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The Union Home Ministry on Saturday issued the Unlock 4 guidelines under which metro trains will be allowed to resume services in a graded manner. Political, social and religious congregations of up to 100 people will also be permitted from September 21, the government order said.
However, schools, colleges, educational and coaching institutions will remain closed for students till September 30, with some relaxations for students of classes 9 to 12.
In a significant directive, the Home Ministry said that state governments shall not impose any local lockdown outside the containment zones without prior consultation with the central government.
India's COVID-19 tally crossed 34-lakh mark with a spike of 76,472 new infections in the last 24 hours, according to data from the Union Health Ministry this morning.
An additional 1,021 new deaths brought the overall death count to 62,550.
The number of new cases in India on Thursday was the highest in the world, crossing that of the United States.
Though the country is recording around 1,000 deaths a day from the coronavirus, roughly the same as the US and Brazil, India is far better than these countries when we consider the number of deaths per million people.
Here are the Highlights Coronavirus Pandemic:
Brazil surpasses 120,000 Covid-19 deaths
Just over six months after registering its first case of the new coronavirus, Brazil crossed the grim threshold of 120,000 people killed by Covid-19 Saturday, with no end in sight to the crisis.
The country of 212 million people has now registered 120,262 deaths from the virus and 3,846,153 infections, the health ministry said in its daily update.
Brazil is just the second country to surpass a death toll of 120,000 in the pandemic, after the United States, where the number killed is now more than 182,000.
Kerala reports 2,397 new cases, 6 deaths due to COVID-19: Pinarayi Vijayan
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday said that 2,397 new cases of COVID-19 and six deaths due to the viral infection were reported in Kerala in the last 24 hours.
"Of the new cases, 2,137 people were infected through contact and the source of 197 cases was not traceable," the Chief Minister said.
He said 2,225 patients under treatment for the disease have recovered today, taking the total number of recoveries from COVID-19 infection in the state to 48,083.
India has one of lowest global COVID-19 fatality rates, 0.29% cases on ventilators: Harsh Vardhan
India has one of the lowest global COVID fatality rates and is working on the coronavirus vaccine development, Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said on Saturday.
The minister, who chaired 20th meeting of Group of Ministers on COVID-19, said health infrastructure in the country has been amply strengthened. According to the Health Ministry, India has reported 26,48,998 total COIVD-19 cases and 62,550 deaths.
Mr Vardhan informed the GOM that country''s Case Fatality Rate (CFR) is at its lowest at 1.81 per cent and the recovery rate has climbed to 76.47 per cent.
"As of now, only 0.29 per cent of cases are on ventilators, 1.93 per cent on ICU and only 2.88 percent of cases are on oxygen," he said.
Record 14 fatalities push Odisha's COVID-19 deaths to 470; 3,252 new cases reported
Odisha registered its highest single-day spike in COVID-19 deaths on Saturday as 14 patients succumbed to the infection, while 3,252 new cases pushed the state's coronavirus tally towards the one lakh-mark, a health official said.
The fresh fatalities took Odisha's coronavirus deaths 470, while the new cases pushed the state's tally to 97,920, he said.
4,070 new coronavirus cases in Pune district, 73 deaths
Pune district reported 4,070 new coronavirus cases since previous evening which took its case count to 1,64,525, a health official said on Saturday. The deaths in the district reached 4,010 with 73 patients dying due to the viral infection, he said.
Of 4,070 new cases, 1,968 were found in the Pune Municipal Corporation limits, which has recorded 92,839 cases so far. At the same time, 1,657 patients were discharged from the hospitals in the city, the official said.
Tamil Nadu reports 6,352 new COVID-19 cases, tally rises to 4,15,590
Tamil Nadu reported 6,352 new COVID-19 cases and 87 deaths on Saturday, according to the state Health Department. The total number of coronavirus cases stands at 4,15,590 in the state.
Of which, there are 2,726 active cases, 7,137 deaths while 3,55,727 people were discharged, said the health department.
With 1,285 new COVID-19 cases recorded in Chennai alone, the tally rises to 1,33,173 including 13,653 active cases.
Jharkhand registers 1,299 new COVID-19 cases, 9 fresh fatalities
Jharkhand's COVID-19 caseload rose to 37,112 on Saturday as 1,299 more people tested positive for the infection, while nine fresh fatalities pushed the state's coronavirus death toll to 398, a health bulletin said.
