Tamil Nadu government decided to give its localities a phonetic makeover amid the pandemic, and changed the English spellings of the names of localities to match the way they are pronounced.

The Tamil Nadu government issued a notification on Wednesday that listed almost 1000 localities whose&nbsp;English spellings will be changed to match the Tamil pronunciation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/theres-no-community-spread-and-fatalities-mismatch-claims-k-palaniswami-305093">Also read:&nbsp;There's no community spread and fatalities mismatch: claims K Palaniswami</a>

The spellings were changed after a committee was made especially to make sure that the experts sit down with districts heads and make sure that the spellings of the localities match the Tamil names.

Some main names that have been changed are: Coimbatore is now&nbsp;Koyampuththoor, Egmore is now&nbsp;Ezhumboor, Puducherry is now&nbsp;Puthucherry, Vellore is now&nbsp;Veeloor,&nbsp;Saidapet is now&nbsp;Saithaappettai, Chintadripet is now Chinthadharipettai and so on.

While the locals were going through the changes made, twitter came up with memes regarding this change amid a pandemic.

We compiled few of the best for you:

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After passing all the students, Tamil Nadu govt. decides to change the syllabus. 
2021's gonna be a tough year to study geography.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NAMECHANGE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NAMECHANGE</a>
— Aadar Malik (@TheAadarGuy) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheAadarGuy/status/1270971217843875840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NAMECHANGE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NAMECHANGE</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TNGovt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TNGovt</a> changed names of few cities during this pandemic 
Meanwhile corona: <a href="https://t.co/1WSh8ipI9w">pic.twitter.com/1WSh8ipI9w</a>
— Tanveer (@Crictanveer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Crictanveer/status/1271057715599536128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Tamilnadu gov. Changed name of few cities during global pandemic <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NAMECHANGE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NAMECHANGE</a> 
Gov. Be like:- <a href="https://t.co/I54JXbw9S0">pic.twitter.com/I54JXbw9S0</a>
— Sail (@Sail71297) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sail71297/status/1271060655962050560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NAMECHANGE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NAMECHANGE</a> 
TN changed the names of its cities relative to tamil pronunciations. 
. 
So that Corona could get confused while entering the city by seeing its name board and go back to its home. 
So less corona cases.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/unlock2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#unlock2</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chennai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KOYAMPUTHTHOOR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KOYAMPUTHTHOOR</a> <a href="https://t.co/LRD8iw6E7k">pic.twitter.com/LRD8iw6E7k</a>
— Vinusha (@vinnnnnnuu) <a href="https://twitter.com/vinnnnnnuu/status/1271068466338881536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<img alt="Tamil Nadu name change" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="be6f1dd6-822d-4ad6-a321-e55618bc0117" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%288%29_29.jpg" />

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Tamilnadu CM changed the name of the city Coimbatore to Koyampuththoor...😄 
 
Yogi Adityanath to Tamilnadu's CM..😄<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NAMECHANGE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NAMECHANGE</a> <a href="https://t.co/F1MVqKmbxE">pic.twitter.com/F1MVqKmbxE</a>
— Hazik Perry 🇮🇳 (@HazikPerry) <a href="https://twitter.com/HazikPerry/status/1271066201540620288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NAMECHANGE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NAMECHANGE</a> <a href="https://t.co/vKmVIk2GiG">pic.twitter.com/vKmVIk2GiG</a>
— The Frustrated HouseWives (@Frustrated_Hai) <a href="https://twitter.com/Frustrated_Hai/status/1271063762410201088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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What <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tn</a> people expect: Double testing capacity for Covid19. Double Hospital beds. 
 
What Govt does: Double 'OO' in Mylapore.. Double 'AA' in Arni. Double 'PP' Saidapet. 🙊<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NAMECHANGE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NAMECHANGE</a>
— Justme (@Justme36541234) <a href="https://twitter.com/Justme36541234/status/1270969982055149568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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So when Tamizh Nadoo's Corona total is close to 37,000, district collectors have been identifying 1018 names of places to be renamed as per their Tamizh pronunciation. Priorities. <a href="https://t.co/amLUVjDKPx">pic.twitter.com/amLUVjDKPx</a>
— Pooja Prasanna (@PoojaPrasanna4) <a href="https://twitter.com/PoojaPrasanna4/status/1270938992855285762?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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people of Tamil Nadu <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NAMECHANGE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NAMECHANGE</a> <a href="https://t.co/cwIuDetYrw">pic.twitter.com/cwIuDetYrw</a>
— ujjwaljangra (@_ujjwaljangra) <a href="https://twitter.com/_ujjwaljangra/status/1271062529934946304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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*Tamil Nadu Govt changes names of 1,018 places* <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NAMECHANGE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NAMECHANGE</a> 
 
Yogi ji to Tamil Nadu Govt : <a href="https://t.co/JT31SFyu7Q">pic.twitter.com/JT31SFyu7Q</a>
— Ullas Mehta (@ullasmehta_04) <a href="https://twitter.com/ullasmehta_04/status/1271053797150744578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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After seeing the new names of cities in tamil nadu 
Northindian - samajh me nahi aya , par sunn ke achha laga 😌 . <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NAMECHANGE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NAMECHANGE</a>
— Virat Singh (@ViratSi24305334) <a href="https://twitter.com/ViratSi24305334/status/1271055952523886592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Tamil Nadu government decided to give its localities a phonetic makeover amid the pandemic, and changed the English spellings of the names of localities to match the way they are pronounced.

Tamil Nadu government decided to give its localities a phonetic makeover amid the pandemic, and changed the English spellings of the names of localities to match the way they are pronounced. The Tamil Nadu government issued a notification on Wednesday that listed almost 1000 localities whose English spellings will be changed to match the Tamil pronunciation. Also read: There's no community spread and fatalities mismatch: claims K Palaniswami The spellings were changed after a committee was made especially to make sure that the experts sit down with districts heads and make sure that the spellings of the localities match the Tamil names. Some main names that have been changed are: Coimbatore is now Koyampuththoor, Egmore is now Ezhumboor, Puducherry is now Puthucherry, Vellore is now Veeloor, Saidapet is now Saithaappettai, Chintadripet is now Chinthadharipettai and so on. While the locals were going through the changes made, twitter came up with memes regarding this change amid a pandemic. We compiled few of the best for you: After passing all the students, Tamil Nadu govt. decides to change the syllabus. 2021's gonna be a tough year to study geography.#NAMECHANGE — Aadar Malik (@TheAadarGuy) June 11, 2020 × #NAMECHANGE#TNGovt changed names of few cities during this pandemic Meanwhile corona: pic.twitter.com/1WSh8ipI9w — Tanveer (@Crictanveer) June 11, 2020 × Tamilnadu gov. Changed name of few cities during global pandemic #NAMECHANGE Gov. Be like:- pic.twitter.com/I54JXbw9S0 — Sail (@Sail71297) June 11, 2020 × #NAMECHANGE TN changed the names of its cities relative to tamil pronunciations. . So that Corona could get confused while entering the city by seeing its name board and go back to its home. So less corona cases.#unlock2 #Chennai #KOYAMPUTHTHOOR pic.twitter.com/LRD8iw6E7k — Vinusha (@vinnnnnnuu) June 11, 2020 × Tamilnadu CM changed the name of the city Coimbatore to Koyampuththoor...😄 Yogi Adityanath to Tamilnadu's CM..😄#NAMECHANGE pic.twitter.com/F1MVqKmbxE — Hazik Perry 🇮🇳 (@HazikPerry) June 11, 2020 × #TamilNadu #NAMECHANGE pic.twitter.com/vKmVIk2GiG — The Frustrated HouseWives (@Frustrated_Hai) June 11, 2020 × What #tn people expect: Double testing capacity for Covid19. Double Hospital beds. What Govt does: Double 'OO' in Mylapore.. Double 'AA' in Arni. Double 'PP' Saidapet. 🙊#NAMECHANGE — Justme (@Justme36541234) June 11, 2020 × So when Tamizh Nadoo's Corona total is close to 37,000, district collectors have been identifying 1018 names of places to be renamed as per their Tamizh pronunciation. Priorities. pic.twitter.com/amLUVjDKPx — Pooja Prasanna (@PoojaPrasanna4) June 11, 2020 × people of Tamil Nadu #NAMECHANGE pic.twitter.com/cwIuDetYrw — ujjwaljangra (@_ujjwaljangra) June 11, 2020 × *Tamil Nadu Govt changes names of 1,018 places* #NAMECHANGE Yogi ji to Tamil Nadu Govt : pic.twitter.com/JT31SFyu7Q — Ullas Mehta (@ullasmehta_04) June 11, 2020 × After seeing the new names of cities in tamil nadu Northindian - samajh me nahi aya , par sunn ke achha laga 😌 . #NAMECHANGE — Virat Singh (@ViratSi24305334) June 11, 2020 ×

Tamil Nadu government changes spellings amid pandemic; Twitter reacts with #NameChange

When the state government has not decided to open schools and colleges until COVID-19 situation subsides, how can 9 lakh students, 2 lakh teachers and thousands of non-teaching staff be forced to risk their lives attending class 10 board exams from June 15, questioned a bench of the Madras High Court.&nbsp;

Hearing a case against the Tamil Nadu&nbsp;government’s decision to conduct Class 10 exams from June 15, a bench comprising Justice Vineet Kothari and R Suresh Kumar wanted to know what was the hurry in conducting exams amid rising COVID-19 cases in the state. The Tamil Nadu High and Higher Secondary School Graduate Teachers Association had approached the court seeking to prevent the State government from conducting Class 10 board exams starting 15 June.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/creativity-cant-be-transferred-through-online-classes-kasturirangan-304212">Also read:&nbsp;Creativity can't be transferred through online classes: Kasturirangan</a>

The petitioner stated that the decision to conduct board exams from mid-June was taken in the month of May and it might have been under the impression that the COVID-19 situation would improve in the state. It was also stated that there were over 12,000 examination centers for Class 10, thus indicating the manpower required amid the prevailing scenario where Tamil Nadu has seen 31,667 total COVID-19 cases of which 14,396 are active, while the state has been seeing a daily increase of over 1,000 cases for the last one week.

The Additional Advocate General responded saying that there appeared to be a meeting between the Chief Minister and School Education Minister regarding the same.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eminent-scientist-suggests-shift-system-in-schools-when-they-reopen-303968">Also read:&nbsp;Eminent scientist suggests shift-system in schools when they reopen</a>

The Court asked if there was any outcome from the meeting, adding that any decision on postponement of exams must be taken immediately without keeping parents and students on tenterhooks.&nbsp;

The bench also lashed out at the State Government, saying that conducting class 10 exams were unlike re-opening of TASMAC (state-run liquor outlets) during the lockdown. “Can the state government give an undertaking that no student will get infected by COVID-19 if it is allowed to conduct the 10th grade board exams from June 15th” the bench questioned.&nbsp;

Stating that it is well and good if the Tamil Nadu&nbsp;Government itself postpones the exams without letting the Damocles Sword hang over students heads till the eleventh hour.&nbsp;

The High Court is to hear the case against Class X exams again at 2:30pm and seek the response of the State Government, however the Court has said that it is Prima facie satisfied that the Government decision to conduct board exams from June 15&nbsp;must be stayed.

When the state government has not decided to open schools and colleges until COVID-19 situation subsides, how can 9 lakh students, 2 lakh teachers and thousands of non-teaching staff be forced to risk their lives attending class 10 board exams from June 15, questioned a bench of the Madras High Court.

When the state government has not decided to open schools and colleges until COVID-19 situation subsides, how can 9 lakh students, 2 lakh teachers and thousands of non-teaching staff be forced to risk their lives attending class 10 board exams from June 15, questioned a bench of the Madras High Court. Hearing a case against the Tamil Nadu government’s decision to conduct Class 10 exams from June 15, a bench comprising Justice Vineet Kothari and R Suresh Kumar wanted to know what was the hurry in conducting exams amid rising COVID-19 cases in the state. The Tamil Nadu High and Higher Secondary School Graduate Teachers Association had approached the court seeking to prevent the State government from conducting Class 10 board exams starting 15 June. Also read: Creativity can't be transferred through online classes: Kasturirangan The petitioner stated that the decision to conduct board exams from mid-June was taken in the month of May and it might have been under the impression that the COVID-19 situation would improve in the state. It was also stated that there were over 12,000 examination centers for Class 10, thus indicating the manpower required amid the prevailing scenario where Tamil Nadu has seen 31,667 total COVID-19 cases of which 14,396 are active, while the state has been seeing a daily increase of over 1,000 cases for the last one week. The Additional Advocate General responded saying that there appeared to be a meeting between the Chief Minister and School Education Minister regarding the same. Also read: Eminent scientist suggests shift-system in schools when they reopen The Court asked if there was any outcome from the meeting, adding that any decision on postponement of exams must be taken immediately without keeping parents and students on tenterhooks. The bench also lashed out at the State Government, saying that conducting class 10 exams were unlike re-opening of TASMAC (state-run liquor outlets) during the lockdown. “Can the state government give an undertaking that no student will get infected by COVID-19 if it is allowed to conduct the 10th grade board exams from June 15th” the bench questioned. Stating that it is well and good if the Tamil Nadu Government itself postpones the exams without letting the Damocles Sword hang over students heads till the eleventh hour. The High Court is to hear the case against Class X exams again at 2:30pm and seek the response of the State Government, however the Court has said that it is Prima facie satisfied that the Government decision to conduct board exams from June 15 must be stayed.

Why risk lakhs of lives: Madras HC asks TN Govt on having Class X exams

The carcass of an 18-feet-long, one-toed sperm whale washed ashore on Atrankarai near Alakankulam in Ramanathapuram district, on Sunday.

Forest officials later buried it on the beach after conducting an autopsy. Oil and wax products were found from the upper jaw and small intestine of the whale, which are used to make medicine.

Forest officials are investigating the matter to confirm whether it was hunted to dispatch the drug, or was it unable to swim towards the deep seas after being wounded on the rocks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-misplaced-trust-to-loss-of-faith-in-humanity-sketchers-react-on-elephants-murder-303202">Have a look|&nbsp;From misplaced trust to loss of faith in humanity, sketchers react on elephant's murder</a>

Sathish, Forest Officer, said, "The whale species, an 18-foot-long, one sperm whale, washed ashore on Atrankarai seashore near Alangankulam in Ramanathapuram district. These are less common in the Palkpay and the Gulf of Mannar, and only four have been seen in the past four years."

He added, "It is wrong to catch such rare creatures. It violates the 1972 Wildlife Protection Act, under which imprisonment ranges from 3 years to 7 years. Therefore, when such fish are found in the sea, I request the fishermen to inform the forest department and take steps to save the fish."&nbsp;

The carcass of an 18-feet-long, one-toed sperm whale washed ashore on Atrankarai near Alakankulam in Ramanathapuram district, on Sunday. Forest officials later buried it on the beach after conducting an autopsy.

The carcass of an 18-feet-long, one-toed sperm whale washed ashore on Atrankarai near Alakankulam in Ramanathapuram district, on Sunday. Forest officials later buried it on the beach after conducting an autopsy. Oil and wax products were found from the upper jaw and small intestine of the whale, which are used to make medicine. Forest officials are investigating the matter to confirm whether it was hunted to dispatch the drug, or was it unable to swim towards the deep seas after being wounded on the rocks. Have a look| From misplaced trust to loss of faith in humanity, sketchers react on elephant's murder Sathish, Forest Officer, said, "The whale species, an 18-foot-long, one sperm whale, washed ashore on Atrankarai seashore near Alangankulam in Ramanathapuram district. These are less common in the Palkpay and the Gulf of Mannar, and only four have been seen in the past four years." He added, "It is wrong to catch such rare creatures. It violates the 1972 Wildlife Protection Act, under which imprisonment ranges from 3 years to 7 years. Therefore, when such fish are found in the sea, I request the fishermen to inform the forest department and take steps to save the fish."

Giant sperm whale washed ashore on Tamil Nadu beach

Nineteen more people succumbed to the coronavirus in Chennai which reported a spike of 1,458 fresh cases on Saturday taking the infection count to 30,152 and death toll to 251, the health department said.

This is the seventh consecutive day the state is witnessing more than 1000 plus cases.

