", he said.

To make the mapping easier, the White House is planning to divide American counties into high-risk, medium-risk and low-risk categories.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-the-chinese-virus-or-wuhan-virus-only-coronavirus-china-288816" hreflang="en">Not the 'Chinese virus' or 'Wuhan virus', only coronavirus: China</a>

This classification is being touted as a form of targeted medical surveillance and testing.

The new measure will probably be introduced next week, when the 15-day social distancing restrictions expire.

As per the White House schedule, Donald Trump and Xi Jinping are currently talking to each other over the phone about the coronavirus pandemic.

The two countries were largely non-confrontational during the virtual G20 summit.

The United States just set a record, but a grim one. The country now has the highest number of recorded coronavirus cases in the world. Overtaking the toll of China and Italy, the US now has over 85,000 cases.

The United States just set a record, but a grim one. The country now has the highest number of recorded coronavirus cases in the world. Overtaking the toll of China and Italy, the US now has over 85,000 cases. However, the fatality rate in the country is much lower than Italy and China. Also read: Jinping says China and US must 'unite to fight coronavirus' In the US, the current fatality rate is 1.4 per cent, as opposed to Italy’s ten per cent and China’s four per cent. Regardless, the surge in cases has overwhelmed the American health infrastructure. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 530,000; death toll rises to 24,070 As of now, 40 per cent of the American population is under a partial lockdown to contain the infection. According to the US President Donald Trump, the number of cases can be attributed to the country’s rampant testing. While stating so, Trump expressed doubts about the cases registered in China. “I think it's a tribute to testing, you know, number one you don't know what the numbers are in china. China, tell us your numbers. I'm speaking to president Xi tonight, I believe, we'll have a good conversation I'm sure, but you just don't know, what are the numbers?", he said. To make the mapping easier, the White House is planning to divide American counties into high-risk, medium-risk and low-risk categories. Also read: Not the 'Chinese virus' or 'Wuhan virus', only coronavirus: China This classification is being touted as a form of targeted medical surveillance and testing. The new measure will probably be introduced next week, when the 15-day social distancing restrictions expire. As per the White House schedule, Donald Trump and Xi Jinping are currently talking to each other over the phone about the coronavirus pandemic. The two countries were largely non-confrontational during the virtual G20 summit.

White House to categorise American counties based on coronavirus risk

China claims it has contained the Coronavirus. Factories are reopening. Businesses are resuming operations. Chinese companies are exporting coronavirus supplies. Will China profit from the outbreak? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay assesses.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus: Will China profit from the outbreak?

The number of Wuhan Coronavirus cases worldwide has crossed five lakh. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you the latest numbers.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus: More than five lakh people infected

Reports from the US state of Pennsylvania claim that a woman purposely coughed on food items worth $35,000 at a grocery store.

Just yesterday, the United States Department of Justice had said that people who are attempting to intentionally spread coronavirus shall be charged with terrorism.

The woman is expected to face criminal charges, CNN reported.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pandemic-will-cut-global-investment-flows-more-than-feared-un-288745">Pandemic will cut global investment flows more than feared, says&nbsp;UN</a>

Based on the Facebook post of the grocery chain’s co-owner, the woman coughed not only on produce, but on bakery items, meat, and other food items.&nbsp;

Soon after the staff discovered what was happening, the police were called in who took her into custody.

According to the police statement, the woman “intentionally contaminated” the food. Once her mental health treatment is complete, criminal charges shall be filed against her.

There’s no clarity on whether the woman is infected with the virus, but she will most probably be tested nevertheless.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-testing-kits-and-ventilators-are-they-the-difference-between-life-and-death-288763" hreflang="en">Coronavirus testing kits and ventilators, are they the difference between life and death?</a>

The produce, which amounts to over $35,000 has been discarded by Gerrity Supermarket, where the incident unravelled.

Besides this, everything and area that she came in contact with has been disinfected, as per the co-owner Fasula’s Facebook post.

<h6><img alt="ppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6e45dee0-8232-4f73-b6eb-de3a11c395b7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_48.jpg" /> 
A cashier wearing a face masks processes a customer's payment at a supermarket on March 26, 2020 in the Portuense district of Rome during the country's lockdown following the COVID-19 new coronavirus pandemic | AFP</h6>

Fasula further expressed her displeasure over the wastage of food, especially in a time when the world might face a potential shortage of basic food items, with lockdowns in place all over.

Social media is filled with coronavirus-related pranks, whereby people are licking items at public spots, for instance, a pole in the metro, or coughing purposely to create paranoia.&nbsp;

In the US city of New Jersey, a man claiming to have coronavirus purposely spat on a grocery store employee. The charges against him mentioned “terroristic threats”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-global-cases-cross-530000-death-toll-rises-to-24070-288799" hreflang="en">Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 530,000; death toll rises to 24,070</a>

The Justice Department had released a memo yesterday, according to which the virus qualifies as a biological agent. “Using COVID-19 as a weapon against Americans” will be perceived as a terrorist threat.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 530,000 worldwide on Friday and global deaths rose past 24,000, as COVID-19 spreads across Europe and North America.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/people-to-be-prosecuted-under-terrorism-law-if-they-intentionally-spread-coronavirus-us-justice-dept-288775" hreflang="en">People to be prosecuted under terrorism law, if they intentionally spread coronavirus: US Justice Dept</a>

COVID-19 has now infected more than 350,536 people, according to Johns Hopkins University, and killed at least 15,328 people. Around 122,203 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins.

According to the news reports, The United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment.

In the United States, more than 83,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan.

Reports from the US state of Pennsylvania claim that a woman purposely coughed on food items worth $35,000 at a grocery store. Just yesterday, the United States Department of Justice had said that people who are attempting to intentionally spread coronavirus shall be charged with terrorism.

Reports from the US state of Pennsylvania claim that a woman purposely coughed on food items worth $35,000 at a grocery store. Just yesterday, the United States Department of Justice had said that people who are attempting to intentionally spread coronavirus shall be charged with terrorism. The woman is expected to face criminal charges, CNN reported. Also read: Pandemic will cut global investment flows more than feared, says UN Based on the Facebook post of the grocery chain’s co-owner, the woman coughed not only on produce, but on bakery items, meat, and other food items. Soon after the staff discovered what was happening, the police were called in who took her into custody. According to the police statement, the woman “intentionally contaminated” the food. Once her mental health treatment is complete, criminal charges shall be filed against her. There’s no clarity on whether the woman is infected with the virus, but she will most probably be tested nevertheless. Also read: Coronavirus testing kits and ventilators, are they the difference between life and death? The produce, which amounts to over $35,000 has been discarded by Gerrity Supermarket, where the incident unravelled. Besides this, everything and area that she came in contact with has been disinfected, as per the co-owner Fasula’s Facebook post. A cashier wearing a face masks processes a customer's payment at a supermarket on March 26, 2020 in the Portuense district of Rome during the country's lockdown following the COVID-19 new coronavirus pandemic | AFP Fasula further expressed her displeasure over the wastage of food, especially in a time when the world might face a potential shortage of basic food items, with lockdowns in place all over. Social media is filled with coronavirus-related pranks, whereby people are licking items at public spots, for instance, a pole in the metro, or coughing purposely to create paranoia. In the US city of New Jersey, a man claiming to have coronavirus purposely spat on a grocery store employee. The charges against him mentioned “terroristic threats”. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 530,000; death toll rises to 24,070 The Justice Department had released a memo yesterday, according to which the virus qualifies as a biological agent. “Using COVID-19 as a weapon against Americans” will be perceived as a terrorist threat. Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 530,000 worldwide on Friday and global deaths rose past 24,000, as COVID-19 spreads across Europe and North America. Also read: People to be prosecuted under terrorism law, if they intentionally spread coronavirus: US Justice Dept COVID-19 has now infected more than 350,536 people, according to Johns Hopkins University, and killed at least 15,328 people. Around 122,203 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. According to the news reports, The United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. In the United States, more than 83,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan.

Woman in US coughs on food, supermarket discards goods worth $35,000

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India have shot up to 735, with the addition of five new cases registered today so far.

Bihar and Rajasthan reported two new cases each, with Andaman &amp; Nicobar recording one new positive case.

Currently, there are 669 active cases in the country, an addition of five from yesterday. Out of the total 669, 50 have recovered so far, with no additions so far today.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-lockdown-kashmiri-youths-stuck-in-haryanas-hisar-deputy-cm-dushyant-chautala-extends-help-288789" hreflang="en">India Lockdown: Kashmiri youths stuck in Haryana's Hisar, Deputy CM Dushyant Chautala extends help</a>

India has reportedly lost 16 people to the virus, with no deaths reported today.

27 states and union territories are currently affected throughout the country.

The country is currently in the third day of a 21-day-long nationwide lockdown, which has been enforced to tackle the rising number of infections in the country.

