A video displaying inhumane nature and brutality has emerged from the buffer zone of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu. Few persons at a private homestay cum farm, in Mavanallah, are seen hurling a large burning piece of cloth on a tusker (already hurt) that had wandered inside the property. The video is said to be of an incident that had taken place a few weeks back.&nbsp;

In the first part of the video, an individual holding a burning log is seen chasing the elephant. As the horror unfolds, at least three persons are heard speaking in the background. “That’s it, burn and die” an individual is heard saying towards the end of the video, as the elephant trumpets in fear and runs away.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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Absolutely horrific. The people running a private resort throw a lit-tyre on a 50-year-old <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/elephant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#elephant</a> in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nilgiris?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nilgiris</a>, that died as a result of the injuries it suffered. <a href="https://twitter.com/SanctuaryAsia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SanctuaryAsia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/nehaa_sinha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nehaa_sinha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/elephantfamily?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elephantfamily</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Mugilan__C?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Mugilan__C</a> <a href="https://t.co/YE8UI8dBIi">pic.twitter.com/YE8UI8dBIi</a>
— Rohan Premkumar (@ThinBrownDuke26) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThinBrownDuke26/status/1352565590712487943?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Forest officials have confirmed that this was the same tusker that died earlier this week&nbsp;on January 19. “The death is caused by an earlier injury and a festering wound, which was a few months old. We had been providing treatment for the wild tusker, but this setting ablaze incident happened after that” KK Kaushal, Field Director, Mudumalai Tiger reserve told Zee Media.&nbsp;

Srikanth, Deputy Director of Mudumalai Tiger reserve has said, based on investigation they have arrested Prasath and Raymond Dean, whereas a search is on for Ricky Rayan, who is currently not in station.&nbsp;

Forest department officials say that the wild elephant nicknamed “Ronaldo” or “SI”was always spotted in and around Masinagudi-bokkapuram area. It was about two months back that the officials got to know of an injury on the elephant’s back and started observing the elephant’s movements, following which they deputed a team to feed, care for it.&nbsp;

“Our watchers noticed a deep hole(injury) in its back and thereafter we started feeding it fruits embedded with medicines. Once we tranquilized the elephant and treated it with antibiotics. There was some progress in the elephant’s condition gradually, but it always kept coming close to habitations and blocking the highways, without causing any harm” Srikanth, had earlier told Zee Media.&nbsp;

He added the their team had found the elephant to be very weak, a couple of days ago, after which they decided to tranquilize it and move it to the elephant camp for further treatment. It was when the elephant was being loaded onto a truck and taken to the camp that it collapsed and died, on Tuesday.&nbsp;

“Post mortem report has revealed that the deep injury in the back had led to puss formation in the lungs. The wound could have been from sharp bamboo edges and the injury was in an area that cannot be reached by the trunk” Srikanth said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

A video displaying inhumane nature and brutality has emerged from the buffer zone of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu. Few persons at a private homestay cum farm, in Mavanallah, are seen hurling a large burning piece of cloth on a tusker (already hurt) that had wandered inside the property.

A video displaying inhumane nature and brutality has emerged from the buffer zone of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu. Few persons at a private homestay cum farm, in Mavanallah, are seen hurling a large burning piece of cloth on a tusker (already hurt) that had wandered inside the property. The video is said to be of an incident that had taken place a few weeks back. In the first part of the video, an individual holding a burning log is seen chasing the elephant. As the horror unfolds, at least three persons are heard speaking in the background. “That’s it, burn and die” an individual is heard saying towards the end of the video, as the elephant trumpets in fear and runs away. Watch | Absolutely horrific. The people running a private resort throw a lit-tyre on a 50-year-old #elephant in the #Nilgiris, that died as a result of the injuries it suffered. @SanctuaryAsia @nehaa_sinha @elephantfamily @Mugilan__C pic.twitter.com/YE8UI8dBIi — Rohan Premkumar (@ThinBrownDuke26) January 22, 2021 × Forest officials have confirmed that this was the same tusker that died earlier this week on January 19. “The death is caused by an earlier injury and a festering wound, which was a few months old. We had been providing treatment for the wild tusker, but this setting ablaze incident happened after that” KK Kaushal, Field Director, Mudumalai Tiger reserve told Zee Media. Srikanth, Deputy Director of Mudumalai Tiger reserve has said, based on investigation they have arrested Prasath and Raymond Dean, whereas a search is on for Ricky Rayan, who is currently not in station. Forest department officials say that the wild elephant nicknamed “Ronaldo” or “SI”was always spotted in and around Masinagudi-bokkapuram area. It was about two months back that the officials got to know of an injury on the elephant’s back and started observing the elephant’s movements, following which they deputed a team to feed, care for it. “Our watchers noticed a deep hole(injury) in its back and thereafter we started feeding it fruits embedded with medicines. Once we tranquilized the elephant and treated it with antibiotics. There was some progress in the elephant’s condition gradually, but it always kept coming close to habitations and blocking the highways, without causing any harm” Srikanth, had earlier told Zee Media. He added the their team had found the elephant to be very weak, a couple of days ago, after which they decided to tranquilize it and move it to the elephant camp for further treatment. It was when the elephant was being loaded onto a truck and taken to the camp that it collapsed and died, on Tuesday. “Post mortem report has revealed that the deep injury in the back had led to puss formation in the lungs. The wound could have been from sharp bamboo edges and the injury was in an area that cannot be reached by the trunk” Srikanth said.

Wounded tusker set ablaze in Tamil Nadu, dies later; video emerges

After being slammed by many for increasing seating capacity of theatres and cinema halls from 50% to 100%, Tamil Nadu government has got a notice from The Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday. The Centre has asked Tamil Nadu government to "immediately issue necessary order" to bring their guidelines in line with the MHA guidelines issued for Covid-19 containment.

In a statement, MHA said, "Government of Tamil Nadu order of permitting increase the seating capacity of Cinema/theaters/ multiplexes from existing 50% to 100% is a dilution of MHA order. States and UT shall not dilute guidelines issued under DM act in any manner.”

"Govt of Tamil Nadu is requested to immediately issue necessary order to bring their Guidelines in line with the MHA guidelines dated 28 December 2020 and inform compliance to this Ministry," the ministry further said.

Home secretary wrote to Tamil Nadu Chief secretary to issue orders aligned to MHA guidelines, allowing multiplexes to operate outside containment zones with up to 50% occupancy.

On Monday, Tamil Nadu government had permitted to increase the seating capacity of cinemas, theatres and said,“The seating capacity of Cinemas/theatres/Multiplexes shall be permitted to increase from existing 0% to 100% by following the Standard Operating Procedure issued already. Further, in order to create awareness among the spectators, the precautionary measures for Covid 19 shall also be screened during the showtime.”

The changes were made after actors and theatre owners requested Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami to allow theatres to function at their full capacity.&nbsp;

After being slammed by many for increasing seating capacity of theatres and cinema halls from 50% to 100%, Tamil Nadu government has got a notice from The Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday.

After being slammed by many for increasing seating capacity of theatres and cinema halls from 50% to 100%, Tamil Nadu government has got a notice from The Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday. The Centre has asked Tamil Nadu government to "immediately issue necessary order" to bring their guidelines in line with the MHA guidelines issued for Covid-19 containment. In a statement, MHA said, "Government of Tamil Nadu order of permitting increase the seating capacity of Cinema/theaters/ multiplexes from existing 50% to 100% is a dilution of MHA order. States and UT shall not dilute guidelines issued under DM act in any manner.” "Govt of Tamil Nadu is requested to immediately issue necessary order to bring their Guidelines in line with the MHA guidelines dated 28 December 2020 and inform compliance to this Ministry," the ministry further said. Home secretary wrote to Tamil Nadu Chief secretary to issue orders aligned to MHA guidelines, allowing multiplexes to operate outside containment zones with up to 50% occupancy. On Monday, Tamil Nadu government had permitted to increase the seating capacity of cinemas, theatres and said,“The seating capacity of Cinemas/theatres/Multiplexes shall be permitted to increase from existing 0% to 100% by following the Standard Operating Procedure issued already. Further, in order to create awareness among the spectators, the precautionary measures for Covid 19 shall also be screened during the showtime.” The changes were made after actors and theatre owners requested Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami to allow theatres to function at their full capacity.

Home Ministry asks Tamil Nadu government to 'immediately' take back 100% theatre occupancy order

Tamil Nadu has made significant progress in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic as the state surpassed 8 lakh (8,00,429) recoveries on Sunday. The active cases in the state stand at 8,127( 1% of total reported cases), which is among the lowest when compared with the worst hit states in India.&nbsp;

However, a recent cluster that has emerged in some of the upscale hotels in Chennai city has been a cause for concern, at a time when the state has opened up almost entirely. 4392 staff of star hotels and other hotels were tested and 125 of those samples returned positive, 2014 returned negative, while 491 results are awaited.&nbsp;

Of the 2226 employees of star hotels in the city, 1303 employees were tested and 114 have returned positive. In the case of other category hotels there are 4190 staff, of which 11 tested positive, from the 1417 tests conducted.&nbsp;

According to Tamil Nadu Health Secretary Dr. J. Radhakrishnan, such routine testing would be carried out over the next three weeks, as a measure of abundant precaution. Testing of staff would be carried out at hotels that have banquet halls, marriage halls, hostels, colleges, hostels for working men and women etc.

Recently, another cluster had emerged in the IIT-Madras campus, largely owing to a common dining area that catered to over 700 persons. Following inspections on campus, it was decided to provide food in the student's rooms.

On Sunday, the state health bulletin reported 867 new cases, of which, 236 were from Chennai. Ten deaths were added, thus taking the death toll to 12,156.&nbsp;

Of the nearly 2300 persons who travelled into the state from the UK, between November 25th and December 23rd, 21,146 persons have been traced. 44 of them have tested positive as on Sunday and the results of seven persons are awaited.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu has made significant progress in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic as the state surpassed 8 lakh (8,00,429) recoveries on Sunday. The active cases in the state stand at 8,127( 1% of total reported cases), which is among the lowest when compared with the worst hit states in India.

Tamil Nadu has made significant progress in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic as the state surpassed 8 lakh (8,00,429) recoveries on Sunday. The active cases in the state stand at 8,127( 1% of total reported cases), which is among the lowest when compared with the worst hit states in India. However, a recent cluster that has emerged in some of the upscale hotels in Chennai city has been a cause for concern, at a time when the state has opened up almost entirely. 4392 staff of star hotels and other hotels were tested and 125 of those samples returned positive, 2014 returned negative, while 491 results are awaited. Of the 2226 employees of star hotels in the city, 1303 employees were tested and 114 have returned positive. In the case of other category hotels there are 4190 staff, of which 11 tested positive, from the 1417 tests conducted. According to Tamil Nadu Health Secretary Dr. J. Radhakrishnan, such routine testing would be carried out over the next three weeks, as a measure of abundant precaution. Testing of staff would be carried out at hotels that have banquet halls, marriage halls, hostels, colleges, hostels for working men and women etc. Recently, another cluster had emerged in the IIT-Madras campus, largely owing to a common dining area that catered to over 700 persons. Following inspections on campus, it was decided to provide food in the student's rooms. On Sunday, the state health bulletin reported 867 new cases, of which, 236 were from Chennai. Ten deaths were added, thus taking the death toll to 12,156. Of the nearly 2300 persons who travelled into the state from the UK, between November 25th and December 23rd, 21,146 persons have been traced. 44 of them have tested positive as on Sunday and the results of seven persons are awaited.

Tamil Nadu gets past 8 lakh COVID-19 recoveries; new cluster emerges in Chennai hotels

Income Tax searches at the premises of a civil contractor for government works has led to the seizure of Rs.21 cr (about USD 3 million) unaccounted cash and detection fo Rs.700 cr (over USD 951 million) unaccounted income.&nbsp;

According to the department, the searches were carried out on December 14 and at 15 in Chennai and Erode premises. The searched group specialises in erecting seawall breaks along the coast and diversified into bus transport, running marriage halls and cooking masala business.&nbsp;

“It was found that the group indulges in inflation of purchases and other work contract expenses. Such inflated payments made to the suppliers and subcontractors are received back in cash regularly” read the statement from the Central Board of Direct taxes.&nbsp;

It also added that the Rs.700 crore unaccounted income is ploughed back into real estate investments and business expansion and that the assessee admitted to having an undisclosed income of Rs.150 cr (over 20 million) so far.&nbsp;

Income Tax searches at the premises of a civil contractor for government works has led to the seizure of Rs.21 cr (about USD 3 million) unaccounted cash and detection fo Rs.