The number of people who got cured stood at 633 on Saturday, totalling 16,395 till date, a department bulletin said.

Chennai recorded the highest number of COVID-19 cases at 1,146 among districts today, aggregating 20,993 till date, it added.

(With inputs from PTI)

Nineteen more people succumbed to the coronavirus in Chennai which reported a spike of 1,458 fresh cases on Saturday taking the infection count to 30,152 and death toll to 251, the health department said.

Nineteen more people succumbed to the coronavirus in Chennai which reported a spike of 1,458 fresh cases on Saturday taking the infection count to 30,152 and death toll to 251, the health department said. This is the seventh consecutive day the state is witnessing more than 1000 plus cases. The number of people who got cured stood at 633 on Saturday, totalling 16,395 till date, a department bulletin said. Chennai recorded the highest number of COVID-19 cases at 1,146 among districts today, aggregating 20,993 till date, it added. (With inputs from PTI)

19 more die of COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu taking total death toll to 251

The Tamil Nadu government has capped the daily rate for treatment of COVID-19 patients in private hospitals across the state. This comes after complaints, demands from the public due to overcharging private hospitals and the mounting pressure on government hospitals. Earlier this week, the state had permitted those covered under the CM’s health insurance scheme (economically weaker sections) to avail free treatment in private hospitals.&nbsp;

As per the latest statement from the Tamil Nadu government, for asymptomatic and mild symptomatic patients, private hospitals under A1 and A2 category can charge no more than Rs.7500 per day, whereas the day rate has been capped at Rs.5000 for Grade A3 and A4 hospitals.&nbsp;

In the case of treatment in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) hospitals across grades A1-A4 cannot charge more than Rs.15,000 per day. The government has issued strict guidelines that the hospitals must not charge above the stipulated amount.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-crosses-23-lakh-mark-with-9887-new-cases-and-6642-deaths-303758">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: India crosses 2.3 lakh mark with 9,887 new cases and 6,642 deaths</a>

The state&nbsp;government has been emphasizing that government and private hospitals must come and fight together in this battle against Corona virus to ensure that the health infrastructure can deal with the pandemic in a better manner.&nbsp;

As on Friday, Tamil Nadu has seen a total of 28,694 cases, of which 12,697 are active. The state has been witnessing over 1,000 new cases for the last six days. It needs to be noted that despite the high number of cases (second highest in the country) Tamil Nadu has seen a relatively low number of deaths- 232 as on Friday. The recovery rate in the Southern Indian state has also been quite high, with more than half - 15,762 having recovered.&nbsp;

So far, the state government has been providing free-of-cost treatment to COVID-19 patients in Government hospitals across then state and other specially setup COVID-19 care facilities.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-overtakes-italys-coronavirus-tally-a-week-after-unlock-10-303821">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: India overtakes Italy's coronavirus tally a week after Unlock 1.0</a>

Today’s announcement also means that COVID-19 treatment in private hospitals is made more affordable than earlier. There were several reports in recent weeks about private hospitals fleecing COVID-19 patients(charging over Rs.20,000 per day), and the State Health Minister had assured that the government would step in and cap the treatment cost.&nbsp;

Fixing the rates for treatment is also said to be a little impetus too private hospitals. Earlier, the scenario was such that private hospitals did not encourage many insured patients and were overcharging those who were admitted. But now that costs are capped, the patients also can breathe a sigh of relief, while the hospitals also can earn a little revenue, rather than having a good number of their beds empty.

The Tamil Nadu government has capped the daily rate for treatment of COVID-19 patients in private hospitals across the state. This comes after complaints, demands from the public due to overcharging private hospitals and the mounting pressure on government hospitals.

The Tamil Nadu government has capped the daily rate for treatment of COVID-19 patients in private hospitals across the state. This comes after complaints, demands from the public due to overcharging private hospitals and the mounting pressure on government hospitals. Earlier this week, the state had permitted those covered under the CM’s health insurance scheme (economically weaker sections) to avail free treatment in private hospitals. As per the latest statement from the Tamil Nadu government, for asymptomatic and mild symptomatic patients, private hospitals under A1 and A2 category can charge no more than Rs.7500 per day, whereas the day rate has been capped at Rs.5000 for Grade A3 and A4 hospitals. In the case of treatment in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) hospitals across grades A1-A4 cannot charge more than Rs.15,000 per day. The government has issued strict guidelines that the hospitals must not charge above the stipulated amount. Also read| COVID 19: India crosses 2.3 lakh mark with 9,887 new cases and 6,642 deaths The state government has been emphasizing that government and private hospitals must come and fight together in this battle against Corona virus to ensure that the health infrastructure can deal with the pandemic in a better manner. As on Friday, Tamil Nadu has seen a total of 28,694 cases, of which 12,697 are active. The state has been witnessing over 1,000 new cases for the last six days. It needs to be noted that despite the high number of cases (second highest in the country) Tamil Nadu has seen a relatively low number of deaths- 232 as on Friday. The recovery rate in the Southern Indian state has also been quite high, with more than half - 15,762 having recovered. So far, the state government has been providing free-of-cost treatment to COVID-19 patients in Government hospitals across then state and other specially setup COVID-19 care facilities. Also read| COVID 19: India overtakes Italy's coronavirus tally a week after Unlock 1.0 Today’s announcement also means that COVID-19 treatment in private hospitals is made more affordable than earlier. There were several reports in recent weeks about private hospitals fleecing COVID-19 patients(charging over Rs.20,000 per day), and the State Health Minister had assured that the government would step in and cap the treatment cost. Fixing the rates for treatment is also said to be a little impetus too private hospitals. Earlier, the scenario was such that private hospitals did not encourage many insured patients and were overcharging those who were admitted. But now that costs are capped, the patients also can breathe a sigh of relief, while the hospitals also can earn a little revenue, rather than having a good number of their beds empty.

Tamil Nadu government fixes rates for COVID-19 treatment across private hospitals, as cases near 30,000

Mohandoss, who owns a salon in the southern state of Tamil Nadu’s temple town Madurai says that he or his family didn’t expect any recognition or rewards when they donated a large part of their savings for helping the needy during the lockdown.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="India vows to 'overcome fault lines' as it takes charge at UNSC">India vows to 'overcome fault lines' as it takes charge at UNSC</a>

His deed, which was inspired by his 13-year old daughter’s concern for the poor and needy was first lauded by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his radio address Mann Ki Baat. Now, barely a couple of days after the first surprise, Mohandoss's daughter Nethra has been appointed Goodwill Ambassador to the poor for UNADAP (United Nations Association for Development and Peace) under the civil society projects.&nbsp;

According to the communication from the UN Body, she would be given an opportunity to speak at the UN conferences in New York and Geneva, addressing the civil society forums and conferences. She has also been awarded a Dixon Scholarship and 1 lakh rupees have been&nbsp;credited in her mother’s bank account.&nbsp;

Nethra’s father told WION that she aspires to become a civil servant and work towards alleviating poverty and hunger.&nbsp;

“We have spent our savings (of Rs 5 lakh) for the welfare of the needy, because our daughter felt that we could always earn it back, but that isn’t daily the case with those who are struggling for even a meal.”

Over the last 20 days, the family’s salon has been in operation, following a nearly two-month lockdown.

Mohandoss says that customers have been visiting in good numbers and also expressing their appreciation. “We have received phone calls expressing gratitude from people whom we have known and complete strangers. We never imagined that we would get calls from the IAS officers, ministers, collector, police officials etc” he said.

He adds that their philanthropic work will continue and that there are a lot of people who have approached them to offer their contributions. “We have politely said no to cash contributions and agreed to accept rice, vegetables and groceries, which we can donate to the needy.”

The family is also grateful to their daughter’s school which has been bearing her educational expenses for over two years now.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Mohandoss, who owns a salon in the southern state of Tamil Nadu’s temple town Madurai says that he or his family didn’t expect any recognition or rewards when they donated a large part of their savings for helping the needy during the lockdown.

Mohandoss, who owns a salon in the southern state of Tamil Nadu’s temple town Madurai says that he or his family didn’t expect any recognition or rewards when they donated a large part of their savings for helping the needy during the lockdown. Also read | India vows to 'overcome fault lines' as it takes charge at UNSC His deed, which was inspired by his 13-year old daughter’s concern for the poor and needy was first lauded by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his radio address Mann Ki Baat. Now, barely a couple of days after the first surprise, Mohandoss's daughter Nethra has been appointed Goodwill Ambassador to the poor for UNADAP (United Nations Association for Development and Peace) under the civil society projects. According to the communication from the UN Body, she would be given an opportunity to speak at the UN conferences in New York and Geneva, addressing the civil society forums and conferences. She has also been awarded a Dixon Scholarship and 1 lakh rupees have been credited in her mother’s bank account. Nethra’s father told WION that she aspires to become a civil servant and work towards alleviating poverty and hunger. “We have spent our savings (of Rs 5 lakh) for the welfare of the needy, because our daughter felt that we could always earn it back, but that isn’t daily the case with those who are struggling for even a meal.” Over the last 20 days, the family’s salon has been in operation, following a nearly two-month lockdown. Mohandoss says that customers have been visiting in good numbers and also expressing their appreciation. “We have received phone calls expressing gratitude from people whom we have known and complete strangers. We never imagined that we would get calls from the IAS officers, ministers, collector, police officials etc” he said. He adds that their philanthropic work will continue and that there are a lot of people who have approached them to offer their contributions. “We have politely said no to cash contributions and agreed to accept rice, vegetables and groceries, which we can donate to the needy.” The family is also grateful to their daughter’s school which has been bearing her educational expenses for over two years now.

From special mention in Mann Ki Baat to recognition by UN body: Tamil Nadu girl’s philanthropy is winning hearts

Kamal Haasan alleged that there was a contrast in the Covid-19 data being shared by the Tamil Nadu government, during a video conference with journalists. However, he refused to take many questions about his allegations, possible testing strategies or elaborate on his ‘Naame Theervu’ (We are the solution) initiative that is aimed at changing Chennai into a green Zone from its current Red Zone status.&nbsp;

In a video message, the actor-turned-politician said that there was no use in plate banging when migrant workers were starving to death and frontline Covid-19 fighters such as medical staff and police are battling it out. Adding that he was furious with rage, he said, “this is not the time for criticism or petty politics. We need strong and measured actions, Chennai is our healthcare capital, don’t let it become a Corona capital”.

The ‘Naame Theervu’ (we are the solution) campaign launched by him calls forth an army of volunteers(irrespective of their differences and political affiliation) to join in for activities ranging from donating to delivering relief materials to the needy. He was the first to register for his party’s campaign via a phone call to 6369811111.&nbsp;

A statement from his party says that “When each fo us saves one person, no one will be left behind. People are the solution to those who need medical assistance, safety equipment, sanitizers, food and rations. Sanitiser dispensers will be kept at places where people gather frequently, masks will be distributed as well. We need the participation and contribution of volunteers to take this forward.”

During the video conference with journalists, Haasan stated that some states such as Kerala, Karnataka and Odisha had seen partial victory in the battle against Corona while accepting that it seems like it (Corona wave) would keep recurring. He added that no government could fight corona alone and emphasized the need for people and volunteers to pitch in.&nbsp;

Adding that he was not saying this for politic mileage, the actor-turned-politician said, “There is no transparency in what they(State government) are saying, we are not able to see the numbers. The numbers shared by the government and the numbers on the street are contrasting. We are concerned about the Chennai situation and doing our best about it”.&nbsp;

However, the actor or his team did not respond to journalists questions on whether this campaign would be extended to Chennai’s neighbouring districts (Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu) which are also badly affected.&nbsp;

When questioned about comparing the Covid-19 situation in Tamil Nadu and Kerala(a relatively smaller state with lesser population and population density), there was no response.&nbsp;

WION asked if Kamal Haasan had discussed with his panel of medical experts regarding the possibility of Pooled testing and suggested any strategy in this regard to the government, there was no response and the video conference was ended stating a paucity of time. Questions sent to his PR team seeking a response also went unheeded.

Kamal Haasan alleged that there was a contrast in the Covid-19 data being shared by the Tamil Nadu government, during a video conference with journalists. However, he refused to take many questions about his allegations, possible testing strategies or elaborate on his ‘Naame Theervu’ (We are the solution) initiative that is aimed at changing Chennai into a green Zone from its current Red Zone status.

Kamal Haasan alleged that there was a contrast in the Covid-19 data being shared by the Tamil Nadu government, during a video conference with journalists. However, he refused to take many questions about his allegations, possible testing strategies or elaborate on his ‘Naame Theervu’ (We are the solution) initiative that is aimed at changing Chennai into a green Zone from its current Red Zone status. In a video message, the actor-turned-politician said that there was no use in plate banging when migrant workers were starving to death and frontline Covid-19 fighters such as medical staff and police are battling it out. Adding that he was furious with rage, he said, “this is not the time for criticism or petty politics. We need strong and measured actions, Chennai is our healthcare capital, don’t let it become a Corona capital”. The ‘Naame Theervu’ (we are the solution) campaign launched by him calls forth an army of volunteers(irrespective of their differences and political affiliation) to join in for activities ranging from donating to delivering relief materials to the needy. He was the first to register for his party’s campaign via a phone call to 6369811111. A statement from his party says that “When each fo us saves one person, no one will be left behind. People are the solution to those who need medical assistance, safety equipment, sanitizers, food and rations. Sanitiser dispensers will be kept at places where people gather frequently, masks will be distributed as well. We need the participation and contribution of volunteers to take this forward.” During the video conference with journalists, Haasan stated that some states such as Kerala, Karnataka and Odisha had seen partial victory in the battle against Corona while accepting that it seems like it (Corona wave) would keep recurring. He added that no government could fight corona alone and emphasized the need for people and volunteers to pitch in. Adding that he was not saying this for politic mileage, the actor-turned-politician said, “There is no transparency in what they(State government) are saying, we are not able to see the numbers. The numbers shared by the government and the numbers on the street are contrasting. We are concerned about the Chennai situation and doing our best about it”. However, the actor or his team did not respond to journalists questions on whether this campaign would be extended to Chennai’s neighbouring districts (Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu) which are also badly affected. When questioned about comparing the Covid-19 situation in Tamil Nadu and Kerala(a relatively smaller state with lesser population and population density), there was no response. WION asked if Kamal Haasan had discussed with his panel of medical experts regarding the possibility of Pooled testing and suggested any strategy in this regard to the government, there was no response and the video conference was ended stating a paucity of time. Questions sent to his PR team seeking a response also went unheeded.

Kamal Haasan questions Tamil Nadu Covid-19 data, launches people’s campaign to ‘resurrect’ Chennai

Tamil Nadu has crossed 1000-mark in terms of new coronavirus cases in the past 24-hours, as per state Health Department's data said on Sunday. This has happened on the day when the state government decided to relax few lockdown restrictions.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-reports-more-than-8300-new-cases-302093" hreflang="en">COVID 19: India reports more than 8,300 new cases</a>

According to the state Health Department's statement, 1,149 people, including 95 who had come from other states and foreign countries tested positive for coronavirus bringing the total tally of the state to 22,333.

The statement said that a total of 99,651 people have come to Tamil Nadu from other states of India and foreign countries and 1,570 persons have tested positive for coronavirus.

13 deaths have been recorded in the state in the past 24 hours, taking the total death toll to 173.&nbsp;

India reported yet another day of a steep increase in the total number of positive cases as 8,380 new cases were in the last 24 hours, including 193 deaths reported.

Total toll of cases in the country is now at 1,82,143, including 89,995 active cases, 86,984 cured/discharged/migrated and 5,164 deaths. The figures were released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Maharashtra, which has been one of the worst-hit states in the country, reported yet another rise in the cases, as Mumbai alone recorded 1,510 new positive cases and 54 deaths. The total number of positive cases in Mumbai is now 38,220, including 1, 227 deaths, reported Municipal Corporation Greater Mumbai.

As the nation is heading towards unlock 1.0 from lockdown 4.0, several states will be issuing their guidelines explaining the relaxations that will be brought in the first phase of unlocking the lockdown.

Tamil Nadu has crossed 1000-mark in terms of new coronavirus cases in the past 24-hours, as per state Health Department's data said on Sunday. This has happened on the day when the state government decided to relax few lockdown restrictions.

