According to Morgan Stanley, the US economy is all set to shrink 5.5% in 2020. This would be the the worst decline since 1946.

COVID-19: US economy stares at worst fall since 1946

while addressing the leaders of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) member states, Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed the creation of a novel coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Fund for SAARC.

5 Indian Medical teams on standby to help SAARC countries

The United States recorded 1,169 deaths from COVID-19 in last 24 hours, which is the worst 24-hour death toll since the pandemic began. The total number of people who have died since the start of the pandemic in the United States is over 7,000.

COVID-19 death toll in NY more than 9/11 fatalities

The global battle to acquire supplies | Coronavirus News | COVID-19 cases Individual governments have defended decisions to keep medical equipment at home, arguing they must take care of their medical workers and patients first

The global battle to acquire supplies

The Wuhan Coronavirus has ushered in a series of behavioral changes that may outlive the pandemic. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how urban life will be like once the virus is gone.

Gravitas: Coronavirus: What will life after pandemic be like?

An intranasal vacccine for COVID-19 is under development by Indian pharma company Bharat Biotech. It announced yesterday that a unique intranasal vacccine named 'CoroFlu' is under development.

Indian pharma begins development and testing of COVID-19 vaccine

As the reported cases of domestic violence against women continue to rise globally, with more people staying in their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, Europe has found a way to deal with it: in secret!

Many people are now trapped with their abusive partners due to the globally enforced shutdowns, whereby movement is allowed only to fetch essential supplies.

While many are too afraid to call the police owing to potential repercussions, women have found a new technique: using a code word.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/global-rise-in-domestic-violence-cases-as-covid-19-lockdown-turns-into-captivity-for-many-women-290213" hreflang="en">Global rise in domestic violence cases as Covid-19 lockdown turns into captivity for many women</a>

As reported across Spain and France, which are now recording high cases of the virus, women who say the codeword “mask 19” to a pharmacist can protect themselves.

As reported by CNN, a woman in the French city of Nancy went to a pharmacy, and soon after, her abusive partner was arrested by the police.

French authorities are now asking victims to go to the pharmacy in case they need protection against their abusers.

The world has witnessed a spike in domestic violence, be it Australia, India, or Europe. As people’s regular lives are abruptly disrupted, partners become abusive. There are many studies in place that underline the increase in aggressive behaviour during stressful events, such as a global pandemic, with a cloud of uncertainty!&nbsp;

As reported by CNN, similar patterns of spike in abuse were recorded during the 2008 economic crisis, during times of natural calamities, and somehow also during big sporting events!

According to Christophe Castaner, the French Interior Minister, there has been a 36 per cent increase in cases of domestic violence that required police intervention, in Paris alone!

The French government acted quickly, and has offered to pay for 20,000 nights in a hotel room.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/domestic-violence-cases-in-australia-shoot-up-amid-coronavirus-induced-lockdown-pm-announces-relief-package-289408" hreflang="en">Domestic violence cases in Australia shoot up amid coronavirus-induced lockdown, PM announces relief package</a>

However, as most emergency services have been mitigated to deal with the COVID-19 crisis, the fear of not delivering help to victims in time has overtaken the narrative.

Away from Europe, Australia recorded most domestic violence- related searches in the last five years on Google, an approximate increase of 75 per cent.

An additional aid of US $92 million was introduced to help victims of domestic violence in the midst of the pandemic.

As the reported cases of domestic violence against women continue to rise globally, with more people staying in their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, Europe has found a way to deal with it: in secret!

As the reported cases of domestic violence against women continue to rise globally, with more people staying in their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, Europe has found a way to deal with it: in secret! Many people are now trapped with their abusive partners due to the globally enforced shutdowns, whereby movement is allowed only to fetch essential supplies. While many are too afraid to call the police owing to potential repercussions, women have found a new technique: using a code word. Also read: Global rise in domestic violence cases as Covid-19 lockdown turns into captivity for many women As reported across Spain and France, which are now recording high cases of the virus, women who say the codeword “mask 19” to a pharmacist can protect themselves. As reported by CNN, a woman in the French city of Nancy went to a pharmacy, and soon after, her abusive partner was arrested by the police. French authorities are now asking victims to go to the pharmacy in case they need protection against their abusers. The world has witnessed a spike in domestic violence, be it Australia, India, or Europe. As people’s regular lives are abruptly disrupted, partners become abusive. There are many studies in place that underline the increase in aggressive behaviour during stressful events, such as a global pandemic, with a cloud of uncertainty! As reported by CNN, similar patterns of spike in abuse were recorded during the 2008 economic crisis, during times of natural calamities, and somehow also during big sporting events! According to Christophe Castaner, the French Interior Minister, there has been a 36 per cent increase in cases of domestic violence that required police intervention, in Paris alone! The French government acted quickly, and has offered to pay for 20,000 nights in a hotel room. Also read: Domestic violence cases in Australia shoot up amid coronavirus-induced lockdown, PM announces relief package However, as most emergency services have been mitigated to deal with the COVID-19 crisis, the fear of not delivering help to victims in time has overtaken the narrative. Away from Europe, Australia recorded most domestic violence- related searches in the last five years on Google, an approximate increase of 75 per cent. An additional aid of US $92 million was introduced to help victims of domestic violence in the midst of the pandemic.

As domestic violence against women soars due to lockdown, Europe tries something new!

Coronavirus has taken the lives of over 2,900 people in the UK, with more than 33,700 infected. UK has reported 569 people dead in 24 hours.

Coronavirus Pandemic: UK records highest deaths in 24 hours

Designers in Germany are finding ways to make mask wearing more appealing. Munich-based designer Pia Bolte, is producing a selection of colourful masks, also has a slogan selection with the very popular: 'fuck the virus' design.

German designers' make special masks with a message

Our lives have changed so much since the coronavirus outbreak. From the way we buy our food to how we pay for it. The coronavirus has ushered in a series of behaviour changes and most of them are likely to outlive the pandemic and it takes 21 days to build a habit.

Here’s what our urban life will look like after the coronavirus pandemic.

E-commerce: The pandemic is changing people's purchasing behaviour more consumers are relying on e-commerce platforms. Be it milk, bread or flowers — the orders are all being placed online.&nbsp; 
 
<img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/12/27/79044-untitled-design.jpg?itok=fQIlgF3E" />

There is a rise in traffic, despite shipment delays e-commerce platforms may be struggling to meet the demand, but in the long term, they stand to gain.&nbsp;

Drone delivery: In the absence of delivery agents, packages are being flown to customers. Drone deliveries are soaring to new heights. Strict aviation norms had clipped the wings of this sector. Despite a 300 million dollar-investment, drone deliveries had not taken off. 
<img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/03/31/135140-untitled-design-2.jpg?itok=h-6pZmHc" /> 
 
The coronavirus has finally unleashed its potential. From Rwanda to China drones are helping millions survive the lockdown.

