At least 30 people died and a dozen are missing after a ferry capsized and sank Monday in the Bangladeshi capital Dhaka following a collision with another vessel, rescue officials said. 
 
The Morning Bird vessel was hit from behind by another ferry around 9:30 am local time (0330 GMT) during the morning rush hour, when the country's largest river port is packed with vessels. 
 
"We have collected 30 bodies, including 20 males, seven women and three children," Abul Khair, a diver in the fire brigade, told AFP. 
 
"There were at least 50 people on board... Our rescue divers are still searching," coastguard spokesman commander Hayet Ibne Siddique said. 
 
The ferry -- which departed from central Munshiganj district -- sank as it was about to moor at Sadarghat, Dhaka's main river port used by hundreds of boats to travel to the country's south. 
 
Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority's chief, Commodore Golam Sadeqk, told AFP the single-deck ship was "not overcrowded" and sank "due to carelessness". 
 
He said the vessel had been cleared to carry passengers until September. 
 
Witnesses told local television stations many passengers appeared to be stuck in the ferry's cabins. 
 
Divers were still pulling bodies from the wreck, in waters some 40-50 feet (12-15 metres) deep. The deceased were put in body-bags before they were laid in rows at the harbour-front. 
 
Another boat would later arrive to lift the damaged vessel from the water, Siddique said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/23-die-several-missing-after-ferry-accident-in-bangladesh-report-309346" hreflang="en">23 die, several missing after ferry accident in Bangladesh: Report</a> 
 
Relatives gathered at Sadarghat despite coronavirus social distancing concerns to search for their family. 
 
"I still don't know what happened to them," a man, searching for his cousin and another relative, told reporters. 
 
Boat accidents are common in Bangladesh, which is crisscrossed by more than 230 rivers. 
 
The South Asian nation is heavily reliant on ferries for transport but has had a poor safety record.

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Experts blame badly maintained vessels, lax safety standards at shipyards and overcrowding for many of the accidents. 
 
In February 2015 at least 78 people died when an overcrowded ship collided with a cargo boat in a central Bangladesh river. 
 
The number of accidents has dropped sharply in recent years as authorities crackdown on unseaworthy vessels.

At least 30 people died and a dozen are missing after a ferry capsized and sank Monday in the Bangladeshi capital Dhaka following a collision with another vessel, rescue officials said.

At least 30 people died and a dozen are missing after a ferry capsized and sank Monday in the Bangladeshi capital Dhaka following a collision with another vessel, rescue officials said. The Morning Bird vessel was hit from behind by another ferry around 9:30 am local time (0330 GMT) during the morning rush hour, when the country's largest river port is packed with vessels. "We have collected 30 bodies, including 20 males, seven women and three children," Abul Khair, a diver in the fire brigade, told AFP. "There were at least 50 people on board... Our rescue divers are still searching," coastguard spokesman commander Hayet Ibne Siddique said. The ferry -- which departed from central Munshiganj district -- sank as it was about to moor at Sadarghat, Dhaka's main river port used by hundreds of boats to travel to the country's south. Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority's chief, Commodore Golam Sadeqk, told AFP the single-deck ship was "not overcrowded" and sank "due to carelessness". He said the vessel had been cleared to carry passengers until September. Witnesses told local television stations many passengers appeared to be stuck in the ferry's cabins. Divers were still pulling bodies from the wreck, in waters some 40-50 feet (12-15 metres) deep. The deceased were put in body-bags before they were laid in rows at the harbour-front. Another boat would later arrive to lift the damaged vessel from the water, Siddique said. Also read: 23 die, several missing after ferry accident in Bangladesh: Report Relatives gathered at Sadarghat despite coronavirus social distancing concerns to search for their family. "I still don't know what happened to them," a man, searching for his cousin and another relative, told reporters. Boat accidents are common in Bangladesh, which is crisscrossed by more than 230 rivers. The South Asian nation is heavily reliant on ferries for transport but has had a poor safety record. You might also like: Amid standoff with India, China tries to woo Bangladesh Experts blame badly maintained vessels, lax safety standards at shipyards and overcrowding for many of the accidents. In February 2015 at least 78 people died when an overcrowded ship collided with a cargo boat in a central Bangladesh river. The number of accidents has dropped sharply in recent years as authorities crackdown on unseaworthy vessels.

At least 30 die in Bangladesh ferry accident

Increased Taliban attacks are jeopardising the peace process, the Afghan government said on Tuesday after hundreds of security force personnel were killed over the past week by the Islamist insurgents.&nbsp;

The Taliban, fighting to reintroduce strict Islamic law after their 2001 ouster from power, signed a troop withdrawal agreement with the United States in February designed to pave the way for peace talks with the Afghan government.

“Recent attacks by terrorist groups and the Taliban have hurt the peace process and it is condemnable," Afghan Presidential Palace spokesman Sediq Sediqqi told a news conference.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-killed-291-afghan-security-personnel-in-past-week-307669" hreflang="en">Taliban killed 291 Afghan security personnel in past week</a>

There was a sharp reduction in violence following the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Fitr last month, which officials hoped would pave the way for talks.

However, the past week has been alarming for Afghan officials with more than 400 Taliban attacks nationwide killing 291 security force members, Javid Faisal, spokesman for the government’s National Security Council, said on Monday.

“The Taliban's actions are inconsistent with their rhetoric on peace,” he said.

The main hurdle remaining for the launch of peace talks is disagreement over the release of few hundred Taliban prisoners involved in high-profile attacks against civilians.&nbsp;

Afghan officials say they believe the upsurge in violence is because the Taliban want to push the government to release those prisoners and have the upper hand in future talks.

The Taliban deny that they have stepped up attacks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-releases-14-hostages-amid-prisoner-release-agreement-307671" hreflang="en">Taliban releases 14 hostages amid prisoner-release agreement</a>

A senior government official said talks which could have started this month were likely to be delayed once again because of the spike in attacks.&nbsp;

The northeastern province of Takhar had been hit particularly hard by violence in the last few days, with attacks on security checkpoints and an explosion at a religious school in which seven students died.

Nevertheless, peacemaking efforts were continuing. The U.N. Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Deborah Lyons, met in recent days with the Taliban’s deputy leader Mullah Baradar in the Qatari capital Doha.

Increased Taliban attacks are jeopardising the peace process, the Afghan government said on Tuesday after hundreds of security force personnel were killed over the past week by the Islamist insurgents.

Increased Taliban attacks are jeopardising the peace process, the Afghan government said on Tuesday after hundreds of security force personnel were killed over the past week by the Islamist insurgents. The Taliban, fighting to reintroduce strict Islamic law after their 2001 ouster from power, signed a troop withdrawal agreement with the United States in February designed to pave the way for peace talks with the Afghan government. “Recent attacks by terrorist groups and the Taliban have hurt the peace process and it is condemnable," Afghan Presidential Palace spokesman Sediq Sediqqi told a news conference. Also read: Taliban killed 291 Afghan security personnel in past week There was a sharp reduction in violence following the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Fitr last month, which officials hoped would pave the way for talks. However, the past week has been alarming for Afghan officials with more than 400 Taliban attacks nationwide killing 291 security force members, Javid Faisal, spokesman for the government’s National Security Council, said on Monday. “The Taliban's actions are inconsistent with their rhetoric on peace,” he said. The main hurdle remaining for the launch of peace talks is disagreement over the release of few hundred Taliban prisoners involved in high-profile attacks against civilians. Afghan officials say they believe the upsurge in violence is because the Taliban want to push the government to release those prisoners and have the upper hand in future talks. The Taliban deny that they have stepped up attacks. Also read: Taliban releases 14 hostages amid prisoner-release agreement A senior government official said talks which could have started this month were likely to be delayed once again because of the spike in attacks. The northeastern province of Takhar had been hit particularly hard by violence in the last few days, with attacks on security checkpoints and an explosion at a religious school in which seven students died. Nevertheless, peacemaking efforts were continuing. The U.N. Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Deborah Lyons, met in recent days with the Taliban’s deputy leader Mullah Baradar in the Qatari capital Doha.

Hundreds killed in further Taliban attacks with peace talks ahead

Indian and Chinese soldiers were recently involved in a battle across the Actual Line of Control, while Pakistan brews nuisance for India.

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The three service chiefs in Pakistan attended a rare briefing at the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) headquarters yesterday.

Chief of the Pakistan army - General Qamar Bajwa,&nbsp;Chief of the Naval staff - Admiral Zafar Mehmood Abbasi, and Chief of the Air staff - Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan were summoned to the intelligence agency’s headquarters last evening.

According to the Dawn newspaper, the aim of the meeting was to analyse Pakistan's preparedness to counter India's “sinister designs”.

A rare meeting, this marked the summoning of all Pakistan chiefs to the headquarters.&nbsp; The service chiefs normally meet at joint tri-service&nbsp;forums which reportedly haven't been held since July 2018.&nbsp;

Allegedly, the ISI is also giving briefings to the political leadership of Pakistan.&nbsp;As per reports,&nbsp;Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has been summoned to the ISI headquarters twice in the last three months. Once on April 23, and then on June 3. His visits are being called intelligence briefings on alleged security threats.

What is brewing?

The top brass in Pakistan hasn't convened at the ISI headquarters in this fashion for over decades

The Prime Minister of Pakistan himself visiting the ISI headquarters is also not common protocol.

Indian and Chinese soldiers were recently involved in a battle across the Actual Line of Control, while Pakistan brews nuisance for India. The three service chiefs in Pakistan attended a rare briefing at the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) headquarters yesterday.