Tamil Nadu has crossed 1000-mark in terms of new coronavirus cases in the past 24-hours, as per state Health Department's data said on Sunday. This has happened on the day when the state government decided to relax few lockdown restrictions. Also read: COVID 19: India reports more than 8,300 new cases According to the state Health Department's statement, 1,149 people, including 95 who had come from other states and foreign countries tested positive for coronavirus bringing the total tally of the state to 22,333. The statement said that a total of 99,651 people have come to Tamil Nadu from other states of India and foreign countries and 1,570 persons have tested positive for coronavirus. 13 deaths have been recorded in the state in the past 24 hours, taking the total death toll to 173. India reported yet another day of a steep increase in the total number of positive cases as 8,380 new cases were in the last 24 hours, including 193 deaths reported. Total toll of cases in the country is now at 1,82,143, including 89,995 active cases, 86,984 cured/discharged/migrated and 5,164 deaths. The figures were released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Maharashtra, which has been one of the worst-hit states in the country, reported yet another rise in the cases, as Mumbai alone recorded 1,510 new positive cases and 54 deaths. The total number of positive cases in Mumbai is now 38,220, including 1, 227 deaths, reported Municipal Corporation Greater Mumbai. As the nation is heading towards unlock 1.0 from lockdown 4.0, several states will be issuing their guidelines explaining the relaxations that will be brought in the first phase of unlocking the lockdown.

Tamil Nadu crosses 1,000-mark in terms of new coronavirus cases in one day

Tamil Nadu has the third highest number of coronavirus cases in the country, and has observed a constant high rise in the number of cases, with Chennai being the state's epicenter.

Considering the same, the Tamil Nadu government has announced an extension of the lockdown for the state. The lockdown will continue till the end of June, but will have few relaxations.

"To prevent the spread of coronavirus, the curfew is being extended till June 30 under the State Disaster Management Act and as per the Union Home Ministry's notification," Palaniswami said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nokia-shuts-india-plant-in-chennai-after-covid-19-case-301250">Also read:&nbsp;Nokia shuts India plant in Chennai after COVID-19 case</a>

Chief Minister K Palaniswami announced an extended lockdown on all religious places and inter-state&nbsp; bus transport and Metro and suburban train services. All hotels, excluding the COVID 19 facilities, will stay closed, along with all entertainment venues.

Public transport will resume with reduced buses from June 1 barring in Chennai and adjoining Tiruvallur.

Offices will be allowed to reopen, but with limited capacity. All employers will have to make sure that all norms of social distancing are followed, and a regular check on employees' health will have to be maintained. However, any offices in the containment zone will not be allowed to reopen.

The major relaxation, resumption of public transport, will be implemented from Monday onwards in six of the eight zones, formed by combining nearby districts, with a slew of guidelines in place.

All schools and colleges will remain shut.

There would be no need for people to apply for e-pass to travel within the zones, and all kinds of vehicles can ply in these select routes. However, e-pass will be compulsory for inter-zone and inter-state travel, Palaniswami said.

Hotels and restaurants can start dine-in services from June 8 in line with the Centre's guidelines, as against takeaways so far, but only 50 per cent of the seats should be occupied. So would be the case with tea shops. 
Grocery and vegetable shops can function from 6 am to 8 pm.

All standalone shops can reopen. However, malls will remain shut till further notice.

&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu has the third highest number of coronavirus cases in the country, and has observed a constant high rise in the number of cases, with Chennai being the state's epicenter.

Tamil Nadu has the third highest number of coronavirus cases in the country, and has observed a constant high rise in the number of cases, with Chennai being the state's epicenter. Considering the same, the Tamil Nadu government has announced an extension of the lockdown for the state. The lockdown will continue till the end of June, but will have few relaxations. "To prevent the spread of coronavirus, the curfew is being extended till June 30 under the State Disaster Management Act and as per the Union Home Ministry's notification," Palaniswami said in a statement. Also read: Nokia shuts India plant in Chennai after COVID-19 case Chief Minister K Palaniswami announced an extended lockdown on all religious places and inter-state bus transport and Metro and suburban train services. All hotels, excluding the COVID 19 facilities, will stay closed, along with all entertainment venues. Public transport will resume with reduced buses from June 1 barring in Chennai and adjoining Tiruvallur. Offices will be allowed to reopen, but with limited capacity. All employers will have to make sure that all norms of social distancing are followed, and a regular check on employees' health will have to be maintained. However, any offices in the containment zone will not be allowed to reopen. The major relaxation, resumption of public transport, will be implemented from Monday onwards in six of the eight zones, formed by combining nearby districts, with a slew of guidelines in place. All schools and colleges will remain shut. There would be no need for people to apply for e-pass to travel within the zones, and all kinds of vehicles can ply in these select routes. However, e-pass will be compulsory for inter-zone and inter-state travel, Palaniswami said. Hotels and restaurants can start dine-in services from June 8 in line with the Centre's guidelines, as against takeaways so far, but only 50 per cent of the seats should be occupied. So would be the case with tea shops. Grocery and vegetable shops can function from 6 am to 8 pm. All standalone shops can reopen. However, malls will remain shut till further notice.

COVID 19: Tamil Nadu shifts to lockdown 5.0, instead of unlock 1.0

The counsel of Nalini Sriharan(a life convict in the Rajiv Gandhi Assassination case) told WION that the Tamil Nadu Government’s submission to disallow Nalini and her husband Murugan(a fellow convict) to make video calls to their kith and kin who are residing abroad is Unconstitutional.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Nalini’s mother S.Padma had filed a plea seeking to allow her daughter and son-in-law Murugan alias Sriharan to permit them to have 10-minute video calls daily, with their kin. Murugan’s mother resides in Sri Lanka and Murugan’s sister resides in London.&nbsp;

During the second hearing of this plea that took place on Thursday, Tamil Nadu government, which was represented by IG, Prisons had informed the Madras High Court that there is no provision either in TN Prison Rules 1983 or a Government order to allow a prisoner to make a voice or video call to anyone residing in a foreign country. On behalf of the TN Government, the IG had asked the court to dismiss the petition.

The State Government representative also added that Prison authorities cannot take action against the caller on another end if Nalini or Murugan violated the Prison rules or other Laws. Further, allowing a petitioner to make video/voice call is a privilege extended to prisoners for good behaviour and not a vested right. It was also pointed out that since the case had international ramifications, and that the convicts association with a banned outfit, this fell under the domain of Ministry of External Affairs.

However, Nalini’s advocate and senior counsel Radhakrishnan told WION that all the contentions raised by the State Government are Unconstitutional.&nbsp;

“Their kin being Foreign residents doesn’t mean that a Foreign country is involved and that the MEA must look into it. Nobody can prevent two individuals from across borders from talking. The prisoner has the same Right to express. Identifying and confirming the caller on the other end is the duty of the Prison authorities.” He told WION.&nbsp;

When it came to the possibility of them getting in touch with members of the banned outfit, he asserts that they are after all speaking to Murugan’s mother and sister, both of whom are not connected to any banned outfit.

“This is a family call to their parents/in-laws, authorities can monitor it or videograph it, even the jailer can sit beside them and witness what is being spoken. Not allowing even this is a clear violation of fundamental right, Article 21 of our Constitution. Its the duty of the state machinery to ensure that the call can take place” Radhakrishnan added, stating that the Government’s argument was indeed ‘intelligently drafted’.

Murugan had earlier made requests to speak to his father, a resident of Sri Lanka, but that was turned down. In late April this year when Murugan’s father expired, he was even denied the opportunity of seeing his father for the final time before the last rites were performed. Reports say that the father’s last wish was that of being able to see their son.&nbsp;

A representation was made in late April to permit the convicts to have video calls with their kin, it was in the second week of May that a plea was filed in this regard. The first Madras High Court bench that heard the plea earlier this week questioned the Government on why the convicts were not being allowed to make the video call.&nbsp;

The second hearing which took place via video-conference on Thursday was adjourned after hearing the Government’s response. The case is to come up for hearing on Monday, June 1st.&nbsp;

Reports state that Tamil Nadu’s jails have permitted several thousand video calls between the inmates and their family members during the two-month lockdown period.

The counsel of Nalini Sriharan(a life convict in the Rajiv Gandhi Assassination case) told WION that the Tamil Nadu Government’s submission to disallow Nalini and her husband Murugan(a fellow convict) to make video calls to their kith and kin who are residing abroad is Unconstitutional.

The counsel of Nalini Sriharan(a life convict in the Rajiv Gandhi Assassination case) told WION that the Tamil Nadu Government’s submission to disallow Nalini and her husband Murugan(a fellow convict) to make video calls to their kith and kin who are residing abroad is Unconstitutional. Earlier this month, Nalini’s mother S.Padma had filed a plea seeking to allow her daughter and son-in-law Murugan alias Sriharan to permit them to have 10-minute video calls daily, with their kin. Murugan’s mother resides in Sri Lanka and Murugan’s sister resides in London. During the second hearing of this plea that took place on Thursday, Tamil Nadu government, which was represented by IG, Prisons had informed the Madras High Court that there is no provision either in TN Prison Rules 1983 or a Government order to allow a prisoner to make a voice or video call to anyone residing in a foreign country. On behalf of the TN Government, the IG had asked the court to dismiss the petition. The State Government representative also added that Prison authorities cannot take action against the caller on another end if Nalini or Murugan violated the Prison rules or other Laws. Further, allowing a petitioner to make video/voice call is a privilege extended to prisoners for good behaviour and not a vested right. It was also pointed out that since the case had international ramifications, and that the convicts association with a banned outfit, this fell under the domain of Ministry of External Affairs. However, Nalini’s advocate and senior counsel Radhakrishnan told WION that all the contentions raised by the State Government are Unconstitutional. “Their kin being Foreign residents doesn’t mean that a Foreign country is involved and that the MEA must look into it. Nobody can prevent two individuals from across borders from talking. The prisoner has the same Right to express. Identifying and confirming the caller on the other end is the duty of the Prison authorities.” He told WION. When it came to the possibility of them getting in touch with members of the banned outfit, he asserts that they are after all speaking to Murugan’s mother and sister, both of whom are not connected to any banned outfit. “This is a family call to their parents/in-laws, authorities can monitor it or videograph it, even the jailer can sit beside them and witness what is being spoken. Not allowing even this is a clear violation of fundamental right, Article 21 of our Constitution. Its the duty of the state machinery to ensure that the call can take place” Radhakrishnan added, stating that the Government’s argument was indeed ‘intelligently drafted’. Murugan had earlier made requests to speak to his father, a resident of Sri Lanka, but that was turned down. In late April this year when Murugan’s father expired, he was even denied the opportunity of seeing his father for the final time before the last rites were performed. Reports say that the father’s last wish was that of being able to see their son. A representation was made in late April to permit the convicts to have video calls with their kin, it was in the second week of May that a plea was filed in this regard. The first Madras High Court bench that heard the plea earlier this week questioned the Government on why the convicts were not being allowed to make the video call. The second hearing which took place via video-conference on Thursday was adjourned after hearing the Government’s response. The case is to come up for hearing on Monday, June 1st. Reports state that Tamil Nadu’s jails have permitted several thousand video calls between the inmates and their family members during the two-month lockdown period.

Rajiv Gandhi assassination case: 'It's unconstitutional' says Nalini's counsel on Tamil Nadu govt denying video call with kin

India's domestic airline Indigo had to ground it's crew after one of the passengers on Chennai-Coimbatore flight tested positive for coronavirus. All the passengers who travelled along with the infected were notified.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-sees-highest-spike-of-792-covid-19-cases-as-death-toll-mounts-to-303-301283" hreflang="en">Delhi sees highest spike of 792 COVID-19 cases as death toll mounts to 303</a>

Airlines released a statement, which read: "We received confirmation from the Coimbatore airport doctor that a passenger who travelled on 6E 381 from Chennai to Coimbatore on 25th May evening, has tested positive for Covid-19."&nbsp; 
The tested patient has been placed under quarantine at an ESI state medical facility in Coimbatore.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/make-it-chief-minister-residence-cum-office-use-a-portion-for-a-memorial-madras-high-court-on-jayalalithaas-residence-301282" hreflang="en">Make it Chief Minister residence cum office, use a portion for a memorial: Madras high court on Jayalalithaa’s residence</a>

"All our aircraft are regularly sanitised as a standard operating procedure, and the aircraft operating this flight was also immediately disinfected as per protocol. "The operating crew has been grounded for 14 days and we are in the process of notifying other passengers as per the government guidelines, to ensure the safety of our passengers and staff," the airline said in a statement.

According to the airline's statement, the possibility of transmission is less as the infected passenger was seated according to the guidelines set by MHA, it said: "He has seated on-board the aircraft with all precautionary measures including a face mask, face shield and gloves, as were the other passengers."

On Sunday, civil aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri said: "For Tamil Nadu, there will be maximum 25 arrivals in Chennai but there's no limit on the number of departures. For other airports in Tamil Nadu, flights will operate as in other parts of the country."

India's domestic airline Indigo had to ground it's crew after one of the passengers on Chennai-Coimbatore flight tested positive for coronavirus. All the passengers who travelled along with the infected were notified.

India's domestic airline Indigo had to ground it's crew after one of the passengers on Chennai-Coimbatore flight tested positive for coronavirus. All the passengers who travelled along with the infected were notified. Also read: Delhi sees highest spike of 792 COVID-19 cases as death toll mounts to 303 Airlines released a statement, which read: "We received confirmation from the Coimbatore airport doctor that a passenger who travelled on 6E 381 from Chennai to Coimbatore on 25th May evening, has tested positive for Covid-19." The tested patient has been placed under quarantine at an ESI state medical facility in Coimbatore. Also read: Make it Chief Minister residence cum office, use a portion for a memorial: Madras high court on Jayalalithaa’s residence "All our aircraft are regularly sanitised as a standard operating procedure, and the aircraft operating this flight was also immediately disinfected as per protocol. "The operating crew has been grounded for 14 days and we are in the process of notifying other passengers as per the government guidelines, to ensure the safety of our passengers and staff," the airline said in a statement. According to the airline's statement, the possibility of transmission is less as the infected passenger was seated according to the guidelines set by MHA, it said: "He has seated on-board the aircraft with all precautionary measures including a face mask, face shield and gloves, as were the other passengers." On Sunday, civil aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri said: "For Tamil Nadu, there will be maximum 25 arrivals in Chennai but there's no limit on the number of departures. For other airports in Tamil Nadu, flights will operate as in other parts of the country."

Coronavirus: Indigo grounds crew members after one passenger on Chennai-Coimbatore flight tests positive

The Madras High Court has asked the Tamil Nadu government to reconsider its decision to convert late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s Poes garden Residence in Chennai into a memorial. Instead, the Court suggested that it be converted into the official residence-cum-office of the Chief Minister, as it has all the necessary facilities and infrastructure. &nbsp;

The court added that a part of the property could be used to construct a memorial for the former four-time Chief Minister. The Court has also said that Deepa and Deepak Jayakumar,(Jayalalithaa’s niece and nephew) are Class-II legal heirs of Jayalalithaa.

Justices N. Kirubakaran and Abdul Quddhose had delivered their verdict via video-conferencing, on an application made by Jayalalithaa’s nephew Deepak and his sister J. Deepa to administer the properties left behind by their aunt. The Bench adjourned the case by eight weeks and has sought the response of the Tamil Nadu government.

The Court order stated that, If the Government intends to make the residence of the Late Chief Minister as a memorial, there will be no end to such proposals. Every government would like to make the residence of their leaders who were Chief Ministers as memorials and unnecessarily, the public money would be utilized for setting up memorials alone.&nbsp;

“If the state government is particular that the property should be made as a memorial, instead of making the entire property as a ‘memorial”, the government may consider making use of a portion of the property to set up a memorial and the rest of the property as “Official residence-cum-Office of the Chief Minister of the State” instead of converting the property as a “memorial” as desired by the Government.