<h6><img alt="Firefighters spray disinfectant over a residential area from a sky lift crane during a government-imposed lockdown" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7956378a-6a46-493f-b7ba-4eb31b07175f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%286%29_31.jpg" /> 
 
Firefighters spray disinfectant over a residential area from a sky lift crane during a government-imposed lockdown in Chennai | AFP</h6>

The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi had said, “If developed countries with the best healthcare couldn’t effectively deal with the virus, how will we? Please stay at home and protect your loved ones, I request to you”, during a national briefing a few days ago.

Kerala currently has the most number of cases with 137, out of which eleven have recovered, with zero deaths reported in the state.

Maharashtra follows suit with 125 cases, with one case of recovery recorded so far.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/situation-in-iran-remains-precarious-india-asks-citizens-to-stay-put-288787" hreflang="en">Situation in Iran remains precarious, India asks citizens to stay put</a>

The capital city, New Delhi, currently has 32 active cases, with six recoveries reported so far.&nbsp;

The states of Manipur, Mizoram, alongside the union territory of Puducherry have so far recorded the least number of cases: one each!

In the border territories of Jammu &amp; Kashmir as well as Ladakh, the number of cases has been rising rapidly. The former has 14 cases now, and the latter accounts for 13 of the nationwide cases.

(With inputs from agencies)

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India have shot up to 735, with the addition of five new cases registered today so far. Bihar and Rajasthan reported two new cases each, with Andaman & Nicobar recording one new positive case.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India have shot up to 735, with the addition of five new cases registered today so far. Bihar and Rajasthan reported two new cases each, with Andaman & Nicobar recording one new positive case. Currently, there are 669 active cases in the country, an addition of five from yesterday. Out of the total 669, 50 have recovered so far, with no additions so far today. Also read: India Lockdown: Kashmiri youths stuck in Haryana's Hisar, Deputy CM Dushyant Chautala extends help India has reportedly lost 16 people to the virus, with no deaths reported today. 27 states and union territories are currently affected throughout the country. The country is currently in the third day of a 21-day-long nationwide lockdown, which has been enforced to tackle the rising number of infections in the country. Firefighters spray disinfectant over a residential area from a sky lift crane during a government-imposed lockdown in Chennai | AFP The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi had said, “If developed countries with the best healthcare couldn’t effectively deal with the virus, how will we? Please stay at home and protect your loved ones, I request to you”, during a national briefing a few days ago. Kerala currently has the most number of cases with 137, out of which eleven have recovered, with zero deaths reported in the state. Maharashtra follows suit with 125 cases, with one case of recovery recorded so far. Also read: Situation in Iran remains precarious, India asks citizens to stay put The capital city, New Delhi, currently has 32 active cases, with six recoveries reported so far. The states of Manipur, Mizoram, alongside the union territory of Puducherry have so far recorded the least number of cases: one each! In the border territories of Jammu & Kashmir as well as Ladakh, the number of cases has been rising rapidly. The former has 14 cases now, and the latter accounts for 13 of the nationwide cases. (With inputs from agencies)

India records five new COVID-19 cases today, total now shoots up to 735

As conspiracy theories surrounding coronavirus gain steam, China is countering them not only with theories of its own, but by simultaneously invalidating them.

Many people across the internet claim that COVID-19 was manufactured by China to gain an economic edge over the world. Amid such claims, people have started referring to the virus as “Chinese virus” or “Wuhan virus”.

The World Health Organization recently warned against labelling viruses based on the place where it originated, for it could trigger racist rhetorics.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-global-cases-cross-530000-death-toll-rises-to-24070-288799" hreflang="en">Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 530,000; death toll rises to 24,070</a>

On Wednesday, China lashed out and claimed that it has neither created nor intentionally transmitted the virus. Additionally, China has continuously requested global polity to avoid usage of “Chinese virus”.

A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy, Ji Rong, recently asserted that the world should solely focus on the response and tackling of the virus exhibited by China instead of “stereotyping the Chinese people”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/people-to-be-prosecuted-under-terrorism-law-if-they-intentionally-spread-coronavirus-us-justice-dept-288775" hreflang="en">People to be prosecuted under terrorism law, if they intentionally spread coronavirus: US Justice Dept</a>

Rong also pointed out the cooperative measures taken by India and China to prevent the virus from spreading across territories. According to Rong, India has provided medical supplies to China and has lent a helping hand.

"We express appreciation and thanks for that," Ji said.

"Those people who are trying to stigmatise China's efforts have ignored the huge sacrifices the Chinese people made in safeguarding the health and safety of all mankind", he added.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-coronavirus-voices-of-patients-doctors-288778/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He additionally pointed out even though the first case was reported from within China, there’s no evidence linking the birth of the virus to the country.&nbsp;

"China has neither created the virus nor intentionally transmitted it. The so-called "Chinese virus" is absolutely wrong," Ji said.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had faced flak recently for referring to pandemic as “Wuhan virus”. China referred to his words as “despicable behaviour” and an attempt to stigmatise the country.

Instances of harassment of people with facial features akin to the Chinese have spurred in India and the US, with many facing attacks on the streets.

"The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that the seasonal flu starting from September 2019 has so far sickened more than 30 million people and killed more than 20,000, and CDC Director Dr Robert Redfield admitted some were actually COVID-19 (cases)," Ji said.

"At the early stage of the outbreak, China took a decisive decision to lock down Wuhan and cancel outbound tourist groups to prevent the spread of the epidemic," Ji added.

According to him, China has shared the diagnostic and treatment aspects of the virus with the world from the beginning very openly.

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“Since January 3, China has been regularly notifying WHO and relevant countries and regions about the outbreak, and on January 12, it had already shared with WHO the genetic sequence of the novel coronavirus”, he added.

“China held an online video conference to brief 19 Eurasian and South Asian countries including India on China’s experience”, the spokesperson added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-emerges-as-virus-hotspot-as-infections-unemployment-soar-288755" hreflang="en">US emerges as virus hotspot as infections, unemployment soar</a>

"The Chinese enterprises have started to make donations to India. We stand ready to provide further support and assistance to the best of our capability in light of the needs of the Indian side. We believe that the Indian people will win the battle at an early date," he said.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 530,000 worldwide on Friday and global deaths rose past 24,000, as COVID-19 spreads across Europe and North America.

(With inputs from agencies)

As conspiracy theories surrounding coronavirus gain steam, China is countering them not only with theories of its own, but by simultaneously invalidating them. Many people across the internet claim that COVID-19 was manufactured by China to gain an economic edge over the world.

As conspiracy theories surrounding coronavirus gain steam, China is countering them not only with theories of its own, but by simultaneously invalidating them. Many people across the internet claim that COVID-19 was manufactured by China to gain an economic edge over the world. Amid such claims, people have started referring to the virus as “Chinese virus” or “Wuhan virus”. The World Health Organization recently warned against labelling viruses based on the place where it originated, for it could trigger racist rhetorics. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 530,000; death toll rises to 24,070 On Wednesday, China lashed out and claimed that it has neither created nor intentionally transmitted the virus. Additionally, China has continuously requested global polity to avoid usage of “Chinese virus”. A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy, Ji Rong, recently asserted that the world should solely focus on the response and tackling of the virus exhibited by China instead of “stereotyping the Chinese people”. Also read: People to be prosecuted under terrorism law, if they intentionally spread coronavirus: US Justice Dept Rong also pointed out the cooperative measures taken by India and China to prevent the virus from spreading across territories. According to Rong, India has provided medical supplies to China and has lent a helping hand. "We express appreciation and thanks for that," Ji said. "Those people who are trying to stigmatise China's efforts have ignored the huge sacrifices the Chinese people made in safeguarding the health and safety of all mankind", he added. He additionally pointed out even though the first case was reported from within China, there’s no evidence linking the birth of the virus to the country. "China has neither created the virus nor intentionally transmitted it. The so-called "Chinese virus" is absolutely wrong," Ji said. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had faced flak recently for referring to pandemic as “Wuhan virus”. China referred to his words as “despicable behaviour” and an attempt to stigmatise the country. Instances of harassment of people with facial features akin to the Chinese have spurred in India and the US, with many facing attacks on the streets. "The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that the seasonal flu starting from September 2019 has so far sickened more than 30 million people and killed more than 20,000, and CDC Director Dr Robert Redfield admitted some were actually COVID-19 (cases)," Ji said. "At the early stage of the outbreak, China took a decisive decision to lock down Wuhan and cancel outbound tourist groups to prevent the spread of the epidemic," Ji added. According to him, China has shared the diagnostic and treatment aspects of the virus with the world from the beginning very openly. Also read: Are dogs going to help prevent a global second wave of COVID-19? “Since January 3, China has been regularly notifying WHO and relevant countries and regions about the outbreak, and on January 12, it had already shared with WHO the genetic sequence of the novel coronavirus”, he added. “China held an online video conference to brief 19 Eurasian and South Asian countries including India on China’s experience”, the spokesperson added. Also read: US emerges as virus hotspot as infections, unemployment soar "The Chinese enterprises have started to make donations to India. We stand ready to provide further support and assistance to the best of our capability in light of the needs of the Indian side. We believe that the Indian people will win the battle at an early date," he said. Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 530,000 worldwide on Friday and global deaths rose past 24,000, as COVID-19 spreads across Europe and North America. (With inputs from agencies)