Digital payments: What government diktats couldn't achieve, the pandemic has made possible. The coronavirus has ushered in a rise in digital payments. 
<img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/16261-gettyimages-474239686-20161227015857.jpg?itok=JXrJZ7dT" /> 
People are wary of touching and exchanging currency so they are resorting to online payments.

Online conferencing: What people are also doing online is meeting and catching up with friends. Online conferences have become a lockdown hit. From governments to private companies to NGOs. 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/03/26/134459-untitled-design-16.jpg?itok=_dr041PN" /> 
Once people realise that work can be done just as well by meeting online, it's unlikely that they would like to drive down to meeting rooms.

E-learning: Online learning has gone viral. Classrooms have moved to the world wide web and it comes with its own set of perks. Self-discipline, schedule flexibility and personalisation — to name a few. As many countries step into a new academic year, schools may want to shift more of their curriculum online.

Wearable health monitors: There has been a rise in wearable health monitors. Sure, they have been around for a long time. But now, more people are feeling the need to monitor every potential physiological change. 
<img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/25914-untitled%25252520design%25252520%2525287%252529-20170714065430.jpg?itok=yr0s_qul" /> 
It comes with two benefits.first, the assurance that your body is alright and second, if something is amiss— you can be alerted at the earliest possible.

3D manufacturing: Another sector that has been of great help in this pandemic. is 3D manufacturing.From masks to ventilator parts. They are all being made through 3D&nbsp;printers. <img src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/03/20/133800-untitled-design.jpg?itok=XzPZCmAs" /> 
There are travel restrictions. People are working from home and there's a shortage of raw material. In times like these, the 3D manufacturing community has become a saviour in disguise.

Our lives have changed so much since the coronavirus outbreak. From the way we buy our food to how we pay for it. The coronavirus has ushered in a series of behaviour changes and most of them are likely to outlive the pandemic and it takes 21 days to build a habit.

Our lives have changed so much since the coronavirus outbreak. From the way we buy our food to how we pay for it. The coronavirus has ushered in a series of behaviour changes and most of them are likely to outlive the pandemic and it takes 21 days to build a habit. Here’s what our urban life will look like after the coronavirus pandemic. E-commerce: The pandemic is changing people's purchasing behaviour more consumers are relying on e-commerce platforms. Be it milk, bread or flowers — the orders are all being placed online. There is a rise in traffic, despite shipment delays e-commerce platforms may be struggling to meet the demand, but in the long term, they stand to gain. Drone delivery: In the absence of delivery agents, packages are being flown to customers. Drone deliveries are soaring to new heights. Strict aviation norms had clipped the wings of this sector. Despite a 300 million dollar-investment, drone deliveries had not taken off. The coronavirus has finally unleashed its potential. From Rwanda to China drones are helping millions survive the lockdown. Digital payments: What government diktats couldn't achieve, the pandemic has made possible. The coronavirus has ushered in a rise in digital payments. People are wary of touching and exchanging currency so they are resorting to online payments. Online conferencing: What people are also doing online is meeting and catching up with friends. Online conferences have become a lockdown hit. From governments to private companies to NGOs. Once people realise that work can be done just as well by meeting online, it's unlikely that they would like to drive down to meeting rooms. E-learning: Online learning has gone viral. Classrooms have moved to the world wide web and it comes with its own set of perks. Self-discipline, schedule flexibility and personalisation — to name a few. As many countries step into a new academic year, schools may want to shift more of their curriculum online. Wearable health monitors: There has been a rise in wearable health monitors. Sure, they have been around for a long time. But now, more people are feeling the need to monitor every potential physiological change. It comes with two benefits.first, the assurance that your body is alright and second, if something is amiss— you can be alerted at the earliest possible. 3D manufacturing: Another sector that has been of great help in this pandemic. is 3D manufacturing.From masks to ventilator parts. They are all being made through 3D printers. There are travel restrictions. People are working from home and there's a shortage of raw material. In times like these, the 3D manufacturing community has become a saviour in disguise.

Here’s what our urban life will look like after the coronavirus pandemic

What exactly is the journey it undertakes once a person catches the infection? We explain to you here:

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease. A type of coronavirus causes COVID-19.It spreads through droplets that are released into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus then enters the body through the mouth, nose or eyes.

The viral particles begin their journey by travelling to the nasal passages&nbsp;and to the membranes lining the back of the throat. Each cell that gets infected can generate copies of the virus before it dies. Millions of copies of the virus can get created.

The virus then makes its way through the bronchial tubes. &nbsp;and reaches the lungs. At this point. the mucous membranes of the lungs become inflamed. The infection can also spread to other parts of the body apart from the lungs. Cells in the gastrointestinal system can also be affected if the virus travels through the mucous membranes from the nose to the rectum. Diarrhoea and indigestion have been recorded as symptoms in some cases.

The liver can get inflamed as well. As the novel coronavirus continues to attack the lung cells. It can damage the lung sacs and hamper the ability of the lungs to supply oxygen. The infection can cause fluids and dead cells to build up in the lungs leading to pneumonia. This means the patient has difficulty breathing. and might need ventilator support.

In severe cases, the infection can cause what's called acute respiratory distress syndrome when the lungs get filled with too much fluid and the patient cannot survive.

What exactly is the journey it undertakes once a person catches the infection? We explain to you here: COVID-19 is a respiratory disease. A type of coronavirus causes COVID-19.

What exactly is the journey it undertakes once a person catches the infection? We explain to you here: COVID-19 is a respiratory disease. A type of coronavirus causes COVID-19.It spreads through droplets that are released into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus then enters the body through the mouth, nose or eyes. The viral particles begin their journey by travelling to the nasal passages and to the membranes lining the back of the throat. Each cell that gets infected can generate copies of the virus before it dies. Millions of copies of the virus can get created. The virus then makes its way through the bronchial tubes. and reaches the lungs. At this point. the mucous membranes of the lungs become inflamed. The infection can also spread to other parts of the body apart from the lungs. Cells in the gastrointestinal system can also be affected if the virus travels through the mucous membranes from the nose to the rectum. Diarrhoea and indigestion have been recorded as symptoms in some cases. The liver can get inflamed as well. As the novel coronavirus continues to attack the lung cells. It can damage the lung sacs and hamper the ability of the lungs to supply oxygen. The infection can cause fluids and dead cells to build up in the lungs leading to pneumonia. This means the patient has difficulty breathing. and might need ventilator support. In severe cases, the infection can cause what's called acute respiratory distress syndrome when the lungs get filled with too much fluid and the patient cannot survive.

How does the coronavirus impact your body?

The UK recently announced plans to test 100,000 people everyday by the end of this month.

However, as of now, the country has not even met the target of conducting 25,000 tests per day.

Additionally, Boris Johnson, who himself tested positive for the virus has vowed to improve testing in the country, amid criticism that the country is simply not conducting enough tests compared to other countries at a similar stage of the epidemic.