The order also noted that instead of acquiring the property that is valued over Rs.100cr and paying heavy compensation, the said amount could be used for developmental purposes such as building infrastructure, providing potable drinking water, cleaning of water bodies etc. “The real tribute to any leader should be paid by following his/her principles and working for the benefit of the people and development of the society”

This recommendation comes barely a week after Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit had promulgated an ordinance that allowed the State Government to take temporary possession of the AIADMK leader’s Poes Garden property. The residence is a sprawling bungalow measuring over 21000 sq ft and stands on ten grounds of prime real estate, at the heart of Chennai city.&nbsp;

“The building “Veda Nilayam” including the movable items such as furniture, books, jewels are in a state of disuse for more than three years. So, the government decided to transfer all the immovable and movable properties to the government for its upkeep until the acquisition process is complete” read a statement issued on May 22nd.&nbsp;

This ordinance was meant to enable the government to establish “Puratchi Thalaivi Dr J. Jayalalithaa Memorial foundation’ for making long term arrangements to convert Veda Nilayam as a memorial.&nbsp;

After her demise, there was a lot of controversy surrounding her property, as attempts were being made by her acquaintance Sasikala to acquire the property. Besides her long term-aide Sasikala who had been living in the same residence, Jayalalithaa’s nephew and niece, Deepak and Deepa have also laid claim to the property on the premise that they were her only legal heirs.

After a power struggle within her party, the AIADMK, it was in August 2017 that Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami announced that the residence of the Late CM would be converted into a memorial and opened to the public.

Following the announcement in August, an administrative sanction was issued by the Tamil Development and Information Department in October 2017 for the acquisition of the residence. Action for the same had been initiated to acquire the land and building, preliminary notification was published in July 2019 and a declaration has been published in May 2020.&nbsp;

Besides the memorial that is planned at her residence, the State Government has also been constructing a ‘Phoenix-themed’ memorial costing about 50 crores, by her resting place on the iconic Marina beach in Chennai.

The Madras High Court has asked the Tamil Nadu government to reconsider its decision to convert late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s Poes garden Residence in Chennai into a memorial.

The Madras High Court has asked the Tamil Nadu government to reconsider its decision to convert late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s Poes garden Residence in Chennai into a memorial. Instead, the Court suggested that it be converted into the official residence-cum-office of the Chief Minister, as it has all the necessary facilities and infrastructure. The court added that a part of the property could be used to construct a memorial for the former four-time Chief Minister. The Court has also said that Deepa and Deepak Jayakumar,(Jayalalithaa’s niece and nephew) are Class-II legal heirs of Jayalalithaa. Justices N. Kirubakaran and Abdul Quddhose had delivered their verdict via video-conferencing, on an application made by Jayalalithaa’s nephew Deepak and his sister J. Deepa to administer the properties left behind by their aunt. The Bench adjourned the case by eight weeks and has sought the response of the Tamil Nadu government. The Court order stated that, If the Government intends to make the residence of the Late Chief Minister as a memorial, there will be no end to such proposals. Every government would like to make the residence of their leaders who were Chief Ministers as memorials and unnecessarily, the public money would be utilized for setting up memorials alone. “If the state government is particular that the property should be made as a memorial, instead of making the entire property as a ‘memorial”, the government may consider making use of a portion of the property to set up a memorial and the rest of the property as “Official residence-cum-Office of the Chief Minister of the State” instead of converting the property as a “memorial” as desired by the Government. The order also noted that instead of acquiring the property that is valued over Rs.100cr and paying heavy compensation, the said amount could be used for developmental purposes such as building infrastructure, providing potable drinking water, cleaning of water bodies etc. “The real tribute to any leader should be paid by following his/her principles and working for the benefit of the people and development of the society” This recommendation comes barely a week after Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit had promulgated an ordinance that allowed the State Government to take temporary possession of the AIADMK leader’s Poes Garden property. The residence is a sprawling bungalow measuring over 21000 sq ft and stands on ten grounds of prime real estate, at the heart of Chennai city. “The building “Veda Nilayam” including the movable items such as furniture, books, jewels are in a state of disuse for more than three years. So, the government decided to transfer all the immovable and movable properties to the government for its upkeep until the acquisition process is complete” read a statement issued on May 22nd. This ordinance was meant to enable the government to establish “Puratchi Thalaivi Dr J. Jayalalithaa Memorial foundation’ for making long term arrangements to convert Veda Nilayam as a memorial. After her demise, there was a lot of controversy surrounding her property, as attempts were being made by her acquaintance Sasikala to acquire the property. Besides her long term-aide Sasikala who had been living in the same residence, Jayalalithaa’s nephew and niece, Deepak and Deepa have also laid claim to the property on the premise that they were her only legal heirs. After a power struggle within her party, the AIADMK, it was in August 2017 that Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami announced that the residence of the Late CM would be converted into a memorial and opened to the public. Following the announcement in August, an administrative sanction was issued by the Tamil Development and Information Department in October 2017 for the acquisition of the residence. Action for the same had been initiated to acquire the land and building, preliminary notification was published in July 2019 and a declaration has been published in May 2020. Besides the memorial that is planned at her residence, the State Government has also been constructing a ‘Phoenix-themed’ memorial costing about 50 crores, by her resting place on the iconic Marina beach in Chennai.

Make it Chief Minister residence cum office, use a portion for a memorial: Madras high court on Jayalalithaa’s residence

The Tamil Nadu government has decided to allow incoming domestic flights from Monday, 25th March, in line with the Aviation Ministry’s decision to re-start limited flights across India. The arrival and departure of flights will be based on a set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)laid down by the state government. However, Tamil Nadu was among the states with rising Covid-19 cases that had requested the Aviation Ministry to resume flight operations after 31st May.&nbsp;

Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has said that there would be a maximum of 25 flights arriving in Chennai, while there won’t be a cap on departure. Tamil Nadu government’s SOP for domestic air travel mentions that “all incoming travelers coming into Tamil nadu shall register themselves in the TNePass portal and (if asymptomatic) shall undergo 14 day home quarantine.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-guidelines-issued-for-domestic-travel-aarogya-setu-app-compulsory-300740">Also read:&nbsp;New guidelines issued for domestic travel; Aarogya Setu app compulsory</a>

While there would be only 25 incoming flights to Chennai, there will not be a cap on the flights coming to Trichy, Madurai or Coimbatore.&nbsp;

The Tamil Nadu Government has also decided to keep the flights coming in from Maharashtra and Gujarat at bare minimum, however there is no issue for operating any number of flights out of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Passengers seeking the TNePass would be required to declare that they are not residing in a containment zone, don't have symptoms, are not under quarantine and also must agree to report to the authorities if they develop symptoms. The persons traveling into the state should not have tested COVID-19 positive in the last two months. The declaration also includes the condition that if a passenger embarks on the journey based on false information, he/she is liable for punishment.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-tn-west-bengal-seek-delay-in-restarting-flights-as-coronavirus-cases-rise-300734">Also read:&nbsp;Maha, TN, West Bengal seek delay in restarting flights as coronavirus cases rise</a>

All the passengers flying into Tamil Nadu will be stamped with quarantine seal with date and indelible ink before they are are allowed to move out of the airport.&nbsp;

On arrival, passengers would be required tp shaw the E-Pass at the airport exit. While passengers without E-Pass would not be permitted to exit the airport, for the first few days, arrangements would be made at the airport for E-Pass registration as a transitional arrangement.

For those taking a flight out of Tamil Nadu, all passengers would undergo medical screening as stipulated by the Airport Authority and persons with symptoms will be set to health facility for testing and quarantine. Only asymptomatic persons will be allowed to board the flight.&nbsp;

The nationwide-lockdown, which was imposed in March, had meant the suspension of regular flights to and from Chennai. However, repatriation flights for foreign citizens have been operating with government approvals.&nbsp;

“Since lockdown was implemented on 25th March, 63 non-scheduled relief flights carrying nearly 10000 passengers have operated at Chennai International Airport till 24th May. Out of these, 51 flights took off from Chennai carrying over 7500 foreign passengers and 12 flights brought over 1800 Indians stranded in foreign countries. We had deployed adequate teams with necessary precautions in place to provide smooth clearance fro all of them” Rajan Choudhary, Commissioner Customs, Chennai International Airport told WION.

During the first phase (8th -13th May) of Vande Bharat Mission aimed at bringing back Indians stranded in various countries. 11 flights arrived in Tamil Nadu and 9 flights landed in Chennai. Of the nine, two flights arrived from Dubai and one each from Kuwait, Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Muscat (Oman), Chicago (USA), Dhaka (Bangladesh), Manila (Philippines) and London (UK). In total, 1,691 passengers landed at the Chennai Airport.

Currently, Tamil Nadu has breached the 16,000 mark in Covid-19 cases, with over 5,000 cases over the last one week alone. The state has recorded a total of 16,277 cases, of which 7,839 are active cases. Chennai alone has recorded over 10,000 total cases and has 5,653 active cases. The death toll in the state stands at 111. So far, Tamil Nadu has tested over 3.91 lakh people and 4.09 lakh samples.

The Tamil Nadu government has decided to allow incoming domestic flights from Monday, 25th March, in line with the Aviation Ministry’s decision to re-start limited flights across India.

The Tamil Nadu government has decided to allow incoming domestic flights from Monday, 25th March, in line with the Aviation Ministry’s decision to re-start limited flights across India. The arrival and departure of flights will be based on a set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)laid down by the state government. However, Tamil Nadu was among the states with rising Covid-19 cases that had requested the Aviation Ministry to resume flight operations after 31st May. Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has said that there would be a maximum of 25 flights arriving in Chennai, while there won’t be a cap on departure. Tamil Nadu government’s SOP for domestic air travel mentions that “all incoming travelers coming into Tamil nadu shall register themselves in the TNePass portal and (if asymptomatic) shall undergo 14 day home quarantine. Also read: New guidelines issued for domestic travel; Aarogya Setu app compulsory While there would be only 25 incoming flights to Chennai, there will not be a cap on the flights coming to Trichy, Madurai or Coimbatore. The Tamil Nadu Government has also decided to keep the flights coming in from Maharashtra and Gujarat at bare minimum, however there is no issue for operating any number of flights out of Tamil Nadu. Passengers seeking the TNePass would be required to declare that they are not residing in a containment zone, don't have symptoms, are not under quarantine and also must agree to report to the authorities if they develop symptoms. The persons traveling into the state should not have tested COVID-19 positive in the last two months. The declaration also includes the condition that if a passenger embarks on the journey based on false information, he/she is liable for punishment. Also read: Maha, TN, West Bengal seek delay in restarting flights as coronavirus cases rise All the passengers flying into Tamil Nadu will be stamped with quarantine seal with date and indelible ink before they are are allowed to move out of the airport. On arrival, passengers would be required tp shaw the E-Pass at the airport exit. While passengers without E-Pass would not be permitted to exit the airport, for the first few days, arrangements would be made at the airport for E-Pass registration as a transitional arrangement. For those taking a flight out of Tamil Nadu, all passengers would undergo medical screening as stipulated by the Airport Authority and persons with symptoms will be set to health facility for testing and quarantine. Only asymptomatic persons will be allowed to board the flight. The nationwide-lockdown, which was imposed in March, had meant the suspension of regular flights to and from Chennai. However, repatriation flights for foreign citizens have been operating with government approvals. “Since lockdown was implemented on 25th March, 63 non-scheduled relief flights carrying nearly 10000 passengers have operated at Chennai International Airport till 24th May. Out of these, 51 flights took off from Chennai carrying over 7500 foreign passengers and 12 flights brought over 1800 Indians stranded in foreign countries. We had deployed adequate teams with necessary precautions in place to provide smooth clearance fro all of them” Rajan Choudhary, Commissioner Customs, Chennai International Airport told WION. During the first phase (8th -13th May) of Vande Bharat Mission aimed at bringing back Indians stranded in various countries. 11 flights arrived in Tamil Nadu and 9 flights landed in Chennai. Of the nine, two flights arrived from Dubai and one each from Kuwait, Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Muscat (Oman), Chicago (USA), Dhaka (Bangladesh), Manila (Philippines) and London (UK). In total, 1,691 passengers landed at the Chennai Airport. Currently, Tamil Nadu has breached the 16,000 mark in Covid-19 cases, with over 5,000 cases over the last one week alone. The state has recorded a total of 16,277 cases, of which 7,839 are active cases. Chennai alone has recorded over 10,000 total cases and has 5,653 active cases. The death toll in the state stands at 111. So far, Tamil Nadu has tested over 3.91 lakh people and 4.09 lakh samples.

Tamil Nadu government allows domestic air travel; e-pass compulsory

Google Maps has a good rating on the play store and it is considered to be one of the best navigational platforms available online. But a man in Tamil Nadu does not agree with it and was furious with the application. So angry that he has filed a complaint against the platform.&nbsp;

R Chandrasekhar, who comes from Mayiladuthurai in the Nagapattinam district, has accused the app to cause troubles in his marital life.&nbsp;

According to reports, Google Maps application on the 49-year-old's mobile showed places that Chandrasekhar has never been to prompting his wife to not trust him. His wife has started questioning about the whereabouts that has led him to emotional troubles and familial problems.

“For the last few months, my wife has been constantly scanning the 'Your timeline' feature on Google Maps and refuses to let me sleep, as she questions where I was. She is constantly thinking about this, is getting affected and affecting the rest of the family too," read the complaint by Chandrasekhar.&nbsp;

“Despite several talks, she is refusing to listen. She believes Google over anything else. Google is causing strife in my family life. So I ask you to take action against Google and ensure justice for me. I also ask that Google give me compensation for causing so much strife," he added.

Tamil Nadu police have not filed an FIR yet, in fact, have asked the couple to come for counselling.&nbsp;

Google Maps has a good rating on the play store and it is considered to be one of the best navigational platforms available online. But a man in Tamil Nadu does not agree with it and was furious with the application.

Google Maps has a good rating on the play store and it is considered to be one of the best navigational platforms available online. But a man in Tamil Nadu does not agree with it and was furious with the application. So angry that he has filed a complaint against the platform. R Chandrasekhar, who comes from Mayiladuthurai in the Nagapattinam district, has accused the app to cause troubles in his marital life. According to reports, Google Maps application on the 49-year-old's mobile showed places that Chandrasekhar has never been to prompting his wife to not trust him. His wife has started questioning about the whereabouts that has led him to emotional troubles and familial problems. “For the last few months, my wife has been constantly scanning the 'Your timeline' feature on Google Maps and refuses to let me sleep, as she questions where I was. She is constantly thinking about this, is getting affected and affecting the rest of the family too," read the complaint by Chandrasekhar. “Despite several talks, she is refusing to listen. She believes Google over anything else. Google is causing strife in my family life. So I ask you to take action against Google and ensure justice for me. I also ask that Google give me compensation for causing so much strife," he added. Tamil Nadu police have not filed an FIR yet, in fact, have asked the couple to come for counselling.

Tamil Nadu man files complaint against Google Maps, accuses it to cause trouble in his marital life

The Tamil Nadu Government has permitted the resumption of filming television serials and other programmes, on the condition that stipulated restrictions are strictly followed. This announcement comes after the relevant industry bodies have requested the State Information and broadcasting minister to ease the lockdown restrictions.

An official statement from the Government said that indoor shooting alone would be permitted, but will not be allowed in containment zones across the state.&nbsp;

While filming in open/public spaces is not permitted in urban areas. There is no restriction on filming in rural areas (except in containment zones).&nbsp;

It has been stated that shootings must be conducted with no more than 20 people including the actors and technicians and also spectators cannot be allowed to witness the shooting. Disinfection of shooting venue before and after filming, besides the disinfection vehicles used for logistics, camera equipment and cranes have also been mentioned.&nbsp;

Except for actors, all on set must wear masks and maintain social distancing and actors must wear masks during the breaks. Persons with cough, cold, fever and breathlessness must not be allowed on set. If such symptoms are noticed, they must immediately be taken for a medical check.&nbsp;

To shoot in Chennai the crew must obtain the permission from the Corporation and in the case of other districts, the permission can be sought from the relevant district authorities.

All guidelines as stated by Central and State Government are to be followed. While the Government's go-ahead has brought cheer to thousands of workers who are dependent on the industry, it remains to see when the full-fledged shooting would begin.