Indian and Chinese soldiers were recently involved in a battle across the Actual Line of Control, while Pakistan brews nuisance for India. The three service chiefs in Pakistan attended a rare briefing at the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) headquarters yesterday. Chief of the Pakistan army - General Qamar Bajwa, Chief of the Naval staff - Admiral Zafar Mehmood Abbasi, and Chief of the Air staff - Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan were summoned to the intelligence agency’s headquarters last evening. According to the Dawn newspaper, the aim of the meeting was to analyse Pakistan's preparedness to counter India's “sinister designs”. A rare meeting, this marked the summoning of all Pakistan chiefs to the headquarters. The service chiefs normally meet at joint tri-service forums which reportedly haven't been held since July 2018. Allegedly, the ISI is also giving briefings to the political leadership of Pakistan. As per reports, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has been summoned to the ISI headquarters twice in the last three months. Once on April 23, and then on June 3. His visits are being called intelligence briefings on alleged security threats. What is brewing? The top brass in Pakistan hasn't convened at the ISI headquarters in this fashion for over decades The Prime Minister of Pakistan himself visiting the ISI headquarters is also not common protocol.

Pakistan's top chiefs convene at ISI headquarters for an unusual meeting; India to keep up its guard!

Taliban fighters killed at least 12 Afghan security personnel Wednesday in a pre-dawn raid on a northern checkpoint, officials said, the latest violence claimed by the insurgents. 
 
Four security force members were also captured by the militants in the attack in Jawezjan province, said Maroof Azar, spokesman to the governor. 
 
"Twelve security personnel including army soldiers were killed, five were injured and four were captured by the Taliban," he told AFP.

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He said five Taliban fighters were killed in the fighting, which ended after Afghan security reinforcements arrived at the scene, Azar said. 
 
The ministry of defence confirmed the attack and said six of its soldiers were among the dead.&nbsp; 
 
The Taliban spokesman for the group's fighting forces, Zabihullah Mujahib, claimed the attack but gave a higher toll.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/afghan-government-taliban-agree-to-doha-as-venue-for-first-peace-talks-306103" hreflang="en">Afghan government, Taliban agree to Doha as venue for first peace talks</a> 
 
The latest bloodshed comes as the insurgents and the Afghan government appear to be moving closer towards potential peace negotiations. 
 
The much-delayed talks aimed at ending the conflict are expected to begin once the two sides complete an ongoing prisoner swap accelerated after a brief ceasefire last month. 
 
Officials claim the Taliban have stepped up attacks in recent days, although there has been an overall drop in violence across the country since the ceasefire ended.&nbsp;

Taliban fighters killed at least 12 Afghan security personnel Wednesday in a pre-dawn raid on a northern checkpoint, officials said, the latest violence claimed by the insurgents.

Taliban fighters killed at least 12 Afghan security personnel Wednesday in a pre-dawn raid on a northern checkpoint, officials said, the latest violence claimed by the insurgents. Four security force members were also captured by the militants in the attack in Jawezjan province, said Maroof Azar, spokesman to the governor. "Twelve security personnel including army soldiers were killed, five were injured and four were captured by the Taliban," he told AFP. Also read: Afghanistan and Myanmar drown in China's loans; Afghanistan rejects loan He said five Taliban fighters were killed in the fighting, which ended after Afghan security reinforcements arrived at the scene, Azar said. The ministry of defence confirmed the attack and said six of its soldiers were among the dead. The Taliban spokesman for the group's fighting forces, Zabihullah Mujahib, claimed the attack but gave a higher toll. Also read: Afghan government, Taliban agree to Doha as venue for first peace talks The latest bloodshed comes as the insurgents and the Afghan government appear to be moving closer towards potential peace negotiations. The much-delayed talks aimed at ending the conflict are expected to begin once the two sides complete an ongoing prisoner swap accelerated after a brief ceasefire last month. Officials claim the Taliban have stepped up attacks in recent days, although there has been an overall drop in violence across the country since the ceasefire ended.

Taliban raid on Afghan security post kills 12

Chickens in Pakistan have been feasting on captured locusts under an initiative to combat swarms of the insects that are threatening food supplies in the impoverished country. 
 
Prime Minister Imran Khan has endorsed plans to expand a pilot project in the bread-basket province of Punjab, where villagers earned cash to gather locusts that were then dried out, shredded and added into poultry feed. 
 
Farmers are struggling as the worst locust plague in 25 years wipes out entire harvests in Pakistan's agricultural heartlands, leaving people scrambling for income.

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Muhammad Khurshid from Pakistan's food ministry and biotechnologist Johar Ali set up the programme, drawing on efforts in war-ravaged Yemen, where authorities have encouraged people to eat the protein-rich locusts amid famine. 
 
The pair chose Punjab's Okara district, where farmers had not used any pesticides that would make locusts unsuitable for consumption. 
 
"We first had to learn, and then teach the locals how to catch the locusts. Nets are useless against them," Khurshid told AFP. 
 
At night the creatures cluster on trees and plants, making them easy to scoop up as they lie motionless in the cooler temperatures until the sun begins to rise.

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For a reward of 20 rupees (12 cents) per kilogram of locusts, locals worked all night to collect them. 
 
One farmer who lost all her crops to the insects said she and her son earned 1,600 rupees ($10) during a single locust-gathering outing, helping to offset the financial damage. 
 
Organisers struggled at first to convince farmers to join the hunt, but by the third night word had spread and hundreds joined in -- turning up with their own bags to stuff full. 
 
With 20 tonnes of captured locusts, authorities ran out of money to pay the collectors and the programme was paused. 
 
The ministry, which recently announced the results of February's pilot, is now preparing to expand the project to other locations.

Multiplying in monsoon 
The harvested locusts went to Hi-Tech Feeds -- Pakistan's largest animal-feed producer -- which substituted 10 percent of the soybean in its chicken food with the insects. 
 
"There was no issue with the feed, the locusts have a good potential for use in poultry feed," general manager Muhammad Athar said, after trying the modified product on 500 broiler hens. 
 
While the project is not a solution to the devastation caused to crops, it can provide hard-hit farmers with a fresh revenue stream and relieve pressure on authorities struggling to distribute locust-beating pesticides. 
 
Locust swarms have gnawed their way through crops across East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula and parts of India this year, and experts fear their numbers will explode as monsoon rains arrive this month. 
 
The crisis is so severe that the government has declared a nationwide emergency and appealed for help from the international community. 
 
Bananas, mangoes, vegetables and other crops are all vulnerable -- raising fears of food shortages -- as are the wheat and cotton harvests that provide Pakistan with vital revenue. 
 
According to the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization, Pakistan could suffer about $5 billion in losses if 25 percent of its crops are damaged. 
 
A reduced harvest could also push prices up and risks worsening food insecurity. 
 
About 20 percent of the population are already undernourished, with almost half of all children under five stunted, according to the World Food Programme.

Chickens in Pakistan have been feasting on captured locusts under an initiative to combat swarms of the insects that are threatening food supplies in the impoverished country.

Chickens in Pakistan have been feasting on captured locusts under an initiative to combat swarms of the insects that are threatening food supplies in the impoverished country. Prime Minister Imran Khan has endorsed plans to expand a pilot project in the bread-basket province of Punjab, where villagers earned cash to gather locusts that were then dried out, shredded and added into poultry feed. Farmers are struggling as the worst locust plague in 25 years wipes out entire harvests in Pakistan's agricultural heartlands, leaving people scrambling for income. Also read: Impose 'intermittent lockdowns': WHO tells Pakistan amid rising coronavirus cases Muhammad Khurshid from Pakistan's food ministry and biotechnologist Johar Ali set up the programme, drawing on efforts in war-ravaged Yemen, where authorities have encouraged people to eat the protein-rich locusts amid famine. The pair chose Punjab's Okara district, where farmers had not used any pesticides that would make locusts unsuitable for consumption. "We first had to learn, and then teach the locals how to catch the locusts. Nets are useless against them," Khurshid told AFP. At night the creatures cluster on trees and plants, making them easy to scoop up as they lie motionless in the cooler temperatures until the sun begins to rise. Also read: Imran Khan orders reforms in Pakistan International Airlines to bring down losses For a reward of 20 rupees (12 cents) per kilogram of locusts, locals worked all night to collect them. One farmer who lost all her crops to the insects said she and her son earned 1,600 rupees ($10) during a single locust-gathering outing, helping to offset the financial damage. Organisers struggled at first to convince farmers to join the hunt, but by the third night word had spread and hundreds joined in -- turning up with their own bags to stuff full. With 20 tonnes of captured locusts, authorities ran out of money to pay the collectors and the programme was paused. The ministry, which recently announced the results of February's pilot, is now preparing to expand the project to other locations. Multiplying in monsoon The harvested locusts went to Hi-Tech Feeds -- Pakistan's largest animal-feed producer -- which substituted 10 percent of the soybean in its chicken food with the insects. "There was no issue with the feed, the locusts have a good potential for use in poultry feed," general manager Muhammad Athar said, after trying the modified product on 500 broiler hens. While the project is not a solution to the devastation caused to crops, it can provide hard-hit farmers with a fresh revenue stream and relieve pressure on authorities struggling to distribute locust-beating pesticides. Locust swarms have gnawed their way through crops across East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula and parts of India this year, and experts fear their numbers will explode as monsoon rains arrive this month. The crisis is so severe that the government has declared a nationwide emergency and appealed for help from the international community. Bananas, mangoes, vegetables and other crops are all vulnerable -- raising fears of food shortages -- as are the wheat and cotton harvests that provide Pakistan with vital revenue. According to the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization, Pakistan could suffer about $5 billion in losses if 25 percent of its crops are damaged. A reduced harvest could also push prices up and risks worsening food insecurity. About 20 percent of the population are already undernourished, with almost half of all children under five stunted, according to the World Food Programme.

Pakistan battles locusts by turning them into chicken feed

A roadside bomb tore through a small bus in southern Afghanistan on Wednesday, killing nine civilians including women and children, officials said. 
 
The bombing, which occurred in Kandahar, the birthplace of the Taliban, came a day after a blast in a mosque in Kabul's fortified Green Zone killed two people including a well-known imam. 
 
Nine people died and five others were wounded when a roadside bomb struck their bus in Arghistan district of Kandahar province, provincial police spokesman Jamal Nasir Barekzai said.

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Several victims were women and children, said Baheer Ahmad Ahmadi, spokesman to the provincial governor, who also confirmed the toll. 
 