So far, the virus has taken the lives of over 2,921 people in the UK, with 569 deaths recorded just on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finland-enlists-social-media-influencers-to-fight-covid-19-misinformation-290275" hreflang="en">Finland enlists social media influencers to fight COVID-19 misinformation</a>

The British Medical Association (BMA) recently came up with a controversial set of “ethics guidelines”. As per this, older patients who may not survive the virus will not receive guaranteed treatment. In essence, the ventilators will be allotted to healthier patients.

Older, sicker patients could be in for a harder time amid equipment shortages. As has been the global pattern, the younger and healthier will be favoured, while the rest will simply be left to die, given the shortage of ventilators.

<h6><img alt="ppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d4f8fbcf-de81-44e0-b72c-c2bf8290b631" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_118.jpg" /> 
UK PM Boris Johnson | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

As per BMA guidelines, doctors will need to make “grave decisions” about who should receive “scarce lifesaving resources” as the country’s health system gets overwhelmed everyday.

"As such, some of the most unwell patients may be denied access to treatment such as intensive care or artificial ventilation," the BMA's ethics guidance note states.

"This will inevitably be indirectly discriminatory against both the elderly and those with long-term health conditions, with the latter being denied access to life-saving treatment as a result of their pre-existing health problems", it added.

An age cut-off for treatment?

Even though an age cut-off cannot be enforced, for it would be illegal, older patients with pre-existing conditions will not be given priority for care, especially ones with existing respiratory issues.&nbsp;

As per the statement, people with a "very high chance of dying despite intensive care” will not be prioritised for admission.

The UK government had earlier warned that the country’s system could be overburdened if social distancing measures were not followed strictly.

A convention centre in London is being converted into a huge hospital, and could become the biggest intensive care unit in the country.

Additionally, a temporary mortuary is being built in east London, with the numbers increasing everyday.

Testing rates in the country have remained dismal amid increased calls to improve the mechanism.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-records-highest-one-day-covid-19-death-toll-with-1169-fatalities-290246" hreflang="en">United States records highest one-day COVID-19 death toll with 1,169 fatalities</a>

"We acknowledge that more needs to be done in relation to testing. We need to be testing more people and we need to be making progress very quickly," a government spokesperson told CNN.

The Chief Medical Officer, Chris Whitty on Wednesday claimed that the country did not have “sufficient testing” capabilities to identify cases, adding that there was a “global shortage” of tests.

Additionally, medical personnel have raised concerns regarding PPEs and supplies running low.

However, the government expressed confidence over procuring more equipment.

The UK recently announced plans to test 100,000 people everyday by the end of this month. However, as of now, the country has not even met the target of conducting 25,000 tests per day.

The UK recently announced plans to test 100,000 people everyday by the end of this month. However, as of now, the country has not even met the target of conducting 25,000 tests per day. Additionally, Boris Johnson, who himself tested positive for the virus has vowed to improve testing in the country, amid criticism that the country is simply not conducting enough tests compared to other countries at a similar stage of the epidemic. So far, the virus has taken the lives of over 2,921 people in the UK, with 569 deaths recorded just on Wednesday. Also read: Finland enlists social media influencers to fight COVID-19 misinformation The British Medical Association (BMA) recently came up with a controversial set of “ethics guidelines”. As per this, older patients who may not survive the virus will not receive guaranteed treatment. In essence, the ventilators will be allotted to healthier patients. Older, sicker patients could be in for a harder time amid equipment shortages. As has been the global pattern, the younger and healthier will be favoured, while the rest will simply be left to die, given the shortage of ventilators. UK PM Boris Johnson | AFP As per BMA guidelines, doctors will need to make “grave decisions” about who should receive “scarce lifesaving resources” as the country’s health system gets overwhelmed everyday. "As such, some of the most unwell patients may be denied access to treatment such as intensive care or artificial ventilation," the BMA's ethics guidance note states. "This will inevitably be indirectly discriminatory against both the elderly and those with long-term health conditions, with the latter being denied access to life-saving treatment as a result of their pre-existing health problems", it added. An age cut-off for treatment? Even though an age cut-off cannot be enforced, for it would be illegal, older patients with pre-existing conditions will not be given priority for care, especially ones with existing respiratory issues. As per the statement, people with a "very high chance of dying despite intensive care” will not be prioritised for admission. The UK government had earlier warned that the country’s system could be overburdened if social distancing measures were not followed strictly. A convention centre in London is being converted into a huge hospital, and could become the biggest intensive care unit in the country. Additionally, a temporary mortuary is being built in east London, with the numbers increasing everyday. Testing rates in the country have remained dismal amid increased calls to improve the mechanism. Also read: United States records highest one-day COVID-19 death toll with 1,169 fatalities "We acknowledge that more needs to be done in relation to testing. We need to be testing more people and we need to be making progress very quickly," a government spokesperson told CNN. The Chief Medical Officer, Chris Whitty on Wednesday claimed that the country did not have “sufficient testing” capabilities to identify cases, adding that there was a “global shortage” of tests. Additionally, medical personnel have raised concerns regarding PPEs and supplies running low. However, the government expressed confidence over procuring more equipment.

An age cut-off for coronavirus treatment? UK's plans stir anger!

Repeat, repeat, repeat until you succeed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi intensified his public outreach amidst growing coronavirus concerns and the lack of awareness about the pandemic.