“We need to get permission from the Corporation and it depends on the producers who are ready. We need to get together all the artists, serial artists and others who have to arrive from other states. We need to talk it out with producers. We thank the government on behalf of our association for having permitted the resumption of work” J. Sridhar, Vice President of FEFSI and Joint Secy AIFEC told WION.&nbsp;

However, he added that a lot needs to be worked out over the coming days, regarding how the crew can work with 20 members, given that bigger shows require over 50-100 people. Also, immediate resumption of shooting would be challenging as there are permissions required and a lot of logistics would have to be worked out.&nbsp;

The Film Employees Federation fo South India (FEFSI) has over 25000 members, who belong to the entire spectrum of crafts. The industry has been facing a tough time over the last two months, as a good number of them are daily wagers.

Sridhar said that so far, the industry body has been able to help its members tide over the crisis but even reopening would be with utmost caution as life and livelihood are equally important.

“For a large number of our members, we have been able to provide aid, in the form of essential supplies or via cash benefits as our president Selvamani has been in touch with all stakeholders. We are grateful to veteran actors Prabhu and Amitabh Bachchan and also leading brands like Kalyan Jewellers and Sony who helped us with getting aid via various ways and means” Sridhar told WION.

The Tamil Nadu Government has permitted the resumption of filming television serials and other programmes, on the condition that stipulated restrictions are strictly followed.

The Tamil Nadu Government has permitted the resumption of filming television serials and other programmes, on the condition that stipulated restrictions are strictly followed. This announcement comes after the relevant industry bodies have requested the State Information and broadcasting minister to ease the lockdown restrictions. An official statement from the Government said that indoor shooting alone would be permitted, but will not be allowed in containment zones across the state. While filming in open/public spaces is not permitted in urban areas. There is no restriction on filming in rural areas (except in containment zones). It has been stated that shootings must be conducted with no more than 20 people including the actors and technicians and also spectators cannot be allowed to witness the shooting. Disinfection of shooting venue before and after filming, besides the disinfection vehicles used for logistics, camera equipment and cranes have also been mentioned. Except for actors, all on set must wear masks and maintain social distancing and actors must wear masks during the breaks. Persons with cough, cold, fever and breathlessness must not be allowed on set. If such symptoms are noticed, they must immediately be taken for a medical check. To shoot in Chennai the crew must obtain the permission from the Corporation and in the case of other districts, the permission can be sought from the relevant district authorities. All guidelines as stated by Central and State Government are to be followed. While the Government's go-ahead has brought cheer to thousands of workers who are dependent on the industry, it remains to see when the full-fledged shooting would begin. “We need to get permission from the Corporation and it depends on the producers who are ready. We need to get together all the artists, serial artists and others who have to arrive from other states. We need to talk it out with producers. We thank the government on behalf of our association for having permitted the resumption of work” J. Sridhar, Vice President of FEFSI and Joint Secy AIFEC told WION. However, he added that a lot needs to be worked out over the coming days, regarding how the crew can work with 20 members, given that bigger shows require over 50-100 people. Also, immediate resumption of shooting would be challenging as there are permissions required and a lot of logistics would have to be worked out. The Film Employees Federation fo South India (FEFSI) has over 25000 members, who belong to the entire spectrum of crafts. The industry has been facing a tough time over the last two months, as a good number of them are daily wagers. Sridhar said that so far, the industry body has been able to help its members tide over the crisis but even reopening would be with utmost caution as life and livelihood are equally important. “For a large number of our members, we have been able to provide aid, in the form of essential supplies or via cash benefits as our president Selvamani has been in touch with all stakeholders. We are grateful to veteran actors Prabhu and Amitabh Bachchan and also leading brands like Kalyan Jewellers and Sony who helped us with getting aid via various ways and means” Sridhar told WION.

Tamil Nadu Government allows TV serials to resume shooting; Industry welcomes move

In a heartbreaking case, a girl-baby, merely 4-days old was killed by her father and grandmother, as they were irked over the birth of the fourth girl child in their house.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/donald-trump-honours-indian-girl-for-gesture-towards-coronavirus-heroes-299385" hreflang="en">Donald Trump honours Indian girl for gesture towards coronavirus heroes</a>

Thavamani and Chitra are residents of Chozhavandhan in Madurai and the couple have three daughters. It was only last week that the Chitra had given birth to a baby girl at the primary health center in what was a normal delivery.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mask-of-stars-in-cinema-crazy-tamil-nadu-protective-masks-get-a-filmy-face-299377" hreflang="en">Mask of stars: In cinema-crazy Tamil Nadu protective masks get a filmy face</a>

Few days later the family claimed that the baby had died of some unknown illness and a hushed burial was conducted at a graveyard in Mutputhur. The circumstances surrounding the death, barely four days after the infant was born, led to suspicion among the neighbors who tipped off the Police.&nbsp;

The police, district officials and a medical team visited the site and exhumed the mortal remains to perform tests. It was then made clear that the baby was poisoned.&nbsp;

The cops have arrested the girl’s father Thavamani and grandmother Pandiyammal. Initially, the father and grandmother pleaded innocence and tried to mislead the investigation, but eventually they budged and confessed to the crime. The crime is said to have been perpetrated without the knowledge of the baby’s mother, that too at a time when she was away.

The father and Grandmother have been booked under Sections 201(causing disappearance of evidence of offence) and 302 (whoever commits murder shall be punished with death or imprisonment for life) of the IPC. The sections pertaining to female infanticide also would be added.&nbsp;

Earlier in March, a similar incident of female infanticide had been reported from Madurai.

In a heartbreaking case, a girl-baby, merely 4-days old was killed by her father and grandmother, as they were irked over the birth of the fourth girl child in their house.

In a heartbreaking case, a girl-baby, merely 4-days old was killed by her father and grandmother, as they were irked over the birth of the fourth girl child in their house. Also read: Donald Trump honours Indian girl for gesture towards coronavirus heroes Thavamani and Chitra are residents of Chozhavandhan in Madurai and the couple have three daughters. It was only last week that the Chitra had given birth to a baby girl at the primary health center in what was a normal delivery. Also read: Mask of stars: In cinema-crazy Tamil Nadu protective masks get a filmy face Few days later the family claimed that the baby had died of some unknown illness and a hushed burial was conducted at a graveyard in Mutputhur. The circumstances surrounding the death, barely four days after the infant was born, led to suspicion among the neighbors who tipped off the Police. The police, district officials and a medical team visited the site and exhumed the mortal remains to perform tests. It was then made clear that the baby was poisoned. The cops have arrested the girl’s father Thavamani and grandmother Pandiyammal. Initially, the father and grandmother pleaded innocence and tried to mislead the investigation, but eventually they budged and confessed to the crime. The crime is said to have been perpetrated without the knowledge of the baby’s mother, that too at a time when she was away. The father and Grandmother have been booked under Sections 201(causing disappearance of evidence of offence) and 302 (whoever commits murder shall be punished with death or imprisonment for life) of the IPC. The sections pertaining to female infanticide also would be added. Earlier in March, a similar incident of female infanticide had been reported from Madurai.

Father, grandmother held in female infanticide case in Tamil Nadu’s Madurai

Protective face masks tend to hide one's identity and facial features, but in Tamil Nadu masks themselves are having a face of their own. Mask wearers are now sporting printed masks of their favourite stars such as Rajinikanth, Vijay, Ajith and Surya.

This trend has caught up over the last few days after textile exporters in the state’s knitwear and textile export hub Tiruppur decided to give masks a new face.&nbsp;

<img alt="Mask" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="793b4a72-7817-473e-89e2-5015f7c58bde" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_38.jpg" />

With protective face masks becoming an inseparable accessory since the start of the countrywide lockdown in late March, textile manufacturers and exporters from Tamil Nadu’s Tirupur have started making cloth masks. While the mainstay of the textile industry is export-quality garments, the lockdown has given rise to more makers of cloth masks.&nbsp;

“We have been in the garments export business for about 24 years, but this during this lockdown with the limited staff we started making cloth masks to cater to the rising demand. For about 45 days now we’ve been making PPE and masks. We initially supplied it to a few government staff and later on, we turned it into a business opportunity” Chandrakumar, CEO Sentinel clothing told WION.&nbsp;

With sales and export of garments having nearly dried up during the lockdown, the garment industries have been churning out masks and PPEs in a few thousand every day, with the help of limited staff who are turning up for work. The same equipment that are used for garment manufacturing are now being re-assigned to make masks.

<img alt="Mask" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="31151f75-d088-4d05-9b74-672230a0d2dc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_22.jpg" />

“We were initially making masks with zodiac signs printed on them and also 7-color sets for a week, but what really was a hit among the masses was the masks with actors faces on them. Right from masks with prints of evergreen comedian Vadivelu to the action heroes, the demand soared over the last week as we were the only ones experimenting with this. While the plain masks cost 10.Rs apiece the printed ones cost 15, but people prefer the fashionable ones” Chandrakumar added.&nbsp;

In recent times the orders for customized masks have piled up from various corporates, schools and even political parties. Suppliers in Tirupur have received orders from the AIADMK and Kamal Haasan’s Makkal Needhi Maiam, both of whom chose to have their party logo and flag printed on the masks. &nbsp;

While their factory has the capacity to make about 50,000 masks a day, Chadrakumar’s factory makes only about 5000 due to the less availability of workers. However, he feels that the high demand for masks would last for at least 3 months from now.

Over 30 textile units in Tiruppur alone are involved in making masks using the cloth materials.

With the increasing Covid-19 cases in India and the WHO reports that mention about the virus being here to stay, masks are likely to play a greater role in coming times- that of a fashion accessory and a personal statement.

Protective face masks tend to hide one's identity and facial features, but in Tamil Nadu masks themselves are having a face of their own. Mask wearers are now sporting printed masks of their favourite stars such as Rajinikanth, Vijay, Ajith and Surya.

Protective face masks tend to hide one's identity and facial features, but in Tamil Nadu masks themselves are having a face of their own. Mask wearers are now sporting printed masks of their favourite stars such as Rajinikanth, Vijay, Ajith and Surya. This trend has caught up over the last few days after textile exporters in the state’s knitwear and textile export hub Tiruppur decided to give masks a new face. With protective face masks becoming an inseparable accessory since the start of the countrywide lockdown in late March, textile manufacturers and exporters from Tamil Nadu’s Tirupur have started making cloth masks. While the mainstay of the textile industry is export-quality garments, the lockdown has given rise to more makers of cloth masks. “We have been in the garments export business for about 24 years, but this during this lockdown with the limited staff we started making cloth masks to cater to the rising demand. For about 45 days now we’ve been making PPE and masks. We initially supplied it to a few government staff and later on, we turned it into a business opportunity” Chandrakumar, CEO Sentinel clothing told WION. With sales and export of garments having nearly dried up during the lockdown, the garment industries have been churning out masks and PPEs in a few thousand every day, with the help of limited staff who are turning up for work. The same equipment that are used for garment manufacturing are now being re-assigned to make masks. “We were initially making masks with zodiac signs printed on them and also 7-color sets for a week, but what really was a hit among the masses was the masks with actors faces on them. Right from masks with prints of evergreen comedian Vadivelu to the action heroes, the demand soared over the last week as we were the only ones experimenting with this. While the plain masks cost 10.Rs apiece the printed ones cost 15, but people prefer the fashionable ones” Chandrakumar added. In recent times the orders for customized masks have piled up from various corporates, schools and even political parties. Suppliers in Tirupur have received orders from the AIADMK and Kamal Haasan’s Makkal Needhi Maiam, both of whom chose to have their party logo and flag printed on the masks. While their factory has the capacity to make about 50,000 masks a day, Chadrakumar’s factory makes only about 5000 due to the less availability of workers. However, he feels that the high demand for masks would last for at least 3 months from now. Over 30 textile units in Tiruppur alone are involved in making masks using the cloth materials. With the increasing Covid-19 cases in India and the WHO reports that mention about the virus being here to stay, masks are likely to play a greater role in coming times- that of a fashion accessory and a personal statement.

Mask of stars: In cinema-crazy Tamil Nadu protective masks get a filmy  face

Superstar Rajinikanth on Sunday warned the ruling AIADMK against reopening state-run liquor outlets in Tamil Nadu, saying if it was done, it should not harbour "dreams" of coming to power again, apparently in next year's Assembly elections.

In a tweet in Tamil, the actor asked the government to work out alternate modes of revenue generation.

His remarks came a day after Tamil Nadu moved the Supreme Court, seeking a stay against a Madras High Court order directing closure of liquor shops in the state.

The AIADMK cannot have "dreams of coming to power again if the government re-opens TASMAC shops at this juncture," the veteran said in the tweet.

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இந்த நேரத்தில் அரசு டாஸ்மாக் கடைகளை மறுபடி திறந்தால் மீண்டும் ஆட்சிக்கு வரும் கனவை மறந்து விட வேண்டும். தயவுகூர்ந்து <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%AE%95%E0%AE%9C%E0%AE%BE%E0%AE%A9%E0%AE%BE%E0%AE%B5%E0%AF%88_%E0%AE%A8%E0%AE%BF%E0%AE%B0%E0%AE%AA%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%AA_%E0%AE%A8%E0%AE%B2%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%B2_%E0%AE%B5%E0%AE%B4%E0%AE%BF%E0%AE%95%E0%AE%B3%E0%AF%88_%E0%AE%AA%E0%AE%BE%E0%AE%B0%E0%AF%81%E0%AE%99%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%95%E0%AE%B3%E0%AF%8D?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#கஜானாவை_நிரப்ப_நல்ல_வழிகளை_பாருங்கள்</a>
— Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajinikanth/status/1259347183192735750?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Please #Look out for better ways of filling the coffers," he added.

The Tamil Nadu government had on Saturday moved the apex court challenging the High Court order for closure of TASMAC (Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation) liquor outlets on grounds of violations of COVID-19 guidelines, arguing that it would lead to "grave losses" in revenue and a complete halt in commercial activities. 
 
The Madras High Court had on Friday ordered the closure of liquor outlets in the state, noting there were huge crowds and no social distancing was being maintained by tipplers.

It, however, allowed doorstep delivery of booze through online mode.

The Tamil Nadu government, in its appeal on Saturday, termed the HC order a case of "judicial overreach" and said online sale and home delivery of alcohol were not possible in the entire state.

Superstar Rajinikanth on Sunday warned the ruling AIADMK against reopening state-run liquor outlets in Tamil Nadu, saying if it was done, it should not harbour "dreams" of coming to power again, apparently in next year's Assembly elections.

Superstar Rajinikanth on Sunday warned the ruling AIADMK against reopening state-run liquor outlets in Tamil Nadu, saying if it was done, it should not harbour "dreams" of coming to power again, apparently in next year's Assembly elections. In a tweet in Tamil, the actor asked the government to work out alternate modes of revenue generation. His remarks came a day after Tamil Nadu moved the Supreme Court, seeking a stay against a Madras High Court order directing closure of liquor shops in the state. The AIADMK cannot have "dreams of coming to power again if the government re-opens TASMAC shops at this juncture," the veteran said in the tweet. இந்த நேரத்தில் அரசு டாஸ்மாக் கடைகளை மறுபடி திறந்தால் மீண்டும் ஆட்சிக்கு வரும் கனவை மறந்து விட வேண்டும். தயவுகூர்ந்து #கஜானாவை_நிரப்ப_நல்ல_வழிகளை_பாருங்கள் — Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) May 10, 2020 × "Please #Look out for better ways of filling the coffers," he added. The Tamil Nadu government had on Saturday moved the apex court challenging the High Court order for closure of TASMAC (Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation) liquor outlets on grounds of violations of COVID-19 guidelines, arguing that it would lead to "grave losses" in revenue and a complete halt in commercial activities. The Madras High Court had on Friday ordered the closure of liquor outlets in the state, noting there were huge crowds and no social distancing was being maintained by tipplers. It, however, allowed doorstep delivery of booze through online mode. The Tamil Nadu government, in its appeal on Saturday, termed the HC order a case of "judicial overreach" and said online sale and home delivery of alcohol were not possible in the entire state.

Rajinikanth warns ruling AIADMK against reopening liquor outlets in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu has been one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus. With a daily rise of almost 600 coronavirus cases, the state has not been able to come out of red zone.&nbsp;

The state government has, however, has decided to open essential shops from 6am-7pm from May 11, and the standalone and neighbourhood shops will be permitted to operate from 10am-6pm (excluding Chennai where the time will be 10:30am-6pm). The tea shops will also be permitted for takeaway from 6am-7pm.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-records-600-new-cases-madras-high-court-orders-closure-of-all-liquor-shops-297499">Also read:&nbsp;Tamil Nadu records 600 new cases; Madras High Court orders closure of all liquor shops</a>

Since the lockdown began, the state examinations for class X were paused till further notice. While the students have been confused whether or not the examinations will take place, state Education Minister K Sengottaiyan on Saturday said&nbsp;the exams will take place once the lockdown is lifted.