The fresh infections have pushed the number of active COVID-19 cases in the state to 11,498, while 25,216 people have recovered so far, it said. A total of 19,993 samples have been tested for COVID-19 in the last 24 hours, the bulletin added.
Assam registers 2,427 new COVID-19 cases, 3 fresh fatalities
Assam's COVID-19 caseload rose to 1,03,794 on Saturday as 2,427 more people tested positive for the infection, while three more fatalities pushed the state's coronavirus death toll to 289, Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said.
Kamrup Metropolitan district, under which Guwahati falls, has reported the highest number of new infections at 459, followed by Dibrugarh (177), Cachar (158) and Jorhat (136), Mr Sarma said.
Coronavirus news: Onam is festival of hope, should be celebrated following COVID-19 protocols, says Kerala Chief Minister
Onam is a festival of hope and will be celebrated in Kerala following all COVID-19 protocols, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday.
Addressing the media, the Chief Minister said, "Onam festival is taking place this time when the state is witnessing a spike in COVID-19 cases. Onam is a festival that gives hope for the future. We should all celebrate Onam following all COVID-19 protocols. All public gatherings and public celebrations should be avoided."
He added that considering the rush in shops in connection with the Onam festival, all shops have been asked to start ''Break-the-Chain'' counters where hand sanitizer should be provided. Police have been directed to strictly enforce crowd control measures.
Mr Vijayan also updated the media about the status of COVID-19 situation in the state and said 2,397 new COVID-19 cases and 6 deaths reported in Kerala on Saturday.
Onam is a festival of hope and will be celebrated in Kerala following all COVID-19 protocols, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday.
Addressing the media, the Chief Minister said, "Onam festival is taking place this time when the state is witnessing a spike in COVID-19 cases. Onam is a festival that gives hope for the future. We should all celebrate Onam following all COVID-19 protocols. All public gatherings and public celebrations should be avoided."
He added that considering the rush in shops in connection with the Onam festival, all shops have been asked to start ''Break-the-Chain'' counters where hand sanitizer should be provided. Police have been directed to strictly enforce crowd control measures.
Mr Vijayan also updated the media about the status of COVID-19 situation in the state and said 2,397 new COVID-19 cases and 6 deaths reported in Kerala on Saturday.
No E-Pass Needed: Unlock 4 Opens Inter-State Travel For All People, Goods
As per the new guidelines, meant to start more activities outside containment zones amid the coronavirus pandemic, there will be no restriction on inter-state or inter-district movement of people and goods.
Unlock 4 rules, however, do not say anything about the quarantine policy which state governments have been altering in keeping with their Covid caseload.
International air travel of passengers, except as permitted by the Home Ministry, also remains suspended for now.
Starting September 1, people will no longer need to get e-passes or register their details on government websites to travel anywhere within the country, rules issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs as part of Unlock 4 state.
Unlock 4 rules, however, do not say anything about the quarantine policy which state governments have been altering in keeping with their Covid caseload.
International air travel of passengers, except as permitted by the Home Ministry, also remains suspended for now.
COVID-19: Kerala reports 2,397 new cases, 6 deaths due, says chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday said that 2,397 new cases of COVID-19 and six deaths due to the viral infection were reported in Kerala in the last 24 hours.
"Of the new cases, 2,137 people were infected through contact and the source of 197 cases was not traceable," the Chief Minister said.
He said 2,225 patients under treatment for the disease have recovered today, taking the total number of recoveries from COVID-19 infection in the state to 48,083.
"In the state currently 23,277 patients are undergoing treatment for COVID-19 in hospitals, a total of 1,95,927 people are under observation across Kerala, 1,76,822 are under home or institutional quarantine and 19,105 are in hospitals," Mr Vijayan said.
The Chief Minister said COVID-19 related death toll in the state has now reached 280.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday said that 2,397 new cases of COVID-19 and six deaths due to the viral infection were reported in Kerala in the last 24 hours.
"Of the new cases, 2,137 people were infected through contact and the source of 197 cases was not traceable," the Chief Minister said.
He said 2,225 patients under treatment for the disease have recovered today, taking the total number of recoveries from COVID-19 infection in the state to 48,083.