No one claimed the Kandahar attack, but Barekzai blamed the Taliban. 
 
In Kabul on Tuesday, an imam and a worshipper were killed in a prayer-time bombing at a popular mosque in the fortified Green Zone in Kabul. 
 
That bombing, which the Taliban condemned, came a day after seven civilians were killed in the north of the country in a roadside bombing&nbsp;authorities blamed on the insurgents. 
 
On Wednesday, the UN mission in Afghanistan said homemade bombs used by the Taliban to target Afghan security forces have killed at least 10 civilians in the past two days.&nbsp;

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The UN urged the militants to "stop using these illegal improvised mines". 
 
Despite these attacks, overall violence across much of Afghanistan has dropped since May 24 when the Taliban instigated a rare three-day ceasefire to mark the Eid al-Fitr holiday. 
 
Officials have acknowledged a lull in violence, though they blamed the militants for some deadly attacks in recent days. &nbsp; 
 
Before the ceasefire, violence had surged since the Taliban signed a landmark agreement with the United States in February. 
 
The deal paves the way for the withdrawal of all foreign forces by May next year. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

A roadside bomb tore through a small bus in southern Afghanistan on Wednesday, killing nine civilians including women and children, officials said. The bombing, which occurred in Kandahar, the birthplace of the Taliban, came a day after a blast in a mosque in Kabul's fortified Green Zone killed two people including a well-known imam.

A roadside bomb tore through a small bus in southern Afghanistan on Wednesday, killing nine civilians including women and children, officials said. The bombing, which occurred in Kandahar, the birthplace of the Taliban, came a day after a blast in a mosque in Kabul's fortified Green Zone killed two people including a well-known imam. Nine people died and five others were wounded when a roadside bomb struck their bus in Arghistan district of Kandahar province, provincial police spokesman Jamal Nasir Barekzai said. Also read: Mosque Blast in Kabul kills 2, including an imam Several victims were women and children, said Baheer Ahmad Ahmadi, spokesman to the provincial governor, who also confirmed the toll. No one claimed the Kandahar attack, but Barekzai blamed the Taliban. In Kabul on Tuesday, an imam and a worshipper were killed in a prayer-time bombing at a popular mosque in the fortified Green Zone in Kabul. That bombing, which the Taliban condemned, came a day after seven civilians were killed in the north of the country in a roadside bombing authorities blamed on the insurgents. On Wednesday, the UN mission in Afghanistan said homemade bombs used by the Taliban to target Afghan security forces have killed at least 10 civilians in the past two days. Also read: Bomb in Afghanistan capital targets TV bus; journalist and driver killed The UN urged the militants to "stop using these illegal improvised mines". Despite these attacks, overall violence across much of Afghanistan has dropped since May 24 when the Taliban instigated a rare three-day ceasefire to mark the Eid al-Fitr holiday. Officials have acknowledged a lull in violence, though they blamed the militants for some deadly attacks in recent days. Before the ceasefire, violence had surged since the Taliban signed a landmark agreement with the United States in February. The deal paves the way for the withdrawal of all foreign forces by May next year.

Roadside bomb kills 9 civilians in southern Afghanistan

On Monday, the rating agency&nbsp;Moody's downgraded India's ratings from Baa2 to Baa3, citing that the coronavirus pandemic wasn't the primary factor playing into consideration.

The agency said that the period of slower growth could trigger problems for the policymaking institutions, with financial sector susceptible to increased debt and pressure.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/business-economy/india-may-see-0-gdp-growth-this-fiscal-year-says-moodys-report-297398" hreflang="en">India may see 0% GDP growth this fiscal year, says Moody's report</a>

"Measures to improve India's fiscal strength, which were at the heart of the government's policy framework a few years ago, have underwhelmed," the ratings agency claimed&nbsp;in a statement.

Even though coronavirus may be one of the factors, the agency asserted that the pandemic has magnified preexisting issues in the country's credit profile, news agency Reuters reported.

The agency further maintained its outlook on the country as "negative".

<h6><img alt="ii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19660b9b-3599-46a2-bec0-8bc0e2cb3a05" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-6_1.jpg" /> 
Pedestrians walk past a mural in Mumbai | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

On May 8, analysts at Moody's claimed that the pandemic will impact the rate of growth, with the country set to witness 0 per cent growth in the ongoing fiscal year.

The ratings agency claimed it does not expect&nbsp;India to see any&nbsp;growth in financial year 2021.

The coronavirus&nbsp;spread in the country has&nbsp;"significantly reduced the prospects of a durable fiscal consolidation," Moody's&nbsp;said in a report.

Moody's Investors Service in November 2019 had&nbsp;cut India's ratings outlook to "negative" from "stable", citing increasing risks, and while claiming&nbsp;that growth in Asia's third-largest economy will remain lower than in the past.

(with inputs from Reuters and AFP)

On Monday, the rating agency Moody's downgraded India's ratings from Baa2 to Baa3, citing that the coronavirus pandemic wasn't the primary factor playing into consideration.

On Monday, the rating agency Moody's downgraded India's ratings from Baa2 to Baa3, citing that the coronavirus pandemic wasn't the primary factor playing into consideration. The agency said that the period of slower growth could trigger problems for the policymaking institutions, with financial sector susceptible to increased debt and pressure. Also read: India may see 0% GDP growth this fiscal year, says Moody's report "Measures to improve India's fiscal strength, which were at the heart of the government's policy framework a few years ago, have underwhelmed," the ratings agency claimed in a statement. Even though coronavirus may be one of the factors, the agency asserted that the pandemic has magnified preexisting issues in the country's credit profile, news agency Reuters reported. The agency further maintained its outlook on the country as "negative". Pedestrians walk past a mural in Mumbai | AFP On May 8, analysts at Moody's claimed that the pandemic will impact the rate of growth, with the country set to witness 0 per cent growth in the ongoing fiscal year. The ratings agency claimed it does not expect India to see any growth in financial year 2021. The coronavirus spread in the country has "significantly reduced the prospects of a durable fiscal consolidation," Moody's said in a report. Moody's Investors Service in November 2019 had cut India's ratings outlook to "negative" from "stable", citing increasing risks, and while claiming that growth in Asia's third-largest economy will remain lower than in the past. (with inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Moody's downgrades India's ratings, warns of stress in financial sector

While addressing the Parliament, Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli blamed India for the spread of coronavirus in the neighbouring countries and said the virus from India is more lethal than the Chinese and Italian ones.

Nepal PM: Indian virus more lethal than Chinese and Italian

After #MapFixing, Nepal's Prime Minister KP Oli has blamed India for the spread of coronavirus cases in his country. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more about Nepal's latest provocation.

Gravitas: After Map Fixing, Nepal PM blames India for coronavirus spread

The leader of the Islamic State group in South Asia and the Far East has been arrested along with two other senior leaders of the militant group in Kabul. According to Afghanistan's intelligence service, Zia ul-Haq, also known as Sheikh Omar Khorasani, was arrested along with his spokesman Saheeb and chief of intelligence Abu Ali.

The leader of the Islamic State group in South Asia and the Far East has been arrested along with two other senior leaders of the militant group in Kabul. According to Afghanistan's intelligence service, Zia ul-Haq, also known as Sheikh Omar Khorasani, was arrested along with his spokesman Saheeb and chief of intelligence Abu Ali. The operation was conducted after a tip-off by four recently arrested senior IS members, and based on security and intelligence inputs, a statement by the service said. The agency "will continue its comprehensive and targeted operations to hunt down senior leaders of regional terrorist groups and destroy the joint hubs of these terrorist networks", the statement said, quoted by Reuters. IS has carried out several deadly bombings in recent years, targeting Afghanistan's Shia and other minorities and killing scores of people. The arrests come as violence continues throughout the country despite the signing of a troop withdrawal agreement between the US and the Taliban in February.

Islamic State South Asia leader arrested in Afghanistan

Sri Lanka’s stock exchange tried to reopen today, but was shut just 38 seconds after being opening.

This was owing to a plunge in share prices, which further created a circuit breaker, AFP reported.

When the government imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 20, the stock market was closed. It was only after 52 days that the market attempted to reopen today.

As soon as the market reopened, the prices fell by 10 per cent, which forced the exchange to stop trading.

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South Asia has witnessed the decimation of key sectors of the economy like tourism, and exports.

Since January 27, when country reported its first coronavirus case, the top 20 stocks have fallen by 38 per cent.

Last year’s bombing on Easter Sunday caused a major setback to the country’s economy, which primarily relies on tourism. The lockdown measures are being relaxed starting today to revive the economy of the country.

Just last week, the country requested its 1.5 million government employees to donate their May salary to the government, which would save 100 billion rupees ($525 million) and close the budget deficit.

The country’s health officials claim that the outbreak in the country remains controlled, with offices slowly reopening across the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-asks-government-employees-for-may-salary-to-boost-economy-amid-shutdown-297221" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka asks government employees for May salary to boost economy amid shutdown</a>

Towards the end of March, Sri Lanka had requested international nations a debt moratorium to assist in grappling with the pandemic.

Just last week, the country requested its 1.5 million government employees to donate their May salary to the government, which would save 100 billion rupees ($525 million) and close the budget deficit.

As of Monday, Sri Lanka has recorded 863 cases of COVID-19 with nine deaths.

Sri Lanka’s stock exchange tried to reopen today, but was shut just 38 seconds after being opening. This was owing to a plunge in share prices, which further created a circuit breaker, AFP reported.