Income Tax searches at the premises of a civil contractor for government works has led to the seizure of Rs.21 cr (about USD 3 million) unaccounted cash and detection fo Rs.700 cr (over USD 951 million) unaccounted income. According to the department, the searches were carried out on December 14 and at 15 in Chennai and Erode premises. The searched group specialises in erecting seawall breaks along the coast and diversified into bus transport, running marriage halls and cooking masala business. “It was found that the group indulges in inflation of purchases and other work contract expenses. Such inflated payments made to the suppliers and subcontractors are received back in cash regularly” read the statement from the Central Board of Direct taxes. It also added that the Rs.700 crore unaccounted income is ploughed back into real estate investments and business expansion and that the assessee admitted to having an undisclosed income of Rs.150 cr (over 20 million) so far.

Tamil Nadu: Over USD 950 million unaccounted income detected at govt contractor's premises

Cyclone Burevi that brought heavy rain to parts of southern India and neighbouring Sri Lanka has weakened into a "practically stationary" deep depression, India's weather office said on Friday.

Tamil Nadu had earlier declared a government holiday in some areas and urged people to stay at home ahead of the cyclone.

"(A) deep depression over Gulf of Mannar...is close to Ramanathapuram district coast, remained practically stationary," the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said in a statement, referring to the state's southeast.

The last week killed 23, uprooting trees and cutting power and communication links.

In addition, the Met department has withdrawn the red alert issued for Cyclone Burevi and rains in the seven southernmost districts of the state.

The IMD issued a yellow alert for 10 districts of the state.

In a bulletin released on Friday morning, the IMD said the deep depression is likely to move slowly west- southwestwards and cross Ramanathapuram and adjoining Thoothukudi districts in Tamil Nadu during the next six hours with wind speed of 50-60 gusting to 70 kmph.

"It is very likely to weaken further into a depression (wind speed 45-55 kmph gusting to 65 kmph) during next 12 hours," IMD said.

It has issued yellow alerts for the districts of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad and Malappuram.

Meanwhile, the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport has rescheduled nine flights scheduled for Friday.

The state has also opened over 2,000 relief camps to face any contingencies as heavy rains were expected when cyclone Burevi made landfall.

A deep depression over southwest Bay of Bengal had intensified into a cyclonic storm 'Burevi' and the IMD had predicted heavy rains and wind in the seven southern districts of the state from December 3 to 5.

Cyclone Burevi that brought heavy rain to parts of southern India and neighbouring Sri Lanka has weakened into a "practically stationary" deep depression, India's weather office said on Friday.

Cyclone Burevi that brought heavy rain to parts of southern India and neighbouring Sri Lanka has weakened into a "practically stationary" deep depression, India's weather office said on Friday. Tamil Nadu had earlier declared a government holiday in some areas and urged people to stay at home ahead of the cyclone. "(A) deep depression over Gulf of Mannar...is close to Ramanathapuram district coast, remained practically stationary," the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said in a statement, referring to the state's southeast. The last week killed 23, uprooting trees and cutting power and communication links. In addition, the Met department has withdrawn the red alert issued for Cyclone Burevi and rains in the seven southernmost districts of the state. The IMD issued a yellow alert for 10 districts of the state. In a bulletin released on Friday morning, the IMD said the deep depression is likely to move slowly west- southwestwards and cross Ramanathapuram and adjoining Thoothukudi districts in Tamil Nadu during the next six hours with wind speed of 50-60 gusting to 70 kmph. "It is very likely to weaken further into a depression (wind speed 45-55 kmph gusting to 65 kmph) during next 12 hours," IMD said. It has issued yellow alerts for the districts of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad and Malappuram. Meanwhile, the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport has rescheduled nine flights scheduled for Friday. The state has also opened over 2,000 relief camps to face any contingencies as heavy rains were expected when cyclone Burevi made landfall. A deep depression over southwest Bay of Bengal had intensified into a cyclonic storm 'Burevi' and the IMD had predicted heavy rains and wind in the seven southern districts of the state from December 3 to 5.

Cyclone Burevi weakens after bringing rain to southern India

Shortly after tweeting about floating his political party in January, actor Rajinikanth spoke to the media and emphasized his earlier message that political change in Tamil Nadu was imperative and that he is someone who never went back on his words.&nbsp;

Rajini recalled his 2017 event, where he made an announcement regarding starting a political party and facing the Assembly polls and contesting all 234 constituencies in Tamil Nadu. He also added that Covid-19 had spoilt his plans of meeting the public after his press meet in March this year, where he had spoken of an uprising among the masses which would propel his political movement.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/suspense-continues-will-reveal-my-decision-asap-says-rajinikanth-on-political-foray-346403">Suspense continues: 'Will reveal my decision ASAP', says Rajinikanth on political foray</a>

The actor acknowledged that he was medically at risk owing to Covid-19 as he had undergone a kidney transplant and has very low immunity.&nbsp;

“When I was hospitalized in Singapore, the prayers of Tamil people brought me back to life. Doctors advised me about Covid-19 being a huge risk, but now even if I lose my life for the benefit of the people, there won’t be anybody as happy as me”.&nbsp;

The actor also said that it was time to change the fate of Tamil Nadu and expressed hope that they would be able to change everything, with the thought that it was now or never.&nbsp;

“I am just a small instrument in the change. If I win then it is people’s victory,” he added, urging for support from people.&nbsp;

Rajini also said that he would complete the 40 per cent shooting of his current project Annaathe that remains pending.&nbsp;

Shortly after tweeting about floating his political party in January, actor Rajinikanth spoke to the media and emphasized his earlier message that political change in Tamil Nadu was imperative and that he is someone who never went back on his words.

Shortly after tweeting about floating his political party in January, actor Rajinikanth spoke to the media and emphasized his earlier message that political change in Tamil Nadu was imperative and that he is someone who never went back on his words. Rajini recalled his 2017 event, where he made an announcement regarding starting a political party and facing the Assembly polls and contesting all 234 constituencies in Tamil Nadu. He also added that Covid-19 had spoilt his plans of meeting the public after his press meet in March this year, where he had spoken of an uprising among the masses which would propel his political movement. Also read | Suspense continues: 'Will reveal my decision ASAP', says Rajinikanth on political foray The actor acknowledged that he was medically at risk owing to Covid-19 as he had undergone a kidney transplant and has very low immunity. “When I was hospitalized in Singapore, the prayers of Tamil people brought me back to life. Doctors advised me about Covid-19 being a huge risk, but now even if I lose my life for the benefit of the people, there won’t be anybody as happy as me”. The actor also said that it was time to change the fate of Tamil Nadu and expressed hope that they would be able to change everything, with the thought that it was now or never. “I am just a small instrument in the change. If I win then it is people’s victory,” he added, urging for support from people. Rajini also said that he would complete the 40 per cent shooting of his current project Annaathe that remains pending.

Time has come to change the fate of Tamil Nadu, says Rajinikanth

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday announced that a cyclone brewing in the Bay of Bengal is likely to affect Tamil Nadu and Kerala, less than a week after cyclone Nivar wreaked havoc in the southern states. 
 
The cyclone will cross the Sri Lanka coast on December 2 and bring heavy rain over Tamil Nadu and Kerala, it said in the bulletin. Fishermen out at sea are advised to return to the coast by Monday. 
 
The depression in southeast Bay of Bengal is very likely to intensify into a deep depression during next 12 hours and into a cyclonic storm during subsequent 24 hours. "It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and cross the Sri Lanka coast during evening or night of 2nd December," the IMD said. 
 
The cyclone is very like to move nearly westwards thereafter and emerge into Comorin area on December 3 morning, it added. Once it attains strength, it will be called `Burevi`. 
 
It will bring isolated extremely heavy falls over south Tamil Nadu in Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Tenkasi, Ramanathapuram and Sivaganga areas on December 2 and 3. In south Kerala, it will bring showers at Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta and Alappuzah areas on December 3. 
 
Fishermen are advised not to venture into southeast Bay of Bengal from November 30 to December 1, southwest Bay of Bengal and along and off east Sri Lanka coast from December 1 to 3. 
 
They have been asked not to venture into Comorin area, Gulf of Mannar and south Tamil Nadu-Kerala coasts from December 2 to 4 and over Lakshadweep-Maldives area and adjoining southeast Arabian Sea from December 3 to 4. The IMD advised total suspension of fishing operation during November 30 to December 4 over the areas. 
 
On November 25, severe cyclone Nivar had hit near Karaikal and brought along extremely heavy rain over Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra Pradesh.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday announced that a cyclone brewing in the Bay of Bengal is likely to affect Tamil Nadu and Kerala, less than a week after cyclone Nivar wreaked havoc in the southern states.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday announced that a cyclone brewing in the Bay of Bengal is likely to affect Tamil Nadu and Kerala, less than a week after cyclone Nivar wreaked havoc in the southern states. The cyclone will cross the Sri Lanka coast on December 2 and bring heavy rain over Tamil Nadu and Kerala, it said in the bulletin. Fishermen out at sea are advised to return to the coast by Monday. The depression in southeast Bay of Bengal is very likely to intensify into a deep depression during next 12 hours and into a cyclonic storm during subsequent 24 hours. "It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and cross the Sri Lanka coast during evening or night of 2nd December," the IMD said. The cyclone is very like to move nearly westwards thereafter and emerge into Comorin area on December 3 morning, it added. Once it attains strength, it will be called `Burevi`. It will bring isolated extremely heavy falls over south Tamil Nadu in Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Tenkasi, Ramanathapuram and Sivaganga areas on December 2 and 3. In south Kerala, it will bring showers at Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta and Alappuzah areas on December 3. Fishermen are advised not to venture into southeast Bay of Bengal from November 30 to December 1, southwest Bay of Bengal and along and off east Sri Lanka coast from December 1 to 3. They have been asked not to venture into Comorin area, Gulf of Mannar and south Tamil Nadu-Kerala coasts from December 2 to 4 and over Lakshadweep-Maldives area and adjoining southeast Arabian Sea from December 3 to 4. The IMD advised total suspension of fishing operation during November 30 to December 4 over the areas. On November 25, severe cyclone Nivar had hit near Karaikal and brought along extremely heavy rain over Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra Pradesh.

After Nivar, cyclone 'Burevi' to hit Tamil Nadu, Kerala

A more than 12-hour-long operation was able to rescue an elephant who fell into a well in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Forest officials on Friday said a crane was used to successfully pull out the elephant from the well, as reported by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zimbabwe-finds-more-elephant-carcasses-death-toll-at-22-324824#:~:text=Zimbabwe's%20wildlife%20agency%20said%20on,22%2C%20double%20the%20initial%20figure.">Zimbabwe finds more elephant carcasses, death toll at 22</a>

Rajkumar, the district forest officer said the elephant was roaming around a village bordering Dharampuri district when it fell down to the well that was covered with bushes and did not have any boundary around it.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-curbs-see-elephant-idols-shrunk-for-ganesh-chaturthi-322390">COVID-19 curbs see elephant idols shrunk for Ganesh Chaturthi</a>

"It was a deep and narrow well," said the forest officer.&nbsp;

"We were informed by locals early on Thursday and were able to retrieve the elephant only late in the night."

The officials first cleared away the bushes around the well and then pumped water out of the well. But the elephant attacked the pipes that were taking out the water.&nbsp;

"Eventually, we sedated the animal with the help of doctors and used a crane to lift it out of the well," he said.

"It was found to be healthy and active when we monitored it for three hours after the rescue."

A more than 12-hour-long operation was able to rescue an elephant who fell into a well in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Forest officials on Friday said a crane was used to successfully pull out the elephant from the well, as reported by news agency Reuters.

A more than 12-hour-long operation was able to rescue an elephant who fell into a well in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Forest officials on Friday said a crane was used to successfully pull out the elephant from the well, as reported by news agency Reuters. Also read | Zimbabwe finds more elephant carcasses, death toll at 22 Rajkumar, the district forest officer said the elephant was roaming around a village bordering Dharampuri district when it fell down to the well that was covered with bushes and did not have any boundary around it. Also read | COVID-19 curbs see elephant idols shrunk for Ganesh Chaturthi "It was a deep and narrow well," said the forest officer. "We were informed by locals early on Thursday and were able to retrieve the elephant only late in the night." The officials first cleared away the bushes around the well and then pumped water out of the well. But the elephant attacked the pipes that were taking out the water. "Eventually, we sedated the animal with the help of doctors and used a crane to lift it out of the well," he said. "It was found to be healthy and active when we monitored it for three hours after the rescue."