"In the state currently 23,277 patients are undergoing treatment for COVID-19 in hospitals, a total of 1,95,927 people are under observation across Kerala, 1,76,822 are under home or institutional quarantine and 19,105 are in hospitals," Mr Vijayan said.
The Chief Minister said COVID-19 related death toll in the state has now reached 280.
COVID-19: Single-day recoveries outnumber new cases in Bengal
West Bengal on Saturday reported that 3,312 patients recovered from COVID-19, outnumbering new cases that stood at 3,012, according to an official bulletin.
So far, 1,27,644 people have recovered in the state, taking the discharge rate to 81.42 per cent, the bulletin issued by the Health Department said.
The state's tally of COVID-19 cases was at 1,56,766, it said.
The count rose to 3,126 after 53 people died in the last 24 hours, the bulletin said.
There are 25,996 active cases in the state at present, it said.
Since Friday, 43,232 samples have been tested in the state for COVID-19.
West Bengal on Saturday reported that 3,312 patients recovered from COVID-19, outnumbering new cases that stood at 3,012, according to an official bulletin.
So far, 1,27,644 people have recovered in the state, taking the discharge rate to 81.42 per cent, the bulletin issued by the Health Department said.
The state's tally of COVID-19 cases was at 1,56,766, it said.
The count rose to 3,126 after 53 people died in the last 24 hours, the bulletin said.
There are 25,996 active cases in the state at present, it said.
Since Friday, 43,232 samples have been tested in the state for COVID-19.
COVID-19: Delhi reports 1,954 new cases
Delhi has reported 1,954 new COVID-19 cases and 15 deaths in the last 24 hours, according to the Delhi Government on Saturday.
With this, the total number of positive cases in the national capital surged to 1,71,366. There are 14,040 active cases, 1,52,922 recoveries and 4,404 deaths, stated the bulletin issued by Delhi Health Department.
The bulletin further stated that as many as 6,597 RTPCR/CBNAAT/TrueNat tests and 15,407 Rapid antigen tests were conducted today.
So far, 15,48,659 tests have been conducted and the Tests Per Million (TPM) stands at 81,508, added the Health Department.
Delhi has reported 1,954 new COVID-19 cases and 15 deaths in the last 24 hours, according to the Delhi Government on Saturday.
With this, the total number of positive cases in the national capital surged to 1,71,366. There are 14,040 active cases, 1,52,922 recoveries and 4,404 deaths, stated the bulletin issued by Delhi Health Department.
The bulletin further stated that as many as 6,597 RTPCR/CBNAAT/TrueNat tests and 15,407 Rapid antigen tests were conducted today.
So far, 15,48,659 tests have been conducted and the Tests Per Million (TPM) stands at 81,508, added the Health Department.
COVID-19: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath asks officials to increase daily tests to 1,50,000
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday asked state government officials to increase the number of COVID tests from 1,48,000 to 1,50,000 daily.
At the meeting, the chief minister also asked officials to have regular communications with COVID-19 patients in home isolation.
"The COVID-19 tests in the state must be increased to 1,50,000 from 1,48,000 daily," he said.
Asking officials to meet regularly, he added, "All the District Magistrates and Chief Medical Officers should meet regularly in the COVID-19 Hospital in the morning and in the Integrated Command and Control Centre in the evening."
"Officials must have regular communication with COVID-19 patients living in home isolation. Their health information must be obtained," Yogi Adityanath added.
Among the other instructions issued by the CM, he asked officials to make sure that farmers do not face any problems in getting compost.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday asked state government officials to increase the number of COVID tests from 1,48,000 to 1,50,000 daily.
At the meeting, the chief minister also asked officials to have regular communications with COVID-19 patients in home isolation.
"The COVID-19 tests in the state must be increased to 1,50,000 from 1,48,000 daily," he said.
Asking officials to meet regularly, he added, "All the District Magistrates and Chief Medical Officers should meet regularly in the COVID-19 Hospital in the morning and in the Integrated Command and Control Centre in the evening."
"Officials must have regular communication with COVID-19 patients living in home isolation. Their health information must be obtained," Yogi Adityanath added.
Among the other instructions issued by the CM, he asked officials to make sure that farmers do not face any problems in getting compost.
COVID-19: Ahmedabad's cases rise by 164 to 31,177; 3 die
The COVID-19 count in Ahmedabad district rose to 31,177 on Saturday with addition of 164 new cases, Gujarat health department said.