Sri Lanka’s stock exchange tried to reopen today, but was shut just 38 seconds after being opening. This was owing to a plunge in share prices, which further created a circuit breaker, AFP reported. When the government imposed a nationwide lockdown on March 20, the stock market was closed. It was only after 52 days that the market attempted to reopen today. As soon as the market reopened, the prices fell by 10 per cent, which forced the exchange to stop trading. Also read: Sri Lanka to target high-spending tourists to revive tourism South Asia has witnessed the decimation of key sectors of the economy like tourism, and exports. Since January 27, when country reported its first coronavirus case, the top 20 stocks have fallen by 38 per cent. Last year’s bombing on Easter Sunday caused a major setback to the country’s economy, which primarily relies on tourism. The lockdown measures are being relaxed starting today to revive the economy of the country. Just last week, the country requested its 1.5 million government employees to donate their May salary to the government, which would save 100 billion rupees ($525 million) and close the budget deficit. The country’s health officials claim that the outbreak in the country remains controlled, with offices slowly reopening across the country. Also read: Sri Lanka asks government employees for May salary to boost economy amid shutdown Towards the end of March, Sri Lanka had requested international nations a debt moratorium to assist in grappling with the pandemic. Just last week, the country requested its 1.5 million government employees to donate their May salary to the government, which would save 100 billion rupees ($525 million) and close the budget deficit. As of Monday, Sri Lanka has recorded 863 cases of COVID-19 with nine deaths.

Colombo Stock Exchange shuts 38 seconds after reopening, records a major plunge

The United Nations children’s agency Unicef said hundreds of thousands were at risk as lockdowns across South Asia halted immunisation drives and parents refrained from taking their children to doctors to be inoculated.

“While the Covid-19 virus does not appear to make many children seriously ill, the health of hundreds of thousands of children could be impacted by this disruption of regular immunisation services,” said Jean Gough, director of Unicef’s South Asia office.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-considering-coronavirus-checks-on-international-flights-trump-295404">Also read:&nbsp;US considering coronavirus checks on international flights: Trump</a>

“This is a very serious threat. Early action is key.” Bangladesh and Nepal have halted their measles and rubella campaigns while Pakistan and Afghanistan have suspended their polio drives since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Unicef noted that “sporadic” outbreaks of preventable diseases that can be cured with vaccines, including the measles and diphtheria, have emerged in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal.

Vaccine stocks were also running low in some countries in the region thanks to lockdowns and travel bans which have disrupted supply chains.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-outbreak-is-mumbai-turning-into-indias-new-york-city-295323">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19 outbreak: Is Mumbai turning into India's New York City?</a>

“Unicef strongly recommends that, where immunisation campaigns are suspended, governments begin rigorous planning now to intensify immunisation activities once the Covid-19 pandemic is under control,” the agency said in a statement.

It added that as long as health workers take hygiene precautions, there was no reason for vaccinations not to continue.

The agency estimated that 4.5 million of South Asia’s children had already missed out on routine immunisations, even before the coronavirus pandemic struck.

The United Nations children’s agency Unicef said hundreds of thousands were at risk as lockdowns across South Asia halted immunisation drives and parents refrained from taking their children to doctors to be inoculated.

The United Nations children’s agency Unicef said hundreds of thousands were at risk as lockdowns across South Asia halted immunisation drives and parents refrained from taking their children to doctors to be inoculated. “While the Covid-19 virus does not appear to make many children seriously ill, the health of hundreds of thousands of children could be impacted by this disruption of regular immunisation services,” said Jean Gough, director of Unicef’s South Asia office. Also read: US considering coronavirus checks on international flights: Trump “This is a very serious threat. Early action is key.” Bangladesh and Nepal have halted their measles and rubella campaigns while Pakistan and Afghanistan have suspended their polio drives since the Covid-19 pandemic. Unicef noted that “sporadic” outbreaks of preventable diseases that can be cured with vaccines, including the measles and diphtheria, have emerged in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal. Vaccine stocks were also running low in some countries in the region thanks to lockdowns and travel bans which have disrupted supply chains. Also read: COVID-19 outbreak: Is Mumbai turning into India's New York City? “Unicef strongly recommends that, where immunisation campaigns are suspended, governments begin rigorous planning now to intensify immunisation activities once the Covid-19 pandemic is under control,” the agency said in a statement. It added that as long as health workers take hygiene precautions, there was no reason for vaccinations not to continue. The agency estimated that 4.5 million of South Asia’s children had already missed out on routine immunisations, even before the coronavirus pandemic struck.

South Asia may face new health crisis as children miss vaccinations: UN

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

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

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

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

The number of people infected with the coronavirus crossed 22,000 in densely populated South Asia on Friday driven by a rise in cases in India as the tiny Indian Ocean island nation of Maldives locked down its capital.

Health officials have warned that the region, home to a fifth of the world's population, could be the new frontline against the disease because of millions living in packed slums and fragile public health systems.

India's caseload rose to 13,387, a jump of nearly 700 over the previous day, despite a lockdown now in its fourth week and which will last at least until early May.

Authorities have identified a fifth of India's hundreds of districts as red zones with the highest number of cases, including the cities of New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata and Hyderabad.

But Lav Agarwal, government health joint secretary leading the fight against the coronavirus, said the rate of increase of infections was slowing because of the lockdown of 1.3 billion people in the world's second-most populous country after China.

Before the shutdown, the number of cases was doubling every three days, but now it was taking 6.2 days to double, Agarwal said, citing government data.

"There is a decline, but we have to remain (in) the fight," he said. The government has said it will permit farm and industrial activity in parts of the countryside that are least affected by the coronavirus from next week to lessen the pain for millions.

Authorities in the resort islands of the Maldives placed the capital Male under a 14-day lockdown after eight people tested positive over the last three days, taking the total to 28.

The government had earlier stopped all travel to and from the tropical islands and shut down businesses.

But on Friday, the Health Protection Agency issued strict stay-at-home orders for Male, home to 40 per cent of the country's population of 450,000, fearing a big outbreak in the congested city.

Maldives, best known for its white sands and palm-fringed atolls, reported its first case at the beginning of March when two employees of an island resort tested positive.

Bangladesh also warned its 160 million people that the country was at risk after positive cases were detected in 45 districts out of a total of 64. It warned of strict action against anyone violating stay-at-home orders.

"Only social distancing can keep the outbreak under control as no vaccine or treatment is available for the disease," the directorate general of health services said in a statement.

The big worry remains the low level of testing across the region. India has slowly raised the number to a little over 27,000 on Thursday, but in comparison with other countries it remains small given the huge population.

India has tested 203 people per million of its population, lower than Brazil (296) and well behind the United States at 9,866 and Italy 18,481, all of which are themselves considered laggards in the race to screen as many people as possible.

&nbsp;

The number of people infected with the coronavirus crossed 22,000 in densely populated South Asia on Friday driven by a rise in cases in India as the tiny Indian Ocean island nation of Maldives locked down its capital.

The number of people infected with the coronavirus crossed 22,000 in densely populated South Asia on Friday driven by a rise in cases in India as the tiny Indian Ocean island nation of Maldives locked down its capital. Health officials have warned that the region, home to a fifth of the world's population, could be the new frontline against the disease because of millions living in packed slums and fragile public health systems. India's caseload rose to 13,387, a jump of nearly 700 over the previous day, despite a lockdown now in its fourth week and which will last at least until early May. Authorities have identified a fifth of India's hundreds of districts as red zones with the highest number of cases, including the cities of New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata and Hyderabad. But Lav Agarwal, government health joint secretary leading the fight against the coronavirus, said the rate of increase of infections was slowing because of the lockdown of 1.3 billion people in the world's second-most populous country after China. Before the shutdown, the number of cases was doubling every three days, but now it was taking 6.2 days to double, Agarwal said, citing government data. "There is a decline, but we have to remain (in) the fight," he said. The government has said it will permit farm and industrial activity in parts of the countryside that are least affected by the coronavirus from next week to lessen the pain for millions. Authorities in the resort islands of the Maldives placed the capital Male under a 14-day lockdown after eight people tested positive over the last three days, taking the total to 28. The government had earlier stopped all travel to and from the tropical islands and shut down businesses. But on Friday, the Health Protection Agency issued strict stay-at-home orders for Male, home to 40 per cent of the country's population of 450,000, fearing a big outbreak in the congested city. Maldives, best known for its white sands and palm-fringed atolls, reported its first case at the beginning of March when two employees of an island resort tested positive. Bangladesh also warned its 160 million people that the country was at risk after positive cases were detected in 45 districts out of a total of 64. It warned of strict action against anyone violating stay-at-home orders. "Only social distancing can keep the outbreak under control as no vaccine or treatment is available for the disease," the directorate general of health services said in a statement. The big worry remains the low level of testing across the region. India has slowly raised the number to a little over 27,000 on Thursday, but in comparison with other countries it remains small given the huge population. India has tested 203 people per million of its population, lower than Brazil (296) and well behind the United States at 9,866 and Italy 18,481, all of which are themselves considered laggards in the race to screen as many people as possible.

South Asia coronavirus cases hit 22,000 as Maldives locks down capital

Bangladesh has executed a military captain less than a week after he was arrested after nearly 25 years on the run over the assassination of the country's founding leader, a minister said Sunday.&nbsp;

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, father of current Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, was killed along with most of his family in a military coup on August 15, 1975, nearly four years after he led Bangladesh to independence from Pakistan.

In 1998 Abdul Majed was sentenced in absentia to death along with a dozen other army officers over the murders.&nbsp;

Bangladesh's Supreme Court upheld the verdict in 2009 and five of the killers were executed several months later.

On Tuesday, counter-terrorism police officers arrested Majed as he rode a rickshaw in the capital early in the morning.&nbsp;

Bangladesh prison authorities carried out Majed's execution by hanging days later, after the country's president rejected a mercy plea from the convicted killer.

"He was hanged to death at 12.01 am Sunday (1801GMT)," law minister Anisul Huq told AFP, adding the execution took place at the country's largest prison, just outside the capital Dhaka.&nbsp;

Majed is believed to have fled to India in 1996. He returned to Bangladesh last month.

Majed's wife met him at the prison one last time on Saturday evening when the prison authorities had scheduled his execution.&nbsp;

Security has been tightened at the areas outside the prison at Keraniganj town, with scores of policemen patrolling the jailgate, police chief of Dhaka district Maruf Hossain Sorder told AFP.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Hasina, whose public celebrations this year for the centenary of her father's birth have been hampered by the coronavirus pandemic, was in Europe with her sister at the time of the 1975 attack.