Tamil Nadu: Elephant falls into well, rescued after 14-hour operation

Actor-turned politician Kamal Haasan has urged adults from across social strata in Tamil Nadu to get their Voter ID cards or Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) ready. This message, in the form of a video comes days prior to the camps that the Election Commission would be organizing in Tamil Nadu, where voters can visit voting centers and apply for corrections and changes in their details.&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India on Monday released the draft electoral rolls for Tamil Nadu, which is headed for Assembly polls in 2021.&nbsp;

According to the statistics mentioned in the draft electoral rolls for Tamil Nadu, there are about 6.10crore voters in total and this comprises 3.09crore women, 3.01crore men and 6,385 transgenders. In terms of new electors or first-time voters, there are a total of 2.08lakh voters, which comprises of 1.06lakh females, 1.01lakh males and 132 transgenders.&nbsp;

Special camps will be held at the voting centres where voters can apply for corrections or changes to be made. The first camp will be held on November 21st &amp; 22nd and the next camp will be organized on December 12th and 13th.

Haasan stated that the highest honour of merit a person receives when he/she turns 18, is the right to vote and that the most powerful weapon one could possess was a Voter ID.&nbsp;

“When a society fails to discharge the mandatory duties, people of that society lose whatever is rightfully theirs. The real peril is lurking in the issues that we think are redundant or unrelated to us” he said.&nbsp;

Making a mention of those ranting online about a corrupt system and corrupt politicians, Haasan emphasized that it would be in vain in one didn’t possess a voter ID.&nbsp;

Recalling the Bihar elections where a large number of women voters and homemakers had voted in large numbers, he highlighted the scenario where a candidate had lost with a margin of 12 votes.&nbsp;

“You are not voting for someone. You are voting for yourself. You decide on who should decide for you. Your constant mantra should be &nbsp;-I will change; I will vote" he said in the video&nbsp;

Haasan has been actively prepping his party Makkal Needhi Maiam for the 2021 Assembly Polls in the state and is hopeful that his party emerges as &nbsp;the third front in the state, after the Dravidian majors.&nbsp;

Haasan is expected to announce his campaign tour of the state towards the end of November. &nbsp;Earlier, he had said that the party’s manifesto was getting ready and over one lakh members had joined the party in recent times. He said that his party’s candidates would be people from wide-ranging fields who are known for their good work.&nbsp;

Actor-turned politician Kamal Haasan has urged adults from across social strata in Tamil Nadu to get their Voter ID cards or Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) ready.

Actor-turned politician Kamal Haasan has urged adults from across social strata in Tamil Nadu to get their Voter ID cards or Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) ready. This message, in the form of a video comes days prior to the camps that the Election Commission would be organizing in Tamil Nadu, where voters can visit voting centers and apply for corrections and changes in their details. The Election Commission of India on Monday released the draft electoral rolls for Tamil Nadu, which is headed for Assembly polls in 2021. According to the statistics mentioned in the draft electoral rolls for Tamil Nadu, there are about 6.10crore voters in total and this comprises 3.09crore women, 3.01crore men and 6,385 transgenders. In terms of new electors or first-time voters, there are a total of 2.08lakh voters, which comprises of 1.06lakh females, 1.01lakh males and 132 transgenders. Special camps will be held at the voting centres where voters can apply for corrections or changes to be made. The first camp will be held on November 21st & 22nd and the next camp will be organized on December 12th and 13th. Haasan stated that the highest honour of merit a person receives when he/she turns 18, is the right to vote and that the most powerful weapon one could possess was a Voter ID. “When a society fails to discharge the mandatory duties, people of that society lose whatever is rightfully theirs. The real peril is lurking in the issues that we think are redundant or unrelated to us” he said. Making a mention of those ranting online about a corrupt system and corrupt politicians, Haasan emphasized that it would be in vain in one didn’t possess a voter ID. Recalling the Bihar elections where a large number of women voters and homemakers had voted in large numbers, he highlighted the scenario where a candidate had lost with a margin of 12 votes. “You are not voting for someone. You are voting for yourself. You decide on who should decide for you. Your constant mantra should be -I will change; I will vote" he said in the video Haasan has been actively prepping his party Makkal Needhi Maiam for the 2021 Assembly Polls in the state and is hopeful that his party emerges as the third front in the state, after the Dravidian majors. Haasan is expected to announce his campaign tour of the state towards the end of November. Earlier, he had said that the party’s manifesto was getting ready and over one lakh members had joined the party in recent times. He said that his party’s candidates would be people from wide-ranging fields who are known for their good work.

Ahead of TN Polls, Kamal Haasan urges fans to get Voters IDs checked and ready

Tamil Nadu Agriculture Minister R Doraikannu, who was battling Covid-19, has died, the hospital treating him said on Sunday.

The 72 year-old minister breathed his last late on Saturday night, Kauvery Hospital Executive Director Dr Aravdindan Selvaraj said in a medical bulletin.

"With deep grief, we announce the sad demise of Honourable Minister for Agriculture R Doraikannu," on Saturday at 11.15 pm, he said.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the grieving family during this difficult period," he added.

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit condoled the death of Daoraikannu and said he was saddened to know about the demise of the Minister.

Doraikkannu "was known for his simplicity, humbleness, straightforwardness, governance skills and commitment towards the welfare of farming community..."

"He handled Ministry of Agriculture with full dedication and engraved his strong mark. His untimely demise is an irreparable loss to the people of Tamil Nadu and particularly to the AIADMK party," he said in his condolence message.

Purohit conveyed his deep condolences to the bereaved members of the family and said he prayed to the Almighty God to rest his soul in peace.

Doraikkannu was elected to the Tamil Nadu Assembly from Papanasam in Thanjavur district in 2006, 2011 and 2016, with the late chief minister J Jayalalithaa inducting him in the cabinet in 2016.

The 72-year-old Minister's health had on Sunday suffered a significant deterioration in vital functions.

The hospital had said on Monday that the Minister was being treated for severe COVID pneumonia and its complications.

A CT scan had showed 90 per cent lung involvement vis- a-vis the infection and he was put on ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) and ventilator.

On October 13, the minister experienced unease when he was on his way to attend the funeral of Davusayammal, Chief Minister K Palaniswami's mother, who had died at the age of 93 at Salem.

Doraikkannu, who was travelling in his car, was rushed to the government medical college hospital in Villupuram and from there was shifted to Kauvery hospital the same day.

Tamil Nadu Agriculture Minister R Doraikannu, who was battling Covid-19, has died, the hospital treating him said on Sunday. The 72 year-old minister breathed his last late on Saturday night, Kauvery Hospital Executive Director Dr Aravdindan Selvaraj said in a medical bulletin.

Tamil Nadu Agriculture Minister R Doraikannu, who was battling Covid-19, has died, the hospital treating him said on Sunday. The 72 year-old minister breathed his last late on Saturday night, Kauvery Hospital Executive Director Dr Aravdindan Selvaraj said in a medical bulletin. "With deep grief, we announce the sad demise of Honourable Minister for Agriculture R Doraikannu," on Saturday at 11.15 pm, he said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the grieving family during this difficult period," he added. Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit condoled the death of Daoraikannu and said he was saddened to know about the demise of the Minister. Doraikkannu "was known for his simplicity, humbleness, straightforwardness, governance skills and commitment towards the welfare of farming community..." "He handled Ministry of Agriculture with full dedication and engraved his strong mark. His untimely demise is an irreparable loss to the people of Tamil Nadu and particularly to the AIADMK party," he said in his condolence message. Purohit conveyed his deep condolences to the bereaved members of the family and said he prayed to the Almighty God to rest his soul in peace. Doraikkannu was elected to the Tamil Nadu Assembly from Papanasam in Thanjavur district in 2006, 2011 and 2016, with the late chief minister J Jayalalithaa inducting him in the cabinet in 2016. The 72-year-old Minister's health had on Sunday suffered a significant deterioration in vital functions. The hospital had said on Monday that the Minister was being treated for severe COVID pneumonia and its complications. A CT scan had showed 90 per cent lung involvement vis- a-vis the infection and he was put on ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) and ventilator. On October 13, the minister experienced unease when he was on his way to attend the funeral of Davusayammal, Chief Minister K Palaniswami's mother, who had died at the age of 93 at Salem. Doraikkannu, who was travelling in his car, was rushed to the government medical college hospital in Villupuram and from there was shifted to Kauvery hospital the same day.

Tamil Nadu Agriculture Minister R Doraikannu dies due to COVID-19

At a time when Chennai’s daily Covid-19 cases are dipping below the 1,000-mark consistently, the findings of a second serosurvey has revealed that 32.3 per cent of the city’s population has developed IgG anti-bodies to Covid-19. As per the Chennai Corporation, 6,389 samples were collected on a random basis from streets and households across the city, of which 2,062 tested positive for IgG antibodies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-india-sees-over-55000-cases-total-infections-surpass-77-million-337045">Coronavirus: India sees over 55,000 cases; total infections surpass 7.7 million</a>

Population-based serosurveys are performed to measure the spread of infection in the community. Such surveys are done by performing blood tests on individuals to check if they have developed antibodies to the infection. The second serosurvey was started on October 8 and the detailed results with ward-wise figures and findings are awaited. An official told WION that the results would be available in a couple of days and that the methodology of the survey was similar to the earlier one.

An earlier serosurvey conducted by the government authorities in between mid-July and early-August has indicated that one-fifth of Chennai’s population has been exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 infection. SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes the disease - Covid-19. The study which was conducted by the National Institute of Epidemiology of the Indian Council of Medical Research and the Greater Chennai Corporation was based on the analysis of blood samples from 12,405 individuals from all zones of the city. &nbsp;

The methodology adopted for the first survey involved collecting blood samples at random from individuals aged above 10, from the streets in the highly populated areas of the city. The field data collection is said to have happened between 18th and 28th July, whereas the testing the collected samples was completed by August 6th.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Tamil Nadu had recorded 3,086 new cases and 39 deaths, with the total case count at 697,116. As many as 4,301 persons were discharged, thus taking the total number of recoveries to 650,856, a recovery rate of 93%.

As cases are decreasing steadily and the festive season is fast approaching, the Tamil Nadu government announced new relaxations to aid economic activity. The chief minister said that all shops, hotels, tea stalls, restaurants, commercial complexes located in non-containment zones can remain open till 10 pm onwards, effective from Thursday. However, he also emphasized the Covid-19 protocols be followed in a strict manner.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

At a time when Chennai’s daily Covid-19 cases are dipping below the 1,000-mark consistently, the findings of a second serosurvey has revealed that 32.3 per cent of the city’s population has developed IgG anti-bodies to Covid-19.

At a time when Chennai’s daily Covid-19 cases are dipping below the 1,000-mark consistently, the findings of a second serosurvey has revealed that 32.3 per cent of the city’s population has developed IgG anti-bodies to Covid-19. As per the Chennai Corporation, 6,389 samples were collected on a random basis from streets and households across the city, of which 2,062 tested positive for IgG antibodies. Also read | Coronavirus: India sees over 55,000 cases; total infections surpass 7.7 million Population-based serosurveys are performed to measure the spread of infection in the community. Such surveys are done by performing blood tests on individuals to check if they have developed antibodies to the infection. The second serosurvey was started on October 8 and the detailed results with ward-wise figures and findings are awaited. An official told WION that the results would be available in a couple of days and that the methodology of the survey was similar to the earlier one. An earlier serosurvey conducted by the government authorities in between mid-July and early-August has indicated that one-fifth of Chennai’s population has been exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 infection. SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes the disease - Covid-19. The study which was conducted by the National Institute of Epidemiology of the Indian Council of Medical Research and the Greater Chennai Corporation was based on the analysis of blood samples from 12,405 individuals from all zones of the city. The methodology adopted for the first survey involved collecting blood samples at random from individuals aged above 10, from the streets in the highly populated areas of the city. The field data collection is said to have happened between 18th and 28th July, whereas the testing the collected samples was completed by August 6th. On Wednesday, Tamil Nadu had recorded 3,086 new cases and 39 deaths, with the total case count at 697,116. As many as 4,301 persons were discharged, thus taking the total number of recoveries to 650,856, a recovery rate of 93%. As cases are decreasing steadily and the festive season is fast approaching, the Tamil Nadu government announced new relaxations to aid economic activity. The chief minister said that all shops, hotels, tea stalls, restaurants, commercial complexes located in non-containment zones can remain open till 10 pm onwards, effective from Thursday. However, he also emphasized the Covid-19 protocols be followed in a strict manner.

One-third of Chennai's population has Covid-19 antibodies: Serosurvey

After a five-month plus hiatus, the Chennai Metro Rail services and long distance buses linking various districts in Tamil Nadu recommenced operations on Monday.

Similarly, trains within the state also resumed services after a break of about two months.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-1802-new-coronavirus-cases-telangana-infections-surpass-140000-mark-325658">With 1,802 new coronavirus cases, Telangana infections surpass 140,000-mark</a>

Notably, passenger trains and long distance buses to Chennai city from other parts of Tamil Nadu and services from the state capital began on Monday after they were ceased in March owing to COVID-19.