With three persons succumbing to the viral infection, the count went up to 1,724, it said.
A total of 160 patients were discharged in the day, taking the number of recoveries to 26,070 in the district, the department said in its release.
Of the total 164 new infections, Ahmedabad city reported 143 cases while rural areas added 21 patients to its tally.
All the 3 deaths were reported from the city, it said.
As per the COVID-19 bulletin released by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, the city's recovery rate stood at 84.5 per cent with 24,728 patients discharged so far.
At 2,883, active cases accounted for 9.8 per cent of the total cases, it said.
The COVID-19 count in Ahmedabad district rose to 31,177 on Saturday with addition of 164 new cases, Gujarat health department said.
With three persons succumbing to the viral infection, the count went up to 1,724, it said.
A total of 160 patients were discharged in the day, taking the number of recoveries to 26,070 in the district, the department said in its release.
Of the total 164 new infections, Ahmedabad city reported 143 cases while rural areas added 21 patients to its tally.
All the 3 deaths were reported from the city, it said.
As per the COVID-19 bulletin released by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, the city's recovery rate stood at 84.5 per cent with 24,728 patients discharged so far.
At 2,883, active cases accounted for 9.8 per cent of the total cases, it said.
COVID-19: Goa records 547 new cases; tally rises to 16,553
With the detection of 547 fresh infections on Saturday, Goa's COVID-19 caseload rose to 16,553, an official from the health department said.
At least 433 patients were discharged after recovering from the deadly infection, taking the number of recoveries to 12,729, the official said.
Apart from this, three patients, including two senior citizens, succumbed to the infection on Saturday, he said.
The latest casualties have taken the toll to 178 in the coastal state, he added.
Goa's COVID-19 figures are as follows: Positive cases 16,553, new cases 547, deaths 178, discharged 12,729, active cases 3,646, samples tested till date 1,95,084.
With the detection of 547 fresh infections on Saturday, Goa's COVID-19 caseload rose to 16,553, an official from the health department said.
At least 433 patients were discharged after recovering from the deadly infection, taking the number of recoveries to 12,729, the official said.
Apart from this, three patients, including two senior citizens, succumbed to the infection on Saturday, he said.
The latest casualties have taken the toll to 178 in the coastal state, he added.
Goa's COVID-19 figures are as follows: Positive cases 16,553, new cases 547, deaths 178, discharged 12,729, active cases 3,646, samples tested till date 1,95,084.
Coronavirus news: Ramp-up efforts to contain COVID-19 spread, follow SOPs, Centre tells Union Territories
The Centre on Saturday advised union territories to ramp-up efforts to contain the COVID-19 spread by sticking to the rules for prevention of the disease as well as following standard operating procedures (SOPs) in its treatment, a government statement said.
The directions were issued on Saturday during a review meeting, where Home Affairs and Health secretaries Ajay Bhalla and Rajesh Bhushan took stock of the measures undertaken by the union territories to contain the coronavirus spread, it said.
The meeting was attended by Union Territories of Puducherry, Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, through video conferencing in which senior central government officers were also present.
"The Union home secretary as well as secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, asked senior officers of all the UTs to ensure that the administrative officers, medical professionals, para-medical staff and other people associated with containing the spread of COVID-19 and management of the COVID-19 situation work in close tandem," the statement said.
The Centre on Saturday advised union territories to ramp-up efforts to contain the COVID-19 spread by sticking to the rules for prevention of the disease as well as following standard operating procedures (SOPs) in its treatment, a government statement said.
The directions were issued on Saturday during a review meeting, where Home Affairs and Health secretaries Ajay Bhalla and Rajesh Bhushan took stock of the measures undertaken by the union territories to contain the coronavirus spread, it said.
The meeting was attended by Union Territories of Puducherry, Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, through video conferencing in which senior central government officers were also present.
"The Union home secretary as well as secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, asked senior officers of all the UTs to ensure that the administrative officers, medical professionals, para-medical staff and other people associated with containing the spread of COVID-19 and management of the COVID-19 situation work in close tandem," the statement said.
Coronavirus news: Record 16,867 new cases in Maharashtra, 328 deaths
Maharashtra on Saturday reported a single-day highest spike of 16,867 coronavirus cases which pushed its case tally to 7,64,281, the state health department said.
With 328 new fatalities, the death count due to the pandemic reached 24,103, it said in a release.