The final decision is still pending. The decision will be taken in a high-level education committee and health officials. The Education Minister had visited Savakkatupalayam village near Gobichettipalayam, where he distributed welfare schemes to 450 handloom weavers.

He assured that all precautions of social distancing will be kept in mind while the exams are conducted, and the students will be seated in a line.

No decision has been made on re-opening of schools for a new academic year; the decision will be taken only after the lockdown is lifted and the state is recognized as green zone.

The Education Ministry is also appointing almost 2,000 mathematics teachers&nbsp;to provide online training to students. This will also be done for accountancy students.

Tamil Nadu has been one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus. With a daily rise of almost 600 coronavirus cases, the state has not been able to come out of red zone.

Tamil Nadu has been one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus. With a daily rise of almost 600 coronavirus cases, the state has not been able to come out of red zone. The state government has, however, has decided to open essential shops from 6am-7pm from May 11, and the standalone and neighbourhood shops will be permitted to operate from 10am-6pm (excluding Chennai where the time will be 10:30am-6pm). The tea shops will also be permitted for takeaway from 6am-7pm. Also read: Tamil Nadu records 600 new cases; Madras High Court orders closure of all liquor shops Since the lockdown began, the state examinations for class X were paused till further notice. While the students have been confused whether or not the examinations will take place, state Education Minister K Sengottaiyan on Saturday said the exams will take place once the lockdown is lifted. The final decision is still pending. The decision will be taken in a high-level education committee and health officials. The Education Minister had visited Savakkatupalayam village near Gobichettipalayam, where he distributed welfare schemes to 450 handloom weavers. He assured that all precautions of social distancing will be kept in mind while the exams are conducted, and the students will be seated in a line. No decision has been made on re-opening of schools for a new academic year; the decision will be taken only after the lockdown is lifted and the state is recognized as green zone. The Education Ministry is also appointing almost 2,000 mathematics teachers to provide online training to students. This will also be done for accountancy students.

Tamil Nadu standalone and essential shops to open from May 11

Two days after TASMAC liquor shops opened in Tamil Nadu, Madras High Court has ordered a closure of all state-run TASMAC liquor shops in the whole state.

However, residents can still order liquor online. The delivery executives will have to follow proper protocols of social distancing and face masks will be compulsory.

This comes after 600 new cases were reported within 24 hours in Tamil Nadu, out of which 300 cases were from Chennai.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/3390-new-coronavirus-cases-in-india-16540-patients-cured-government-297467">Also read:&nbsp;3,390 new coronavirus cases in India; 16,540 patients cured: Government</a>

Despite the restrictions of age groups and social distancing,&nbsp;thousands were seen gathering in queues for TASMAC liquor shops in the state.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu government earned almost 170 crores from the first day of alcohol sale. While this was helping revive the economy, few experts protested against the idea of opening the liquor shops as they feared a fresh wave of cases will be seen if the people are allowed to queue.&nbsp;

While cities like Chennai and few other containment areas were not allowed to open liquor shops, few districts such as Tirupur made umbrellas, along with facemask, compulsory for those who were queuing to buy alcohol.

The total number of positive cases has reached 6,009 in Tamil Nadu, which includes 1,605 recovered/discharged patients and 40 deaths.

Two days after TASMAC liquor shops opened in Tamil Nadu, Madras High Court has ordered a closure of all state-run TASMAC liquor shops in the whole state. However, residents can still order liquor online.

Two days after TASMAC liquor shops opened in Tamil Nadu, Madras High Court has ordered a closure of all state-run TASMAC liquor shops in the whole state. However, residents can still order liquor online. The delivery executives will have to follow proper protocols of social distancing and face masks will be compulsory. This comes after 600 new cases were reported within 24 hours in Tamil Nadu, out of which 300 cases were from Chennai. Also read: 3,390 new coronavirus cases in India; 16,540 patients cured: Government Despite the restrictions of age groups and social distancing, thousands were seen gathering in queues for TASMAC liquor shops in the state. Tamil Nadu government earned almost 170 crores from the first day of alcohol sale. While this was helping revive the economy, few experts protested against the idea of opening the liquor shops as they feared a fresh wave of cases will be seen if the people are allowed to queue. While cities like Chennai and few other containment areas were not allowed to open liquor shops, few districts such as Tirupur made umbrellas, along with facemask, compulsory for those who were queuing to buy alcohol. The total number of positive cases has reached 6,009 in Tamil Nadu, which includes 1,605 recovered/discharged patients and 40 deaths.

Tamil Nadu records 600 new cases; Madras High Court orders closure of all liquor shops

Over the last couple of days, Tamil Nadu has been witnessing its highest ever spike in cases with the daily new case figures ranging between 500 and 771. &nbsp;A closer look at the government data also reveals that a little over 5 per cent (273/5409) of Tamil Nadu’s Corona Virus positive cases are children who are aged 12 and below. Nearly 60 children in this age category alone were infected over the last 48 hours. WION spoke to Doctors and Medical experts from the Government and Private sector to understand what these many numbers of Covid-19 cases among children mean.&nbsp;

Dr Subramanian Swaminathan&nbsp;

Infectious Diseases Specialist

This increase in cases among children is very much an expected trend and cases in children will grow in parallel with cases in adults. Initially, the testing was maximum in adults and now as more children are being tested we have more cases turning positive. We must also realize that social distancing doesn’t apply to children, especially in the below 12 age group. Even when we don’t have children stepping out of homes, there is a possibility of transmission from a parent who goes out for work. That is exactly why we have schools being held in abeyance for as long as possible. It is difficult to read patterns from the numbers in children, but certainly, there is no point in mass-testing among children, as children eventually recover and the high-risk category are the elderly and those with other ailments.

Dr K&nbsp;Kolandaisamy&nbsp;

Retired Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine

Our strategy is to delay the spread of the virus, we have been testing and isolating the positive cases and their contacts. It is only natural that children also get infected from their contacts at home, but there is nothing to worry about it. The real risk is for the elderly, cancer patients, those who have undergone organ transplants and those with other medical complications, lifestyle disorders. It is this high-risk portion of our population that needs the maximum protection. When healthy people get affected, they are asymptomatic (no or very fewer symptoms) and have the immunity to recover from it, and this applies to children and those who are maintaining good health, irrespective of age.&nbsp;

Right from the time of the swine flu outbreak, our health department has been following the strategy of posting staff who are between 25-50 years of age in the frontlines. Those who are above 50 and have existing health issues are posted on the desk, data entry jobs that minimize their exposure to risk. We always ensure the frontline staff are aged below 50, besides being non-smokers, non-diabetic and free of co-morbidities. If we save the vulnerable population, then there is no need to worry even when the numbers are rising.&nbsp;

Madhusudhan Reddy, Joint Commissioner (Health), Chennai Corporation&nbsp;

The purpose of the lockdown is to slow the spread of the virus and ensure that the government machinery, infrastructure has adequate time to respond to people’s needs and saves lives. While the lockdown cannot eradicate the virus, it can delay the transmission so that the medical facilities can cope up with the increasing cases. It is certain that an eternal lockdown is also not possible due to the social-economic harm that it can cause. The public must not worry about the spike in numbers, as it is a result of increased testing. For instance, Tamil Nadu had done a total of nearly 3000 tests as on April 1st, but as on date, the total tests have exceeded 2 lakh. Presently we are testing over 13,000 people on a daily basis and this includes entire families as well.

Initially, most of the cases we observed were the middle-aged males who had stepped outside for work, but with time it spread to the women in the house, the elderly and eventually also children. With more testing, gender balance and age balance will be achieved.

Dr K.E.Vivekanandan, Head of the Dept,&nbsp;

Professor of Pediatrics, Govt Kilpauk Medical College, Chennai&nbsp;

We have seen about 30 Pediatric Covid-19 cases in our hospital so far, but there has been no serious case. A good number of them have been discharged and some of them are under quarantine in the hospital post-recovery. We have seen positive cases in newborn babies as well, but even then, with mother’s milk alone and nil medication, we are able to treat them. If they are older than a year we prescribe certain medicines that aid in the recovery. A normal diet along with some vitamin syrups are what we prescribe for the little patients in our care.

All the pediatric cases we have seen in our hospital so far are asymptomatic and the infection was transmitted from their parents. Since the children themselves don’t go out, they get it from their parents and elders. So, when we have a Covid-19 positive child, naturally there would be a positive case in the same house, or perhaps they could have been living in a containment zone with many cases. We have seen a total healing rate in kids and there was no instance of high fever or cough or breathlessness. In the case of mid cold and flu, we provide the usual medication and syrups. If there are children living in containment zones who are exhibiting mild symptoms, it is better for parents to take them to the nearest health centre.

Even for a majority of adults in our hospital, we have seen that there are no symptoms at all. They would be totally normal but they test Covid-19 positive. The way ahead is to intensify testing even further in the risky areas, containment zones in the cities where cases are high.

Over the last couple of days, Tamil Nadu has been witnessing its highest ever spike in cases with the daily new case figures ranging between 500 and 771. A closer look at the government data also reveals that a little over 5 per cent (273/5409) of Tamil Nadu’s Corona Virus positive cases are children who are aged 12 and below.

Over the last couple of days, Tamil Nadu has been witnessing its highest ever spike in cases with the daily new case figures ranging between 500 and 771. A closer look at the government data also reveals that a little over 5 per cent (273/5409) of Tamil Nadu’s Corona Virus positive cases are children who are aged 12 and below. Nearly 60 children in this age category alone were infected over the last 48 hours. WION spoke to Doctors and Medical experts from the Government and Private sector to understand what these many numbers of Covid-19 cases among children mean. Dr Subramanian Swaminathan Infectious Diseases Specialist This increase in cases among children is very much an expected trend and cases in children will grow in parallel with cases in adults. Initially, the testing was maximum in adults and now as more children are being tested we have more cases turning positive. We must also realize that social distancing doesn’t apply to children, especially in the below 12 age group. Even when we don’t have children stepping out of homes, there is a possibility of transmission from a parent who goes out for work. That is exactly why we have schools being held in abeyance for as long as possible. It is difficult to read patterns from the numbers in children, but certainly, there is no point in mass-testing among children, as children eventually recover and the high-risk category are the elderly and those with other ailments. Dr K Kolandaisamy Retired Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine Our strategy is to delay the spread of the virus, we have been testing and isolating the positive cases and their contacts. It is only natural that children also get infected from their contacts at home, but there is nothing to worry about it. The real risk is for the elderly, cancer patients, those who have undergone organ transplants and those with other medical complications, lifestyle disorders. It is this high-risk portion of our population that needs the maximum protection. When healthy people get affected, they are asymptomatic (no or very fewer symptoms) and have the immunity to recover from it, and this applies to children and those who are maintaining good health, irrespective of age. Right from the time of the swine flu outbreak, our health department has been following the strategy of posting staff who are between 25-50 years of age in the frontlines. Those who are above 50 and have existing health issues are posted on the desk, data entry jobs that minimize their exposure to risk. We always ensure the frontline staff are aged below 50, besides being non-smokers, non-diabetic and free of co-morbidities. If we save the vulnerable population, then there is no need to worry even when the numbers are rising. Madhusudhan Reddy, Joint Commissioner (Health), Chennai Corporation The purpose of the lockdown is to slow the spread of the virus and ensure that the government machinery, infrastructure has adequate time to respond to people’s needs and saves lives. While the lockdown cannot eradicate the virus, it can delay the transmission so that the medical facilities can cope up with the increasing cases. It is certain that an eternal lockdown is also not possible due to the social-economic harm that it can cause. The public must not worry about the spike in numbers, as it is a result of increased testing. For instance, Tamil Nadu had done a total of nearly 3000 tests as on April 1st, but as on date, the total tests have exceeded 2 lakh. Presently we are testing over 13,000 people on a daily basis and this includes entire families as well. Initially, most of the cases we observed were the middle-aged males who had stepped outside for work, but with time it spread to the women in the house, the elderly and eventually also children. With more testing, gender balance and age balance will be achieved. Dr K.E.Vivekanandan, Head of the Dept, Professor of Pediatrics, Govt Kilpauk Medical College, Chennai We have seen about 30 Pediatric Covid-19 cases in our hospital so far, but there has been no serious case. A good number of them have been discharged and some of them are under quarantine in the hospital post-recovery. We have seen positive cases in newborn babies as well, but even then, with mother’s milk alone and nil medication, we are able to treat them. If they are older than a year we prescribe certain medicines that aid in the recovery. A normal diet along with some vitamin syrups are what we prescribe for the little patients in our care. All the pediatric cases we have seen in our hospital so far are asymptomatic and the infection was transmitted from their parents. Since the children themselves don’t go out, they get it from their parents and elders. So, when we have a Covid-19 positive child, naturally there would be a positive case in the same house, or perhaps they could have been living in a containment zone with many cases. We have seen a total healing rate in kids and there was no instance of high fever or cough or breathlessness. In the case of mid cold and flu, we provide the usual medication and syrups. If there are children living in containment zones who are exhibiting mild symptoms, it is better for parents to take them to the nearest health centre. Even for a majority of adults in our hospital, we have seen that there are no symptoms at all. They would be totally normal but they test Covid-19 positive. The way ahead is to intensify testing even further in the risky areas, containment zones in the cities where cases are high.

Over 5% of Tamil Nadu’s Covid-19 cases are children; health experts say no reason to worry 

A boiler explosion occurred&nbsp;in Tamil Nadu's&nbsp;Cuddalore area. The explosion happened in Neyveli Lignite Corporation's plant, a coal-mining company.

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Tamil Nadu: At least 7 persons have been injured after blast in a boiler at Neyveli Lignite corporation Ltd in Cuddalore district, earlier today. More details awaited. <a href="https://t.co/aCzlVCsECG">pic.twitter.com/aCzlVCsECG</a>
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The explosion, that took place late evening on Thursday,&nbsp;has left seven people injured, according to the initial reports.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/visakhapatnam-gas-leak-chilling-scenes-bring-back-memories-of-bhopal-gas-tragedy-297163">Also read:&nbsp;Visakhapatnam gas leak: Chilling scenes bring back memories of Bhopal gas tragedy</a>

NLC India Limited has not given any comment on this tragedy, so far. The top officials were&nbsp;enroute the plant. Tamil Nadu police and fire department have already taken control of&nbsp;the site of the explosion.

Officials have started a detailed investigation about the boiler explosion.

This comes after two gas leaks, one in Vizag and one in Chhattisgarh, which took place on Thursday and has left hundreds hospitalised and more than 10 people have lost their lives.

A boiler explosion occurred in Tamil Nadu's Cuddalore area. The explosion happened in Neyveli Lignite Corporation's plant, a coal-mining company. Tamil Nadu: At least 7 persons have been injured after blast in a boiler at Neyveli Lignite corporation Ltd in Cuddalore district, earlier today.

A boiler explosion occurred in Tamil Nadu's Cuddalore area. The explosion happened in Neyveli Lignite Corporation's plant, a coal-mining company. Tamil Nadu: At least 7 persons have been injured after blast in a boiler at Neyveli Lignite corporation Ltd in Cuddalore district, earlier today. More details awaited. pic.twitter.com/aCzlVCsECG — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2020 × The explosion, that took place late evening on Thursday, has left seven people injured, according to the initial reports. Also read: Visakhapatnam gas leak: Chilling scenes bring back memories of Bhopal gas tragedy NLC India Limited has not given any comment on this tragedy, so far. The top officials were enroute the plant. Tamil Nadu police and fire department have already taken control of the site of the explosion. Officials have started a detailed investigation about the boiler explosion. This comes after two gas leaks, one in Vizag and one in Chhattisgarh, which took place on Thursday and has left hundreds hospitalised and more than 10 people have lost their lives.