In a video message, the country's home minister this week called Majed's arrest "the best gift of Mujib centenary year".

The road to getting justice for the 1975 assassination was long, and the killing continues to poison Bangladesh's murky political scene to this day.

Successive post-coup military governments rewarded the killers with diplomatic positions and several of them were even allowed to form a political party and contest polls in the 1980s.

For 21 years, an indemnity law enacted by the post-coup government prevented a prosecution of the killers. This was only overturned after Hasina came to power in 1996.

Hasina has also long accused Ziaur Rahman, president from 1977 until his assassination in 1981, of orchestrating her father's murder.

This is denied by his widow Khaleda Zia, prime minister from 1991-1996 and 2001-2006 and Hasina's former ally turned arch enemy who was convicted of graft in 2018, charges she said were fabricated.

Bangladesh has executed a military captain less than a week after he was arrested after nearly 25 years on the run over the assassination of the country's founding leader, a minister said Sunday.

Bangladesh has executed a military captain less than a week after he was arrested after nearly 25 years on the run over the assassination of the country's founding leader, a minister said Sunday. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, father of current Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, was killed along with most of his family in a military coup on August 15, 1975, nearly four years after he led Bangladesh to independence from Pakistan. In 1998 Abdul Majed was sentenced in absentia to death along with a dozen other army officers over the murders. Bangladesh's Supreme Court upheld the verdict in 2009 and five of the killers were executed several months later. On Tuesday, counter-terrorism police officers arrested Majed as he rode a rickshaw in the capital early in the morning. Bangladesh prison authorities carried out Majed's execution by hanging days later, after the country's president rejected a mercy plea from the convicted killer. "He was hanged to death at 12.01 am Sunday (1801GMT)," law minister Anisul Huq told AFP, adding the execution took place at the country's largest prison, just outside the capital Dhaka. Majed is believed to have fled to India in 1996. He returned to Bangladesh last month. Majed's wife met him at the prison one last time on Saturday evening when the prison authorities had scheduled his execution. Security has been tightened at the areas outside the prison at Keraniganj town, with scores of policemen patrolling the jailgate, police chief of Dhaka district Maruf Hossain Sorder told AFP. Prime Minister Hasina, whose public celebrations this year for the centenary of her father's birth have been hampered by the coronavirus pandemic, was in Europe with her sister at the time of the 1975 attack. In a video message, the country's home minister this week called Majed's arrest "the best gift of Mujib centenary year". The road to getting justice for the 1975 assassination was long, and the killing continues to poison Bangladesh's murky political scene to this day. Successive post-coup military governments rewarded the killers with diplomatic positions and several of them were even allowed to form a political party and contest polls in the 1980s. For 21 years, an indemnity law enacted by the post-coup government prevented a prosecution of the killers. This was only overturned after Hasina came to power in 1996. Hasina has also long accused Ziaur Rahman, president from 1977 until his assassination in 1981, of orchestrating her father's murder. This is denied by his widow Khaleda Zia, prime minister from 1991-1996 and 2001-2006 and Hasina's former ally turned arch enemy who was convicted of graft in 2018, charges she said were fabricated.

Bangladesh executes killer of founding leader 

Pakistan on Monday opened Torkham and Chaman border crossings with Afghanistan for four days to allow the exit of Afghan nationals stranded in the country, officials said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-police-baton-charged-doctors-who-were-demanding-protective-gear-to-fight-coronavirus-290940" hreflang="en">Pakistan: Police baton-charged doctors who were demanding protective gear to fight coronavirus</a>

The Foreign Office said in a statement that the step has been taken on a special request of the Afghan government based on humanitarian considerations and to facilitate the Afghan nationals.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-cases-climb-to-3520-in-pakistan-as-authorities-scramble-to-contain-spread-290887" hreflang="en">Coronavirus cases climb to 3,520 in Pakistan as authorities scramble to contain spread</a>

Hundreds of Afghans were stuck up on the Pakistani side due to closure of the border as a precautionary measure to contain the deadly coronavirus from spreading.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-19-cases-rise-to-349-in-afghanistan-290875" hreflang="en">COVID-19 cases rise to 349 in Afghanistan</a>

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government Spokesman Ajmal Wazir told a media briefing that all facilities would be provided to Afghan nationals in their return to their country in the wake of coronavirus pandemic.

He said that the number of COVID-19 cases climbed to 405 in the province after 33 new cases were reported on Monday. So far, 16 people have died due to the virus in the province.

Pakistan on Monday opened Torkham and Chaman border crossings with Afghanistan for four days to allow the exit of Afghan nationals stranded in the country, officials said.

Pakistan on Monday opened Torkham and Chaman border crossings with Afghanistan for four days to allow the exit of Afghan nationals stranded in the country, officials said. Also read: Pakistan: Police baton-charged doctors who were demanding protective gear to fight coronavirus The Foreign Office said in a statement that the step has been taken on a special request of the Afghan government based on humanitarian considerations and to facilitate the Afghan nationals. Also read: Coronavirus cases climb to 3,520 in Pakistan as authorities scramble to contain spread Hundreds of Afghans were stuck up on the Pakistani side due to closure of the border as a precautionary measure to contain the deadly coronavirus from spreading. Also read: COVID-19 cases rise to 349 in Afghanistan Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government Spokesman Ajmal Wazir told a media briefing that all facilities would be provided to Afghan nationals in their return to their country in the wake of coronavirus pandemic. He said that the number of COVID-19 cases climbed to 405 in the province after 33 new cases were reported on Monday. So far, 16 people have died due to the virus in the province.

Pakistan opens two border crossings with Afghanistan for four days

In the backdrop of coronavirus pandemic, Pakistan government on Wednesday announced Rs 1.25 trillion package to keep the economy afloat. 
 
The package will grant relief to SMEs and daily wage workers. "The federal and provincial governments are working together," Special Assistant to Prime Minister Hafeez Sheikh said, as reported by DAWN.On Tuesday, Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly and PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday urged Prime Minister Imran Khan to call a meeting of the Council of Common Interests (CCI) to address the current coronavirus outbreak.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-coronavirus-outbreak-pakistan-fears-religious-congregations-288478" hreflang="en">Amid coronavirus outbreak, Pakistan fears religious congregations</a> 
 
He also offered the government various solutions for combating the economic fallout of the novel coronavirus in the country. 
 
He proposed slashing the interest rate by three to four per cent. He further proposed to double the salaries of medical staff. 
 
He also asked to take the media on board and launching an awareness campaign. 
 
Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday announced that petrol and diesel prices will be reduced by Rs 15."Petrol, diesel, kerosene and light diesel will all be reduced by Rs15 per litre," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-in-pakistan-number-of-case-cross-1000-7-dead-288434" hreflang="en">Coronavirus in Pakistan: Number of case cross 1000, 7 dead</a> 
 
Pakistan`s tally of confirmed cases has also crossed 1,000 on Wednesday with 1,016 cases and seven deaths. 
 
The Province of Sindh remains worst affected with 413 cases followed by Punjab with 312 cases, 115 cases in Balochistan, 82 in Gilgit Baltistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), 78 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and 16 in national-capital Islamabad.

In the backdrop of coronavirus pandemic, Pakistan government on Wednesday announced Rs 1.25 trillion package to keep the economy afloat. The package will grant relief to SMEs and daily wage workers.

In the backdrop of coronavirus pandemic, Pakistan government on Wednesday announced Rs 1.25 trillion package to keep the economy afloat. The package will grant relief to SMEs and daily wage workers. "The federal and provincial governments are working together," Special Assistant to Prime Minister Hafeez Sheikh said, as reported by DAWN.On Tuesday, Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly and PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday urged Prime Minister Imran Khan to call a meeting of the Council of Common Interests (CCI) to address the current coronavirus outbreak. Also read: Amid coronavirus outbreak, Pakistan fears religious congregations He also offered the government various solutions for combating the economic fallout of the novel coronavirus in the country. He proposed slashing the interest rate by three to four per cent. He further proposed to double the salaries of medical staff. He also asked to take the media on board and launching an awareness campaign. Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday announced that petrol and diesel prices will be reduced by Rs 15."Petrol, diesel, kerosene and light diesel will all be reduced by Rs15 per litre," he said. Also read: Coronavirus in Pakistan: Number of case cross 1000, 7 dead Pakistan`s tally of confirmed cases has also crossed 1,000 on Wednesday with 1,016 cases and seven deaths. The Province of Sindh remains worst affected with 413 cases followed by Punjab with 312 cases, 115 cases in Balochistan, 82 in Gilgit Baltistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), 78 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and 16 in national-capital Islamabad.

Coronavirus: Pakistan announces ₹1.25 trillion package

Six district administrative officials in the Pakistani province of Sindh were recently suspended after they took a picture with one of their colleagues who had tested positive for the novel coronavirus COVID-19.

The notification was issued by the Deputy Commissioner of Khairpur yesterday. Based on information from authorities, the six revenue officials who were seen in the picture were suspended soon after people took notice of the image.

Allegedly, the revenue officials had no idea about the medical state of the person in question, who had recently returned from Iran. He was later tested positive for the novel coronavirus, as reported by The Dawn.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-babur-ii-missile-suffers-second-consecutive-setback-crashes-after-two-minutes-288073" hreflang="en">Pakistan's 'Babur II' missile suffers second consecutive setback; crashes after two minutes</a>

All suspended officials hail from different districts.

"Due to the information received through social media regarding selfie by the revenue staff with Irshad Ali Rajpar who recently returned from Iran and was reported as a positive case of coronavirus, the following staff in the selfie are hereby placed under suspension with immediate effect," said the notification.