When the first Metro train departed from the Airport to Washermenpet, at 7 am, Industries Minister M C Sampath was among those who boarded the train and he travelled up to Nandanam station.

Train stoppage time at stations has been increased from 20 seconds to 50 seconds to facilitate passengers to de-board and board by maintaining social distancing and also to ensure fresh air circulation.

Stickers were stuck and markings have been made both in trains and platforms so that passengers could sit on alternate seats to ensure social distancing.

The Metrorail, which has began operations in the Blueline between Airport and Washermanpet via Anna Salai, services in the Greenline from St Thomas Mount to MGR Central Metro would start from September 9.

The authorities had already announced that services will be open till 8 pm and there will be no inter-corridor movement between Central Metro and Airport stations requesting passengers to plan their journeys accordingly.

Long distance buses run by government transport corporations connecting various destinations within Tamil Nadu began operations across the state.

An official told PTI that the passenger turnout was moderate and online reservations "should improve" in the days to come.

Barring Chennai and nearby three districts, inter- zonal (each zone comprises a number of nearby districts) bus transport, that commenced on June 1, was suspended on June 26. Later, as part of relaxations, the government had allowed buses within districts from September 1 and from now on, bus services have been resumed in a full fledged manner.

Also, trains within Tamil Nadu including the daily Chennai-Coimbatore Intercity, Chennai Egmore Tiruchchirappalli, Chennai Egmore and Coimbatore- Mayiladuthurai-Coimbatore Janshatabdi Special (except Tuesdays) resumed services.

The General Manager, Southern Railway on his twitter handle said: "573 passengers were on board Special Train No. 02636 Madurai - Chennai Egmore special train, the first fully reserved train to leave Madurai as part of #Unlock4 - All the laid down safety protocols were duly adhered - RPF and frontline staff were deployed to guide passengers."

Contactless ticket checking was done at the platform and temperature of passengers was monitored through thermal cameras and trains and platforms were sanitised using disinfectants.

The Southern Railway, following a request of the state government had on June 27 announced cancellation of special trains (including Tiruchirappalli-Chengelpet-Tiruchirappalli Superfast Intercity Express, and Coimbatore-Mayiladuthurai- Coimbatore Janshatabdi) within Tamil Nadu.

The government had requested cancellation of trains in view of an increase in COVID cases. However, such trains did not connect Chennai city to other destinations in Tamil Nadu and vice-versa though special trains that linked Chennai to Delhi were operated. 
&nbsp;

After a five-month plus hiatus, the Chennai Metro Rail services and long distance buses linking various districts in Tamil Nadu recommenced operations on Monday.

After a five-month plus hiatus, the Chennai Metro Rail services and long distance buses linking various districts in Tamil Nadu recommenced operations on Monday. Similarly, trains within the state also resumed services after a break of about two months. Also read | With 1,802 new coronavirus cases, Telangana infections surpass 140,000-mark Notably, passenger trains and long distance buses to Chennai city from other parts of Tamil Nadu and services from the state capital began on Monday after they were ceased in March owing to COVID-19. When the first Metro train departed from the Airport to Washermenpet, at 7 am, Industries Minister M C Sampath was among those who boarded the train and he travelled up to Nandanam station. Train stoppage time at stations has been increased from 20 seconds to 50 seconds to facilitate passengers to de-board and board by maintaining social distancing and also to ensure fresh air circulation. Stickers were stuck and markings have been made both in trains and platforms so that passengers could sit on alternate seats to ensure social distancing. The Metrorail, which has began operations in the Blueline between Airport and Washermanpet via Anna Salai, services in the Greenline from St Thomas Mount to MGR Central Metro would start from September 9. The authorities had already announced that services will be open till 8 pm and there will be no inter-corridor movement between Central Metro and Airport stations requesting passengers to plan their journeys accordingly. Long distance buses run by government transport corporations connecting various destinations within Tamil Nadu began operations across the state. An official told PTI that the passenger turnout was moderate and online reservations "should improve" in the days to come. Barring Chennai and nearby three districts, inter- zonal (each zone comprises a number of nearby districts) bus transport, that commenced on June 1, was suspended on June 26. Later, as part of relaxations, the government had allowed buses within districts from September 1 and from now on, bus services have been resumed in a full fledged manner. Also, trains within Tamil Nadu including the daily Chennai-Coimbatore Intercity, Chennai Egmore Tiruchchirappalli, Chennai Egmore and Coimbatore- Mayiladuthurai-Coimbatore Janshatabdi Special (except Tuesdays) resumed services. The General Manager, Southern Railway on his twitter handle said: "573 passengers were on board Special Train No. 02636 Madurai - Chennai Egmore special train, the first fully reserved train to leave Madurai as part of #Unlock4 - All the laid down safety protocols were duly adhered - RPF and frontline staff were deployed to guide passengers." Contactless ticket checking was done at the platform and temperature of passengers was monitored through thermal cameras and trains and platforms were sanitised using disinfectants. The Southern Railway, following a request of the state government had on June 27 announced cancellation of special trains (including Tiruchirappalli-Chengelpet-Tiruchirappalli Superfast Intercity Express, and Coimbatore-Mayiladuthurai- Coimbatore Janshatabdi) within Tamil Nadu. The government had requested cancellation of trains in view of an increase in COVID cases. However, such trains did not connect Chennai city to other destinations in Tamil Nadu and vice-versa though special trains that linked Chennai to Delhi were operated.

Metro Rail, long distance trains; bus services resume in TN

With major national events and festivals impending, the Tamil Nadu government has announced that celebrations across the state must be low-key and subdued given the ongoing battle with Covid-19 pandemic.

The state government has issued new guidelines for celebration of Independence Day and Vinayaka Chathurthi.

On August 15th, public and school children have been specifically asked to stay indoors and watch the events on TV, whereas the government has asked people to celebrate Vinayaka Chathurthi, which falls on August 22nd at their homes.&nbsp;

Regarding, Independence Day which falls on Saturday, the government has emphasized that senior citizens, school and college students must not take part in the event, owing to the unprecedented circumstances. Under, normal situations the event that takes place on the scenic Marina beach road (Kamarajar Salai) sees the participation of schools students and large number of public.&nbsp;

However, this year it has been clearly stated that the district officials would be visiting the freedom fighters at their homes and felicitating them, instead of it being done in Chennai, in the presence of dignitaries. The Health Minister has also ben deputed to visit homes for special children and disribute sweets, as opposed to the routine practice of allowing the kids to visit the state secretariat.&nbsp;

Besides hoisting the national flag at 8:45am, the Chief Minister would also be felicitating frontline Covid-19 warriors and presenting them with certificates. The government has urged the public to stay indoors and watch the events on television.&nbsp;

In a separate set of guidelines issued for Vinayaka Chathurthi, the government has prohibited erecting Ganesha idols, celebrations in public, carrying them around the city in processions and also immersing them in water bodies. Public have also been strictly instructed to follow physical distancing and mask-wearing norms while stepping out to buy essentials and other items for the festivals.&nbsp;

Given that, places of worship that earn less than Rs.10,000 per annum have been permitted to remain open across the the state, the government has stated that they can carry on with festive traditions, in accordance with the stated norms.

With major national events and festivals impending, the Tamil Nadu government has announced that celebrations across the state must be low-key and subdued given the ongoing battle with Covid-19 pandemic.

With major national events and festivals impending, the Tamil Nadu government has announced that celebrations across the state must be low-key and subdued given the ongoing battle with Covid-19 pandemic. The state government has issued new guidelines for celebration of Independence Day and Vinayaka Chathurthi. On August 15th, public and school children have been specifically asked to stay indoors and watch the events on TV, whereas the government has asked people to celebrate Vinayaka Chathurthi, which falls on August 22nd at their homes. Regarding, Independence Day which falls on Saturday, the government has emphasized that senior citizens, school and college students must not take part in the event, owing to the unprecedented circumstances. Under, normal situations the event that takes place on the scenic Marina beach road (Kamarajar Salai) sees the participation of schools students and large number of public. However, this year it has been clearly stated that the district officials would be visiting the freedom fighters at their homes and felicitating them, instead of it being done in Chennai, in the presence of dignitaries. The Health Minister has also ben deputed to visit homes for special children and disribute sweets, as opposed to the routine practice of allowing the kids to visit the state secretariat. Besides hoisting the national flag at 8:45am, the Chief Minister would also be felicitating frontline Covid-19 warriors and presenting them with certificates. The government has urged the public to stay indoors and watch the events on television. In a separate set of guidelines issued for Vinayaka Chathurthi, the government has prohibited erecting Ganesha idols, celebrations in public, carrying them around the city in processions and also immersing them in water bodies. Public have also been strictly instructed to follow physical distancing and mask-wearing norms while stepping out to buy essentials and other items for the festivals. Given that, places of worship that earn less than Rs.10,000 per annum have been permitted to remain open across the the state, the government has stated that they can carry on with festive traditions, in accordance with the stated norms.

Tamil Nadu: Low-key celebrations for Independence Day, Ganesh Chathurthi amid Covid-19

The ban of flights to Kolkata from high COVID-19 prevalence cities, namely Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Chennai and Ahmedabad will continue till 31st August, said the Bengal government.

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The suspension of flights to Kolkata from high COVID-19 prevalence cities (viz. Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Chennai &amp; Ahmedabad) will continue till 31st August: West Bengal Government <a href="https://t.co/wWnTc0xQdd">pic.twitter.com/wWnTc0xQdd</a>
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On Monday, West Bengal witnessed the highest single-day discharge of 3,208 COVID-19 patients taking the number of recovered people to 70,328, while 2,905 new coronavirus infections were registered, state health department said.

The department in a bulletin also said that 41 patients succumbed to the disease raising the death toll to 2,100.

The state's caseload has gone up to 98,459 while the active cases stood at 26,031, the bulletin said.

At the global front, the coronavirus pandemic chalked up another horrific milestone Monday as the world surpassed 20 million recorded cases of infection from the tiny killer that has upended life just about everywhere.

The number as of 2215 GMT was 20,014,574 cases, with 734,664 deaths recorded, according to the Johns Hopkins University tally of official sources.

(With inputs from agencies)

The ban of flights to Kolkata from high COVID-19 prevalence cities, namely Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Chennai and Ahmedabad will continue till 31st August, said the Bengal government.

The ban of flights to Kolkata from high COVID-19 prevalence cities, namely Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Chennai and Ahmedabad will continue till 31st August, said the Bengal government. The suspension of flights to Kolkata from high COVID-19 prevalence cities (viz. Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Chennai & Ahmedabad) will continue till 31st August: West Bengal Government pic.twitter.com/wWnTc0xQdd — ANI (@ANI) August 11, 2020 × On Monday, West Bengal witnessed the highest single-day discharge of 3,208 COVID-19 patients taking the number of recovered people to 70,328, while 2,905 new coronavirus infections were registered, state health department said. The department in a bulletin also said that 41 patients succumbed to the disease raising the death toll to 2,100. The state's caseload has gone up to 98,459 while the active cases stood at 26,031, the bulletin said. At the global front, the coronavirus pandemic chalked up another horrific milestone Monday as the world surpassed 20 million recorded cases of infection from the tiny killer that has upended life just about everywhere. The number as of 2215 GMT was 20,014,574 cases, with 734,664 deaths recorded, according to the Johns Hopkins University tally of official sources. (With inputs from agencies)

Ban on flights to Kolkata from 6 corona 'hotspots' extended till August 31

Tamil Nadu on Monday crossed three lakh COVID-19 cases while the death toll crossed the 5,000 mark with the addition of 114 fatalities.

With 5,914 new cases, the infection tally touched 3,02,815 and the 100 plus deaths for the eighth consecutive day took the toll to 5,041, a government COVID bulletin said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-indian-coast-guard-tows-adrift-boat-to-harbor-rescues-14-fishermen-318842">Tamil Nadu: Indian Coast Guard tows adrift boat to harbor, rescues 14 fishermen</a>

The state took just 16 days to reach the three lakh mark compared to the 22 days it had taken for the two lakh milestone on July 25. The one lakh tally was recorded on July 3.

The 6,037 recoveries on Monday eclipsed the fresh infections and cumulatively 2,44,675 people have got cured so far and only 53,099 were the active cases.

A four month-old girl child, a 14 year-old boy, four women, aged 21, 25, 27 and 32, and two men in their 30s were among those who succumbed to the virus on Monday.

In total, 105 of the dead had comorbidities.

In the state's tally of total cases, Chennai accounted for 1,10,121 while adjoining districts of Chengelpet 18,332, Kancheepuram 12,131 and Tiruvallur 17,340 cases.

Other northern districts, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Ranipet, Villupuram, Kallakurichi and Tirupattur together tallied 33,558 cases.

The northern districts, including Chennai, account for 63.23 per cent of the total positive cases in the state.