Repeat, repeat, repeat until you succeed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi intensified his public outreach amidst growing coronavirus concerns and the lack of awareness about the pandemic. It wasn’t an easy task to spread awareness among a population of 130 billion, at the same time avoid creating any panic. The key to the outreach programme was harnessing every mass media platform, activating influencers and repeat messaging of “social distancing”. Not only did PM Narendra Modi make calls to all CMs, healthcare workers, stakeholders from Electronic & print media, sportspeople, etc., he has also been actively promoting initiatives on coronavirus through tweets. A video messsage to my fellow Indians. https://t.co/rcS97tTFrH — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 3, 2020 × Prime Minister Modi has been successfully promoting the idea of the fight against Coronavirus as a social and national movement among the people. His call to appreciate Healthcare Workers by applauding them during Janata Curfew was widely accepted across the nation. The suit was followed by other nations like the UK, France, the US, etc. where people came out in their balconies and applauded healthcare and security personnel for working on front-line against the pandemic. It all started with a tweet on March 4th when Prime Minister tweeted and announced that he will not be taking part in Holi events this year. In a tweet, he said, "Experts across the world have advised reducing mass gatherings to avoid the spread of COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus. Hence, this year I have decided not to participate in any Holi Milan programme." Experts across the world have advised to reduce mass gatherings to avoid the spread of COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus. Hence, this year I have decided not to participate in any Holi Milan programme. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 4, 2020 × Since then, Prime Minister Modi has done five addresses to the nation on coronavirus, every time repeating the importance of “social distancing” and consequences for not following it. Four out of five times, Prime Minister Modi addressed the nation with a television address and once on “Mann Ki Baat” on the radio. He has also been actively engaging with people on Twitter where has a massive following of 54.8 million followers. Prime Minister Modi has been very careful in choosing the platforms and also, making the best use of every platform to increase his outreach among people and spread awareness about Coronavirus. Coronavirus, the pandemic has now infected more than 1 million people in more than 180 countries and killed more than 54 thousand people, according to John Hopkins University which has been tracking COVID-19 cases. According to the survey conducted by BARC and data measurement firm Nielson, amid the lockdown, television consumption has seen a 37% spike across India, with 622 million watching TV daily for 4 hours 40 minutes. Also, users are now spending 3.8 hours per day on their smartphones, resulting in a spike of 12% of the time spent on smartphones. The report is titled Crisis Consumption: An Insights Series Into TV, Smartphones, and Audiences. The report also suggests how people want to stay informed thus making News as the biggest beneficiary with a 298% surge in viewership. The data indicates why the Prime Minister chose Television as one of the Primary mediums to connect with people. Apart from social media and Television, Prime Minister has also been consistently connecting with people through his monthly radio address with, Mann ki Baat. Through, 'Mann Ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with people across the country on a range of important subjects. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday sought the nation's forgiveness for imposing a monumental lockdown on the country but said "we have to win ... and we will win the battle" against the unprecedented menace of coronavirus that has claimed more than 56 lives in India till now. There is a reason why PM chose “Mann Ki Baat” to apologize for the strict measures he took. The reason is its the reach and impact of Prime Minister’s Narendra Modi’s monthly radio broadcast ‘Mann Ki Baat. According to a multi-platform survey conducted by ‘Aakashwani’ in 2018, about 70.8% of the total respondents, or about 7 in every 10 people said, they have listened to Mann Ki Baat.” PM's mass messaging was just not about the mediums but also the vast cross-section of society that the Prime Minister has been addressing. Till now, Prime Minister has engaged with more than a dozen different sections of society from CMs of all states on the 20th of March to today’s video conferencing with sportspersons. In a series of meetings via video conference PM has already met CMs of all states, leaders of Pharma Industry, stakeholders in electronic and print media, stakeholders of leading industries, medical fraternity, radio jockeys, AYUSH practitioners, spiritual leaders, sportspersons, etc. Meeting with influencers of each sector has a captive audience that Prime Minister tried to reach through them. Amid all this, Prime Minister Modi also made a massive global outreach, having spoken to world leaders including Prime Minister of UK, Israel, and Kuwait. He also spoke with Presidents of France, Russia, Afghanistan, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. His outreach also included phone calls to the Crown Princes of Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi. He also initiated a virtual SAARC Summit on the 13th of March and proposed the creation of a COVID-19 Emergency Fund based on voluntary contributions from all the countries, with India making an initial offer of US $10 million for the fund. Then on March 17th, Prime Minister Modi while speaking with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the current G-20 chair, proposed a virtual G-20 leadership meet. PM Modi earlier proposed the same idea to Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia, another G-20 member. The online G-20 session took place on March 26. Prime Minister Modi’s globally-focused approach makes a certain sense. New Delhi is not hesitant to take the lead while fighting a global pandemic. Every time the Indian Prime Minister initiated a meeting or video conference or address to the nation or a global outreach, he kept on repeating the message of how the fight with coronavirus can’t be fought individually. It has to be fought while staying together, staying informed and spreading the word of “social distancing”, not the deadly virus.

PM Modi fighting the coronavirus battle with 'sustained communication'

A day after a marginal dip, the COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu touched the three-figure mark again on Friday with 102 people, almost all returnees from Tablighi Jamat meet in Delhi, testing positive, taking the tally in the state to 411.

The fresh cases included 100 people who attended the religious congregation in Nizamuddin area of Delhi, which has become the country's biggest hotspot for the deadly virus, the state government said while maintaining that there was no community transmission as of now.

Of the 3,684 samples sent for testing so far, 411 have tested positive for the virus while 2,789 were negative and 484 samples under process, Health Minister C Vijayabaskar said in a tweet.

Tamil Nadu has the second-highest number of COVID-19 cases after Maharashtra which had 423 patients as of Thursday.

Of the total cases, as many as 364 among those who had attended the Delhi meeting last month have tested positive for coronavirus, the government said as it continued the massive contact tracing and containment efforts to check the spread.

In all, samples of 1,103 people from the state who attended, had been sent for testing and all of them have been isolated.

This is the third straight day Tamil Nadu has witnessed a surge in the number of positive cases since the Jamat returnees in the state were brought under the scanner after several deaths were reported in Telangana and other places.

On Wednesday, the state reported 110 positive cases and on Thursday there was a moderate drop to 75 with all but one being returnees from the Tablighi congregation.

Health Secretary Beela Rajesh on Friday told reporters here that of the 102 who tested positive, 100 were Jamat meet returnees, another man had come back from the US and the source for one more person was being ascertained.

To a question on a claim that some had walked away from COVID-19 treatment facilities, she said the government was not aware of any such incident and added adequate police security has been put in place.

All positive patients were stable, none requiring even intensive care and so far there has been one death, she said.

Given the rising number of cases, the government is vigorously implementing containment plan without waiting for a cluster of cases to emerge.

As part of the exercise, 376 samples of people with severe acute respiratory infection was analysed and out of it three tested positive who had contact and it only shows that there was no community transmission of the virus, she said.

More field personnel were being engaged in the containment exercise with the rise in cases and the work includes door to door surveillance as well and lakhs of people have been covered so far, she said.

Considering the number of cases, the top official said self-isolation and social distancing must be followed effectively by people and especially vulnerable sections like those with chronic ailments and immune-compromised conditions must be even more careful.

The government has considered the plea of some positive patients to take treatment in private hospitals and they may do so if they wish, she said adding only up to four were being treated in private facilities as of now in the state.

The active surveillance is on in both the containment (five kilometres around the residences of those infected) and buffer zones (an additional two to three-kilometre radius transcending the containment area) to ascertain those with symptoms like fever.

While 86,342 people are under home quarantine, as many as 105 are in government quarantine facilities.

A day after a marginal dip, the COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu touched the three-figure mark again on Friday with 102 people, almost all returnees from Tablighi Jamat meet in Delhi, testing positive, taking the tally in the state to 411.