<h6><img alt="oo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bf6a5fdf-dc06-442a-9059-7678cfe592c9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_109.jpg" /> 
The official government notification 
 
&nbsp;</h6>

So far, over 803 people in Pakistan have tested positive for coronavirus, with 150 new cases registered in the last 24 hours.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cant-impose-lockdown-in-pakistan-as-one-fourth-of-population-survives-on-daily-wages-imran-khan-287959" hreflang="en">Can't impose lockdown in Pakistan as&nbsp;one-fourth of population survives&nbsp;on daily wages: Imran Khan</a>

The death toll in the country now stands at six, after a doctor died of the virus in Gilgit-Baltistan region, the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in southern Sindh province rose to 352, Punjab province to 225, in northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province to 31, western Balochistan province 108, Gilgit-Baltistan 71, the capital's Islamabad 15 while one case confirmed in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday rejected the proposal for the complete lockdown&nbsp;to combat the coronavirus outbreak, saying that state-imposed curfew is not possible in the country as one-fourth of its population is under the below&nbsp;the poverty line and survives on daily wages.

Six district administrative officials in the Pakistani province of Sindh were recently suspended after they took a picture with one of their colleagues who had tested positive for the novel coronavirus COVID-19.

Six district administrative officials in the Pakistani province of Sindh were recently suspended after they took a picture with one of their colleagues who had tested positive for the novel coronavirus COVID-19. The notification was issued by the Deputy Commissioner of Khairpur yesterday. Based on information from authorities, the six revenue officials who were seen in the picture were suspended soon after people took notice of the image. Allegedly, the revenue officials had no idea about the medical state of the person in question, who had recently returned from Iran. He was later tested positive for the novel coronavirus, as reported by The Dawn. Also read: Pakistan's 'Babur II' missile suffers second consecutive setback; crashes after two minutes All suspended officials hail from different districts. "Due to the information received through social media regarding selfie by the revenue staff with Irshad Ali Rajpar who recently returned from Iran and was reported as a positive case of coronavirus, the following staff in the selfie are hereby placed under suspension with immediate effect," said the notification. The official government notification So far, over 803 people in Pakistan have tested positive for coronavirus, with 150 new cases registered in the last 24 hours. Also read: Can't impose lockdown in Pakistan as one-fourth of population survives on daily wages: Imran Khan The death toll in the country now stands at six, after a doctor died of the virus in Gilgit-Baltistan region, the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in southern Sindh province rose to 352, Punjab province to 225, in northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province to 31, western Balochistan province 108, Gilgit-Baltistan 71, the capital's Islamabad 15 while one case confirmed in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday rejected the proposal for the complete lockdown to combat the coronavirus outbreak, saying that state-imposed curfew is not possible in the country as one-fourth of its population is under the below the poverty line and survives on daily wages.

Pakistan suspends six officials for taking selfie with coronavirus-infected colleague

Pakistan recently tried to launch a cruise missile called “Babur II” but suffered a major setback as the launch was marred by a crash.

The 750-kilometre range missile’s delivery platform crashed and fell two minutes after taking flight. The flight had travelled the elevation distance of 14 kilometres from the launchpad at Sonmiani test range in Balcohistan on March 19.

The Babur II had suffered a similar setback in April 2018, making this the second consecutive test failure.

As per media reports, the launch was conducted under the supervision of Lt Gen Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chief of General Staff, Pakistan General Headquarters, Rawalpindi, and top officials of Army Strategic Forces Command (ASFC) and Strategic Plans Division.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cant-impose-lockdown-in-pakistan-as-one-fourth-of-population-survives-on-daily-wages-imran-khan-287959">Can't impose lockdown in Pakistan as&nbsp;one-fourth of population survives&nbsp;on daily wages: Imran Khan</a>

As per reports, Pakistani scientists had visited China seeking guidance on the missile.

The Babur I was developed by Pakistan, which has a range of 7000 kilometres and may be fired from both land as well as sea.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-limited-india-pakistan-nuke-war-could-trigger-a-famine-287080/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

There are also rumours about them attempting to launch an air based missile called RAAD.

China and Pakistan both have evaded the missile technology control protocol.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-number-of-confirmed-coronavirus-cases-rise-to-764-5-dead-287954" hreflang="en">Pakistan: Number of confirmed coronavirus cases rise to 764; 5 dead</a>

A media report claims that China is helping Pakistan build the Babur II in order to counter the Nirbhay cruise being developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The Nirbhay missile has a range of 1000 kilometres.

The missiles in question are equipped with nuclear warhead and also has terrain hugging and sea skimming capabilities.

However, the Indian missile Nirbhay has undergone six test trials, and has achieved all mission objectives.&nbsp;

Pakistan recently tried to launch a cruise missile called “Babur II” but suffered a major setback as the launch was marred by a crash. The 750-kilometre range missile’s delivery platform crashed and fell two minutes after taking flight.

Pakistan recently tried to launch a cruise missile called “Babur II” but suffered a major setback as the launch was marred by a crash. The 750-kilometre range missile’s delivery platform crashed and fell two minutes after taking flight. The flight had travelled the elevation distance of 14 kilometres from the launchpad at Sonmiani test range in Balcohistan on March 19. The Babur II had suffered a similar setback in April 2018, making this the second consecutive test failure. As per media reports, the launch was conducted under the supervision of Lt Gen Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chief of General Staff, Pakistan General Headquarters, Rawalpindi, and top officials of Army Strategic Forces Command (ASFC) and Strategic Plans Division. Also read: Can't impose lockdown in Pakistan as one-fourth of population survives on daily wages: Imran Khan As per reports, Pakistani scientists had visited China seeking guidance on the missile. The Babur I was developed by Pakistan, which has a range of 7000 kilometres and may be fired from both land as well as sea. There are also rumours about them attempting to launch an air based missile called RAAD. China and Pakistan both have evaded the missile technology control protocol. Also read: Pakistan: Number of confirmed coronavirus cases rise to 764; 5 dead A media report claims that China is helping Pakistan build the Babur II in order to counter the Nirbhay cruise being developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The Nirbhay missile has a range of 1000 kilometres. The missiles in question are equipped with nuclear warhead and also has terrain hugging and sea skimming capabilities. However, the Indian missile Nirbhay has undergone six test trials, and has achieved all mission objectives.

Pakistan's 'Babur II' missile suffers second consecutive setback; crashes after two minutes

Nepal and Bhutan have pitched in for the COVID-19 emergency fund&nbsp;for South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries which was envisioned by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Kathmandu has announced 10 crore Nepali Rupees for the fund while Bhutan has announced&nbsp;USD 100,000 for it.

Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli announced it during his Friday evening address to the nation on the COVID-19 pandemic. He said, "I want to inform you that Nepal will contribute Rs 10 crores in this fund set up with the objective to provide requisite help to the SAARC nations"

The Bhutan foreign office in a statement said, "The Royal Government of Bhutan has welcomed the establishment of the Emergency Fund&nbsp;and has decided to make an initial contribution of USD 100,000 (US Dollar One Hundred Thousand only)."

Recognising the urgent need for "collective efforts to combat such crisis", Bhutan government said, it "would like to reassure its full support and cooperation to do everything possible in close collaboration with all Member States to overcome the COVID- 19 pandemic".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-scare-universal-screening-for-passengers-coming-from-australia-uk-and-us-287687" hreflang="en">Coronavirus scare: Universal screening for passengers coming from Australia, UK and US</a>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the formation of the fund during the SAARC video conference that took place last Sunday to curate a joint COVID-19 strategy. India had offered to pitch in&nbsp;USD 10 million for the emergency fund.

The proposal for the video conference was initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last week on Twitter, and the video conference happened on Sunday. All SAARC leaders were present in the meet except Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan who had sent a junior representative, Special Advisor on Health Dr Zafar Mirza to represent him.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-indian-diplomat-infected-with-covid-19-say-indian-government-sources-287660" hreflang="en">No Indian diplomat infected with COVID-19, say Indian government sources</a>

Nepal and Bhutan have pitched in for the COVID-19 emergency fund for South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries which was envisioned by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Nepal and Bhutan have pitched in for the COVID-19 emergency fund for South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries which was envisioned by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Kathmandu has announced 10 crore Nepali Rupees for the fund while Bhutan has announced USD 100,000 for it. Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli announced it during his Friday evening address to the nation on the COVID-19 pandemic. He said, "I want to inform you that Nepal will contribute Rs 10 crores in this fund set up with the objective to provide requisite help to the SAARC nations" The Bhutan foreign office in a statement said, "The Royal Government of Bhutan has welcomed the establishment of the Emergency Fund and has decided to make an initial contribution of USD 100,000 (US Dollar One Hundred Thousand only)." Recognising the urgent need for "collective efforts to combat such crisis", Bhutan government said, it "would like to reassure its full support and cooperation to do everything possible in close collaboration with all Member States to overcome the COVID- 19 pandemic". Also read: Coronavirus scare: Universal screening for passengers coming from Australia, UK and US Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the formation of the fund during the SAARC video conference that took place last Sunday to curate a joint COVID-19 strategy. India had offered to pitch in USD 10 million for the emergency fund. The proposal for the video conference was initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last week on Twitter, and the video conference happened on Sunday. All SAARC leaders were present in the meet except Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan who had sent a junior representative, Special Advisor on Health Dr Zafar Mirza to represent him. Also read: No Indian diplomat infected with COVID-19, say Indian government sources

Nepal, Bhutan pledge contribution to COVID-19 SAARC emergency fund announced by PM Modi

The United States President Donald Trump today said that he was always serious when it comes to stopping coronavirus spread in his country claiming that imposing travel ban saved many lives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mind-your-own-business-china-to-trump-after-he-calls-covid-19-chinese-virus-287042">Mind your own business: China to Trump after he calls COVID-19 'Chinese virus'</a> 
 
He tweeted: "I always treated the Chinese Virus very seriously, and have done a very good job from the beginning, including my very early decision to close the “borders” from China - against the wishes of almost all. Many lives were saved. The Fake News new narrative is disgraceful &amp; false!"