The earlier highest one-day increase in number of patients was 14,888 on August 26.
There are 1,85,131 active cases. 11,541 patients were discharged during the day, taking total recoveries to 5,54,711.
In state capital Mumbai, 1,432 new cases and 31 deaths were reported. The total number of COVID-19 cases in the city rose to 1,43,389 and death count to 7,596.
Maharashtra on Saturday reported a single-day highest spike of 16,867 coronavirus cases which pushed its case tally to 7,64,281, the state health department said.
With 328 new fatalities, the death count due to the pandemic reached 24,103, it said in a release.
The earlier highest one-day increase in number of patients was 14,888 on August 26.
There are 1,85,131 active cases. 11,541 patients were discharged during the day, taking total recoveries to 5,54,711.
In state capital Mumbai, 1,432 new cases and 31 deaths were reported. The total number of COVID-19 cases in the city rose to 1,43,389 and death count to 7,596.
Just In | In West Bengal, 3,312 COVID-19 patients recover on a single day, outnumbering 3,012 new cases; 53 more people die, reports news agency PTI.
Unlock 4: What Will Reopen, What Remains ShutNew guidelines of "unlock" were released today by the government which will ease more restrictions, including metro trains which will be allowed to restart in a phased manner from September 7. Schools and other educational institutions will remain shut as the coronavirus pandemic shows no signs of slowing down in the country." itemprop="description
COVID-19: Open-Air Theatres Allowed To Run In Unlock4, Indoor Halls To Remain Shut
In the fourth phase of unlocking amid the coronavirus pandemic, the Centre has announced new steps to ease restrictions and allowed open-air theatres to start operating from September 21.
However, cinema halls will continue to remain shut to tackle the outbreak of COVID-19.
The decision was announced after the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued new guidelines today for opening up of more activities in areas outside the containment zones.
The fourth phase of unlocking will come into effect from September 1 in which the process of phased re-opening of activities has been extended further. The new guidelines are based on feedback received from states and union territories, and extensive consultations held with related central ministries and departments, the MHA said.
In the fourth phase of unlocking amid the coronavirus pandemic, the Centre has announced new steps to ease restrictions and allowed open-air theatres to start operating from September 21.
However, cinema halls will continue to remain shut to tackle the outbreak of COVID-19.
The decision was announced after the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued new guidelines today for opening up of more activities in areas outside the containment zones.
The fourth phase of unlocking will come into effect from September 1 in which the process of phased re-opening of activities has been extended further. The new guidelines are based on feedback received from states and union territories, and extensive consultations held with related central ministries and departments, the MHA said.
Unlock 4: Metro Rail To Be Allowed From September 7 In Graded MannerMetro train services can resume in a phased manner from September 7 and social and other functions will be allowed with a limit of 100 people, the central government said on Saturday as it announced new steps to ease COVID-19 restrictions as part of the fourth phase of unlocking." itemprop="description
Just In | Unlock 4 guidelines out: Metro rail to be allowed from September 7 in graded manner; schools, colleges to stay shut
COVID-19: Enforcement teams formed in districts for strict implementation of guidelines in Delhi
With Coronavirus cases increasing in the national capital, authorities have formed enforcement teams in each district of Delhi to ensure strict implementation of COVID-19 guidelines.
The move comes days after Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced that stringent enforcement of COVID-19 guidelines would be ensured and had said everyone should wear a face mask and maintain social distancing at public places.
Each enforcement team will have an executive magistrate, and revenue and police personnel, said an official, adding that awareness teams have also been formed to encourage people to follow anti-coronavirus measures.
An official in the Central Delhi district said that nine dedicated enforcement teams have been constituted in the district with three teams in each sub-division under the supervision of their respective sub-divisional magistrates.
With Coronavirus cases increasing in the national capital, authorities have formed enforcement teams in each district of Delhi to ensure strict implementation of COVID-19 guidelines.
The move comes days after Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced that stringent enforcement of COVID-19 guidelines would be ensured and had said everyone should wear a face mask and maintain social distancing at public places.
Each enforcement team will have an executive magistrate, and revenue and police personnel, said an official, adding that awareness teams have also been formed to encourage people to follow anti-coronavirus measures.
An official in the Central Delhi district said that nine dedicated enforcement teams have been constituted in the district with three teams in each sub-division under the supervision of their respective sub-divisional magistrates.