Madurai's share was 12,104, Virudhunagar 10,155, Tuticorin 9,357 and Coimbatore 6,961.

Of the new cases on Monday, Chennai recorded 976 while the combined total of Chengelpet (483), Kancheepuram (310) and Tiruvallur (399) stood at 1,192.

Southern district of Theni which has been witnessing a rise in cases added 357 more while Madurai reported 100, marking a dip when compared with the trend of high numbers witnessed by the temple city recently.

Barring August 2 and 8, the recoveries have outnumbered the fresh cases this month till date.

As many as 67,153 samples were tested and in total, 32,92,958 specimens have been examined and all tests were RT- PCR based as Tamil Nadu does not use the Rapid Antigen Diagnostic Test (RADT).&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu on Monday crossed three lakh COVID-19 cases while the death toll crossed the 5,000 mark with the addition of 114 fatalities. With 5,914 new cases, the infection tally touched 3,02,815 and the 100 plus deaths for the eighth consecutive day took the toll to 5,041, a government COVID bulletin said.

Tamil Nadu on Monday crossed three lakh COVID-19 cases while the death toll crossed the 5,000 mark with the addition of 114 fatalities. With 5,914 new cases, the infection tally touched 3,02,815 and the 100 plus deaths for the eighth consecutive day took the toll to 5,041, a government COVID bulletin said. Also read | Tamil Nadu: Indian Coast Guard tows adrift boat to harbor, rescues 14 fishermen The state took just 16 days to reach the three lakh mark compared to the 22 days it had taken for the two lakh milestone on July 25. The one lakh tally was recorded on July 3. The 6,037 recoveries on Monday eclipsed the fresh infections and cumulatively 2,44,675 people have got cured so far and only 53,099 were the active cases. A four month-old girl child, a 14 year-old boy, four women, aged 21, 25, 27 and 32, and two men in their 30s were among those who succumbed to the virus on Monday. In total, 105 of the dead had comorbidities. In the state's tally of total cases, Chennai accounted for 1,10,121 while adjoining districts of Chengelpet 18,332, Kancheepuram 12,131 and Tiruvallur 17,340 cases. Other northern districts, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Ranipet, Villupuram, Kallakurichi and Tirupattur together tallied 33,558 cases. The northern districts, including Chennai, account for 63.23 per cent of the total positive cases in the state. Madurai's share was 12,104, Virudhunagar 10,155, Tuticorin 9,357 and Coimbatore 6,961. Of the new cases on Monday, Chennai recorded 976 while the combined total of Chengelpet (483), Kancheepuram (310) and Tiruvallur (399) stood at 1,192. Southern district of Theni which has been witnessing a rise in cases added 357 more while Madurai reported 100, marking a dip when compared with the trend of high numbers witnessed by the temple city recently. Barring August 2 and 8, the recoveries have outnumbered the fresh cases this month till date. As many as 67,153 samples were tested and in total, 32,92,958 specimens have been examined and all tests were RT- PCR based as Tamil Nadu does not use the Rapid Antigen Diagnostic Test (RADT).

Coronavirus: Tamil Nadu case count breaches 300,000-mark, toll surges past 5,000

Two days after the horrific explosion that killed over 130 people in Beirut, serious concerns have been raised now about tonnes of chemical explosives that have been stored in a private container near Chennai. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Beirut like facility found in Tamil Nadu, Tonnes of explosive chemicals in Chennai

Sanction has been accorded to a trial by the Indian Council of Medical Research's Tuberculosis institute here to study the efficacy of BCG vaccine in the elderly in the fight against COVID-19, the government said on Wednesday. 
 
Chief Minister K Palaniswami, in an order, has given the State's approval after ICMR sought Tamil Nadu government's permission to study the efficacy of the Bacillus Calmette- Gurin (BCG) vaccine in senior citizens at its National Institute for Research in Tuberculosis (NIRT) at Chetpet here,Health Minister C Vijayabaskar said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-zydus-begins-human-trials-for-potential-covid-19-vaccine-313409" hreflang="en">India's Zydus begins human trials for potential COVID-19 vaccine</a> 
 
"The ICMR's tuberculosis institute is set to begin the trial very soon," he said in a statement. 
 
He hoped that vaccinating the elderly with the time tested BCG would help reduce the intensity of COVID-19, admissions at hospitals and mortality rates.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-cases-in-india-rise-to-93-lakh-death-toll-at-24309-313399" hreflang="en">Covid-19 cases in India rise to 9.3 lakh, death toll at 24,309</a> 
 
Describing the state's approval by Palaniswami for a trial here as among measures to protect people's welfare during the ongoing fight against COVID-19, Vijayabaskar said anti-viral measures will further be stepped up. 
 
The NIRT under the ICMR is an internationally recognised institution for TB research.

Sanction has been accorded to a trial by the Indian Council of Medical Research's Tuberculosis institute here to study the efficacy of BCG vaccine in the elderly in the fight against COVID-19, the government said on Wednesday.

Sanction has been accorded to a trial by the Indian Council of Medical Research's Tuberculosis institute here to study the efficacy of BCG vaccine in the elderly in the fight against COVID-19, the government said on Wednesday. Chief Minister K Palaniswami, in an order, has given the State's approval after ICMR sought Tamil Nadu government's permission to study the efficacy of the Bacillus Calmette- Gurin (BCG) vaccine in senior citizens at its National Institute for Research in Tuberculosis (NIRT) at Chetpet here,Health Minister C Vijayabaskar said. Also read: India's Zydus begins human trials for potential COVID-19 vaccine "The ICMR's tuberculosis institute is set to begin the trial very soon," he said in a statement. He hoped that vaccinating the elderly with the time tested BCG would help reduce the intensity of COVID-19, admissions at hospitals and mortality rates. Also read: Covid-19 cases in India rise to 9.3 lakh, death toll at 24,309 Describing the state's approval by Palaniswami for a trial here as among measures to protect people's welfare during the ongoing fight against COVID-19, Vijayabaskar said anti-viral measures will further be stepped up. The NIRT under the ICMR is an internationally recognised institution for TB research.

Tamil Nadu govt gives consent to BCG trial at ICMR's Chennai institute

The news item about a teenager, who had allegedly run a fake bank branch from his home in Panruti, Cuddalore district, in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu has travelled far and wide.

However, the police officers who investigated the case say that the boy was dealing with a lot of personal issues and did not perform the forgery with a sinister motive. So far, the cops haven’t received any complaint of people having been cheated of their money or valuables in this case.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/every-death-needs-to-be-fully-investigated-un-on-thoothukudi-custodial-death-case-312688">Every death needs to be fully investigated: UN on Thoothukudi custodial death case</a>

The investigating officer of the case told WION that the 19-year old accused in this case had a troubled past.&nbsp;

His parents were SBI bank employees, which made him expose&nbsp;with the banking functions from a very young age as his parents used to take him along to the branch.

The boy’s father who was the then bank manager passed away in 2007 when the boy was barely six years of age. Since then, he was brought up by his mother.

It is said that the young boy had made an attempt to apply for his father’s post on compassionate grounds. His mother had retired from the bank in 2017 and has been suffering from a serious mobility issue. The 19-year old had also failed his class 12 exams.

How the case came to light&nbsp;

There are two SBI branches in Panruti and Venkatesh was the manager of one of them.&nbsp;One customer asked Venkatesh about the third branch functioning in the North Bazaar area and told him that the receipt, withdrawal slip, and seal (of the new branch) are available.

Shocked by knowing this, the manager reached&nbsp;out to the cops and filed&nbsp;a complaint. Cops zero-in on this19-year old boy.

The investigation officer told WION that: "He was very keen on getting the bank manager job after his father died while on duty (13 years ago). After turning 18 years of age the boy applied for the bank job and was eagerly waiting. But, the boy’s application was not accepted".

It was during the recent months that the boy also got started with the basic work to run a bank branch. With the help of local printers and suppliers, he got the challans, documents, and seals ready. However, he did not use a nameboard to depict it was a bank branch.

The local suppliers who arranged the seals and documents told cops that they helped the boy considering that his parents were bank staff and assuming his reasons were legitimate.

The Panruti Station Police registered an FIR under Sections 471, 473, 468, and 109 IPC.&nbsp;

The boy and his accomplices were arrested and remanded and later the magistrate granted them bail.&nbsp;

Cops said that forgery of documents and seals have happened in this case.

But the public has not come up and registered complaints of them losing money or being cheated by this individual/group in the guise of a bank.&nbsp;

"It is learnt that the boy is an adopted child and it was kept secret all this while. The family suspects that he has gotten to know about being an adopted child. His mother and aunt who live with him were totally unaware of his activities. Although the boy has extraordinary knowledge of banking transactions, he has a very innocent, childlike demeanor. He was obsessed with the bank job and that’s what led him to forge the documents and seals and set-up a bank at home"&nbsp;Ambethkar, the Investigating officer said.

The news item about a teenager, who had allegedly run a fake bank branch from his home in Panruti, Cuddalore district, in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu has travelled far and wide.

The news item about a teenager, who had allegedly run a fake bank branch from his home in Panruti, Cuddalore district, in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu has travelled far and wide. However, the police officers who investigated the case say that the boy was dealing with a lot of personal issues and did not perform the forgery with a sinister motive. So far, the cops haven’t received any complaint of people having been cheated of their money or valuables in this case. Also read | Every death needs to be fully investigated: UN on Thoothukudi custodial death case The investigating officer of the case told WION that the 19-year old accused in this case had a troubled past. His parents were SBI bank employees, which made him expose with the banking functions from a very young age as his parents used to take him along to the branch. The boy’s father who was the then bank manager passed away in 2007 when the boy was barely six years of age. Since then, he was brought up by his mother. It is said that the young boy had made an attempt to apply for his father’s post on compassionate grounds. His mother had retired from the bank in 2017 and has been suffering from a serious mobility issue. The 19-year old had also failed his class 12 exams. How the case came to light There are two SBI branches in Panruti and Venkatesh was the manager of one of them. One customer asked Venkatesh about the third branch functioning in the North Bazaar area and told him that the receipt, withdrawal slip, and seal (of the new branch) are available. Shocked by knowing this, the manager reached out to the cops and filed a complaint. Cops zero-in on this19-year old boy. The investigation officer told WION that: "He was very keen on getting the bank manager job after his father died while on duty (13 years ago). After turning 18 years of age the boy applied for the bank job and was eagerly waiting. But, the boy’s application was not accepted". It was during the recent months that the boy also got started with the basic work to run a bank branch. With the help of local printers and suppliers, he got the challans, documents, and seals ready. However, he did not use a nameboard to depict it was a bank branch. The local suppliers who arranged the seals and documents told cops that they helped the boy considering that his parents were bank staff and assuming his reasons were legitimate. The Panruti Station Police registered an FIR under Sections 471, 473, 468, and 109 IPC. The boy and his accomplices were arrested and remanded and later the magistrate granted them bail. Cops said that forgery of documents and seals have happened in this case. But the public has not come up and registered complaints of them losing money or being cheated by this individual/group in the guise of a bank. "It is learnt that the boy is an adopted child and it was kept secret all this while. The family suspects that he has gotten to know about being an adopted child. His mother and aunt who live with him were totally unaware of his activities. Although the boy has extraordinary knowledge of banking transactions, he has a very innocent, childlike demeanor. He was obsessed with the bank job and that’s what led him to forge the documents and seals and set-up a bank at home" Ambethkar, the Investigating officer said.