A day after a marginal dip, the COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu touched the three-figure mark again on Friday with 102 people, almost all returnees from Tablighi Jamat meet in Delhi, testing positive, taking the tally in the state to 411. The fresh cases included 100 people who attended the religious congregation in Nizamuddin area of Delhi, which has become the country's biggest hotspot for the deadly virus, the state government said while maintaining that there was no community transmission as of now. Of the 3,684 samples sent for testing so far, 411 have tested positive for the virus while 2,789 were negative and 484 samples under process, Health Minister C Vijayabaskar said in a tweet. Tamil Nadu has the second-highest number of COVID-19 cases after Maharashtra which had 423 patients as of Thursday. Of the total cases, as many as 364 among those who had attended the Delhi meeting last month have tested positive for coronavirus, the government said as it continued the massive contact tracing and containment efforts to check the spread. In all, samples of 1,103 people from the state who attended, had been sent for testing and all of them have been isolated. This is the third straight day Tamil Nadu has witnessed a surge in the number of positive cases since the Jamat returnees in the state were brought under the scanner after several deaths were reported in Telangana and other places. On Wednesday, the state reported 110 positive cases and on Thursday there was a moderate drop to 75 with all but one being returnees from the Tablighi congregation. Health Secretary Beela Rajesh on Friday told reporters here that of the 102 who tested positive, 100 were Jamat meet returnees, another man had come back from the US and the source for one more person was being ascertained. To a question on a claim that some had walked away from COVID-19 treatment facilities, she said the government was not aware of any such incident and added adequate police security has been put in place. All positive patients were stable, none requiring even intensive care and so far there has been one death, she said. Given the rising number of cases, the government is vigorously implementing containment plan without waiting for a cluster of cases to emerge. As part of the exercise, 376 samples of people with severe acute respiratory infection was analysed and out of it three tested positive who had contact and it only shows that there was no community transmission of the virus, she said. More field personnel were being engaged in the containment exercise with the rise in cases and the work includes door to door surveillance as well and lakhs of people have been covered so far, she said. Considering the number of cases, the top official said self-isolation and social distancing must be followed effectively by people and especially vulnerable sections like those with chronic ailments and immune-compromised conditions must be even more careful. The government has considered the plea of some positive patients to take treatment in private hospitals and they may do so if they wish, she said adding only up to four were being treated in private facilities as of now in the state. The active surveillance is on in both the containment (five kilometres around the residences of those infected) and buffer zones (an additional two to three-kilometre radius transcending the containment area) to ascertain those with symptoms like fever. While 86,342 people are under home quarantine, as many as 105 are in government quarantine facilities.

Tamil Nadu reports 102 more COVID-19 cases, total 411

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Friday said that India has reported 336 new cases of COVID-19 taking the national tally to 2547 with 62&nbsp;deaths.

Addressing the daily press meet on deadly COVID-19, Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry said that from yesterday till today 336 additional cases of COVID-19 have come before us.&nbsp; 
 
The union health ministry has placed the total number of cases at 2547 and the death toll at 62. The ministry said that 163 people have so far recovered from the infection.&nbsp;

"If we look at cases related to Tableeghi Jamaat, in last 2 days around 647 confirmed cases related to it found in 14 states-Andaman &amp; Nicobar, Assam, Delhi, Himachal, Haryana, J&amp;K, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttarakhand &amp; UP," he added.

"Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has appealed to patients &amp; their families not to create any obstacle in the path of doctors while they discharge their duties. He also expressed concerns over misbehaviour with doctors &amp; medical staff," he said.

Replying to a question on violence against health workers Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry said that Ministry of Home Affairs has written to state governments to take strict action in cases of attack on healthcare &amp; frontline workers &amp; ensure the security to the medical fraternity.

There were seven helpline numbers in the control room of the Union Home Ministry. Now, we have introduced two more helpline numbers - 1930 (all India tollfree number) &amp; 1944 (dedicated to Northeast)" Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry

Meanwhile, the number of COVID19 cases reaches 411 including seven discharged people in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

"1,580 COVID-19 infected &amp; possibly infected people are admitted to different hospitals in the state," said Tamil Nadu Health Minister C VIjayabaskar.

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Friday said that India has reported 336 new cases of COVID-19 taking the national tally to 2547 with 62 deaths. Addressing the daily press meet on deadly COVID-19, Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry said that from yesterday till today 336 additional cases of COVID-19 have come before us.

The Ministry of Health and Family Affairs on Friday said that India has reported 336 new cases of COVID-19 taking the national tally to 2547 with 62 deaths. Addressing the daily press meet on deadly COVID-19, Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry said that from yesterday till today 336 additional cases of COVID-19 have come before us. The union health ministry has placed the total number of cases at 2547 and the death toll at 62. The ministry said that 163 people have so far recovered from the infection. "If we look at cases related to Tableeghi Jamaat, in last 2 days around 647 confirmed cases related to it found in 14 states-Andaman & Nicobar, Assam, Delhi, Himachal, Haryana, J&K, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttarakhand & UP," he added. "Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has appealed to patients & their families not to create any obstacle in the path of doctors while they discharge their duties. He also expressed concerns over misbehaviour with doctors & medical staff," he said. Replying to a question on violence against health workers Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry said that Ministry of Home Affairs has written to state governments to take strict action in cases of attack on healthcare & frontline workers & ensure the security to the medical fraternity. There were seven helpline numbers in the control room of the Union Home Ministry. Now, we have introduced two more helpline numbers - 1930 (all India tollfree number) & 1944 (dedicated to Northeast)" Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Home Ministry Meanwhile, the number of COVID19 cases reaches 411 including seven discharged people in Tamil Nadu. "1,580 COVID-19 infected & possibly infected people are admitted to different hospitals in the state," said Tamil Nadu Health Minister C VIjayabaskar.

647 confirmed cases linked to Tablighi Jamaat in 14 states, says Health Ministry

As the world comes up with creative ways to counter the COVID-19 pandemic, countries like Finland are pooling in existing social capital to contain it.

Social influencers, or people with social media clout, have been enlisted by the Finnish government to help reach a bigger audience during the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-records-highest-one-day-covid-19-death-toll-with-1169-fatalities-290246">United States records highest one-day COVID-19 death toll with 1,169 fatalities</a>

“We can reach a large part of the public in Finland through official communications and traditional media, but it’s clear the authorities’ messaging doesn’t always reach all population groups,” the government communications director, Päivi Anttikoski, told The Guardian.

With this, the country hopes to reach more people and further fight misinformation. So far, Finland is the only country in the world which has designated social media influencers as “critical operators”. Other critical operators include doctors, bus drivers, and supermarket workers.&nbsp;

Finland’s 34-year-old Prime Minister Sanna Marin, in collaboration with a social media consultancy, alongside a network of media companies, intends to reach social media moguls and further accentuate the penetration of reliable information.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-have-rich-countries-disappointed-the-poor-290245" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: Have rich countries disappointed the poor?</a>

As per Politico, government announcements are edited to fit the social media format. After this, they’re sent to 1,500 influencers.&nbsp;

“It’s about supporting social media influencers in sharing reliable information related to the coronavirus, and helping ensure that the right information is available on all channels at the right time,” the company, PING Helsinki said. “By working together, we can prevent the spread of false information”, they added.

However, this is not a coronavirus-related project, for these tools were envisioned in 2018. The aim is to develop tools that can improve the credibility of social media influencers, and to further use their platforms to share reliable information.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-spends-more-money-on-travel-than-on-public-health-problems-290220" hreflang="en">WHO spends more money on travel than on public health problems</a>

Additionally, the company has come up with a do’s and don'ts that need to be followed during the pandemic.&nbsp;

The basic tenets of these include - stop and think before sharing; review content critically; distinguish fact from opinion; check facts and never share false information.

As the world comes up with creative ways to counter the COVID-19 pandemic, countries like Finland are pooling in existing social capital to contain it. Social influencers, or people with social media clout, have been enlisted by the Finnish government to help reach a bigger audience during the pandemic.