COVID-19: Over 6,000 cases reported in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu reported over 6,000 fresh coronavirus cases on Saturday, pushing the overall tally beyond 4.15 lakh as the number of deaths stood at 7,137, including 87 new fatalities.
The state reported new infections in excess of 6,000 after quite some time, as it logged in excess of only 5,000 daily cases for the past many days.
As many as 6,352 cases, including those who had returned from domestic and foreign destinations, pushed the total number of infections so far in Tamil Nadu to 4,15,590.
A government bulletin said 6,045 people were discharged after recovery today, with the total number of those cured of the dreaded virus being 3,55,727.
Subsequently, there were 52,726 active cases, it said.
As many as 44,99,670 people have undergone RT-PCR tests so far, including 78,973 today.
Chennai continued to top the districts in both daily cases, at 1,285 on Saturday, as well as the cumulative numbers, which was 1,33,173.
Tamil Nadu reported over 6,000 fresh coronavirus cases on Saturday, pushing the overall tally beyond 4.15 lakh as the number of deaths stood at 7,137, including 87 new fatalities.
The state reported new infections in excess of 6,000 after quite some time, as it logged in excess of only 5,000 daily cases for the past many days.
As many as 6,352 cases, including those who had returned from domestic and foreign destinations, pushed the total number of infections so far in Tamil Nadu to 4,15,590.
A government bulletin said 6,045 people were discharged after recovery today, with the total number of those cured of the dreaded virus being 3,55,727.
Subsequently, there were 52,726 active cases, it said.
As many as 44,99,670 people have undergone RT-PCR tests so far, including 78,973 today.
Chennai continued to top the districts in both daily cases, at 1,285 on Saturday, as well as the cumulative numbers, which was 1,33,173.
COVID-19: One more death in Himachal Pradesh, 93 new cases
Himachal Pradesh on Saturday recorded 93 fresh COVID-19 cases, taking the infection tally to 5,731, while the death toll from the disease climbed to 33 with one more fatality.
The number of active COVID-19 cases in the state now stands at 1,500, Additional Chief Secretary (Health) R D Dhiman said.
A 56-year-old woman of Bhawarna village in Palampur tehsil of Kangra district succumbed to the infection at Tanda Medical College, Kangra chief medical officer Dr Gurdarshan Gupta said.
She was also suffering from cancer and was undergoing treatment in Punjab. The woman in critical condition was admitted at the intensive care unit (ICU) in Tanda Medical College where she tested positive for COVID-19.
Mandi, Kangra and Solan each account for seven of the total COVID-19 deaths in the state, followed by Hamirpur and Chamba (four each), Shimla (two), and Una and Sirmaur (one each).
Of the 93 fresh cases, 34 were reported from Sirmaur, 19 from Una, 14 from Kangra, 12 from Hamirpur, six from Shimla, three each from Chamba and Bilaspur and two from Mandi, Mr Dhiman said.
Himachal Pradesh on Saturday recorded 93 fresh COVID-19 cases, taking the infection tally to 5,731, while the death toll from the disease climbed to 33 with one more fatality.
The number of active COVID-19 cases in the state now stands at 1,500, Additional Chief Secretary (Health) R D Dhiman said.
A 56-year-old woman of Bhawarna village in Palampur tehsil of Kangra district succumbed to the infection at Tanda Medical College, Kangra chief medical officer Dr Gurdarshan Gupta said.
She was also suffering from cancer and was undergoing treatment in Punjab. The woman in critical condition was admitted at the intensive care unit (ICU) in Tanda Medical College where she tested positive for COVID-19.
Mandi, Kangra and Solan each account for seven of the total COVID-19 deaths in the state, followed by Hamirpur and Chamba (four each), Shimla (two), and Una and Sirmaur (one each).
Of the 93 fresh cases, 34 were reported from Sirmaur, 19 from Una, 14 from Kangra, 12 from Hamirpur, six from Shimla, three each from Chamba and Bilaspur and two from Mandi, Mr Dhiman said.
COVID-19: Two Indian vaccine candidates in phase two trials, says NITI Aayog official
Bharat Biotech's vaccine candidate based on inactivated virus procured by ICMR and Zydus Cadila's candidate based on viral DNA are two Indian COVID-19 vaccines in second phase trial, Niti Aayog member Dr Vinod K Paul said on Saturday.