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I always treated the Chinese Virus very seriously, and have done a very good job from the beginning, including my very early decision to close the “borders” from China - against the wishes of almost all. Many lives were saved. The Fake News new narrative is disgraceful &amp; false!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1240243188708839424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In his tweets, he also said that he will be discussing 'very important news' concerning Coronavirus during a press conference later today.&nbsp;

"I will be having a news conference today to discuss very important news from the FDA concerning the Chinese Virus!" President Trump tweeted.&nbsp;

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I will be having a news conference today to discuss very important news from the FDA concerning the Chinese Virus!
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A couple of days ago, the US president had announced that the first human trial of Coronavirus vaccine has started in the US.&nbsp;

Earlier today, he pledged that the US government will provide money to everyone who isn't able to work because of coronavirus prevention measures.

The United States President Donald Trump today said that he was always serious when it comes to stopping coronavirus spread in his country claiming that imposing travel ban saved many lives.

The United States President Donald Trump today said that he was always serious when it comes to stopping coronavirus spread in his country claiming that imposing travel ban saved many lives. Mind your own business: China to Trump after he calls COVID-19 'Chinese virus' He tweeted: "I always treated the Chinese Virus very seriously, and have done a very good job from the beginning, including my very early decision to close the “borders” from China - against the wishes of almost all. Many lives were saved. The Fake News new narrative is disgraceful & false!" I always treated the Chinese Virus very seriously, and have done a very good job from the beginning, including my very early decision to close the “borders” from China - against the wishes of almost all. Many lives were saved. The Fake News new narrative is disgraceful & false! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 18, 2020 × In his tweets, he also said that he will be discussing 'very important news' concerning Coronavirus during a press conference later today. "I will be having a news conference today to discuss very important news from the FDA concerning the Chinese Virus!" President Trump tweeted. I will be having a news conference today to discuss very important news from the FDA concerning the Chinese Virus! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 18, 2020 × A couple of days ago, the US president had announced that the first human trial of Coronavirus vaccine has started in the US. Earlier today, he pledged that the US government will provide money to everyone who isn't able to work because of coronavirus prevention measures.

I always treated 'Chinese Virus' seriously: Donald Trump

World Health Organization is concerned that countries are not running adequate coronavirus tests in every suspected case.

WHO asks governments to run more tests

With seven new cases, the number of infections in Sri Lanka has spiked to 19. As a precautionary measure, Srilankan airlines have asked passengers to carry their own blankets and headphones.

Coronavirus cases on the rise in South Asia

US President Donald Trump's comment about the coronavirus has angered Chinese authorities.&nbsp;

Recently, the US president referred to the COVID-19 novel coronavirus as ''Chinese''.

A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman responded by asking the US to ''take care of its own business'' before commenting on China.

The virus began from a market in the Chinese city of Wuhan in 2019.

Also read: Ca<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-asymptomatic-kids-sustain-coronavirus-for-longer-than-adults-287039" hreflang="en">n asymptomatic kids sustain coronavirus for longer than adults?</a>

Earlier this month, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson claimed that the US army had brought the virus to China.

To this, the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo responded by asking China to end its disinformation campaign in a bid ''to shift blame'' for the outbreak.

Until now, more than 170,000 people have been infected globally, with 80,000 alone in China.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-pandemic-over-in-china-286904/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Earlier today, Chinese authorities claimed that there was only a single new case in the country, while all others were imported cases. 
 
Since the beginning, many have referred to the virus as ''Wuhan virus'' or ''Chinese virus'', something the World Health Organization (WHO) has strictly warned against, for it could perpetuate stigma against a particular region.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-our-healthcare-workers-safe-during-the-coronavirus-pandemic-287036" hreflang="en">Are our healthcare workers safe during the coronavirus pandemic?</a>

However, many US officials continue to refer to it as either the ''Chinese virus'' or ''Wuhan virus''.

Geng Shuang, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said that the tweet amounts to the ''stigmatisation of China''.

"We urge the US to correct its mistake and stop its groundless accusations against China,” he added.

Xinhua, the official Chinese news agency called Trump's rhetoric ''racist and xenophobic''.

As of Tuesday, the global infection numbers stand at 182,400, while over 7,100 have been killed, as per data provided by the Johns Hopkins University. For the first time, the number of deaths outside China has surpassed the number inside.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attempting-to-disinfect-south-korean-church-officials-mistakenly-infect-people-with-covid-19-287013" hreflang="en">Attempting to disinfect, South Korean church officials mistakenly infect people with COVID-19</a>

Millions continue to remain quarantined in Europe and Asia.

US President Donald Trump's comment about the coronavirus has angered Chinese authorities. Recently, the US president referred to the COVID-19 novel coronavirus as ''Chinese''.

US President Donald Trump's comment about the coronavirus has angered Chinese authorities. Recently, the US president referred to the COVID-19 novel coronavirus as ''Chinese''. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman responded by asking the US to ''take care of its own business'' before commenting on China. The virus began from a market in the Chinese city of Wuhan in 2019. Also read: Can asymptomatic kids sustain coronavirus for longer than adults? Earlier this month, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson claimed that the US army had brought the virus to China. To this, the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo responded by asking China to end its disinformation campaign in a bid ''to shift blame'' for the outbreak. Until now, more than 170,000 people have been infected globally, with 80,000 alone in China. Earlier today, Chinese authorities claimed that there was only a single new case in the country, while all others were imported cases. Since the beginning, many have referred to the virus as ''Wuhan virus'' or ''Chinese virus'', something the World Health Organization (WHO) has strictly warned against, for it could perpetuate stigma against a particular region. Also read: Are our healthcare workers safe during the coronavirus pandemic? However, many US officials continue to refer to it as either the ''Chinese virus'' or ''Wuhan virus''. Geng Shuang, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said that the tweet amounts to the ''stigmatisation of China''. "We urge the US to correct its mistake and stop its groundless accusations against China,” he added. Xinhua, the official Chinese news agency called Trump's rhetoric ''racist and xenophobic''. As of Tuesday, the global infection numbers stand at 182,400, while over 7,100 have been killed, as per data provided by the Johns Hopkins University. For the first time, the number of deaths outside China has surpassed the number inside. Also read: Attempting to disinfect, South Korean church officials mistakenly infect people with COVID-19 Millions continue to remain quarantined in Europe and Asia.

Mind your own business: China to Trump after he calls COVID-19 'Chinese virus'

Wuhan virus spread across the Nation. South Asia battels against coronavirus.

South Asia tackles Covid 19-spread

With seven new cases, the number of infections in Sri Lanka has spiked to 19. As a precautionary measure, Srilankan airlines have asked passengers to carry their own blankets and headphones.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-19-infects-over-94-in-pakistan-286802">Also read: Covid-19 infects over 94 in Pakistan</a> 
 
The situation is particularly bad in Afghanistan which has a weak healthcare system. Though the country has reported 21 cases so far.

But the number of infections could be much higher. Afghan lawmakers have said that more than 15 thousand people, still return from Iran every day.

In fact, so far 10, Afghans have died of coronavirus in Iran due to the lack of medical care.

Lawmakers said that the conflict-hit country lacked the proper equipment to detect coronavirus infections. In fact, they said Afghanistan has just 16 doctors who can diagnose Covid-19 in the virus epicentre of the Herat province.

In fact, there were even calls to shut down the parliament over fears of virus spread.

The number of cases in Pakistan has risen to 93. 41 new coronavirus infections were confirmed in the Sindh province.&nbsp;

The financial hub of Karachi which is also Sindh's capital remains worst hit with 25 cases.

But the Imran Khan government's priority still remains misplaced.

This as Pakistan president Arif Alvi is leaving for a two-day trip to china to show solidarity with its all-weather friend.

Remember, Pakistan has refused to evacuate its citizens from china even as the outbreak worsened. Afghanistan struggles to contain the outbreak.

Afghanistan struggles to contain outbreak

At least 15,000 Afghans return daily from Iran 
10 Afghans died due to lack of medical care in Iran 
Afghanistan lacks equipment for coronavirus testing 
Only 16 doctors can diagnose Covid-19 in Herat province

With seven new cases, the number of infections in Sri Lanka has spiked to 19. As a precautionary measure, Srilankan airlines have asked passengers to carry their own blankets and headphones. Also read: Covid-19 infects over 94 in Pakistan The situation is particularly bad in Afghanistan which has a weak healthcare system. Though the country has reported 21 cases so far. But the number of infections could be much higher. Afghan lawmakers have said that more than 15 thousand people, still return from Iran every day. In fact, so far 10, Afghans have died of coronavirus in Iran due to the lack of medical care. Lawmakers said that the conflict-hit country lacked the proper equipment to detect coronavirus infections. In fact, they said Afghanistan has just 16 doctors who can diagnose Covid-19 in the virus epicentre of the Herat province. In fact, there were even calls to shut down the parliament over fears of virus spread. The number of cases in Pakistan has risen to 93. 41 new coronavirus infections were confirmed in the Sindh province. The financial hub of Karachi which is also Sindh's capital remains worst hit with 25 cases. But the Imran Khan government's priority still remains misplaced. This as Pakistan president Arif Alvi is leaving for a two-day trip to china to show solidarity with its all-weather friend. Remember, Pakistan has refused to evacuate its citizens from china even as the outbreak worsened. Afghanistan struggles to contain the outbreak. Afghanistan struggles to contain outbreak At least 15,000 Afghans return daily from Iran 10 Afghans died due to lack of medical care in Iran Afghanistan lacks equipment for coronavirus testing Only 16 doctors can diagnose Covid-19 in Herat province

Poverty, population and weak healthcare: Coronavirus cases on the rise in South Asia

One positive case of the deadly coronavirus was registered in northern Samangan province, the Ministry of Health reported on Tuesday, which brings the total number of confirmed cases in Afghanistan to five, as per media reports.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-cases-rise-to-16-in-pakistan-285430">Coronavirus cases rise to 16 in Pakistan</a>

The five patients have been taken to an isolation ward and are being treated, the ministry said.