Not the 'Chinese virus' or 'Wuhan virus', only coronavirus: China

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 530,000 worldwide on Friday and global deaths rose past 24,000, as COVID-19 spreads across Europe and North America. 
 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-tops-world-in-virus-cases-overtaking-china-and-italy-288788">US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy</a> 
 
COVID-19 has now infected more than 350,536 people, according to Johns Hopkins University, and killed at least 15,328 people. Around 122,203 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-testing-kits-and-ventilators-are-they-the-difference-between-life-and-death-288763" hreflang="en">Coronavirus testing kits and ventilators, are they the difference between life and death?</a>

According to the news reports, The United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pandemic-will-cut-global-investment-flows-more-than-feared-un-288745">Pandemic will cut global investment flows more than feared, says&nbsp;UN</a>

In the United States, more than 83,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan. 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-bumps-china-with-most-number-of-cases-more-than-85000-covid-cases-288793/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Outside of China, where the virus emerged in December, Italy has the most number of deaths with nearly 8,215.

"We are waging war on this virus using every financial, scientific, medical, pharmaceutical and military resource, to halt its spread and protect our citizens," US President Donald Trump said.

Meanwhile, the G20 leaders pledged a "united front" against the novel coronavirus on Thursday after a video conference to discuss the action to combat the global crisis. The leaders also vowed to inject $5 trillion into the global economy to counter the impact of the crisis.

The meeting was attended by various G20 leaders including, US President Donald Trump, Russia's Vladimir Putin, China's Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a joint statement, the leaders vowed "robust" support for developing nations.

Over 3 billion people have been asked to stay at home as governments across the world tackle the World Health Organisation recognised 'pandemic'.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 530,000 worldwide on Friday and global deaths rose past 24,000, as COVID-19 spreads across Europe and North America.

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 530,000 worldwide on Friday and global deaths rose past 24,000, as COVID-19 spreads across Europe and North America. Also read: US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy COVID-19 has now infected more than 350,536 people, according to Johns Hopkins University, and killed at least 15,328 people. Around 122,203 people of that tally have recovered, according to Hopkins. Also read: Coronavirus testing kits and ventilators, are they the difference between life and death? According to the news reports, The United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections and reported a record surge in unemployment. Also read: Pandemic will cut global investment flows more than feared, says UN In the United States, more than 83,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19, edging out Italy, which has reported the most deaths, and China, where the virus was first detected in December in the metropolis of Wuhan. Outside of China, where the virus emerged in December, Italy has the most number of deaths with nearly 8,215. "We are waging war on this virus using every financial, scientific, medical, pharmaceutical and military resource, to halt its spread and protect our citizens," US President Donald Trump said. Meanwhile, the G20 leaders pledged a "united front" against the novel coronavirus on Thursday after a video conference to discuss the action to combat the global crisis. The leaders also vowed to inject $5 trillion into the global economy to counter the impact of the crisis. The meeting was attended by various G20 leaders including, US President Donald Trump, Russia's Vladimir Putin, China's Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a joint statement, the leaders vowed "robust" support for developing nations. Over 3 billion people have been asked to stay at home as governments across the world tackle the World Health Organisation recognised 'pandemic'. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus outbreak: Global cases cross 530,000; death toll rises to 24,070

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US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy Coronavirus crisis: China's role at G20 emergency summit not raised Venezuela records first coronavirus death Canada objects to US plan to post troops at border Are dogs going to help prevent a global second wave of COVID-19?

US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy Coronavirus crisis: China's role at G20 emergency summit not raised Venezuela records first coronavirus death Canada objects to US plan to post troops at border Are dogs going to help prevent a global second wave of COVID-19? Fighting coronavirus: Singapore's social distancing rules could lead to prison US Space Force launches first mission despite coronavirus

Morning news brief: Global cases cross 500,000; dogs to sniff out COVID-19, and more!

With the number of coronavirus cases rising rapidly, the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the United States could become the next epicentre of the pandemic. According to US Surgeon General Dr Jerome Adams, the country is ''already be seeing the beginnings of this in some areas, marking a new stage of the nation's outbreak.''

US bumps china with most number of cases: More than 85,000 COVID cases

A charity in the United Kingdom, in collaboration with scientists, is trying to save lives in a new way: by using dogs!

Apparently, they’re trying to understand whether dogs can help in early detection of COVID-19, which has triggered a global pandemic in the last few weeks.

The basic idea is to employ the dogs’ strong sense of smell to zero in on positive cases.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fighting-coronavirus-singapores-social-distancing-rules-could-lead-to-prison-288790" hreflang="en">Fighting coronavirus: Singapore's social distancing rules could lead to prison</a>

The charity, called Medical Detection Dogs, is collaborating with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), alongside Durham University to ascertain whether dogs could help with detection and save lives.

Earlier evidence suggests that dogs possess capabilities of sniffing out malaria among people, simply based on the distinct odour which is released by people who may be sick. The organisations in question believe that all diseases have a distinct odour.

The dogs shall be trained for six weeks, "to help provide a rapid, non-invasive diagnosis towards the tail end of the epidemic", news agency AFP reported.

Earlier, MDD has successfully trained dogs to detect diseases like cancer, Parkinson’s, and bacterial infections.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32667670-8c69-47a1-9ccb-ff4f7cd7718d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_90.jpg" /> 
Stray dogs in Kolkata, India | AFP 
 
&nbsp;</h6>

Additionally, the canines are able to comprehend changes in temperature of the skin, helping healthcare workers understand if a person has fever.

"In principle, we're sure that dogs could detect COVID-19," said Claire Guest, founder and chief executive of Medical Detection Dogs.

"We are now looking into how we can safely catch the odour of the virus from patients and present it to the dogs… The aim is that dogs will be able to screen anyone, including those who are asymptomatic, and tell us whether they need to be tested”, Guest added.

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According to Guest, the process shall be “fast, effective, and non-invasive”. Additionally, the resources pooled in from the National Health Service (NHS) will be employed only and if needed.

LSHTM’s head of disease control claims that dogs are capable of detecting diseases like malaria in patients with high accuracy. Furthermore, respiratory diseases change one’s body odour, suggesting that it may be possible to find carriers of COVID-19.

Even though the research is at its early stages, scientists believe that dogs trained to detect people carrying the virus may be employed across airports once the pandemic is over. This will help in avoiding a second wave of the virus.

Over half a million (500,000) cases of the COVID-19 have been registered across the globe. The virus has killed over 22,920 people across 182 countries, the World Health Organization reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-crisis-chinas-role-at-g20-emergency-summit-not-raised-288783" hreflang="en">Coronavirus crisis: China's role at G20 emergency summit not raised</a>

A charity in the United Kingdom, in collaboration with scientists, is trying to save lives in a new way: by using dogs! Apparently, they’re trying to understand whether dogs can help in early detection of COVID-19, which has triggered a global pandemic in the last few weeks.

A charity in the United Kingdom, in collaboration with scientists, is trying to save lives in a new way: by using dogs! Apparently, they’re trying to understand whether dogs can help in early detection of COVID-19, which has triggered a global pandemic in the last few weeks. The basic idea is to employ the dogs’ strong sense of smell to zero in on positive cases. Also read: Fighting coronavirus: Singapore's social distancing rules could lead to prison The charity, called Medical Detection Dogs, is collaborating with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), alongside Durham University to ascertain whether dogs could help with detection and save lives. Earlier evidence suggests that dogs possess capabilities of sniffing out malaria among people, simply based on the distinct odour which is released by people who may be sick. The organisations in question believe that all diseases have a distinct odour. The dogs shall be trained for six weeks, "to help provide a rapid, non-invasive diagnosis towards the tail end of the epidemic", news agency AFP reported. Earlier, MDD has successfully trained dogs to detect diseases like cancer, Parkinson’s, and bacterial infections. Stray dogs in Kolkata, India | AFP Additionally, the canines are able to comprehend changes in temperature of the skin, helping healthcare workers understand if a person has fever. "In principle, we're sure that dogs could detect COVID-19," said Claire Guest, founder and chief executive of Medical Detection Dogs. "We are now looking into how we can safely catch the odour of the virus from patients and present it to the dogs… The aim is that dogs will be able to screen anyone, including those who are asymptomatic, and tell us whether they need to be tested”, Guest added. Also read: US tops world in virus cases, overtaking China and Italy According to Guest, the process shall be “fast, effective, and non-invasive”. Additionally, the resources pooled in from the National Health Service (NHS) will be employed only and if needed. LSHTM’s head of disease control claims that dogs are capable of detecting diseases like malaria in patients with high accuracy. Furthermore, respiratory diseases change one’s body odour, suggesting that it may be possible to find carriers of COVID-19. Even though the research is at its early stages, scientists believe that dogs trained to detect people carrying the virus may be employed across airports once the pandemic is over. This will help in avoiding a second wave of the virus. Over half a million (500,000) cases of the COVID-19 have been registered across the globe. The virus has killed over 22,920 people across 182 countries, the World Health Organization reported. Also read: Coronavirus crisis: China's role at G20 emergency summit not raised

Are dogs going to help prevent a global second wave of COVID-19?