As the world comes up with creative ways to counter the COVID-19 pandemic, countries like Finland are pooling in existing social capital to contain it. Social influencers, or people with social media clout, have been enlisted by the Finnish government to help reach a bigger audience during the pandemic. Also read: United States records highest one-day COVID-19 death toll with 1,169 fatalities “We can reach a large part of the public in Finland through official communications and traditional media, but it’s clear the authorities’ messaging doesn’t always reach all population groups,” the government communications director, Päivi Anttikoski, told The Guardian. With this, the country hopes to reach more people and further fight misinformation. So far, Finland is the only country in the world which has designated social media influencers as “critical operators”. Other critical operators include doctors, bus drivers, and supermarket workers. Finland’s 34-year-old Prime Minister Sanna Marin, in collaboration with a social media consultancy, alongside a network of media companies, intends to reach social media moguls and further accentuate the penetration of reliable information. Also read: Coronavirus: Have rich countries disappointed the poor? As per Politico, government announcements are edited to fit the social media format. After this, they’re sent to 1,500 influencers. “It’s about supporting social media influencers in sharing reliable information related to the coronavirus, and helping ensure that the right information is available on all channels at the right time,” the company, PING Helsinki said. “By working together, we can prevent the spread of false information”, they added. However, this is not a coronavirus-related project, for these tools were envisioned in 2018. The aim is to develop tools that can improve the credibility of social media influencers, and to further use their platforms to share reliable information. Also read: WHO spends more money on travel than on public health problems Additionally, the company has come up with a do’s and don'ts that need to be followed during the pandemic. The basic tenets of these include - stop and think before sharing; review content critically; distinguish fact from opinion; check facts and never share false information.

Finland enlists social media influencers to fight COVID-19 misinformation

The US President Donald Trump informed reporters that he tested negative for the virus, saying: "I just took it this morning, it said the president tested negative for COVID-19." The United States reported the highest one-day death toll due to coronavirus recording 1,169 fatalities in the past 24 hours, according to the Johns Hopkins University live COVID-19 tracker.

Donald Trump again tests negative for coronavirus

The RBI has reduced the trading hours of debt as well as currency markets from Tuesday because of the lockdown following the outbreak of coronavirus.

The revised market timings will be effective during April 7-17, 2020, the central bank said in a circular on Friday.

The market will open at 10 am instead of the current 9 am and closing timings too have been revised to 2 pm for all segments.

The lockdown has adversely impacted the functioning of financial markets, the RBI said.

The market timings have been revised to "minimise these risks" and to ensure that market participants maintain adequate checks and supervisory controls while optimising thin resources and ensuring the safety of personnel, it said.

As per the circular, the timing of the Government Securities (Central Government Securities, State Development Loans and Treasury Bills) market has been revised to 10 am to 2 pm from the existing 9 am to 5 pm.

Foreign Currency (FCY)/Indian Rupee (INR) Trades including Forex Derivatives market as well as Rupee Interest Rate Derivatives market too have been changed to 10 am to 2 pm from the existing 9 am to 5 pm.

The RBI said the unprecedented situation created by the COVID-19 outbreak has necessitated lockdowns, social distancing, restrictions on the movement of people and non-essential activities, work from home arrangements and business continuity plans.

The resultant dislocations have adversely impacted the functioning of financial markets. Staff and IT resources have been severely affected, posing operational and logistics risks.

"The thinning out of activity is impacting market liquidity and increasing volatility of financial prices," the circular said.

However, all regular banking services for customers, including RTGS, NEFT, e-kuber and other retail payments systems will continue to be available as per extant timings, the RBI added.

The RBI has reduced the trading hours of debt as well as currency markets from Tuesday because of the lockdown following the outbreak of coronavirus. The revised market timings will be effective during April 7-17, 2020, the central bank said in a circular on Friday.

The RBI has reduced the trading hours of debt as well as currency markets from Tuesday because of the lockdown following the outbreak of coronavirus. The revised market timings will be effective during April 7-17, 2020, the central bank said in a circular on Friday. The market will open at 10 am instead of the current 9 am and closing timings too have been revised to 2 pm for all segments. The lockdown has adversely impacted the functioning of financial markets, the RBI said. The market timings have been revised to "minimise these risks" and to ensure that market participants maintain adequate checks and supervisory controls while optimising thin resources and ensuring the safety of personnel, it said. As per the circular, the timing of the Government Securities (Central Government Securities, State Development Loans and Treasury Bills) market has been revised to 10 am to 2 pm from the existing 9 am to 5 pm. Foreign Currency (FCY)/Indian Rupee (INR) Trades including Forex Derivatives market as well as Rupee Interest Rate Derivatives market too have been changed to 10 am to 2 pm from the existing 9 am to 5 pm. The RBI said the unprecedented situation created by the COVID-19 outbreak has necessitated lockdowns, social distancing, restrictions on the movement of people and non-essential activities, work from home arrangements and business continuity plans. The resultant dislocations have adversely impacted the functioning of financial markets. Staff and IT resources have been severely affected, posing operational and logistics risks. "The thinning out of activity is impacting market liquidity and increasing volatility of financial prices," the circular said. However, all regular banking services for customers, including RTGS, NEFT, e-kuber and other retail payments systems will continue to be available as per extant timings, the RBI added.

RBI reduces trading hours for debt, currency markets from April 7

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Friday urged governors and Lt governors to motivate spiritual and religious leaders to advise their followers against holding congregations and practice social distancing to prevent the transmission of coronavirus.

Addressing governors, LGs and administrators along with President Ram Nath Kovind via video, Naidu also asked them to focus on the arrangements made to ensure harvesting, storage and procurement of agriculture produce in their respective states and Union territories.

He urged them to contact spiritual and religious leaders in their respective regions and advise them to guide their followers to strictly adhere to the guidelines on social distancing and to observe personal hygiene, a statement from the Vice President Secretariat said.

Referring to a “recent avoidable action” which caused widespread adverse impact across the country, Naidu cautioned the governors and Lt governors to treat it as a “wake-up call”.

“No religious congregations should be allowed to take place in your respective states,” he said in an apparent reference to the Tablighi Jamat congregation in Delhi’s Nizamuddin.

On harvesting season, Naidu urged them to advise the state agencies to ensure smooth movement of farm machinery so that the farmers do not face any hardship.

He also asked them to ensure 100 per cent procurement of the produce. “That is the need of the hour,” the vice president said.

Expressing concern over the incidents of assault on doctors in some states, Naidu described them as unfortunate and condemnable.

He asked the governors to sensitise people on the crucial role being undertaken by doctors, nurses and other frontline warriors such as sanitary staff and police personnel in the battle against COVID-19.