SBI fake branch case: Police says accused had personal issues, no ulterior motives

Tamil Nadu has become the second state (after Maharashtra) in India to record over 1lakh corona virus cases. The southern Indian state has crossed this grim number at a time when the capital city Chennai and three adjoining districts with high population density are under an intense lockdown since June 19th. The lockdown is in place till July 5th, after which partial normalcy would resume with offices and standalone shops allowed to function with limited strength.&nbsp;

Friday’s health bulletin issued by the state government said that Tamil Nadu had recorded 4329 new cases, taking the total count to 1, 02,721. The state has tested 35,028 samples over the last 24 hours and a total of 12, 70,720 samples till date. 2357 persons were discharged from hospitals over the last 24 hours and 58,378 persons were discharged in total. The state also recorded 64 deaths, thus taking the total count to 1385. Chennai alone has reported 2082 of Friday’s 4329 new cases.&nbsp;

It was on June 22nd that Tamil Nadu has surpassed 60,000 cases and in about 10 days the state has added 40,000 new cases to breach the 1 lakh mark. It was on June 3rd that Tamil Nadu’s total case count had breached the 25,000 mark. This goes on to indicate the rapid spike in cases in the month of June and the same trend continuing, with more daily cases.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-breaches-60000-covid-19-cases-sees-over-35000-new-cases-in-last-19-days-307769">Also read: Tamil Nadu breaches 60,000 Covid-19 cases; sees over 35,000 new cases in last 19 days</a> 
 
When India entered its ‘Unlock’ phase since the start of June with gradual ease of restrictions, by mid-June Tamil Nadu government had announced a decision to go in for an intense lockdown in Chennai and few other districts.&nbsp;

It is evident from the daily state government bulletin that the authorities in Tamil Nadu have ramped up testing, tracing and isolation efforts during the lockdown. Last week, Tamil Nadu was the first state in India to have performed over 1 million tests. In recent weeks, Tamil Nadu has been consistently testing over 25,000 samples every day. On many days the state had also recorded above 30,000 tests.&nbsp;

For perspective, Tamil Nadu had barely performed a total of 3000 tests as on April 1st. However, in the following months testing was immensely ramped up, thus enabling the state to reach the 1 million mark. In terms of Covid-19 testing facilities, from merely 17 labs at the start of April, there has been a five-fold increase and currently, 91 labs are functional. As per the data from the State health bulletins, 48 of these testing labs are state government facilities while 43 of them are private ones.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-tamil-nadu-became-the-first-state-in-india-to-test-over-1-million-covid-19-samples-308851">Also read: How Tamil Nadu became the first state in India to test over 1 million Covid-19 samples</a> 
 
This high rate of testing has also revealed a good number of cases with the state seeing over 3000 daily cases for over a week and over 4000 daily cases on Thursday and Friday. Such a high rate of testing was made possible due to the manner in which the state government mobilized resources to establish more government testing labs and urged the private sector to also pitch in.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu’s recovery rate has been on par with the national average, with over 57% of patients having recovered. In terms of mortality rate, the state has seen around 1.3% of patients losing their battle to the deadly pandemic.&nbsp;

A majority of the state’s cases(over 60%) are from the capital city Chennai and its three adjoining districts of Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu. On Thursday and Friday, the state witnessed a usual trend of the total cases of all other districts being higher than Chennai’s case count.&nbsp;

Withe the intense lockdown in Chennai and adjoining districts, besides a few southern districts to be relaxed from July 6th, the challenge for the authorities is only set to get bigger. It has been observed in the past as well that lockdowns can only delay the inevitable spike in cases and buy time for the health infrastructure to be scaled up. Authorities have always emphasized on public cooperation and the importance of mask-wearing, frequent hand-washing and personal hygiene practices, including social distancing.

Tamil Nadu has become the second state (after Maharashtra) in India to record over 1lakh corona virus cases. The southern Indian state has crossed this grim number at a time when the capital city Chennai and three adjoining districts with high population density are under an intense lockdown since June 19th.

Tamil Nadu has become the second state (after Maharashtra) in India to record over 1lakh corona virus cases. The southern Indian state has crossed this grim number at a time when the capital city Chennai and three adjoining districts with high population density are under an intense lockdown since June 19th. The lockdown is in place till July 5th, after which partial normalcy would resume with offices and standalone shops allowed to function with limited strength. Friday’s health bulletin issued by the state government said that Tamil Nadu had recorded 4329 new cases, taking the total count to 1, 02,721. The state has tested 35,028 samples over the last 24 hours and a total of 12, 70,720 samples till date. 2357 persons were discharged from hospitals over the last 24 hours and 58,378 persons were discharged in total. The state also recorded 64 deaths, thus taking the total count to 1385. Chennai alone has reported 2082 of Friday’s 4329 new cases. It was on June 22nd that Tamil Nadu has surpassed 60,000 cases and in about 10 days the state has added 40,000 new cases to breach the 1 lakh mark. It was on June 3rd that Tamil Nadu’s total case count had breached the 25,000 mark. This goes on to indicate the rapid spike in cases in the month of June and the same trend continuing, with more daily cases. Also read: Tamil Nadu breaches 60,000 Covid-19 cases; sees over 35,000 new cases in last 19 days When India entered its ‘Unlock’ phase since the start of June with gradual ease of restrictions, by mid-June Tamil Nadu government had announced a decision to go in for an intense lockdown in Chennai and few other districts. It is evident from the daily state government bulletin that the authorities in Tamil Nadu have ramped up testing, tracing and isolation efforts during the lockdown. Last week, Tamil Nadu was the first state in India to have performed over 1 million tests. In recent weeks, Tamil Nadu has been consistently testing over 25,000 samples every day. On many days the state had also recorded above 30,000 tests. For perspective, Tamil Nadu had barely performed a total of 3000 tests as on April 1st. However, in the following months testing was immensely ramped up, thus enabling the state to reach the 1 million mark. In terms of Covid-19 testing facilities, from merely 17 labs at the start of April, there has been a five-fold increase and currently, 91 labs are functional. As per the data from the State health bulletins, 48 of these testing labs are state government facilities while 43 of them are private ones. Also read: How Tamil Nadu became the first state in India to test over 1 million Covid-19 samples This high rate of testing has also revealed a good number of cases with the state seeing over 3000 daily cases for over a week and over 4000 daily cases on Thursday and Friday. Such a high rate of testing was made possible due to the manner in which the state government mobilized resources to establish more government testing labs and urged the private sector to also pitch in. Tamil Nadu’s recovery rate has been on par with the national average, with over 57% of patients having recovered. In terms of mortality rate, the state has seen around 1.3% of patients losing their battle to the deadly pandemic. A majority of the state’s cases(over 60%) are from the capital city Chennai and its three adjoining districts of Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu. On Thursday and Friday, the state witnessed a usual trend of the total cases of all other districts being higher than Chennai’s case count. Withe the intense lockdown in Chennai and adjoining districts, besides a few southern districts to be relaxed from July 6th, the challenge for the authorities is only set to get bigger. It has been observed in the past as well that lockdowns can only delay the inevitable spike in cases and buy time for the health infrastructure to be scaled up. Authorities have always emphasized on public cooperation and the importance of mask-wearing, frequent hand-washing and personal hygiene practices, including social distancing.

Tamil Nadu surpasses 1 lakh Covid-19 cases; sees 40,000 new cases in last 10 days

The deaths of father and son in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, allegedly in police custody led to massive outrage and demands for justice on social media.

Celebrities demands Justice for Jayaraj and Fenix; Questions custodial deaths

The Tamil Nadu government on Monday extended the lockdown in the state till July 31. The state reported 62 deaths in the past 24 hours, taking the toll to 1141. Currently, there are 37,331 active cases in the state.

Meanwhile, With Unlock 1.0 completing a month now, coronavirus cases are increasing at a rapid rate. On Monday, India recorded a spike of 19,459 cases and 380 deaths in the last 24 hours. Positive cases in India stand at 5, 48,318 including 2, 10,120 active cases, 3, 21,723 cured/discharged/migrated and 16,475 deaths.

India's health ministry said today that the gap between recoveries and active cases of COVID-19 is 1, 11,602."So far, as many as 3, 21,722 patients have been cured. The recovery rate is 58.67 per cent," the health ministry stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Tamil Nadu government on Monday extended the lockdown in the state till July 31. The state reported 62 deaths in the past 24 hours, taking the toll to 1141. Currently, there are 37,331 active cases in the state.

The Tamil Nadu government on Monday extended the lockdown in the state till July 31. The state reported 62 deaths in the past 24 hours, taking the toll to 1141. Currently, there are 37,331 active cases in the state. Meanwhile, With Unlock 1.0 completing a month now, coronavirus cases are increasing at a rapid rate. On Monday, India recorded a spike of 19,459 cases and 380 deaths in the last 24 hours. Positive cases in India stand at 5, 48,318 including 2, 10,120 active cases, 3, 21,723 cured/discharged/migrated and 16,475 deaths. India's health ministry said today that the gap between recoveries and active cases of COVID-19 is 1, 11,602."So far, as many as 3, 21,722 patients have been cured. The recovery rate is 58.67 per cent," the health ministry stated. (With inputs from agencies)

Lockdown in Tamil Nadu extended till July 31 as state registers 3949 new cases

Tamil Nadu has surpassed yet another grim milestone of 60,000 total Coronavirus cases, this comes on a day when the state has seen its highest yet tally of 2710 cases. Currently, the total cases stand at 62,087.

It was on June 3rd that Tamil Nadu’s total case count had breached the 25,000 marks and it has taken barely 18 days for the state to record over 35,000 new cases.&nbsp;

However, the state’s high recovery rate of 55% (34,112 recoveries) remains a silver lining. So far, 794 people in the state have succumbed to the deadly pandemic.&nbsp;

At a time when all states across India have been on an 'Unlock' mode from the start of June, the Tamil Nadu government was the first to re-intensify the lockdown amid rising cases.

Since Friday (June 19th), Tamil Nadu’s capital city Chennai and three of its adjoining districts have been on a 12-day lockdown, until June 30th. This lockdown was announced owing to the high population density in these districts and the fact that over 82% of the state’s total Covid-19 cases were from here.&nbsp;

Amid rising cases in Southern districts of Tamil Nadu, the government on Monday announced a lockdown in areas under Madurai district including, Madurai Corporation limit, Paravai town Panchayat and certain rural blocks. This lockdown, which is broadly similar to the one that is enforced in Chennai, would be effective from June 23rd (Tuesday) until June 30th. In recent weeks there have been a higher number of new cases from various districts in Tamil Nadu, following a mass exodus of people from Chennai to their native places.&nbsp;

Notably, Tamil Nadu has been conducting the highest number of tests in India. According to the State Health bulletin, 9.19Lakh samples and 8.76lakh persons have been tested. In recent days, the state has consistently been conducting over 20,000 tests daily.&nbsp;

During his briefing on Monday, Health Minister Dr.Vijayabaskar said that the Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami’s Covid-19 test results returned negative. A handful of elected representatives have been affected by Covid-19 in the state and few Government officials have also, unfortunately, lost their battle to the deadly virus.&nbsp;

So far, one Minister and an MLA from the ruling party have tested positive, while One Opposition MLA succumbed to the virus and another MLA is undergoing treatment. In the previous week, one Police officer and a senior secretary in the Chief Minister’s office had lost their battle against the virus.&nbsp;

On Saturday, after inspecting the medical facilities, Chief Minister K Palaniswami had said that the state has 83 Covid-19 testing centres, which is the highest in the country. He added that there were 17,500 beds kept ready in Chennai. He also urged people to wear masks and follow physical distancing when venturing out.&nbsp;

Currently, Tamil Nadu has 27,178 active cases, of which 22,001 are in Chennai and its three adjoining districts alone.

Tamil Nadu has surpassed yet another grim milestone of 60,000 total Coronavirus cases, this comes on a day when the state has seen its highest yet tally of 2710 cases.

Tamil Nadu has surpassed yet another grim milestone of 60,000 total Coronavirus cases, this comes on a day when the state has seen its highest yet tally of 2710 cases. Currently, the total cases stand at 62,087. It was on June 3rd that Tamil Nadu’s total case count had breached the 25,000 marks and it has taken barely 18 days for the state to record over 35,000 new cases. However, the state’s high recovery rate of 55% (34,112 recoveries) remains a silver lining. So far, 794 people in the state have succumbed to the deadly pandemic. At a time when all states across India have been on an 'Unlock' mode from the start of June, the Tamil Nadu government was the first to re-intensify the lockdown amid rising cases. Since Friday (June 19th), Tamil Nadu’s capital city Chennai and three of its adjoining districts have been on a 12-day lockdown, until June 30th. This lockdown was announced owing to the high population density in these districts and the fact that over 82% of the state’s total Covid-19 cases were from here. Amid rising cases in Southern districts of Tamil Nadu, the government on Monday announced a lockdown in areas under Madurai district including, Madurai Corporation limit, Paravai town Panchayat and certain rural blocks. This lockdown, which is broadly similar to the one that is enforced in Chennai, would be effective from June 23rd (Tuesday) until June 30th. In recent weeks there have been a higher number of new cases from various districts in Tamil Nadu, following a mass exodus of people from Chennai to their native places. Notably, Tamil Nadu has been conducting the highest number of tests in India. According to the State Health bulletin, 9.19Lakh samples and 8.76lakh persons have been tested. In recent days, the state has consistently been conducting over 20,000 tests daily. During his briefing on Monday, Health Minister Dr.Vijayabaskar said that the Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami’s Covid-19 test results returned negative. A handful of elected representatives have been affected by Covid-19 in the state and few Government officials have also, unfortunately, lost their battle to the deadly virus. So far, one Minister and an MLA from the ruling party have tested positive, while One Opposition MLA succumbed to the virus and another MLA is undergoing treatment. In the previous week, one Police officer and a senior secretary in the Chief Minister’s office had lost their battle against the virus. On Saturday, after inspecting the medical facilities, Chief Minister K Palaniswami had said that the state has 83 Covid-19 testing centres, which is the highest in the country. He added that there were 17,500 beds kept ready in Chennai. He also urged people to wear masks and follow physical distancing when venturing out. Currently, Tamil Nadu has 27,178 active cases, of which 22,001 are in Chennai and its three adjoining districts alone.