Boiler blasts in Tamil Nadu; at least seven people injured

As coronavirus cases on a rise in Tamil Nadu,&nbsp;Chief Minister K Palaniswami ordered a complete lockdown in five cities -- Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem and Madurai. The lockdown will&nbsp;be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai, and for the same timings from April 26 to April 28 in&nbsp;Tiruppur and Salem.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-government-announces-complete-lockdown-in-five-cities-including-chennai-and-coimbatore-294568">Also read:&nbsp;Tamil Nadu government announces complete lockdown in five cities, including Chennai and Coimbatore</a>

The decision of the complete lockdown was taken in a review meeting after the coronavirus cases toll crossed 1,600.&nbsp;After the announcement was made on Friday, people flocked to the markets from early morning on Saturday. Long queues were spotted outside various supermarkets and vegetable markets. People rushed to stock up on enough groceries and dairy items to sustain them for the next four days.&nbsp;People hoping to stay at home and order through food delivery apps were unable to do so due to the long queues and unavailability of essentials.

The online vegetable and food delivery apps will be allowed to home deliver groceries and food, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys. However, people, who have till now been used to going to the market anytime between 6am-1pm, panicked fearing uncertainty about the lockdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1684-more-cases-reported-in-last-24-hours-taking-indias-covid-19-tally-to-23077-294444">Also read:&nbsp;1,684 more cases reported in last 24 hours taking India's COVID-19 tally to 23,077</a>

The idea of the lockdown was to contain the spread of the virus by completely shutting down the movement of public in the streets. However, as people rushed to the markets on Saturday morning, the crowded streets did not see a lot of precautions related to social distancing.

According to the data released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 72 new coronavirus cases were reported as of April&nbsp;25 morning in the state. This brings the total reported positive cases of coronavirus&nbsp;to 1,755 in Tamil Nadu, with 22 deaths and 886 recovered patients.

As Tamil Nadu is one of the worst-hit states in the country, the state has identified hotspots.&nbsp;As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu.

As coronavirus cases on a rise in Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister K Palaniswami ordered a complete lockdown in five cities -- Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem and Madurai.

As coronavirus cases on a rise in Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister K Palaniswami ordered a complete lockdown in five cities -- Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem and Madurai. The lockdown will be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai, and for the same timings from April 26 to April 28 in Tiruppur and Salem. Also read: Tamil Nadu government announces complete lockdown in five cities, including Chennai and Coimbatore The decision of the complete lockdown was taken in a review meeting after the coronavirus cases toll crossed 1,600. After the announcement was made on Friday, people flocked to the markets from early morning on Saturday. Long queues were spotted outside various supermarkets and vegetable markets. People rushed to stock up on enough groceries and dairy items to sustain them for the next four days. People hoping to stay at home and order through food delivery apps were unable to do so due to the long queues and unavailability of essentials. The online vegetable and food delivery apps will be allowed to home deliver groceries and food, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys. However, people, who have till now been used to going to the market anytime between 6am-1pm, panicked fearing uncertainty about the lockdown. Also read: 1,684 more cases reported in last 24 hours taking India's COVID-19 tally to 23,077 The idea of the lockdown was to contain the spread of the virus by completely shutting down the movement of public in the streets. However, as people rushed to the markets on Saturday morning, the crowded streets did not see a lot of precautions related to social distancing. According to the data released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 72 new coronavirus cases were reported as of April 25 morning in the state. This brings the total reported positive cases of coronavirus to 1,755 in Tamil Nadu, with 22 deaths and 886 recovered patients. As Tamil Nadu is one of the worst-hit states in the country, the state has identified hotspots. As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu.

Panic buying reported in Tamil Nadu ahead of complete lockdown; 72 new cases

After a review meeting, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, orders have been issued for a complete lockdown in five cities of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur and Salem.

The lockdown will be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai. Tiruppur and Salem, however, will be on the lockdown from April 26 to April 28 between&nbsp;6 a.m. to 9 p.m.&nbsp;

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Complete lockdown to be enforced in Chennai, Coimbatore &amp; Madurai from April 26 to April 29 between 6 AM&amp;9PM. In Salem&amp;Tiruppur, complete lockdown will be enforced from April 26 &amp; April 28 between 6 AM &amp; 9 PM. Online food delivery to be allowed: Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi Palaniswami <a href="https://t.co/vJnGL8ZUef">pic.twitter.com/vJnGL8ZUef</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1253619843762454529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, food delivery will be allowed through food delivery apps during the lockdown, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys.

According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Tamil Nadu has 1,629 coronavirus cases, including 662 cured and 18 deaths.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-social-distancing-encouraged-at-tamil-nadu-ministers-event-in-madurai-293995">Also read:&nbsp;No social distancing encouraged at Tamil Nadu Minister’s event in Madurai</a>

With such a high number of&nbsp;positive coronavirus cases, Tamil Nadu is one of the worst coronavirus-hit state in the country. To contain the spread of the virus, Tamil Nadu government identified hotspots in the state.&nbsp;As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu. Some hotspots have also been identified within Chennai and Coimbatore. While there are&nbsp;13 urban red zones in Chennai, Coimbatore has 10 urban and 8 rural red zones.

After a review meeting, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, orders have been issued for a complete lockdown in five cities of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur and Salem.

After a review meeting, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, orders have been issued for a complete lockdown in five cities of Tamil Nadu, namely Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur and Salem. The lockdown will be implemented strictly between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 26-29 in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai. Tiruppur and Salem, however, will be on the lockdown from April 26 to April 28 between 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Complete lockdown to be enforced in Chennai, Coimbatore & Madurai from April 26 to April 29 between 6 AM&9PM. In Salem&Tiruppur, complete lockdown will be enforced from April 26 & April 28 between 6 AM & 9 PM. Online food delivery to be allowed: Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi Palaniswami pic.twitter.com/vJnGL8ZUef — ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2020 × However, food delivery will be allowed through food delivery apps during the lockdown, provided all precautions are adhered to by the restaurants and the delivery boys. According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Tamil Nadu has 1,629 coronavirus cases, including 662 cured and 18 deaths. Also read: No social distancing encouraged at Tamil Nadu Minister’s event in Madurai With such a high number of positive coronavirus cases, Tamil Nadu is one of the worst coronavirus-hit state in the country. To contain the spread of the virus, Tamil Nadu government identified hotspots in the state. As of now, 35 out of 38 districts have been identified as COVID-19 hotspots in Tamil Nadu. Some hotspots have also been identified within Chennai and Coimbatore. While there are 13 urban red zones in Chennai, Coimbatore has 10 urban and 8 rural red zones.

Tamil Nadu government announces complete lockdown in five cities, including Chennai and Coimbatore

Announcing that Tamil Nadu had recorded 25 new coronavirus cases on Thursday, chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami said that the state was seeing a reduction in cases and expressed hope that the state could see nil positive cases over the next few days. '

The chief minister announced that the state had recorded 25 new cases, taking the total recorded cases to 1,267, with a total of 180 patients who have recovered and been discharged from the hospitals. The coronavirus death toll in the state stands at 15. Tamil Nadu is the state with the third highest number of COVID-19 cases in India.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-cases-rise-to-1267-in-tamil-nadu-15-dead-292984" hreflang="en">Coronavirus cases rise to 1,267 in Tamil Nadu; 15 dead</a>

In his press conference, following a meeting with the district administrators the chief minister expressed hope in the falling numbers, as the state has been witnessing fewer cases over the last three days. The first two weeks of April saw a rapid increase in cases, however, the last three days have only seen 31,38 and 25 cases respectively.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-several-other-nations-receive-faulty-coronavirus-test-kits-from-china-292974" hreflang="en">India, several other nations receive faulty coronavirus test kits from China</a>

While admitting that the coronavirus situation was a huge challenge, Palaniswami claimed that the number of cases were reducing due to the efforts of the state government which has undertaken measures such as setting up containment zones, among others.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/face-shields-for-frontline-covid-19-fighters-made-using-3d-printing-and-injection-moulding-292916" hreflang="en">Face shields for frontline COVID-19 fighters made using 3D printing and injection moulding</a>

Thirteen&nbsp;frontline workers including government and private doctors, healthcare and sanitary workers have been infected in the state. Currently, Tamil Nadu has 27 testing centers(including government and private facilities), which the state government claims is the highest in the country. The testing capacity of all these centers put together is 5590 samples per day.

On the delay in receiving the consignment of rapid test kits from China, the chief minister said that no other state in India had received them, adding that the government has been making efforts to get them.

Responding to the criticism against his government from the DMK-led opposition, Palaniswami said that the opposition leader was unable to accept that the government has been efficiently battling COVID-19.

“In other states there is political unity during such unprecedented adversity, but here in Tamil Nadu we have parties that do not cooperate with the government”, he added.&nbsp;

When questioned about relief being given by the state to the bereaved families who have lost their kin to the pandemic, the CM claimed that this was a rich person’s disease which had been imported to Tamil Nadu by those who travelled to abroad.

“This is a rich person’s disease. Isn’t this a disease brought from foreign countries and other states? Poor people don’t have it. You can ask the poor people. One should get scared of the rich person only, because they go abroad and import the disease here. They have travelled to other states and now people here have got it. This is why Tamil Nadu has COVID-19 cases. Tamil Nadu did not create this pandemic,” Palaniswami said.

Announcing that Tamil Nadu had recorded 25 new coronavirus cases on Thursday, chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami said that the state was seeing a reduction in cases and expressed hope that the state could see nil positive cases over the next few days.

Announcing that Tamil Nadu had recorded 25 new coronavirus cases on Thursday, chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami said that the state was seeing a reduction in cases and expressed hope that the state could see nil positive cases over the next few days. ' The chief minister announced that the state had recorded 25 new cases, taking the total recorded cases to 1,267, with a total of 180 patients who have recovered and been discharged from the hospitals. The coronavirus death toll in the state stands at 15. Tamil Nadu is the state with the third highest number of COVID-19 cases in India. Also read: Coronavirus cases rise to 1,267 in Tamil Nadu; 15 dead In his press conference, following a meeting with the district administrators the chief minister expressed hope in the falling numbers, as the state has been witnessing fewer cases over the last three days. The first two weeks of April saw a rapid increase in cases, however, the last three days have only seen 31,38 and 25 cases respectively. Also read: India, several other nations receive faulty coronavirus test kits from China While admitting that the coronavirus situation was a huge challenge, Palaniswami claimed that the number of cases were reducing due to the efforts of the state government which has undertaken measures such as setting up containment zones, among others. Also read: Face shields for frontline COVID-19 fighters made using 3D printing and injection moulding Thirteen frontline workers including government and private doctors, healthcare and sanitary workers have been infected in the state. Currently, Tamil Nadu has 27 testing centers(including government and private facilities), which the state government claims is the highest in the country. The testing capacity of all these centers put together is 5590 samples per day. On the delay in receiving the consignment of rapid test kits from China, the chief minister said that no other state in India had received them, adding that the government has been making efforts to get them. Responding to the criticism against his government from the DMK-led opposition, Palaniswami said that the opposition leader was unable to accept that the government has been efficiently battling COVID-19. “In other states there is political unity during such unprecedented adversity, but here in Tamil Nadu we have parties that do not cooperate with the government”, he added. When questioned about relief being given by the state to the bereaved families who have lost their kin to the pandemic, the CM claimed that this was a rich person’s disease which had been imported to Tamil Nadu by those who travelled to abroad. “This is a rich person’s disease. Isn’t this a disease brought from foreign countries and other states? Poor people don’t have it. You can ask the poor people. One should get scared of the rich person only, because they go abroad and import the disease here. They have travelled to other states and now people here have got it. This is why Tamil Nadu has COVID-19 cases. Tamil Nadu did not create this pandemic,” Palaniswami said.

State witnessing reduction in COVID-19 cases, says Tamil Nadu CM Palaniswami

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

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

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

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

The whereabouts of a section of people from Tamil Nadu who took part in the recent conference held by the Tablighi Jamaat at Delhi is not known yet and in view of several attendees testing positive they should voluntarily get in touch with authorities, Chief Minister K Palaniswami appealed here on Wednesday.

Several people who took part in the meet from Tamil Nadu at the national capital recently have tested positive, Palaniswami said adding 1,131 men have returned of the about 1,500 people who went for the event.

“About 515 people have been identified…others who took part in the meet should voluntarily get in touch with the authorities…we have not got the addresses of others fully,” he said apparently indicating that their whereabouts could not be ascertained so far.

Palaniswami told reporters that while a section could not be contacted yet, others have been quarantined in Delhi. Of the attendees from Tamil Nadu, 50 tested positive on Tuesday and totally there are 124 cases in the state.

Considering the severity of coronavirus and its potential to adversely impact the larger society, returnees should approach the authorities so that they could be tested and treated if needed, he said.

The government has already said that several district administrations could not establish contact with many returnees and senior officials have said that police department was also working to trace them.

The National Health Mission Tamil Nadu separately has appealed to ‘Tablighi Jamaat brothers,’ to contact health authorities immediately at specific phone numbers 7824849263/044 46274411) as participants of the conference might be at risk of contracting coronavirus.

Asked if participants at an event held by Isha Yoga last month in Tamil Nadu will be tested, he said it will be done if they had symptoms. The government ordered the closure of all places of worship irrespective of religion, he added.

On the chances of lockdown getting extended beyond April 14, he said only the Central government will take a decision.

To a question of perceived slackness by people in sticking to lockdown, he said: “every life is important, everybody should play a role and come together and only then the spread of coronavirus could be stopped.”

Without understanding the ramifications of the infection some people were going about in public places and this must be avoided, he appealed.

In separate audio, he urged the people to stay back at home and reassured that the government was taking all steps to halt the spread of the contagion. There is no bar either on agricultural activities or in taking the produce to markets, he said.

Palaniswami earlier inspected the functioning of Amma Canteens along with Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar and hailed the role of the eateries in providing quality and low-cost food to people.

The whereabouts of a section of people from Tamil Nadu who took part in the recent conference held by the Tablighi Jamaat at Delhi is not known yet and in view of several attendees testing positive they should voluntarily get in touch with authorities, Chief Minister K Palaniswami appealed here on Wednesday.

The whereabouts of a section of people from Tamil Nadu who took part in the recent conference held by the Tablighi Jamaat at Delhi is not known yet and in view of several attendees testing positive they should voluntarily get in touch with authorities, Chief Minister K Palaniswami appealed here on Wednesday. Several people who took part in the meet from Tamil Nadu at the national capital recently have tested positive, Palaniswami said adding 1,131 men have returned of the about 1,500 people who went for the event. “About 515 people have been identified…others who took part in the meet should voluntarily get in touch with the authorities…we have not got the addresses of others fully,” he said apparently indicating that their whereabouts could not be ascertained so far. Palaniswami told reporters that while a section could not be contacted yet, others have been quarantined in Delhi. Of the attendees from Tamil Nadu, 50 tested positive on Tuesday and totally there are 124 cases in the state. Considering the severity of coronavirus and its potential to adversely impact the larger society, returnees should approach the authorities so that they could be tested and treated if needed, he said. The government has already said that several district administrations could not establish contact with many returnees and senior officials have said that police department was also working to trace them. The National Health Mission Tamil Nadu separately has appealed to ‘Tablighi Jamaat brothers,’ to contact health authorities immediately at specific phone numbers 7824849263/044 46274411) as participants of the conference might be at risk of contracting coronavirus. Asked if participants at an event held by Isha Yoga last month in Tamil Nadu will be tested, he said it will be done if they had symptoms. The government ordered the closure of all places of worship irrespective of religion, he added. On the chances of lockdown getting extended beyond April 14, he said only the Central government will take a decision. To a question of perceived slackness by people in sticking to lockdown, he said: “every life is important, everybody should play a role and come together and only then the spread of coronavirus could be stopped.” Without understanding the ramifications of the infection some people were going about in public places and this must be avoided, he appealed. In separate audio, he urged the people to stay back at home and reassured that the government was taking all steps to halt the spread of the contagion. There is no bar either on agricultural activities or in taking the produce to markets, he said. Palaniswami earlier inspected the functioning of Amma Canteens along with Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar and hailed the role of the eateries in providing quality and low-cost food to people.

Over 1,500 from Tamil Nadu participated in Tablighi Jamaat event, majority of returnees untraceable

A 54-year-old coronavirus patient died at a hospital in Madurai in the early hours of Wednesday, the first death recorded in Tamil Nadu due to the contagion, state Health Minister C Vijayabaskar said.