Anyone caught breaking Singapore’s social distancing rules can land themselves in prison from Friday after the city-state made it an offence for a person to intentionally stand close to another person as part of its coronavirus defence. 
 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-emerges-as-virus-hotspot-as-infections-unemployment-soar-288755">US emerges as virus hotspot as infections, unemployment soar</a> 
 
Singapore has won international praise for its fastidious approach in tackling the virus, which has included using police investigators and security cameras to help track suspected carriers. 
 
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With some of the world’s highest population densities, the city-state this week announced more stringent social distancing measures such as shutting bars, limiting gatherings to up to 10 people outside work and school as well as a ban on large events. 
 
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Under updates to its powerful infectious diseases law, anyone who intentionally sits less than 1 meter away from another person in a public place or on a fixed seat demarcated as not to be occupied, or who stands in a queue less than a meter away from another, will be guilty of an offence.

Offenders can be fined up to S$10,000 ($6,990), jailed for up to six months, or both.

The rules, in place until April 30, can be applied to individuals and businesses.

Singapore is well known for its strict rules: fines can be doled out for everything from feeding birds to forgetting to flush a public toilet.

Some countries including Italy, Britain and New Zealand have gone into complete lockdown, but Singapore has avoided the move. Authorities have said more drastic measures may be needed if locals do not take social distancing seriously.

Singapore’s number of coronavirus cases rose by 52 to 683 infections on Thursday, and two people have died.

Anyone caught breaking Singapore’s social distancing rules can land themselves in prison from Friday after the city-state made it an offence for a person to intentionally stand close to another person as part of its coronavirus defence.

Anyone caught breaking Singapore’s social distancing rules can land themselves in prison from Friday after the city-state made it an offence for a person to intentionally stand close to another person as part of its coronavirus defence. Also read: US emerges as virus hotspot as infections, unemployment soar Singapore has won international praise for its fastidious approach in tackling the virus, which has included using police investigators and security cameras to help track suspected carriers. Also read: Twitter roasts Jeff Bezos after he asks for public donations in Amazon relief fund With some of the world’s highest population densities, the city-state this week announced more stringent social distancing measures such as shutting bars, limiting gatherings to up to 10 people outside work and school as well as a ban on large events. Also read: Pandemic will cut global investment flows more than feared, says UN Under updates to its powerful infectious diseases law, anyone who intentionally sits less than 1 meter away from another person in a public place or on a fixed seat demarcated as not to be occupied, or who stands in a queue less than a meter away from another, will be guilty of an offence. Offenders can be fined up to S$10,000 ($6,990), jailed for up to six months, or both. The rules, in place until April 30, can be applied to individuals and businesses. Singapore is well known for its strict rules: fines can be doled out for everything from feeding birds to forgetting to flush a public toilet. Some countries including Italy, Britain and New Zealand have gone into complete lockdown, but Singapore has avoided the move. Authorities have said more drastic measures may be needed if locals do not take social distancing seriously. Singapore’s number of coronavirus cases rose by 52 to 683 infections on Thursday, and two people have died.

Fighting coronavirus: Singapore's social distancing rules could lead to prison

India has asked its citizens to stay put in Iran wherever they are as the situation remains precarious in the west Asian country. Iran along with Spain and Italy remains the epicentre of the corona crisis, which began in China.

Sources told WION, while the Indian mission is in touch with Indians in across Iran since sampling facility is not present in Tehran, swab samples cant be collected to check if they are COVID positive. The swab samples are tested for COVID-19 by ICMR in India, and only those Indian nationals who test negative finally board specially arranged flights to India.&nbsp;

Number of Indians are stranded in Kish island is affected by the virus but the situation in Tehran is far worse. While Indian government beliefs that keeping them at a specific location is not a solution but circumstances are completely adverse on the ground. &nbsp;

219 Indian students in Iran, primarily from Tehran and Shiraz, have already returned to India. India plans to evacuate another batch of more than 200 Indians from Iran on March 28.&nbsp;

New Delhi has evacuated more than 1700 of its citizens from China, Japan, Iran and Italy since the pandemic began. This includes 48 foreign citizens.

India has asked its citizens to stay put in Iran wherever they are as the situation remains precarious in the west Asian country. Iran along with Spain and Italy remains the epicentre of the corona crisis, which began in China.

India has asked its citizens to stay put in Iran wherever they are as the situation remains precarious in the west Asian country. Iran along with Spain and Italy remains the epicentre of the corona crisis, which began in China. Sources told WION, while the Indian mission is in touch with Indians in across Iran since sampling facility is not present in Tehran, swab samples cant be collected to check if they are COVID positive. The swab samples are tested for COVID-19 by ICMR in India, and only those Indian nationals who test negative finally board specially arranged flights to India. Number of Indians are stranded in Kish island is affected by the virus but the situation in Tehran is far worse. While Indian government beliefs that keeping them at a specific location is not a solution but circumstances are completely adverse on the ground. 219 Indian students in Iran, primarily from Tehran and Shiraz, have already returned to India. India plans to evacuate another batch of more than 200 Indians from Iran on March 28. New Delhi has evacuated more than 1700 of its citizens from China, Japan, Iran and Italy since the pandemic began. This includes 48 foreign citizens.

Situation in Iran remains precarious, India asks citizens to stay put

Canada opposes a plan by the United States to send &nbsp;troops to its northern frontier to catch border jumpers who may be carrying COVID-19, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Thursday. 
 
Trudeau and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland were responding to a Global News report that said White House officials are discussing such a military deployment to the recently closed border, the world's longest at 8,900 kilometres (5,500 miles). 
 
Amid the coronavirus pandemic it was temporarily shut as of Saturday to all non-essential travellers on both sides, but not cross-border trade.

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"Canada and the United States have the longest unmilitarised border in the world. And it is very much in both of our interests for it to remain that way," Trudeau told a daily briefing. 
 
He said his administration has highlighted to the US that the flow of people and trade "has benefited our two countries and our economies tremendously. And we feel that it needs to remain that way." 
 
Freeland went further, warning: "In Canada's view this is an entirely unnecessary step which we would view as damaging to our (bilateral) relationship." 
 
She noted at a news conference that Washington had yet to make a decision, but added, "We do not believe at all that there would be a public health justification for (the US) to take this action.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
 
"We've said we don't think this is the right way to treat a trusted friend and a military ally."

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American troops 
An estimated 400,000 people and $2 billion worth of goods normally cross the border each day.&nbsp; 
 
Global News said fewer than 1,000 American troops would be stationed within 30 kilometers (20 miles) of the Canadian frontier, between official border checkpoints, and use sensor technologies to detect irregular crossers. 
 
Under the proposal, the US military would advise American border agents, who would be sent to intercept them. 
 
According to the latest government data, US officials apprehended 4,400 migrants at the Canada-US border in the 12 months to September 30, 2019, compared to 15,700 who crossed irregularly into Canada from the United States during the period.

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The number of coronavirus cases in Canada on Thursday surpassed 4,000 including 39 deaths, according to public health authorities. The number of US cases, meanwhile, topped 83,000, including more than 1,200 deaths, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. 
 
Freeland said Ottawa "forcefully" pushed back against the border proposal, reminding in discussions with US officials that the two nations are "very close military allies," including partners in NORAD and NATO. 
 
She also pointed to the recently ratified US-Mexico-Canada free trade pact and last week's agreement on border restrictions as evidence the two countries can work well together. 
 
"In view of all of these connections and the importance of the (bilateral) relationship, Canada is strongly opposed to this US proposal," she said.

Canada opposes a plan by the United States to send troops to its northern frontier to catch border jumpers who may be carrying COVID-19, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Thursday.