Tamil Nadu breaches 60,000 Covid-19 cases; sees over 35,000 new cases in last 19 days

Amid rising coronavirus cases in Tamil Nadu, especially in Chennai, Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami on June 15 announced a 12-day "maximised restricted lockdown" in the capital city and its adjoining areas.

Fresh lockdown in Tamil Nadu from June 19-30: COVID-19 cases cross 44,000

The Tamil Nadu government is open to reconsidering few of the 1018 new names that were released as a part of a list to rename the districts and towns based on Tamil phonetics. K Pandirajan, Minister for Tamil Official Language and Tamil Culture, told WION that the government has received a few requests pertaining to some names and that they would be considered.&nbsp;

“We have not recreated a new name; we have only modified the existing ones as per Tamil phonetics. We have only changed the English version of the name. From the Central committee, we received a list of 3,500 names that had to be modified and we cut it down to 1018. In our state, many of the existing names are British legacies and are in English. In certain cases(as seen in the notification), the central committee has approved the names suggested by the district collectors and in certain cases they have suggested new ones,” he said.&nbsp;

There has been widespread discussion on social media that existing districts and places would get new names -- Coimbatore to Koyampuththoor, Tuticorin to Thooththukkudi, Vellore to Veeloor etc. On Wednesday, a complete notification pertaining to the renaming was circulated.

While social media users have had a field day, thanks to the new, rather unusual spellings, many scholars and historians have partially welcomed the renaming move.&nbsp;

Author and Historian V Sriram said that this is good move and that the names must reflect what is correct as per the Tamil language, as colonially the names have been subjected to a lot of corruption. However, he also pointed out the need for consistency in renaming and looking at the historical correctness.&nbsp;

“This is a good move, but its implementation could have been better. As per the new names, two words with same pronunciation are spelt differently. Also we must look at the historically correct names if we are trying to set history right. Mylapore, historically speaking is only Mylai, but the new name is Mayilappoor. However, I’m quite happy that they are trying Tamil names. For places in &nbsp;France or England, they have a different pronunciation(from what is written), but we learn to pronounce those names” V Sriram told WION.&nbsp;

Some social media users say that the move is an attempt to appease the Tamil population ahead of the 2021 Assembly elections.&nbsp;

Pointing out that name changing is nothing new, veteran journalist and Tamil scholar S Sampath Kumar said that it looks cosmetic and cannot be projected during the polls. He added that it won’t attract much attention as it is not a livelihood issue that concerns the people. Stating the examples of how Calcutta become Kolkata, he said renaming has been quite normal.&nbsp;

“Chennai was being used in Tamil media much before the new name replaced Madras. Virudhupatti, as it was called earlier was renamed Virudhunagar. Now, its not just English that is being replaced, but also Sanskrit. Srivaikundam and Srirangam will henceforth be called Thiruvaikundam and Thiruvarangam respectively. But in due course of time, the new names will also be gradually accepted”, he told WION.&nbsp;

While the names of over 1000 smaller towns and districts are being reverted to their Tamil form, some have raised questions about the very names(current) of the state and its capital city.

Political Analyst Dr Sumanth C Raman said that the timing of the announcement was not very apt as it has come in the middle of the pandemic. Tamil Nadu is facing a tough time with over 38,000 total Covid-19 cases, of which over 27,000 are in Chennai.&nbsp;

“We should ensure that that new names are easy, not very long and convenient to write down. Going by the pattern of phonetic renaming, why not call the state Thamizh Nadu? Many also point out that the capital city’s name(Chennai) &nbsp;isn’t a pure Tamil word,” he told WION.&nbsp;

The Tamil Nadu government is open to reconsidering few of the 1018 new names that were released as a part of a list to rename the districts and towns based on Tamil phonetics.

The Tamil Nadu government is open to reconsidering few of the 1018 new names that were released as a part of a list to rename the districts and towns based on Tamil phonetics. K Pandirajan, Minister for Tamil Official Language and Tamil Culture, told WION that the government has received a few requests pertaining to some names and that they would be considered. “We have not recreated a new name; we have only modified the existing ones as per Tamil phonetics. We have only changed the English version of the name. From the Central committee, we received a list of 3,500 names that had to be modified and we cut it down to 1018. In our state, many of the existing names are British legacies and are in English. In certain cases(as seen in the notification), the central committee has approved the names suggested by the district collectors and in certain cases they have suggested new ones,” he said. There has been widespread discussion on social media that existing districts and places would get new names -- Coimbatore to Koyampuththoor, Tuticorin to Thooththukkudi, Vellore to Veeloor etc. On Wednesday, a complete notification pertaining to the renaming was circulated. While social media users have had a field day, thanks to the new, rather unusual spellings, many scholars and historians have partially welcomed the renaming move. Author and Historian V Sriram said that this is good move and that the names must reflect what is correct as per the Tamil language, as colonially the names have been subjected to a lot of corruption. However, he also pointed out the need for consistency in renaming and looking at the historical correctness. “This is a good move, but its implementation could have been better. As per the new names, two words with same pronunciation are spelt differently. Also we must look at the historically correct names if we are trying to set history right. Mylapore, historically speaking is only Mylai, but the new name is Mayilappoor. However, I’m quite happy that they are trying Tamil names. For places in France or England, they have a different pronunciation(from what is written), but we learn to pronounce those names” V Sriram told WION. Some social media users say that the move is an attempt to appease the Tamil population ahead of the 2021 Assembly elections. Pointing out that name changing is nothing new, veteran journalist and Tamil scholar S Sampath Kumar said that it looks cosmetic and cannot be projected during the polls. He added that it won’t attract much attention as it is not a livelihood issue that concerns the people. Stating the examples of how Calcutta become Kolkata, he said renaming has been quite normal. “Chennai was being used in Tamil media much before the new name replaced Madras. Virudhupatti, as it was called earlier was renamed Virudhunagar. Now, its not just English that is being replaced, but also Sanskrit. Srivaikundam and Srirangam will henceforth be called Thiruvaikundam and Thiruvarangam respectively. But in due course of time, the new names will also be gradually accepted”, he told WION. While the names of over 1000 smaller towns and districts are being reverted to their Tamil form, some have raised questions about the very names(current) of the state and its capital city. Political Analyst Dr Sumanth C Raman said that the timing of the announcement was not very apt as it has come in the middle of the pandemic. Tamil Nadu is facing a tough time with over 38,000 total Covid-19 cases, of which over 27,000 are in Chennai. “We should ensure that that new names are easy, not very long and convenient to write down. Going by the pattern of phonetic renaming, why not call the state Thamizh Nadu? Many also point out that the capital city’s name(Chennai) isn’t a pure Tamil word,” he told WION.

Tamil Nadu govt open to reconsidering, after new name list of places receives mixed response

Tamil Nadu is the second worst affected state in India, with more than&nbsp;37,000 infections and 326&nbsp;fatalities.

While the daily number of infections is on a constant rise, Chief Minister K Palaniswami has been alleged of hiding the coronavirus figures, especially death rate.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-record-1927-fresh-covid-19-cases-tamil-nadus-case-count-crosses-36000-304879">Also read:&nbsp;With record 1927 fresh Covid-19 cases, Tamil Nadu's case count crosses 36,000</a>

However, Palaniswami has rejected all allegations&nbsp;of under-reporting of fatalities.

"Where is the difference in deaths ? ... There is no ground to conceal deaths and nobody can hide deaths," Palaniswami slammed the local reporters who asked him about the allegation.

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We don't hide the number of deaths, we won't gain anything if we do that: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://t.co/s6Uedf70L2">https://t.co/s6Uedf70L2</a>
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The Chief Minister also claimed that there is no community transmission of coronavirus in the state.

After the allegation, the government set up a reconciliation committee to look into alleged mismatch of coronavirus deaths. However, the Chief Minister, a day later, jumped in defense of his administration claiming manipullting of figures is impossible when a daily bulletin is being issued on the basis of daily testing, recoveries, infections, deaths and active cases.

"How it (deaths) could be shown less ? if somebody dies of COVID-19, the media shows (visuals) and people come to know. This cannot be hidden. For the government, it serves no good (purpose) by hiding deaths," he said.

The reconciliation committee, comprises doctors from the Directorate of Medical and Rural Health Services and Directorate of Medical Education and the city corporation; the panel will&nbsp;look into the question of alleged discrepancies in deaths.

The reconciliation initiative was taken up by the government also in the wake of a complaint by an NGO to authorities claiming that three COVID-19 deaths were not recorded.

(With inputs from PTI)

Tamil Nadu is the second worst affected state in India, with more than 37,000 infections and 326 fatalities. While the daily number of infections is on a constant rise, Chief Minister K Palaniswami has been alleged of hiding the coronavirus figures, especially death rate.

Tamil Nadu is the second worst affected state in India, with more than 37,000 infections and 326 fatalities. While the daily number of infections is on a constant rise, Chief Minister K Palaniswami has been alleged of hiding the coronavirus figures, especially death rate. Also read: With record 1927 fresh Covid-19 cases, Tamil Nadu's case count crosses 36,000 However, Palaniswami has rejected all allegations of under-reporting of fatalities. "Where is the difference in deaths ? ... There is no ground to conceal deaths and nobody can hide deaths," Palaniswami slammed the local reporters who asked him about the allegation. We don't hide the number of deaths, we won't gain anything if we do that: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami. #COVID19 https://t.co/s6Uedf70L2 — ANI (@ANI) June 11, 2020 × The Chief Minister also claimed that there is no community transmission of coronavirus in the state. After the allegation, the government set up a reconciliation committee to look into alleged mismatch of coronavirus deaths. However, the Chief Minister, a day later, jumped in defense of his administration claiming manipullting of figures is impossible when a daily bulletin is being issued on the basis of daily testing, recoveries, infections, deaths and active cases. "How it (deaths) could be shown less ? if somebody dies of COVID-19, the media shows (visuals) and people come to know. This cannot be hidden. For the government, it serves no good (purpose) by hiding deaths," he said. The reconciliation committee, comprises doctors from the Directorate of Medical and Rural Health Services and Directorate of Medical Education and the city corporation; the panel will look into the question of alleged discrepancies in deaths. The reconciliation initiative was taken up by the government also in the wake of a complaint by an NGO to authorities claiming that three COVID-19 deaths were not recorded. (With inputs from PTI)

There's no community spread and fatalities mismatch: claims K Palaniswami

On Monday, Tamil Nadu yet again witnessed a record number of coronavirus cases, 1,562 to take the overall count to 33,229. For several days, the TN is the worst-hit state in the country after Maharashtra.&nbsp;

However, compared to the number of cases it has reported, the state has seen very few deaths, 286, which means the fatality rate is less than one per cent when nationwide rate stands at about 2.8 per cent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-unlock-10-india-reports-highest-single-day-covid-19-cases-death-toll-over-7000-304142">Amid Unlock 1.0, India reports highest single-day COVID-19 cases; death toll over 7,000</a>

For understanding what the situation is like WION talked to top medical officials in Tamil Nadu, who are leading the fight against COVID-19.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-covid-19-shopping-malls-restaurants-temples-now-open-304133/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Dr P. Vasanthamani, Dean of Government Kilpauk Medical College in Chennai, one of the earliest coronavirus facilities in the state, told us that the main reason behind a lot of cases in the state is because it tests more. She also said that Chennai is "thickly populated, crowded" and have slums because of which a majority of cases in the state are from Chennai. &nbsp;

Dr Raju, deputy director of a coronavirus testing lab in Chennai, backs this point and adds: "The reason is...that Tamil Nadu govt is scrupulously following the guidelines issued by the govt of India, ICMR".&nbsp;

Raju also said that they knew very early that there would be a huge demand for testing, so they started making preparations for it and the officials dedicatedly ensured that testing capacity in the state improves.

Recent reports have claimed that because of a high number of cases in the state, hospitals are struggling to admit patients as they are running out of beds, ventilators, and other treatment-related equipment.&nbsp;

Vasanthamani denies these reports and said, "there is no shortage of beds".&nbsp;

She explained that all city medical college hospitals are admitting only severe and very severe cases.&nbsp;

Vasanthamani said that there are four levels for managing coronavirus patients, adding that mild and asymptomatic and mild cases are admitted in COVID Care Centres and mild and symptomatic patients are given treatment in screening centers.&nbsp;

"In Chennai itself, 20,000-30,000 beds are ready for admission," the dean said.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu has also been praised for controlling the number of fatalities despite being the state having second-most number of cases.&nbsp;

Raju has an answer for this and he explains that their strategy is to focus on high-risk patients, who require hospitalistion.&nbsp;

Vasanthamani said that for the treatment of moderate and severe patients, they recently started an early protocol, called Low-Molecular-Weight Herapin, under which many patients got recovered.&nbsp;

"So if you put 100 patients under this protocol, almost 95 patients recover within a day or five days", adding that this is why the death rate is less.&nbsp;

On Monday, Tamil Nadu yet again witnessed a record number of coronavirus cases, 1,562 to take the overall count to 33,229. For several days, the TN is the worst-hit state in the country after Maharashtra.