A 54-year-old coronavirus patient died at a hospital in Madurai in the early hours of Wednesday, the first death recorded in Tamil Nadu due to the contagion, state Health Minister C Vijayabaskar said. The deceased had a medical history of prolonged illness with "uncontrolled diabetes". A #COVID19 positive patient who was admitted at Rajaji Hospital in Madurai, Tamil Nadu has passed away.He had medical history of prolonged illness with steroid-dependent COPD, uncontrolled diabetes with hypertension: Dr C Vijayabaskar, State Minister for Health and Family Welfare pic.twitter.com/K14MPLRNs1 — ANI (@ANI) March 24, 2020 × "Despite our best efforts, the COVID-19 positive patient at MDU, Rajaji Hospital, passed away... He had a medical history of prolonged illness with steroid-dependent COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), uncontrolled diabetes with hypertension," the health minister tweeted. On Tuesday, the total number of COVID-19 cases in the state rose to 18 after six more people, including three women, tested positive for coronavirus.

54-year-old man succumbs to COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu

A day after he justified Police's action against the anti-CAA protestors who had gathered without permission, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami has challenged the opposition to specify if any minorities have been affected by the Citizenship Amendment Act. The chief minister added that the opposition parties were misleading people over the CAA, disrupting a peaceful state and causing law and order problems.

The Tamil Nadu Assembly was debating the 2020-21 budget that was presented by Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam on Friday. Heated exchanges were witnessed in the assembly over the CAA, the passing of which in Rajya Sabha was enabled due to the support of AIADMK and PMK MPs.&nbsp;

The opposition parties in the state have been rallying support against the act, with the DMK-led opposition having collected over 2 crore signatures calling for the act to be repealed. The signature petitions are addressed to President Ram Nath Kovind and are meant to be sent to the national capital by DMK MPs. The anti-CAA signature drive was launched across the state on February 2 with a target to get one crore signatures.

While speaking on the budget, DMK legislator T Mano Thangaraj highlighted the need for passing an anti-CAA resolution in the House. The chief minister responded, “Who is affected by the CAA? Tell us and we will find a solution. Is there anyone from a minority community who was born in Tamil Nadu and has been living here and has been affected by the CAA? We are not enacting a drama here and misleading the people here like you (referring to DMK).”

The DMK MLA shot back saying that various other states had moved resolutions against the CAA owing to the protests, the minorities being affected by the law. Palaniswami countered by saying that the opposition was spreading falsehoods to deteriorate the law and order situation in an otherwise peaceful state. Palaniswami clarified that the state had no powers to prevent the implementation of CAA as the citizenship law is solely the Central government’s prerogative. Subsequently, the DMK MLAs walked out of the Assembly.

A day after he justified Police's action against the anti-CAA protestors who had gathered without permission, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami has challenged the opposition to specify if any minorities have been affected by the Citizenship Amendment Act.

A day after he justified Police's action against the anti-CAA protestors who had gathered without permission, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami has challenged the opposition to specify if any minorities have been affected by the Citizenship Amendment Act. The chief minister added that the opposition parties were misleading people over the CAA, disrupting a peaceful state and causing law and order problems. The Tamil Nadu Assembly was debating the 2020-21 budget that was presented by Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam on Friday. Heated exchanges were witnessed in the assembly over the CAA, the passing of which in Rajya Sabha was enabled due to the support of AIADMK and PMK MPs. The opposition parties in the state have been rallying support against the act, with the DMK-led opposition having collected over 2 crore signatures calling for the act to be repealed. The signature petitions are addressed to President Ram Nath Kovind and are meant to be sent to the national capital by DMK MPs. The anti-CAA signature drive was launched across the state on February 2 with a target to get one crore signatures. While speaking on the budget, DMK legislator T Mano Thangaraj highlighted the need for passing an anti-CAA resolution in the House. The chief minister responded, “Who is affected by the CAA? Tell us and we will find a solution. Is there anyone from a minority community who was born in Tamil Nadu and has been living here and has been affected by the CAA? We are not enacting a drama here and misleading the people here like you (referring to DMK).” The DMK MLA shot back saying that various other states had moved resolutions against the CAA owing to the protests, the minorities being affected by the law. Palaniswami countered by saying that the opposition was spreading falsehoods to deteriorate the law and order situation in an otherwise peaceful state. Palaniswami clarified that the state had no powers to prevent the implementation of CAA as the citizenship law is solely the Central government’s prerogative. Subsequently, the DMK MLAs walked out of the Assembly.

Opposition misleading public to disrupt law and order over CAA: Tamil Nadu CM Palaniswami

Speaking at the Tamil Nadu Assembly, Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami defended the police action against the anti-CAA protestors who are gathered at the Washermanpet locality in the northern part of Chennai. The protesters are at the locality since Friday to replicate Delhi’s Shaheen Bagh protests. The chief minister said that some miscreants had instigated the untoward incidents.&nbsp;

Palaniswami stated that “the protestors did not have the required permission. When they were asked to get arrested, some people started pelting stones, slippers and bottles and that is when the police had to resort to using of force. This is an instigated protest.”

He urged the Muslim community to reject the false propaganda, designs of the miscreants and cooperate with the government to maintain social harmony. “The government of Amma (Jayalalithaa) will not allow anything against the minorities and it will protect the minorities,” Palaniswami said.&nbsp;

He also said that the permission for the protest was sought on behalf of 13 mosques only on February 13 and all of a sudden, over 300 Muslims - including 200 women - assembled near the Washermanpet roundabout and raised slogans against the CAA.&nbsp;

“The police held talks with them and cautioned against the protests since it had disrupted the traffic flow. But they rejected the advice, raised slogans and obstructed the police from detaining 40 persons. When the police kept the arrested persons in a bus, they smashed the windows of the vehicle,” he said.&nbsp;

He added that barricades were placed to prevent protesters from causing damage to public property, but the protesters instigated the locals to push the barricades and the police. He added that 82 protesters were arrested and they broke the windows of the bus.&nbsp;

CM Palaniswami said the death of an elderly man Fazurulla due to natural causes was distorted and presented as death caused by police action which led to protests in Chennai and other areas.&nbsp;

In response to the CM's reply, MK Stalin-led DMK staged a walkout from the state Assembly as they were not pleased with Palaniswami's defence of the police action. Stalin said, "The government's version is totally false. The police are the ones who attacked the peaceful protesters."&nbsp;

Earlier, Stalin had urged for a probe into the issue. The DMK president had termed the action that was taken against the protesters by the Tamil Nadu government as ‘incorrect’ and called on the police to release the protestors.&nbsp;

Stalin had condemned the AIADMK government's police crackdown on the night of February 14. He claimed that it was a deliberate attack on the people who demonstrated peacefully against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). He urged the authorities to release the detainees and ensure that the cases against them are withdrawn.

Speaking at the Tamil Nadu Assembly, Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami defended the police action against the anti-CAA protestors who are gathered at the Washermanpet locality in the northern part of Chennai.

Speaking at the Tamil Nadu Assembly, Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami defended the police action against the anti-CAA protestors who are gathered at the Washermanpet locality in the northern part of Chennai. The protesters are at the locality since Friday to replicate Delhi’s Shaheen Bagh protests. The chief minister said that some miscreants had instigated the untoward incidents. Palaniswami stated that “the protestors did not have the required permission. When they were asked to get arrested, some people started pelting stones, slippers and bottles and that is when the police had to resort to using of force. This is an instigated protest.” He urged the Muslim community to reject the false propaganda, designs of the miscreants and cooperate with the government to maintain social harmony. “The government of Amma (Jayalalithaa) will not allow anything against the minorities and it will protect the minorities,” Palaniswami said. He also said that the permission for the protest was sought on behalf of 13 mosques only on February 13 and all of a sudden, over 300 Muslims - including 200 women - assembled near the Washermanpet roundabout and raised slogans against the CAA. “The police held talks with them and cautioned against the protests since it had disrupted the traffic flow. But they rejected the advice, raised slogans and obstructed the police from detaining 40 persons. When the police kept the arrested persons in a bus, they smashed the windows of the vehicle,” he said. He added that barricades were placed to prevent protesters from causing damage to public property, but the protesters instigated the locals to push the barricades and the police. He added that 82 protesters were arrested and they broke the windows of the bus. CM Palaniswami said the death of an elderly man Fazurulla due to natural causes was distorted and presented as death caused by police action which led to protests in Chennai and other areas. In response to the CM's reply, MK Stalin-led DMK staged a walkout from the state Assembly as they were not pleased with Palaniswami's defence of the police action. Stalin said, "The government's version is totally false. The police are the ones who attacked the peaceful protesters." Earlier, Stalin had urged for a probe into the issue. The DMK president had termed the action that was taken against the protesters by the Tamil Nadu government as ‘incorrect’ and called on the police to release the protestors. Stalin had condemned the AIADMK government's police crackdown on the night of February 14. He claimed that it was a deliberate attack on the people who demonstrated peacefully against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). He urged the authorities to release the detainees and ensure that the cases against them are withdrawn.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister defends action against anti-CAA protests, says 'they didn’t have permission'

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami’s announcement to categorize eight Cauvery delta districts as a ‘Special Protected Agricultural Zone’ has drawn flak from the principal opposition party DMK.&nbsp;

The move comes to ensure the state’s food security and has been welcomed by leaders from across party lines.&nbsp;

The chief minister’s announcement gains significance as there has been continued opposition to projects like those involving hydrocarbon extraction, including Neduvasal in Pudukottai district. The government had also come under attack from the opposition parties and fringe outfits for allegedly attempting to bring in projects that would cause irreparable damage to the agricultural land.

The chief minister’s announcement was welcomed by their ally PMK’s leader Ramadoss, who welcomed the move and called it a “victory”, as it would prevent the desertification of the Cauvery districts. Tamil Nadu Congress chief KS Alagiri also had expressed that the move would benefit the farmers.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-governor-has-complete-liberty-to-decide-on-rajiv-gandhi-assassination-convicts-mercy-plea-says-government-of-india-279245">TN Guv has complete liberty to decide on Rajiv Gandhi assassination convict’s mercy plea</a>

DMK MLA and principal secretary KN Nehru stated that the announcement regarding the protected agricultural zone was only meant to divert people’s attention from the betrayal of farmers in the delta region.&nbsp;

He issued a statement challenging the chief minister to adopt a resolution in the Assembly, which would ensure that hydrocarbon exploration projects will be prohibited in the delta region, and cancel the exploration projects awarded to the Vedanta group and ONGC.&nbsp;

“The chief minister should also withdraw the letter written by Environment Minister KC Karuppannan, in which he had stated that public hearings and environmental clearances were not necessary for such projects. After that, he can make the announcement designating the delta region as a protected agricultural zone in the Assembly,” the DMK leader said.&nbsp;

The DMK leader’s statement called the Chief Minister’s announcement a ‘farcical drama’, stating that the AIADMK government had approached the Supreme Court against the Madras High Court’s direction on a farm loan waiver.&nbsp;

“If the CM thinks people would forget about the suicide of 13 farmers and the police action against farmers, he is day-dreaming”. The statement also condemned the CM’s statement that it was the erstwhile DMK government that had granted permission for hydrocarbon exploration projects.&nbsp;

During an official function on Sunday at Thalaivasal, in his native district Salem, the Chief Minister assured that the state government would never grant the go-ahead for projects such as hydrocarbon exploration in the delta region.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-minister-clarifies-after-video-of-him-making-tribal-children-remove-his-footwear-goes-viral-279123">Tamil Nadu minister clarifies after video of him making tribal children remove his footwear goes viral</a>

Farmers in the Cauvery delta region have been opposing the proposed hydrocarbon project of the Central government, which was meant to be executed by Vedanta Limited and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) Limited.

In his speech, Palaniswami said that his government was taking the decision to declare the delta region as a protected agricultural zone in recognition of the farmers' concerns and toils. “I may be the chief minister, but I am a farmer too and would never permit any project that would affect farmers livelihood. This decision is to end the hardships faced by farmers”.&nbsp;

He announced that the Cauvery delta regions in Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Pudukottai, Cuddalore, Ariyalur, Karur and 
Trichy districts would be categorized under a 'protected special agriculture zone'. The chief minister also added that the government would enact special legislation after seeking opinions from legal experts.

Palaniswami also accused senior DMK leader TR Baalu, for having been chosen to implement the project in Tamil Nadu in 2010. The DMK government in January 2011 signed an MoU with a private firm to drill borewells and conduct explorations for four years in the region, he stated.

The MoU was signed when DMK president MK Stalin was the deputy chief minister of Tamil Nadu. But now, the DMK was conducting protests in the region and spreading lies among the public, he said. 
&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami’s announcement to categorize eight Cauvery delta districts as a ‘Special Protected Agricultural Zone’ has drawn flak from the principal opposition party DMK.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami’s announcement to categorize eight Cauvery delta districts as a ‘Special Protected Agricultural Zone’ has drawn flak from the principal opposition party DMK. The move comes to ensure the state’s food security and has been welcomed by leaders from across party lines. The chief minister’s announcement gains significance as there has been continued opposition to projects like those involving hydrocarbon extraction, including Neduvasal in Pudukottai district. The government had also come under attack from the opposition parties and fringe outfits for allegedly attempting to bring in projects that would cause irreparable damage to the agricultural land. The chief minister’s announcement was welcomed by their ally PMK’s leader Ramadoss, who welcomed the move and called it a “victory”, as it would prevent the desertification of the Cauvery districts. Tamil Nadu Congress chief KS Alagiri also had expressed that the move would benefit the farmers. Also read: TN Guv has complete liberty to decide on Rajiv Gandhi assassination convict’s mercy plea DMK MLA and principal secretary KN Nehru stated that the announcement regarding the protected agricultural zone was only meant to divert people’s attention from the betrayal of farmers in the delta region. He issued a statement challenging the chief minister to adopt a resolution in the Assembly, which would ensure that hydrocarbon exploration projects will be prohibited in the delta region, and cancel the exploration projects awarded to the Vedanta group and ONGC. “The chief minister should also withdraw the letter written by Environment Minister KC Karuppannan, in which he had stated that public hearings and environmental clearances were not necessary for such projects. After that, he can make the announcement designating the delta region as a protected agricultural zone in the Assembly,” the DMK leader said. The DMK leader’s statement called the Chief Minister’s announcement a ‘farcical drama’, stating that the AIADMK government had approached the Supreme Court against the Madras High Court’s direction on a farm loan waiver. “If the CM thinks people would forget about the suicide of 13 farmers and the police action against farmers, he is day-dreaming”. The statement also condemned the CM’s statement that it was the erstwhile DMK government that had granted permission for hydrocarbon exploration projects. During an official function on Sunday at Thalaivasal, in his native district Salem, the Chief Minister assured that the state government would never grant the go-ahead for projects such as hydrocarbon exploration in the delta region. Also read: Tamil Nadu minister clarifies after video of him making tribal children remove his footwear goes viral Farmers in the Cauvery delta region have been opposing the proposed hydrocarbon project of the Central government, which was meant to be executed by Vedanta Limited and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) Limited. In his speech, Palaniswami said that his government was taking the decision to declare the delta region as a protected agricultural zone in recognition of the farmers' concerns and toils. “I may be the chief minister, but I am a farmer too and would never permit any project that would affect farmers livelihood. This decision is to end the hardships faced by farmers”. He announced that the Cauvery delta regions in Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Pudukottai, Cuddalore, Ariyalur, Karur and Trichy districts would be categorized under a 'protected special agriculture zone'. The chief minister also added that the government would enact special legislation after seeking opinions from legal experts. Palaniswami also accused senior DMK leader TR Baalu, for having been chosen to implement the project in Tamil Nadu in 2010. The DMK government in January 2011 signed an MoU with a private firm to drill borewells and conduct explorations for four years in the region, he stated. The MoU was signed when DMK president MK Stalin was the deputy chief minister of Tamil Nadu. But now, the DMK was conducting protests in the region and spreading lies among the public, he said.

Tamil Nadu: CM Palaniswami declares Cauvery delta 'protected agriculture zone', DMK calls it ‘farcical drama’

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