Canada opposes a plan by the United States to send troops to its northern frontier to catch border jumpers who may be carrying COVID-19, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Thursday. Trudeau and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland were responding to a Global News report that said White House officials are discussing such a military deployment to the recently closed border, the world's longest at 8,900 kilometres (5,500 miles). Amid the coronavirus pandemic it was temporarily shut as of Saturday to all non-essential travellers on both sides, but not cross-border trade. Also read: With 73 new cases, second wave of coronavirus hits Singapore "Canada and the United States have the longest unmilitarised border in the world. And it is very much in both of our interests for it to remain that way," Trudeau told a daily briefing. He said his administration has highlighted to the US that the flow of people and trade "has benefited our two countries and our economies tremendously. And we feel that it needs to remain that way." Freeland went further, warning: "In Canada's view this is an entirely unnecessary step which we would view as damaging to our (bilateral) relationship." She noted at a news conference that Washington had yet to make a decision, but added, "We do not believe at all that there would be a public health justification for (the US) to take this action. "We've said we don't think this is the right way to treat a trusted friend and a military ally." Also read: People to be prosecuted under terrorism law, if they intentionally spread coronavirus: US Justice Dept American troops An estimated 400,000 people and $2 billion worth of goods normally cross the border each day. Global News said fewer than 1,000 American troops would be stationed within 30 kilometers (20 miles) of the Canadian frontier, between official border checkpoints, and use sensor technologies to detect irregular crossers. Under the proposal, the US military would advise American border agents, who would be sent to intercept them. According to the latest government data, US officials apprehended 4,400 migrants at the Canada-US border in the 12 months to September 30, 2019, compared to 15,700 who crossed irregularly into Canada from the United States during the period. Also read: How Chinese propaganda factory has global franchises The number of coronavirus cases in Canada on Thursday surpassed 4,000 including 39 deaths, according to public health authorities. The number of US cases, meanwhile, topped 83,000, including more than 1,200 deaths, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. Freeland said Ottawa "forcefully" pushed back against the border proposal, reminding in discussions with US officials that the two nations are "very close military allies," including partners in NORAD and NATO. She also pointed to the recently ratified US-Mexico-Canada free trade pact and last week's agreement on border restrictions as evidence the two countries can work well together. "In view of all of these connections and the importance of the (bilateral) relationship, Canada is strongly opposed to this US proposal," she said.

Canada objects to US plan to post troops at border 

Speaking at the virtual G20 summit on Thursday, Indian PM Modi has said that the world has taken time to respond to the Coronavirus crisis even as he has called on a new concept of globalisation in which collective well-being of humankind is the focus.&nbsp;

"Even 3 months after the crisis, we are trying to find a coordinated response," PM Said, saying "G20 meeting shows international community has come together" but it has "taken some time to respond to the crisis with this magnitude and dimension".

Sources said PM's focus was the need to "look at the collective interest of all humankind" and "human aspects of our global collective conscious has been subsumed by economic and financial focus".

Calling COVID crisis "challenge and an opportunity for the grouping to look at a new concept of globalisation which looks at humanity and collective interest of all humankind".

PM noted the "alarming social and economic costs of the pandemic". 90% of the COVID-19 cases and 88% of deaths are from G20 countries.

India also called for reform of the world health organisation (WHO) at the G20 virtual summit that took place on Thursday evening.&nbsp;

Sources said, "PM highlighted that International Organizations like WHO need to be strengthened and reformed. WHO initially did not have the mandate to deal with the pandemic of this sort, which is why empowering of WHO is necessary be it in terms of its capacity of early warning or development of effective vaccines, or capacity building." 
&nbsp; 
New Delhi also called for the need to "freely and openly share" the benefits of medical research and development and "develop adaptive, responsive and humane health care systems".

Sources said "the fact that leaders met is significant" and the "inspiration for the global collective response to the COVID crisis came from India and PM Modi in particular"

This is for the first time G20 summit took place on issues which are not economic but humanitarian. &nbsp;G20, formed after the 2008 financial crisis, has 20 of the world's largest economies and contributed 80% of the world's GDP and 60% of the world population.&nbsp;

Speaking at the virtual G20 summit on Thursday, Indian PM Modi has said that the world has taken time to respond to the Coronavirus crisis even as he has called on a new concept of globalisation in which collective well-being of humankind is the focus.

Speaking at the virtual G20 summit on Thursday, Indian PM Modi has said that the world has taken time to respond to the Coronavirus crisis even as he has called on a new concept of globalisation in which collective well-being of humankind is the focus. "Even 3 months after the crisis, we are trying to find a coordinated response," PM Said, saying "G20 meeting shows international community has come together" but it has "taken some time to respond to the crisis with this magnitude and dimension". Sources said PM's focus was the need to "look at the collective interest of all humankind" and "human aspects of our global collective conscious has been subsumed by economic and financial focus". Calling COVID crisis "challenge and an opportunity for the grouping to look at a new concept of globalisation which looks at humanity and collective interest of all humankind". PM noted the "alarming social and economic costs of the pandemic". 90% of the COVID-19 cases and 88% of deaths are from G20 countries. India also called for reform of the world health organisation (WHO) at the G20 virtual summit that took place on Thursday evening. Sources said, "PM highlighted that International Organizations like WHO need to be strengthened and reformed. WHO initially did not have the mandate to deal with the pandemic of this sort, which is why empowering of WHO is necessary be it in terms of its capacity of early warning or development of effective vaccines, or capacity building." New Delhi also called for the need to "freely and openly share" the benefits of medical research and development and "develop adaptive, responsive and humane health care systems". Sources said "the fact that leaders met is significant" and the "inspiration for the global collective response to the COVID crisis came from India and PM Modi in particular" This is for the first time G20 summit took place on issues which are not economic but humanitarian. G20, formed after the 2008 financial crisis, has 20 of the world's largest economies and contributed 80% of the world's GDP and 60% of the world population.

World took time to respond to corona crisis, says PM Modi

Venezuela reported its first coronavirus death on Thursday after a 47-year-old man with a pre-existing lung disease died, the government said. 
 
The man from the northern Aragua state had previously suffered from an "occupational disease in the lungs," Vice-President Delcy Rodriguez said in a television address. 
 
The patient had been admitted to a private clinic suffering from pneumonia and three days later tested positive for COVID-19, Rodriguez said.

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The South American country has now reported 107 coronavirus cases. 
 
It is under a total lockdown with businesses and schools closed and its borders closed to commercial flights, although cargo arrivals are still allowed. 
 
The pandemic is causing particular concern in Venezuela because its economy has collapsed, with people already suffering shortages of basic necessities such as food and medicine, and the breakdown of public services such as water, electricity and transport. 
 
Meanwhile a "special flight" organized by several European countries left Caracas with more than 360 passengers on board, including 139 Spaniards, 56 Italians, 44 Germans and 26 French nationals.

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They had been visiting Venezuela for business or tourism but got stuck by the government lockdown. 
 
Peru, which on Thursday extended its lockdown and border closures until April 12, likewise authorized the departure of tourists on especially arranged flights. 
 
Around 400 Canadians and more than 300 Americans are due to be repatriated from Thursday, their embassies in Peru announced.

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Some 200 Canadians queued outside the country's diplomatic mission in the capital Lima waiting to board buses to take them to the city's military hospital, from where they were due to board a flight to take them home. 
 
Peru has recorded 580 coronavirus cases and nine deaths. 
 
It has closed schools and universities, imposed a nighttime curfew and a ban on all road traffic.

Venezuela reported its first coronavirus death on Thursday after a 47-year-old man with a pre-existing lung disease died, the government said. The man from the northern Aragua state had previously suffered from an "occupational disease in the lungs," Vice-President Delcy Rodriguez said in a television address.

Venezuela reported its first coronavirus death on Thursday after a 47-year-old man with a pre-existing lung disease died, the government said. The man from the northern Aragua state had previously suffered from an "occupational disease in the lungs," Vice-President Delcy Rodriguez said in a television address. The patient had been admitted to a private clinic suffering from pneumonia and three days later tested positive for COVID-19, Rodriguez said. Also read: With 73 new cases, second wave of coronavirus hits Singapore The South American country has now reported 107 coronavirus cases. It is under a total lockdown with businesses and schools closed and its borders closed to commercial flights, although cargo arrivals are still allowed. The pandemic is causing particular concern in Venezuela because its economy has collapsed, with people already suffering shortages of basic necessities such as food and medicine, and the breakdown of public services such as water, electricity and transport. Meanwhile a "special flight" organized by several European countries left Caracas with more than 360 passengers on board, including 139 Spaniards, 56 Italians, 44 Germans and 26 French nationals. Also read: People to be prosecuted under terrorism law, if they intentionally spread coronavirus: US Justice Dept They had been visiting Venezuela for business or tourism but got stuck by the government lockdown. Peru, which on Thursday extended its lockdown and border closures until April 12, likewise authorized the departure of tourists on especially arranged flights. Around 400 Canadians and more than 300 Americans are due to be repatriated from Thursday, their embassies in Peru announced. Also read: How Chinese propaganda factory has global franchises Some 200 Canadians queued outside the country's diplomatic mission in the capital Lima waiting to board buses to take them to the city's military hospital, from where they were due to board a flight to take them home. Peru has recorded 580 coronavirus cases and nine deaths. It has closed schools and universities, imposed a nighttime curfew and a ban on all road traffic.