On Monday, Tamil Nadu yet again witnessed a record number of coronavirus cases, 1,562 to take the overall count to 33,229. For several days, the TN is the worst-hit state in the country after Maharashtra. However, compared to the number of cases it has reported, the state has seen very few deaths, 286, which means the fatality rate is less than one per cent when nationwide rate stands at about 2.8 per cent. Also read | Amid Unlock 1.0, India reports highest single-day COVID-19 cases; death toll over 7,000 For understanding what the situation is like WION talked to top medical officials in Tamil Nadu, who are leading the fight against COVID-19. Watch | Dr P. Vasanthamani, Dean of Government Kilpauk Medical College in Chennai, one of the earliest coronavirus facilities in the state, told us that the main reason behind a lot of cases in the state is because it tests more. She also said that Chennai is "thickly populated, crowded" and have slums because of which a majority of cases in the state are from Chennai. Dr Raju, deputy director of a coronavirus testing lab in Chennai, backs this point and adds: "The reason is...that Tamil Nadu govt is scrupulously following the guidelines issued by the govt of India, ICMR". Raju also said that they knew very early that there would be a huge demand for testing, so they started making preparations for it and the officials dedicatedly ensured that testing capacity in the state improves. Recent reports have claimed that because of a high number of cases in the state, hospitals are struggling to admit patients as they are running out of beds, ventilators, and other treatment-related equipment. Vasanthamani denies these reports and said, "there is no shortage of beds". She explained that all city medical college hospitals are admitting only severe and very severe cases. Vasanthamani said that there are four levels for managing coronavirus patients, adding that mild and asymptomatic and mild cases are admitted in COVID Care Centres and mild and symptomatic patients are given treatment in screening centers. "In Chennai itself, 20,000-30,000 beds are ready for admission," the dean said. Tamil Nadu has also been praised for controlling the number of fatalities despite being the state having second-most number of cases. Raju has an answer for this and he explains that their strategy is to focus on high-risk patients, who require hospitalistion. Vasanthamani said that for the treatment of moderate and severe patients, they recently started an early protocol, called Low-Molecular-Weight Herapin, under which many patients got recovered. "So if you put 100 patients under this protocol, almost 95 patients recover within a day or five days", adding that this is why the death rate is less.

More infections, lower fatality rate: Medical officials explain coronavirus situation in Tamil Nadu

When the whole world says ‘desperate times desperate measures’, there are a few among us go the extra mile to care for others, while making them feel safe and happy. The noble initiative of a Chennai-based entrepreneur to fly seven of his migrant workers back home is winning hearts. The group of workers have not only been flown home at his expense, but they were also paid their salaries during the lockdown, despite the business being closed owing to the situation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/work-from-home-the-new-normal-companies-offer-furniture-gadget-allowance-to-employees-302556" hreflang="en">Work from home the new normal: Companies offer furniture, gadget allowance to employees</a>

Jain Packers and Movers in Chennai was badly hit after the pan-India lockdown was imposed in late March and their work came to a standstill. But the company has been supporting their staff (mostly unskilled laborers) throughout the lockdown.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“April-May is the peak season for our business and the lockdown happened, but our workers were stuck in Chennai, away from their families. Initially, two members took the&nbsp;&nbsp;Shramik Special trains back home. However, on hearing about their unpleasant journey, we decided to book flight tickets for the rest of them”, Sandeep Jain told WION.

During the lockdown, we were accommodated in an apartment near their office and provided the essentials and paid salaries on time, said the Manager Sanjay Kumar. “Our owner took care of all our expenses and needs during the lockdown and no he has also flown us back home. He even dropped us at the Chennai airport in his own vehicle. We took the flight Monday morning flight, landed in Varanasi by noon and reached home in Prayagraj by night, we are so relieved to see our families after a long time” Sanjay told WION.

The asked on what led him to book flight tickets for his workers, Sandeep jain said that, “they have come here believing us and these men have been with me since the time I started the business four years ago, this is the least we can do for them. When they called me after reaching home, taking their first flight, they were nearly speechless and their joy was palpable”.

The company plans to have their workers back only by late August or September, as the workers can find temporary work in the farms back in their villages after the rains. Sandeep adds that usually the workers come back only after two-month leave, but after he flew them back home, they have agreed to return as soon as the company wants them to.

“The plight of lakhs of workers is quite worrisome, it would be nice if we entrepreneurs can do our bit and help our workers and their families tide out of this crisis at the soonest. It might be a financial burden for us, especially when revenue has gone dry, but we must support them in whatever ways possible”, Sandeep added.

When the whole world says ‘desperate times desperate measures’, there are a few among us go the extra mile to care for others, while making them feel safe and happy.

When the whole world says ‘desperate times desperate measures’, there are a few among us go the extra mile to care for others, while making them feel safe and happy. The noble initiative of a Chennai-based entrepreneur to fly seven of his migrant workers back home is winning hearts. The group of workers have not only been flown home at his expense, but they were also paid their salaries during the lockdown, despite the business being closed owing to the situation. Also read: Work from home the new normal: Companies offer furniture, gadget allowance to employees Jain Packers and Movers in Chennai was badly hit after the pan-India lockdown was imposed in late March and their work came to a standstill. But the company has been supporting their staff (mostly unskilled laborers) throughout the lockdown. “April-May is the peak season for our business and the lockdown happened, but our workers were stuck in Chennai, away from their families. Initially, two members took the Shramik Special trains back home. However, on hearing about their unpleasant journey, we decided to book flight tickets for the rest of them”, Sandeep Jain told WION. During the lockdown, we were accommodated in an apartment near their office and provided the essentials and paid salaries on time, said the Manager Sanjay Kumar. “Our owner took care of all our expenses and needs during the lockdown and no he has also flown us back home. He even dropped us at the Chennai airport in his own vehicle. We took the flight Monday morning flight, landed in Varanasi by noon and reached home in Prayagraj by night, we are so relieved to see our families after a long time” Sanjay told WION. The asked on what led him to book flight tickets for his workers, Sandeep jain said that, “they have come here believing us and these men have been with me since the time I started the business four years ago, this is the least we can do for them. When they called me after reaching home, taking their first flight, they were nearly speechless and their joy was palpable”. The company plans to have their workers back only by late August or September, as the workers can find temporary work in the farms back in their villages after the rains. Sandeep adds that usually the workers come back only after two-month leave, but after he flew them back home, they have agreed to return as soon as the company wants them to. “The plight of lakhs of workers is quite worrisome, it would be nice if we entrepreneurs can do our bit and help our workers and their families tide out of this crisis at the soonest. It might be a financial burden for us, especially when revenue has gone dry, but we must support them in whatever ways possible”, Sandeep added.

Chennai-bizman flies his workers back home to Varanasi, leaves them speechless

Mounting concerns about the loss of livelihood, not having enough money and the pain of being away from loved ones is a painful reality that many guest workers face daily during the lockdown.&nbsp;

Most of the workers remain in cities that are far from their hometowns, while a few try all possible means to return home during a nationwide lockdown. But a relief camp in Chennai, run by the Home Guards and the Guru Nanak Educational Society offers nutritious food, sports, entertainment and above all, a safe place to stay, during the hard times.&nbsp;

The camp was started on 30th March at the Guru Nanak College in Chennai’s Velachery Area. The 25-acre campus houses 377 workers who hail from Odisha and were working as loaders in the heavy industries in and around Chennai. The camp doesn’t stop with providing accommodation but ensures the holistic well being of the guest workers.&nbsp;

“They are served three nutritious meals with tea in between, there is also one-hour physical exercise, yoga session in the evening, there are some motivational talks to keep them happy and sound. We have also made arrangements for two TVs and during the nights we use a projector to screen some movies for their entertainment” Sanjay Bhansali, Area Commander, Home Guards North told WION.&nbsp;

<img alt="Chennai" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a3ff3138-588b-4ee9-b97b-74a15ff6a41e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/12_0.jpg" />

While the camp is being run by the Home Guards and the Guru Nanak Educational Society, the government and civic authorities arrange regular doctor visits and disinfectant spraying to maintain the facility clean. The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, &nbsp;top Police Officials and also opposition leaders have also inspected the camp and lauded the efforts to keep the workers safe and healthy.&nbsp;

“We have made all arrangements for their basic needs and have ensured the supply of toiletries, bed sheets, towels, and some shirts and dhotis. There’s adequate social distancing also being maintained as they are segregated by age and only 10 members sleep on the benches in the large classrooms, that accommodate over 60 students. Everyone wears a mask and we also don’t allow outsiders within the campus”, Bhansali added.&nbsp;

The camp is manned by 50 members of the Home Guard, who work in three shifts and take care of all the needs right from cooking to the procurement of essentials. Over 1800 Home Guards are posted across the City of Chennai on daily duty, they are involved in assisting the police at marketplaces, checkpoints, ration shops etc.&nbsp;

Besides the activities in the camp, the Home Guards have also arranged doctors and other persons who are conversant in Odiya to address the workers regularly. “While the workers are naturally longing to return home to their loved ones, we are trying and providing them the maximum that we can to ensure that our camp is as comfortable as we can make it” Bhansali added.

Mounting concerns about the loss of livelihood, not having enough money and the pain of being away from loved ones is a painful reality that many guest workers face daily during the lockdown.

Mounting concerns about the loss of livelihood, not having enough money and the pain of being away from loved ones is a painful reality that many guest workers face daily during the lockdown. Most of the workers remain in cities that are far from their hometowns, while a few try all possible means to return home during a nationwide lockdown. But a relief camp in Chennai, run by the Home Guards and the Guru Nanak Educational Society offers nutritious food, sports, entertainment and above all, a safe place to stay, during the hard times. The camp was started on 30th March at the Guru Nanak College in Chennai’s Velachery Area. The 25-acre campus houses 377 workers who hail from Odisha and were working as loaders in the heavy industries in and around Chennai. The camp doesn’t stop with providing accommodation but ensures the holistic well being of the guest workers. “They are served three nutritious meals with tea in between, there is also one-hour physical exercise, yoga session in the evening, there are some motivational talks to keep them happy and sound. We have also made arrangements for two TVs and during the nights we use a projector to screen some movies for their entertainment” Sanjay Bhansali, Area Commander, Home Guards North told WION. While the camp is being run by the Home Guards and the Guru Nanak Educational Society, the government and civic authorities arrange regular doctor visits and disinfectant spraying to maintain the facility clean. The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, top Police Officials and also opposition leaders have also inspected the camp and lauded the efforts to keep the workers safe and healthy. “We have made all arrangements for their basic needs and have ensured the supply of toiletries, bed sheets, towels, and some shirts and dhotis. There’s adequate social distancing also being maintained as they are segregated by age and only 10 members sleep on the benches in the large classrooms, that accommodate over 60 students. Everyone wears a mask and we also don’t allow outsiders within the campus”, Bhansali added. The camp is manned by 50 members of the Home Guard, who work in three shifts and take care of all the needs right from cooking to the procurement of essentials. Over 1800 Home Guards are posted across the City of Chennai on daily duty, they are involved in assisting the police at marketplaces, checkpoints, ration shops etc. Besides the activities in the camp, the Home Guards have also arranged doctors and other persons who are conversant in Odiya to address the workers regularly. “While the workers are naturally longing to return home to their loved ones, we are trying and providing them the maximum that we can to ensure that our camp is as comfortable as we can make it” Bhansali added.

This relief camp for guest workers in Chennai is a home away from home

Cops in Tamil Nadu stopped three young men who were travelling on a single bike without mask. Tamil Nadu police did a prank, which they are unlikely to forget for the rest of their lives.

Tamil Nadu police goes extra, pranks lockdown violators to teach a lesson

The COVID-19 new cases in Tamil Nadu touched the three-figure mark again, in last 24 hours 3 new deaths have been reported in the state. Tamil Nadu recorded 251 new cases in 72 hours.

Tamil Nadu records 251 new COVID-19 cases in 72 hours | WION Ground Report

The Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu has seen a rapid rise in COVID-19 cases and the situation worsened after 1100 participants returned after Jamat meet in Delhi. Watch WION Ground Report:

WION Ground Report: Tamil Nadu 2nd highest COVID-19 cases,185 new cases in 48 hours

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