The vice president said such incidents would have a demoralising effect on doctors and others, according to the statement. This is the second time the president and the vice president have interacted with governors, LGs and administrators on coronavirus.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Friday urged governors and Lt governors to motivate spiritual and religious leaders to advise their followers against holding congregations and practice social distancing to prevent the transmission of coronavirus.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Friday urged governors and Lt governors to motivate spiritual and religious leaders to advise their followers against holding congregations and practice social distancing to prevent the transmission of coronavirus. Addressing governors, LGs and administrators along with President Ram Nath Kovind via video, Naidu also asked them to focus on the arrangements made to ensure harvesting, storage and procurement of agriculture produce in their respective states and Union territories. He urged them to contact spiritual and religious leaders in their respective regions and advise them to guide their followers to strictly adhere to the guidelines on social distancing and to observe personal hygiene, a statement from the Vice President Secretariat said. Referring to a “recent avoidable action” which caused widespread adverse impact across the country, Naidu cautioned the governors and Lt governors to treat it as a “wake-up call”. “No religious congregations should be allowed to take place in your respective states,” he said in an apparent reference to the Tablighi Jamat congregation in Delhi’s Nizamuddin. On harvesting season, Naidu urged them to advise the state agencies to ensure smooth movement of farm machinery so that the farmers do not face any hardship. He also asked them to ensure 100 per cent procurement of the produce. “That is the need of the hour,” the vice president said. Expressing concern over the incidents of assault on doctors in some states, Naidu described them as unfortunate and condemnable. He asked the governors to sensitise people on the crucial role being undertaken by doctors, nurses and other frontline warriors such as sanitary staff and police personnel in the battle against COVID-19. The vice president said such incidents would have a demoralising effect on doctors and others, according to the statement. This is the second time the president and the vice president have interacted with governors, LGs and administrators on coronavirus.

Motivate religious leaders to ask their followers not to hold congregations: Venkaiah Naidu tells Governors

Police in Pakistan will enforce a strict lockdown to prevent people from going to mosques to offer Friday prayers and fuel a rise in coronavirus infection, officials said, after failing to prevent large congregations last week.

Health experts have warned of an epidemic in South Asia, home to a fifth of the world's population, that could easily overwhelm its weak public health systems.

But authorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh, another Muslim majority nation, and even India have struggled to persuade conservative religious groups to maintain social distancing in order to curb the spread of the virus.

The government in Pakistan's southern province of Sindh, home to the country's largest city, Karachi, will enforce a "curfew-like" lockdown for three hours beginning 12 noon Friday to deter people from coming out of their homes for prayers, officials said.

“In the greater interest of saving lives, a decision to ban the prayer congregations at mosques has been taken following a meeting of clerics from all schools of thought. Islamic Sharia allows it,” said Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Sindh's minister for local bodies and information.

Pakistan has reported 2,386 people infected with coronavirus, the highest in South Asia, fuelled by a jump in cases related to members of Tablighi Jamaat, a Sunni Muslim group, which had planned a congregation in the city of Lahore last month.

The meeting was postponed but by then hundreds of people had already arrived at the premises and they stayed on.

In Bangladesh, some people were expected to go to mosques even though the government appealed to them to stay at home to reduce the risk of infections.

Bangladesh's top religious body, the Islamic Foundation, said elderly people and those with fever or cough, symptoms similar to those of COVID-19, should offer prayers at home.

Bangladesh, home to 160 million people is one of the world's most densely populated countries. So far it has had 56 cases, including six deaths.

PM MODI'S APPEAL

In India which is under a strict three-week lockdown, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought to rally people, many of whom have lost their jobs because of the shutdown.

"We are not alone. All 1.3 billion of us are in it together," he said in a video message.

The shutdown, which ends on April 14 has helped stem a big outbreak for now, but it has brought India's economy to a shuddering halt and left millions without work.

Many are struggling for food and water and fleeing cities for their villages in the hinterland, triggering criticism that the government rushed through the shutdown and has hurt the poorest the most.

"I request all of us 1.3 billion Indians to switch off lights in our homes for nine minutes on Sunday, April 5 and to light a lamp or candle or use your mobile flashlights to mark this fight against the coronavirus," Modi said.

India has had 2,069 confirmed infections, of whom 53 have died, low figures by comparison with the United States, China, Italy and Spain.

A fifth of the people who are infected with the coronavirus are either members of the Tablighi Jamaat, which held a gathering in a densely packed Delhi neighbourhood last month or those who came in contact with them later.

Modi said social distancing must be maintained throughout if India were to stop an epidemic which could overwhelm its public health system.

The World Bank on Thursday said it had approved an initial $1.9 billion in emergency funds for coronavirus response operations in 25 developing countries, with more than half the aid earmarked to help fight the fast-spreading disease in India.

"The poorest and most vulnerable countries will likely be hit the hardest," World Bank Group President David Malpas said in a statement.

Following is data on the spread of the coronavirus in South Asia, according to government figures:

* Pakistan has registered 2,386 cases, including 34 deaths.

* India has registered 2,069 cases, including 53 deaths.

* Sri Lanka has registered 151 cases, including three deaths.

* Afghanistan has registered 273 cases, including six deaths.

* Bangladesh has registered 56 cases, including six deaths.

* the Maldives has registered 31 cases and no deaths.

* Nepal has registered six cases and no deaths.

* Bhutan has registered five cases and no deaths

Police in Pakistan will enforce a strict lockdown to prevent people from going to mosques to offer Friday prayers and fuel a rise in coronavirus infection, officials said, after failing to prevent large congregations last week.

Police in Pakistan will enforce a strict lockdown to prevent people from going to mosques to offer Friday prayers and fuel a rise in coronavirus infection, officials said, after failing to prevent large congregations last week. Health experts have warned of an epidemic in South Asia, home to a fifth of the world's population, that could easily overwhelm its weak public health systems. But authorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh, another Muslim majority nation, and even India have struggled to persuade conservative religious groups to maintain social distancing in order to curb the spread of the virus. The government in Pakistan's southern province of Sindh, home to the country's largest city, Karachi, will enforce a "curfew-like" lockdown for three hours beginning 12 noon Friday to deter people from coming out of their homes for prayers, officials said. “In the greater interest of saving lives, a decision to ban the prayer congregations at mosques has been taken following a meeting of clerics from all schools of thought. Islamic Sharia allows it,” said Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Sindh's minister for local bodies and information. Pakistan has reported 2,386 people infected with coronavirus, the highest in South Asia, fuelled by a jump in cases related to members of Tablighi Jamaat, a Sunni Muslim group, which had planned a congregation in the city of Lahore last month. The meeting was postponed but by then hundreds of people had already arrived at the premises and they stayed on. In Bangladesh, some people were expected to go to mosques even though the government appealed to them to stay at home to reduce the risk of infections. Bangladesh's top religious body, the Islamic Foundation, said elderly people and those with fever or cough, symptoms similar to those of COVID-19, should offer prayers at home. Bangladesh, home to 160 million people is one of the world's most densely populated countries. So far it has had 56 cases, including six deaths. PM MODI'S APPEAL In India which is under a strict three-week lockdown, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought to rally people, many of whom have lost their jobs because of the shutdown. "We are not alone. All 1.3 billion of us are in it together," he said in a video message. The shutdown, which ends on April 14 has helped stem a big outbreak for now, but it has brought India's economy to a shuddering halt and left millions without work. Many are struggling for food and water and fleeing cities for their villages in the hinterland, triggering criticism that the government rushed through the shutdown and has hurt the poorest the most. "I request all of us 1.3 billion Indians to switch off lights in our homes for nine minutes on Sunday, April 5 and to light a lamp or candle or use your mobile flashlights to mark this fight against the coronavirus," Modi said. India has had 2,069 confirmed infections, of whom 53 have died, low figures by comparison with the United States, China, Italy and Spain. A fifth of the people who are infected with the coronavirus are either members of the Tablighi Jamaat, which held a gathering in a densely packed Delhi neighbourhood last month or those who came in contact with them later. Modi said social distancing must be maintained throughout if India were to stop an epidemic which could overwhelm its public health system. The World Bank on Thursday said it had approved an initial $1.9 billion in emergency funds for coronavirus response operations in 25 developing countries, with more than half the aid earmarked to help fight the fast-spreading disease in India. "The poorest and most vulnerable countries will likely be hit the hardest," World Bank Group President David Malpas said in a statement. Following is data on the spread of the coronavirus in South Asia, according to government figures: * Pakistan has registered 2,386 cases, including 34 deaths. * India has registered 2,069 cases, including 53 deaths. * Sri Lanka has registered 151 cases, including three deaths. * Afghanistan has registered 273 cases, including six deaths. * Bangladesh has registered 56 cases, including six deaths. * the Maldives has registered 31 cases and no deaths. * Nepal has registered six cases and no deaths. * Bhutan has registered five cases and no deaths