Venezuela records first coronavirus death

China's role, when it comes Coronavirus crisis was not discussed at the G20 virtual summit that took place on Thursday evening.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/g20-nations-to-inject-5-trillion-into-global-economy-as-they-pledge-united-front-against-coronavirus-threat-288725">Also read: G20 nations to inject $5 trillion into global economy as they pledge 'united front' against coronavirus threat</a> 
 
A source who was present at the meet, when asked if G20 countries, questioned China said, "spirit of the meet was cooperative, did not see reference to origin or crisis and who was responsible, but on mitigating the hardship due to crisis."

The first case of the coronavirus was reported in Wuhan, the capital of China's Hubei province. In a matter of 3 months, more than 5 lac people globally have got the coronavirus infection.

The source said, " No effort to blame" anyone but to "deal with the issue". Adding, "individual leaders spoke but spoke in one voice."

China is being criticised for cover-ups initially that led things to go out of control. China has been miffed over the use of the word "Chinese virus", made more popular by US President who has been using the term in his twitter posts.&nbsp; 
 
The G20 countries met on Thursday evening for the first time via video conference to come up with a joint action plan to deal with the coronavirus issue. During the emergency meeting, it was decided that G20 countries will inject $5 trillion into the global economy to deal with the social, economic and financial impacts of the crisis.

China's role, when it comes Coronavirus crisis was not discussed at the G20 virtual summit that took place on Thursday evening. Also read: G20 nations to inject $5 trillion into global economy as they pledge 'united front' against coronavirus threat A source who was present at the meet, when asked if G20 countries, questioned China said, "spirit of the meet was cooperative, did not see reference to origin or crisis and who was responsible, but on mitigating the hardship due to crisis.

China's role, when it comes Coronavirus crisis was not discussed at the G20 virtual summit that took place on Thursday evening. Also read: G20 nations to inject $5 trillion into global economy as they pledge 'united front' against coronavirus threat A source who was present at the meet, when asked if G20 countries, questioned China said, "spirit of the meet was cooperative, did not see reference to origin or crisis and who was responsible, but on mitigating the hardship due to crisis." The first case of the coronavirus was reported in Wuhan, the capital of China's Hubei province. In a matter of 3 months, more than 5 lac people globally have got the coronavirus infection. The source said, " No effort to blame" anyone but to "deal with the issue". Adding, "individual leaders spoke but spoke in one voice." China is being criticised for cover-ups initially that led things to go out of control. China has been miffed over the use of the word "Chinese virus", made more popular by US President who has been using the term in his twitter posts. The G20 countries met on Thursday evening for the first time via video conference to come up with a joint action plan to deal with the coronavirus issue. During the emergency meeting, it was decided that G20 countries will inject $5 trillion into the global economy to deal with the social, economic and financial impacts of the crisis.

Coronavirus crisis: China's role at G20 emergency summit not raised

In a massive development, British PM Boris Johnson confirmed on Twitter that he is infected with novel coronavirus on Friday. Boris Johnson said "over the last 24 hours I have developed mild symptoms and tested positive for coronavirus" in a tweet.

WION Dispatch: UK PM Boris Johnson tests positive for coronavirus

News Alert: Boris Johnson tests positive of COVID-19

The Labor Department reported Thursday that Americans are filing for unemployment benefits, the number surged to 3.3 million last week, which happens to be the highest number ever recorded.

Coronavirus Outbreak: 3.3 mn Americans file for unemployment | WION News

Europe continues to remain worst affected continent. The coronavirus pandemic has now killed more than 15,500 people in Europe.

Coronavirus Outbreak: Europe continues to remain worst affected continent

China has drastically cut its international flight routes and bar entry to returning foreigners based in the country to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

Coronavirus Outbreak: China drastically cuts international flights

While social distancing has shut out most people from outdoor activities - athletes, fitness fanatics, and coaches have taken to the internet to help people work-out from home.

Coronavirus outbreak has forced people to stay indoors, but some fitness fanatics haven't shut shop. Fitness instructor Joe Wicks is conducting online classes for children and their parents at home.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-sets-the-stage-for-unprecedented-global-economic-losses-288927">Coronavirus pandemic sets the stage for unprecedented global economic losses</a>

"Well, what I really liked, is when I put it out there, obviously it's aimed at children, but if you are an unfit parent or adult and you're not really active, they're actually really great exercises for you because you start moving", Wicks told Reuters.

“This isn't just a Monday to Friday flash in the pan thing. My subscribers have gone up. They've doubled. I've got nearly 2 million subscribers, so I want to keep generating content that's free, that's accessible", he added.&nbsp;

Not just online

A fitness trainer in Hamburg brought people to their balconies for a 30-minute exercise routine.

One father even managed to combine fitness with childcare. Coronavirus pandemic has brought focus back on health, fitness and immunity.&nbsp;

Important to stay fit

Being physically active not only strengthens the immune system by reducing the risk of chronic diseases but also flushes bacteria out of the lungs thereby decreasing the chances of getting a cold, flu or other illness.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-new-testing-kits-solve-the-mystery-of-covid-19-transmission-by-silent-carriers-288909" hreflang="en">Could new testing kits solve the mystery of COVID-19 transmission by silent carriers?</a>

In fact, a large study showed that mild to moderate exercise – performed about three times a week – reduced the risk of dying during the Hong Kong Flu outbreak in 1998.

Reasons to exercise at home:

<ul>
	<li>It strengthens the immune system</li>
	<li>Exercising reduces risk of chronic diseases&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Working out flushes bacteria out of the lungs</li>
	<li>It decreases chances of getting cold &amp; flu</li>
	<li>Exercising reduced risk of dying during 1998 hong kong flu outbreak</li>
</ul>

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-reopen-war-bunker-as-a-coronavirus-containment-zone-288880" hreflang="en">Israel to reopen war bunker as a coronavirus containment zone?</a>

Here’s what you could do:

<ul>
	<li>Three times per week, perform mild to moderate exercise for not more than 20-45 minutes</li>
	<li>Workout at home with a sharp focus on cardio-vascular exercises like spot running, skipping, jumping jacks, push ups, plank taps etc</li>
	<li>Do not over-exercise, shorten or skip workouts if you feel unwell</li>
	<li>Avoid training partners who are sneezing or coughing</li>
	<li>Wash your hands often before and after exercise</li>
	<li>Eat and sleep well to boost your immune system</li>
</ul>

Exercise away!

While social distancing has shut out most people from outdoor activities - athletes, fitness fanatics, and coaches have taken to the internet to help people work-out from home.

While social distancing has shut out most people from outdoor activities - athletes, fitness fanatics, and coaches have taken to the internet to help people work-out from home. Coronavirus outbreak has forced people to stay indoors, but some fitness fanatics haven't shut shop. Fitness instructor Joe Wicks is conducting online classes for children and their parents at home. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic sets the stage for unprecedented global economic losses "Well, what I really liked, is when I put it out there, obviously it's aimed at children, but if you are an unfit parent or adult and you're not really active, they're actually really great exercises for you because you start moving", Wicks told Reuters. “This isn't just a Monday to Friday flash in the pan thing. My subscribers have gone up. They've doubled. I've got nearly 2 million subscribers, so I want to keep generating content that's free, that's accessible", he added. Not just online A fitness trainer in Hamburg brought people to their balconies for a 30-minute exercise routine. One father even managed to combine fitness with childcare. Coronavirus pandemic has brought focus back on health, fitness and immunity. Important to stay fit Being physically active not only strengthens the immune system by reducing the risk of chronic diseases but also flushes bacteria out of the lungs thereby decreasing the chances of getting a cold, flu or other illness. Also read: Could new testing kits solve the mystery of COVID-19 transmission by silent carriers? In fact, a large study showed that mild to moderate exercise – performed about three times a week – reduced the risk of dying during the Hong Kong Flu outbreak in 1998. Reasons to exercise at home: It strengthens the immune system Exercising reduces risk of chronic diseases Working out flushes bacteria out of the lungs It decreases chances of getting cold & flu Exercising reduced risk of dying during 1998 hong kong flu outbreak Also read: Israel to reopen war bunker as a coronavirus containment zone? Here’s what you could do: Three times per week, perform mild to moderate exercise for not more than 20-45 minutes Workout at home with a sharp focus on cardio-vascular exercises like spot running, skipping, jumping jacks, push ups, plank taps etc Do not over-exercise, shorten or skip workouts if you feel unwell Avoid training partners who are sneezing or coughing Wash your hands often before and after exercise Eat and sleep well to boost your immune system Exercise away!