The previous four positive cases of the infection were registered in western Herat province of Afghanistan.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-coronavirus-death-reported-from-canada-officials-285386">&nbsp;First coronavirus death reported from Canada: Officials</a>

Herat borders neighbouring Iran, which is one of the countries worst affected by coronavirus outside of China, with more than 7,000 cases and dozens of deaths.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fear-and-panic-as-virus-threatens-afghanistan-pakistan-282928">&nbsp;'Fear and panic' as virus threatens Afghanistan, Pakistan</a>

On Sunday, public health minister of the country Ferozuddin Feroz said that a 200-bed hospital in Kabul, another hospital in Herat and the third one in Nimroz province has been established for the potential coronavirus patients.&nbsp;

He said more hospitals will be established in other provinces if needed. According to him, 30,000 kits have been provided by the United Arab Emirates for dealing with the coronavirus outbreak and 20,000 are likely to arrive soon.

This comes as Herat`s refugees and repatriation directorate said on Tuesday that the number of Afghan refugees repatriated from Iran, a coronavirus hotspot, has doubled over the last two weeks, with "hundreds of thousands of refugees" crossing the border at Islam Qala every day.

&nbsp;

One positive case of the deadly coronavirus was registered in northern Samangan province, the Ministry of Health reported on Tuesday, which brings the total number of confirmed cases in Afghanistan to five, as per media reports.

One positive case of the deadly coronavirus was registered in northern Samangan province, the Ministry of Health reported on Tuesday, which brings the total number of confirmed cases in Afghanistan to five, as per media reports. Also read: Coronavirus cases rise to 16 in Pakistan The five patients have been taken to an isolation ward and are being treated, the ministry said. The previous four positive cases of the infection were registered in western Herat province of Afghanistan. Also read: First coronavirus death reported from Canada: Officials Herat borders neighbouring Iran, which is one of the countries worst affected by coronavirus outside of China, with more than 7,000 cases and dozens of deaths. Also read: 'Fear and panic' as virus threatens Afghanistan, Pakistan On Sunday, public health minister of the country Ferozuddin Feroz said that a 200-bed hospital in Kabul, another hospital in Herat and the third one in Nimroz province has been established for the potential coronavirus patients. He said more hospitals will be established in other provinces if needed. According to him, 30,000 kits have been provided by the United Arab Emirates for dealing with the coronavirus outbreak and 20,000 are likely to arrive soon. This comes as Herat`s refugees and repatriation directorate said on Tuesday that the number of Afghan refugees repatriated from Iran, a coronavirus hotspot, has doubled over the last two weeks, with "hundreds of thousands of refugees" crossing the border at Islam Qala every day.

Coronavirus cases rise to 5 in Afghanistan, confirms Health Ministry

One positive case of the deadly coronavirus was registered in northern Samangan province, the Ministry of Health reported on Tuesday, which brings the total number of confirmed cases in Afghanistan to five, Tolo News reported.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-10-world-news-today-afghanistan-political-crisis-coronavirus-in-saudi-arabia-more-285317">Top 10 world news today: Afghanistan political crisis, coronavirus in Saudi Arabia &amp; more</a>

The five patients have been taken to an isolation ward and are being treated, the ministry said.

The previous four positive cases of the infection were registered in western Herat province of Afghanistan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-10-world-news-today-afghan-peace-talks-coronavirus-severity-shrinks-libya-talks-and-more-283165">Top 10 world news today: Afghan peace talks, coronavirus Severity shrinks, Libya talks and more</a>

Herat borders neighbouring Iran, which is one of the countries worst affected by coronavirus outside of China, with more than 7,000 cases and dozens of deaths.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fear-and-panic-as-virus-threatens-afghanistan-pakistan-282928">&nbsp;'Fear and panic' as virus threatens Afghanistan, Pakistan</a>

On Sunday, public health minister of the country Ferozuddin Feroz said that a 200-bed hospital in Kabul, another hospital in Herat and the third one in Nimroz province has been established for the potential coronavirus patients.&nbsp;

He said more hospitals will be established in other provinces if needed.According to him, 30,000 kits have been provided by the United Arab Emirates for dealing with the coronavirus outbreak and 20,000 are likely to arrive soon.

This comes as Herat`s refugees and repatriation directorate said on Tuesday that the number of Afghan refugees repatriated from Iran, a coronavirus hotspot, has doubled over the last two weeks, with "hundreds of thousands of refugees" crossing the border at Islam Qala every day.

 
&nbsp;

One positive case of the deadly coronavirus was registered in northern Samangan province, the Ministry of Health reported on Tuesday, which brings the total number of confirmed cases in Afghanistan to five, Tolo News reported.

One positive case of the deadly coronavirus was registered in northern Samangan province, the Ministry of Health reported on Tuesday, which brings the total number of confirmed cases in Afghanistan to five, Tolo News reported. Also read: Top 10 world news today: Afghanistan political crisis, coronavirus in Saudi Arabia & more The five patients have been taken to an isolation ward and are being treated, the ministry said. The previous four positive cases of the infection were registered in western Herat province of Afghanistan. Also read: Top 10 world news today: Afghan peace talks, coronavirus Severity shrinks, Libya talks and more Herat borders neighbouring Iran, which is one of the countries worst affected by coronavirus outside of China, with more than 7,000 cases and dozens of deaths. Also read: 'Fear and panic' as virus threatens Afghanistan, Pakistan On Sunday, public health minister of the country Ferozuddin Feroz said that a 200-bed hospital in Kabul, another hospital in Herat and the third one in Nimroz province has been established for the potential coronavirus patients. He said more hospitals will be established in other provinces if needed.According to him, 30,000 kits have been provided by the United Arab Emirates for dealing with the coronavirus outbreak and 20,000 are likely to arrive soon. This comes as Herat`s refugees and repatriation directorate said on Tuesday that the number of Afghan refugees repatriated from Iran, a coronavirus hotspot, has doubled over the last two weeks, with "hundreds of thousands of refugees" crossing the border at Islam Qala every day.

House built by trash: Myanmar start-up turns clutter to handicrafts

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has ordered his Cabinet officials to purchase 5,000 coronavirus test kits, following the confirmation of the second coronavirus case in Karachi and surfacing of multiple suspected cases in the country.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/suspected-case-of-coronavirus-reported-in-pakistan-nepal-confirms-first-case-276469">A suspected case of coronavirus reported in Pakistan, Nepal confirms the first case&nbsp;</a>

Shah, while chairing a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, said that 53 tests for coronavirus cases from Sindh have been so far been conducted, of which only two have been confirmed, Express Tribune reported

."The government has released Rs 100 million for adopting preventive measures and to deal with any emergencies [pertaining to coronavirus cases," he was quoted as saying.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-confirms-fifth-case-of-coronavirus-284027"> Pakistan confirms fifth case of coronavirus</a>

The provincial government also ordered the closure of all educational institutions and released Rs 100 million for the coronavirus emergency fund to combat the virus.

According to health officials, the Sindh government has purchased 40,000 imported surgical facemasks from a private firm. Authorities have also started disseminating audio and text messages in English, Urdu and Sindhi languages among the general public to raise awareness about the virus.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-resumes-flights-to-coronavirus-hit-china-screens-passengers-for-virus-278443"> Pakistan resumes flights to coronavirus-hit China, screens passengers for virus</a>

On Tuesday, Pakistan confirmed its fifth case of coronavirus amid strict safety measures to contain the spread in the country."We have now the fifth confirmed case of COVID19 in federal areas.

The patient is stable and is being managed well," Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health, Zafar Mirza told Geo News. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), the patient is a 45-year-old woman from the northern mountainous region of Gilgit Baltistan, who arrived from Iran a few days ago.

Despite the surging cases, the federal cabinet today rejected the Ministry of Health`s proposal for declaring a "health emergency" in the country to tackle the virus. The cabinet in its meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan, emphasized on strengthening coordination between provinces to increase awareness about the virus among the people, said Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting, Firdous Ashiq Awan, while speaking to the media after the meeting on Tuesday.

The disease that originated in the central Chinese city of Wuhan last year has triggered panic around the world after it killed 3,100 people around the world (mostly in China) and affected more than 80,000 around the world.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has ordered his Cabinet officials to purchase 5,000 coronavirus test kits, following the confirmation of the second coronavirus case in Karachi and surfacing of multiple suspected cases in the country.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has ordered his Cabinet officials to purchase 5,000 coronavirus test kits, following the confirmation of the second coronavirus case in Karachi and surfacing of multiple suspected cases in the country. Also read: A suspected case of coronavirus reported in Pakistan, Nepal confirms the first case Shah, while chairing a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, said that 53 tests for coronavirus cases from Sindh have been so far been conducted, of which only two have been confirmed, Express Tribune reported ."The government has released Rs 100 million for adopting preventive measures and to deal with any emergencies [pertaining to coronavirus cases," he was quoted as saying. Also read: Pakistan confirms fifth case of coronavirus The provincial government also ordered the closure of all educational institutions and released Rs 100 million for the coronavirus emergency fund to combat the virus. According to health officials, the Sindh government has purchased 40,000 imported surgical facemasks from a private firm. Authorities have also started disseminating audio and text messages in English, Urdu and Sindhi languages among the general public to raise awareness about the virus. Also read: Pakistan resumes flights to coronavirus-hit China, screens passengers for virus On Tuesday, Pakistan confirmed its fifth case of coronavirus amid strict safety measures to contain the spread in the country."We have now the fifth confirmed case of COVID19 in federal areas. The patient is stable and is being managed well," Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health, Zafar Mirza told Geo News. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), the patient is a 45-year-old woman from the northern mountainous region of Gilgit Baltistan, who arrived from Iran a few days ago. Despite the surging cases, the federal cabinet today rejected the Ministry of Health`s proposal for declaring a "health emergency" in the country to tackle the virus. The cabinet in its meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan, emphasized on strengthening coordination between provinces to increase awareness about the virus among the people, said Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting, Firdous Ashiq Awan, while speaking to the media after the meeting on Tuesday. The disease that originated in the central Chinese city of Wuhan last year has triggered panic around the world after it killed 3,100 people around the world (mostly in China) and affected more than 80,000 around the world.

Sindh CM calls for purchase of 5000 COVID-19 test kits as confirmed cases reach 5 in Pakistan

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