Pakistan, Bangladesh try to stop Friday prayers to avert coronavirus spike

What else is making news in the world? Watch this video for a quick check.

Coronavirus fears in Nigeria camps, Brazil prepares more graves

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfares held a press conference on COVID-19 cases in India. Health Ministry, Joint Secretary Lav Agarwal said that all our efforts will go waste if we don't practice and follow social distancing. Watch the video to know more:

India's Health Ministry briefs media: Efforts will waste if social distancing not followed

The number of COVID-19 infection cases worldwide has crossed 1 million mark around the world on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America, Africa and Asia. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-has-enough-ventilators-for-only-six-more-days-290333">Also read: New York has enough ventilators for only six more days</a> 
 
According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,018,948 people worldwide and 53,211 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 217,433 people of that tally have recovered.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/confirmed-coronavirus-cases-in-india-rise-to-2069-death-toll-at-53-290248">Also read:&nbsp;Confirmed coronavirus cases in India rise to 2,069, death toll at 53</a> 
 
Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections. A total of 245,573 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US. 
 
The total death count due to the virus now stands at 6,058 with 30,000 new cases, according to Johns Hopkins coronavirus resource centre. 
 
New York has been hit the hardest in the United States with more than 1,500 deaths and nearing 50,000 positive cases. 
 
As the death toll mounted in the United States, President Trump said health authorities were conducting "100,000 coronavirus tests per day", while adding that it was "more than any other country in the world, both in terms of the raw number and on a per capita basis."

(With inputs from agencies)

The number of COVID-19 infection cases worldwide has crossed 1 million mark around the world on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America, Africa and Asia.

The number of COVID-19 infection cases worldwide has crossed 1 million mark around the world on Thursday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America, Africa and Asia. Also read: New York has enough ventilators for only six more days According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has now infected 1,018,948 people worldwide and 53,211 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 217,433 people of that tally have recovered. Also read: Confirmed coronavirus cases in India rise to 2,069, death toll at 53 Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University have reported in its map that the United States has taken the grim title of the country with the most coronavirus infections. A total of 245,573 people are infected by this deadly virus in the US. The total death count due to the virus now stands at 6,058 with 30,000 new cases, according to Johns Hopkins coronavirus resource centre. New York has been hit the hardest in the United States with more than 1,500 deaths and nearing 50,000 positive cases. As the death toll mounted in the United States, President Trump said health authorities were conducting "100,000 coronavirus tests per day", while adding that it was "more than any other country in the world, both in terms of the raw number and on a per capita basis." (With inputs from agencies)

53,000 dead, over 1 million infected with deadly coronavirus globally

On Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin approved legislation which permits the government to declare a state of national emergency to control the COVID-19 pandemic from spreading further.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-has-enough-ventilators-for-only-six-more-days-290333">New York has enough ventilators for only six more days</a>

As per Russian law, only the President has the power to invoke a state of emergency. This too, can be done with the support of the upper house of the Parliament.&nbsp;

However, starting Tuesday, the whole cabinet of ministers will have the same powers to announce an emergency.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-domestic-violence-against-women-soars-due-to-lockdown-europe-tries-something-new-290311" hreflang="en">As domestic violence against women soars due to lockdown, Europe tries something new!</a>

Yesterday, Putin had announced the extension of non-working period in Russia to slow down the spread of the coronavirus. Now the shutdown is expected to last until April 30.

"I've taken a decision to extend the period of non-working days until April 30," Putin said in an address broadcast on state television, adding that people will still receive their salaries.

Not one for televised appearances, Putin announced a week-long break earlier on TV as the number of cases continue to dramatically increase in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earth-is-less-noisy-during-covid-19-say-seismologists-290292" hreflang="en">Earth is less noisy during COVID-19, say seismologists</a>

After consulting with health officials, Putin enforced a longer work-free period. The country needs to be shut for longer to avert a crisis.

Even with a shutdown in place, the number of cases continue to spike in the country. Just yesterday, over 771 new infections were reported in the country. Additionally, 30 people have died so far.

"The threat remains," Putin announced.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin approved legislation which permits the government to declare a state of national emergency to control the COVID-19 pandemic from spreading further.

On Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin approved legislation which permits the government to declare a state of national emergency to control the COVID-19 pandemic from spreading further. Also read: New York has enough ventilators for only six more days As per Russian law, only the President has the power to invoke a state of emergency. This too, can be done with the support of the upper house of the Parliament. However, starting Tuesday, the whole cabinet of ministers will have the same powers to announce an emergency. Also read: As domestic violence against women soars due to lockdown, Europe tries something new! Yesterday, Putin had announced the extension of non-working period in Russia to slow down the spread of the coronavirus. Now the shutdown is expected to last until April 30. "I've taken a decision to extend the period of non-working days until April 30," Putin said in an address broadcast on state television, adding that people will still receive their salaries. Not one for televised appearances, Putin announced a week-long break earlier on TV as the number of cases continue to dramatically increase in the country. Also read: Earth is less noisy during COVID-19, say seismologists After consulting with health officials, Putin enforced a longer work-free period. The country needs to be shut for longer to avert a crisis. Even with a shutdown in place, the number of cases continue to spike in the country. Just yesterday, over 771 new infections were reported in the country. Additionally, 30 people have died so far. "The threat remains," Putin announced. (With inputs from agencies)

Now, all of Russian cabinet has the power to invoke national emergency!

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