Staying fit in the time of a killer pandemic!

Speaking about Delhi State's preparation to fight the coronavirus outbreak, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said that the government will test all medical officials and health workers involved in the treatment of coronavirus patients.&nbsp;

The decision was taken by the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Lieutenant-Governor Anil Baijal on Thursday after a mohalla clinic worker tested positive for coronavirus.

"We will continue to conduct the test on doctors, paramedical staff who are engaged in treating COVID-19 patients," the chief minister said.

He said despite a Mohalla Clinic doctor and his family testing positive for coronavirus, the centres will not be closed and all precautions are being taken.

The Delhi government authorities have quarantined the worker and 800 others who came in contact with him.

The Delhi government has also arranged to serve lunch and dinner to the needy in 325 schools in Delhi, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Friday amid reports of people going hungry without access to food during the ongoing nationwide lockdown.

From Saturday, arrangements will be put in place to feed about four lakh people daily at different centres across Delhi, he said addressing the media.

(With inputs from agencies)

Speaking about Delhi State's preparation to fight the coronavirus outbreak, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said that the government will test all medical officials and health workers involved in the treatment of coronavirus patients.

Speaking about Delhi State's preparation to fight the coronavirus outbreak, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said that the government will test all medical officials and health workers involved in the treatment of coronavirus patients. The decision was taken by the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Lieutenant-Governor Anil Baijal on Thursday after a mohalla clinic worker tested positive for coronavirus. "We will continue to conduct the test on doctors, paramedical staff who are engaged in treating COVID-19 patients," the chief minister said. He said despite a Mohalla Clinic doctor and his family testing positive for coronavirus, the centres will not be closed and all precautions are being taken. The Delhi government authorities have quarantined the worker and 800 others who came in contact with him. The Delhi government has also arranged to serve lunch and dinner to the needy in 325 schools in Delhi, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Friday amid reports of people going hungry without access to food during the ongoing nationwide lockdown. From Saturday, arrangements will be put in place to feed about four lakh people daily at different centres across Delhi, he said addressing the media. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi government to test all medic for coronavirus: Arvind Kejriwal

As the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise, experts say global job losses as a result of the crisis would far exceed the 25 million estimated just days ago.

Earlier today, the number of COVID-19 cases in the US surpassed the count in Italy and China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-new-testing-kits-solve-the-mystery-of-covid-19-transmission-by-silent-carriers-288909" hreflang="en">Could new testing kits solve the mystery of COVID-19 transmission by silent carriers?</a>

Unemployed America?

People applying for unemployment benefits in the US have gone up.

3.3 million Americans filed claims for unemployment last week as large parts of the US economy continued to remain shut. The surge in weekly applications was a stunning reminder of the damage the viral outbreak is inflicting on the economy. Requests for unemployment aid generally reflect the pace and intensity of layoffs.

"Well, this number of new claims for unemployment benefits is truly unprecedented and it represents the unprecedented nature of what we're going through right now. During the financial crisis and great recession, the highest or maximum number of new claims for unemployment benefits we saw was approaching, let's say, the 700,000 mark. So, we've done several times over that record number", Mark Hamrick, Senior Economic Analyst at Bankrate.Com, told Reuters.

Thousands of businesses have been shut as people’s movement remains restricted. The layoffs are sure to accelerate as the US Economy slides into a recession, with most employers cutting jobs to save expenses.&nbsp;

Some economists say that the unemployment rate in the US could reach 13 per cent by May.

Statistically, nearly a third of US workers could lose their jobs in the midst of this pandemic.

These numbers project a much bigger loss than even the Great Recession, whereby the unemployment rate reached ten per cent.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-reopen-war-bunker-as-a-coronavirus-containment-zone-288880" hreflang="en">Israel to reopen war bunker as a coronavirus containment zone?</a>

Germany too?

On the other side of the pond in Germany, researchers say that unemployment could top three million if the coronavirus crisis deepens.It is also expected that Germany’s economy will shrink by two per cent this year.

Countries across the world are struggling to contain the pandemic which has brought economic activity to an eerie halt.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shifting-discourse-mexican-protesters-demand-blanket-closure-of-border-with-us-as-covid-19-cases-rise-288868" hreflang="en">Shifting discourse? Mexican protesters demand blanket closure of border with US as COVID-19 cases rise</a>

Millions to be unemployed in India?

In India, where a 21-day nationwide lockdown has been announced, industry groups have warned that job losses could run into tens of millions. It is estimated that 38 million jobs could be lost in the tourism and hospitality sector alone.&nbsp;

In a bid to reduce financial losses, many companies have given employees the option to work from home.

Experts believe that the outbreak of coronavirus has the potential to make the concept of work from home a more common practice, thereby shifting the workplace dynamics.

As the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise, experts say global job losses as a result of the crisis would far exceed the 25 million estimated just days ago.

As the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise, experts say global job losses as a result of the crisis would far exceed the 25 million estimated just days ago. Earlier today, the number of COVID-19 cases in the US surpassed the count in Italy and China. Also read: Could new testing kits solve the mystery of COVID-19 transmission by silent carriers? Unemployed America? People applying for unemployment benefits in the US have gone up. 3.3 million Americans filed claims for unemployment last week as large parts of the US economy continued to remain shut. The surge in weekly applications was a stunning reminder of the damage the viral outbreak is inflicting on the economy. Requests for unemployment aid generally reflect the pace and intensity of layoffs. "Well, this number of new claims for unemployment benefits is truly unprecedented and it represents the unprecedented nature of what we're going through right now. During the financial crisis and great recession, the highest or maximum number of new claims for unemployment benefits we saw was approaching, let's say, the 700,000 mark. So, we've done several times over that record number", Mark Hamrick, Senior Economic Analyst at Bankrate.Com, told Reuters. Thousands of businesses have been shut as people’s movement remains restricted. The layoffs are sure to accelerate as the US Economy slides into a recession, with most employers cutting jobs to save expenses. Some economists say that the unemployment rate in the US could reach 13 per cent by May. Statistically, nearly a third of US workers could lose their jobs in the midst of this pandemic. These numbers project a much bigger loss than even the Great Recession, whereby the unemployment rate reached ten per cent. Also read: Israel to reopen war bunker as a coronavirus containment zone? Germany too? On the other side of the pond in Germany, researchers say that unemployment could top three million if the coronavirus crisis deepens.It is also expected that Germany’s economy will shrink by two per cent this year. Countries across the world are struggling to contain the pandemic which has brought economic activity to an eerie halt. Also read: Shifting discourse? Mexican protesters demand blanket closure of border with US as COVID-19 cases rise Millions to be unemployed in India? In India, where a 21-day nationwide lockdown has been announced, industry groups have warned that job losses could run into tens of millions. It is estimated that 38 million jobs could be lost in the tourism and hospitality sector alone. In a bid to reduce financial losses, many companies have given employees the option to work from home. Experts believe that the outbreak of coronavirus has the potential to make the concept of work from home a more common practice, thereby shifting the workplace dynamics.

Coronavirus pandemic sets the stage for unprecedented global economic losses

Researchers in the United Kingdom have developed a new type of test which can detect COVID-19 in less than 30 minutes.&nbsp;

The test has been developed in collaboration between Brunel University and the University of Surrey.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-pompeo-trump-refrains-from-calling-coronavirus-chinese-virus-288882" hreflang="en">After Pompeo, Trump refrains from calling coronavirus, 'Chinese virus'</a>

Pocket-friendly and effective

The technology is based on hand-held hardware which costs a little over $120. The swab kit itself costs $5 per person, TechCrunch reported.

Similar techniques have been long used in the Philippines to test chickens for viral infections. Now, it is being employed to test even humans!

Mass production of the kits shall be underway soon.

However, this does not imply that the kits will be readily available to use. In fact, pending regulations from regulatory bodies like the FDA are necessary.

However, researches displayed confidence in the response they’re expecting across the health bodies.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-to-categorise-american-counties-based-on-coronavirus-risk-288855" hreflang="en">White House to categorise American counties based on coronavirus risk</a>

They also believe that it could be available for use within a few weeks.

<h6><img alt="yyy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c18c21a-69a2-40ec-92e6-762b2635d5ac" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2813%29_16.jpg" /> 
A researcher works on the diagnosis of suspected coronavirus COVID-19 cases in Belo Horizonte, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, on March 26, 2020 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

These kits save a lot of time and money by diagnosing the patient on a smartphone, eliminating the need of a lab-based approach, whereby the nasal or throat swabs are connected to a hardware which is battery-operated.

Such methods of on-site testing and diagnoses have been employed by companies like Cepheid and Mesa Biotech. However, their machines require a trip to the lab, which are expensive and shoot up the testing costs.

The only edge this new testing method has over pre-existing modes is its cost-friendliness, for it runs on hardware that is not exorbitantly priced.

The best part: it can test up to six people at one go!&nbsp;

Such ready-to-go tests could help decrease the panic across all professional arenas.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-the-chinese-virus-or-wuhan-virus-only-coronavirus-china-288816" hreflang="en">Not the 'Chinese virus' or 'Wuhan virus', only coronavirus: China</a>

What makes it different from other testing methods?

Similar tests have been developed and are currently in use across Europe and China. However, those have a drawback: they only respond to the presence of antibodies, ie, their diagnosis is based on the body’s reaction to the virus.

However, this test, can effectively identify viral DNA even in the absence of antibodies, which makes it more reliable.

With many organisations claiming that dormant carriers (asymptomatic patients) can use this to ascertain their status and avoid risking infection to at-risk groups.

With no clear idea of how many dormant carriers are responsible for the transmission, this could provide some really useful data on the transmission of COVID-19.

Researchers in the United Kingdom have developed a new type of test which can detect COVID-19 in less than 30 minutes. The test has been developed in collaboration between Brunel University and the University of Surrey.

Researchers in the United Kingdom have developed a new type of test which can detect COVID-19 in less than 30 minutes. The test has been developed in collaboration between Brunel University and the University of Surrey. Also read: After Pompeo, Trump refrains from calling coronavirus, 'Chinese virus' Pocket-friendly and effective The technology is based on hand-held hardware which costs a little over $120. The swab kit itself costs $5 per person, TechCrunch reported. Similar techniques have been long used in the Philippines to test chickens for viral infections. Now, it is being employed to test even humans! Mass production of the kits shall be underway soon. However, this does not imply that the kits will be readily available to use. In fact, pending regulations from regulatory bodies like the FDA are necessary. However, researches displayed confidence in the response they’re expecting across the health bodies. Also read: White House to categorise American counties based on coronavirus risk They also believe that it could be available for use within a few weeks. A researcher works on the diagnosis of suspected coronavirus COVID-19 cases in Belo Horizonte, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, on March 26, 2020 | AFP These kits save a lot of time and money by diagnosing the patient on a smartphone, eliminating the need of a lab-based approach, whereby the nasal or throat swabs are connected to a hardware which is battery-operated. Such methods of on-site testing and diagnoses have been employed by companies like Cepheid and Mesa Biotech. However, their machines require a trip to the lab, which are expensive and shoot up the testing costs. The only edge this new testing method has over pre-existing modes is its cost-friendliness, for it runs on hardware that is not exorbitantly priced. The best part: it can test up to six people at one go! Such ready-to-go tests could help decrease the panic across all professional arenas. Also read: Not the 'Chinese virus' or 'Wuhan virus', only coronavirus: China What makes it different from other testing methods? Similar tests have been developed and are currently in use across Europe and China. However, those have a drawback: they only respond to the presence of antibodies, ie, their diagnosis is based on the body’s reaction to the virus. However, this test, can effectively identify viral DNA even in the absence of antibodies, which makes it more reliable. With many organisations claiming that dormant carriers (asymptomatic patients) can use this to ascertain their status and avoid risking infection to at-risk groups. With no clear idea of how many dormant carriers are responsible for the transmission, this could provide some really useful data on the transmission of COVID-19.

Could new testing kits solve the mystery of COVID-19 transmission by silent carriers?

A day after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package for the poor of the country, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Friday asked all lending institutions to allow a three-month moratorium on EMI payments to infuse liquidity into the system as the economy grapples with COVID-19 challenges.

The RBI Governor in a press conference announced that all non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and housing finance companies (HFCs) have been permitted to allow a moratorium of 3 months on repayment of term loans outstanding on March 1, 2020.

It has also allowed banks for deferment of interest on working capital loans for the next three months - until June 2020.

"These are extraordinary circumstances, and unprecedented measures are required to support the sagging economy as all the economic activities have come to a halt," Governor Shaktikanta Das said in the press conference.

The liquidity measures announced by the RBI will make available a total Rs 3,74,000 crore to the country's financial system.

&nbsp;Das said that the deferment on loan and interest repayments will not be classified as defaults and will not impact the credit history of borrowers.

(with inputs from agencies)

A day after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package for the poor of the country, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Friday asked all lending institutions to allow a three-month moratorium on EMI payments to infuse liquidity into the system as the economy grapples with COVID-19 challenges.

A day after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharman announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore relief package for the poor of the country, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Friday asked all lending institutions to allow a three-month moratorium on EMI payments to infuse liquidity into the system as the economy grapples with COVID-19 challenges. The RBI Governor in a press conference announced that all non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and housing finance companies (HFCs) have been permitted to allow a moratorium of 3 months on repayment of term loans outstanding on March 1, 2020. It has also allowed banks for deferment of interest on working capital loans for the next three months - until June 2020. "These are extraordinary circumstances, and unprecedented measures are required to support the sagging economy as all the economic activities have come to a halt," Governor Shaktikanta Das said in the press conference. The liquidity measures announced by the RBI will make available a total Rs 3,74,000 crore to the country's financial system. Das said that the deferment on loan and interest repayments will not be classified as defaults and will not impact the credit history of borrowers. (with inputs from agencies)

Reserve Bank of India asks lending firms to allow 3-month moratorium on EMI payments to offset coronavirus impact

A war bunker situated in the Jerusalem hills has been reopened by the Government of Israel as a back-up facility if the coronavirus crisis deepens in the country.

The bunker, “National Management Centre” as it is officially called was built ten years ago, Reuters reported. This was at the peak of worries about Iran’s nuclear programme and its increasing contact with Hezbollah, the Lebanese Islamist movement and a Palestinian militant group, Hamas.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shifting-discourse-mexican-protesters-demand-blanket-closure-of-border-with-us-as-covid-19-cases-rise-288868" hreflang="en">Shifting discourse? Mexican protesters demand blanket closure of border with US as COVID-19 cases rise</a>

The facility has living quarters and facilities of command, which can be directly accessed from the government complex in Jerusalem.

“This (bunker) is another tool for managing, controlling, oversight and tracking the coronavirus",an Israeli official who requested anonymity told Reuters.&nbsp;

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“We understand that this crisis will accompany us for an extended period of time yet”, the source further said.

However, Naftali Bennett, the Defence Minister, during an interview on radio said that the bunker is irrelevant to the crisis.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-to-categorise-american-counties-based-on-coronavirus-risk-288855" hreflang="en">White House to categorise American counties based on coronavirus risk</a>

“We are not under a missile attack that would require us to be underground”, Bennett said.

Earlier, the Israeli Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz joked about the bunker on the radio. “The bunker protects from bombs, not microbes”, he had&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

3,035 Israelis have so far tested positive for the coronavirus, with the majority of cases mild and 79 recoveries. Ten patients have died and 49 are critical.

A war bunker situated in the Jerusalem hills has been reopened by the Government of Israel as a back-up facility if the coronavirus crisis deepens in the country.

A war bunker situated in the Jerusalem hills has been reopened by the Government of Israel as a back-up facility if the coronavirus crisis deepens in the country. The bunker, “National Management Centre” as it is officially called was built ten years ago, Reuters reported. This was at the peak of worries about Iran’s nuclear programme and its increasing contact with Hezbollah, the Lebanese Islamist movement and a Palestinian militant group, Hamas. Also read: Shifting discourse? Mexican protesters demand blanket closure of border with US as COVID-19 cases rise The facility has living quarters and facilities of command, which can be directly accessed from the government complex in Jerusalem. “This (bunker) is another tool for managing, controlling, oversight and tracking the coronavirus",an Israeli official who requested anonymity told Reuters. “We understand that this crisis will accompany us for an extended period of time yet”, the source further said. However, Naftali Bennett, the Defence Minister, during an interview on radio said that the bunker is irrelevant to the crisis. Also read: White House to categorise American counties based on coronavirus risk “We are not under a missile attack that would require us to be underground”, Bennett said. Earlier, the Israeli Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz joked about the bunker on the radio. “The bunker protects from bombs, not microbes”, he had said. 3,035 Israelis have so far tested positive for the coronavirus, with the majority of cases mild and 79 recoveries. Ten patients have died and 49 are critical.

Israel to reopen war bunker as a coronavirus containment zone?

Chinese warships have been buzzing around the Strait of Taiwan. Taiwan's leader Tsai Ing-wen has raised an alarm about China's military manoeuvres. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you why military escalation during a pandemic may prove disastrous.

Gravitas: China flexing military muscle in Taiwan

Some world leaders continue to call the Wuhan Coronavirus a 'flu' and are downplaying the severity of this disease. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you a list of the high-profile deniers.

Gravitas: Exposing the Coronavirus deniers

More than four lakh people around the world have been infected with the coronavirus. In this special report, WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you personal accounts of the patients & the doctors fighting the deadly disease.

Gravitas: Coronavirus: Voices of Patients & Doctors

pandemic

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