Taking part in the 20th meeting of the High-level Group of Ministers (GoM) on COVID-19 in New Delhi, which was chaired by the Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, he said 29 candidates, including two Indian vaccine candidates, are in clinical trials and six are in third phase trials.
Bharat Biotech's vaccine candidate based on inactivated virus procured by ICMR and Zydus Cadila's candidate based on viral DNA are two Indian COVID-19 vaccines in second phase trial, Niti Aayog member Dr Vinod K Paul said on Saturday.
Taking part in the 20th meeting of the High-level Group of Ministers (GoM) on COVID-19 in New Delhi, which was chaired by the Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, he said 29 candidates, including two Indian vaccine candidates, are in clinical trials and six are in third phase trials.
COVID-19 cases in Goa on rise since Ganesh Chaturthi: Pramod Sawant
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Saturday claimed that Coronavirus cases in the coastal state were on the rise since Ganesh Chaturthi and this was because people violated safety norms during the festival.
There has been a spike in cases, as people did not wear masks or follow social distancing norms during the festivities, Mr Sawant said.
"We have noticed that the number of COVID-19 cases have increased after Ganesh Chaturthi. Daily count was hovering around 150 cases per day before the festival, but now there has been a rise," Mr Sawant said.
Urging people to practise social distancing, the chief minister said he took precautionary measures during his daily work routine.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Saturday claimed that Coronavirus cases in the coastal state were on the rise since Ganesh Chaturthi and this was because people violated safety norms during the festival.
There has been a spike in cases, as people did not wear masks or follow social distancing norms during the festivities, Mr Sawant said.
"We have noticed that the number of COVID-19 cases have increased after Ganesh Chaturthi. Daily count was hovering around 150 cases per day before the festival, but now there has been a rise," Mr Sawant said.
Urging people to practise social distancing, the chief minister said he took precautionary measures during his daily work routine.
Coronavirus news: Harsh Vardhan expresses satisfaction at coordinated COVID-19 control efforts
Expressing satisfaction at the coordinated efforts of the Centre, states and union territories to contain the spread of COVID-19, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Saturday said that the country's Case Fatality Rate is at its lowest 1.81 per cent.
While chairing the 20th meeting of the high-level Group of Ministers (GoM) on COVID-19 in the national capital, Mr Vardhan said, "In the month since the last meeting of GoM on July 31, we have made tremendous strides in containing the disease. As many as 26.4 lakh have already recovered. The country's Case Fatality Rate is at its lowest 1.81 per cent and consecutively Recovery Rate has increased to 76.47 per cent."
He informed the GOM that with creation of sufficient health facilities, the health infrastructure in the country has been amply strengthened. Also, only 0.29 per cent of cases are on ventilators, 1.93 per cent in ICU and only 2.88 per cent of cases are on oxygen.
Expressing satisfaction at the coordinated efforts of the Centre, states and union territories to contain the spread of COVID-19, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Saturday said that the country's Case Fatality Rate is at its lowest 1.81 per cent.
While chairing the 20th meeting of the high-level Group of Ministers (GoM) on COVID-19 in the national capital, Mr Vardhan said, "In the month since the last meeting of GoM on July 31, we have made tremendous strides in containing the disease. As many as 26.4 lakh have already recovered. The country's Case Fatality Rate is at its lowest 1.81 per cent and consecutively Recovery Rate has increased to 76.47 per cent."
He informed the GOM that with creation of sufficient health facilities, the health infrastructure in the country has been amply strengthened. Also, only 0.29 per cent of cases are on ventilators, 1.93 per cent in ICU and only 2.88 per cent of cases are on oxygen.
Tamil Nadu: Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami today held a meeting with health officials, regarding the next phase of #UNLOCK in the state. pic.twitter.com/Q0wo1HAgEo
- ANI (@ANI) August 29, 2020
India's COVID-19 cases, fatalities per million among the lowest in world
For every million population, India's coronavirus cases and fatalities are one of the lowest compared to the global averages, the high-level Group of Ministers (GoM) on COVID-19 was informed on Saturday.
At its 20th meeting held in Delhi on Saturday, the GoM on COVID-19 was briefed on the current status of the coronavirus outbreak in India, the health ministry said.
The meeting was informed that as of Saturday, eight states -- Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha and Telangana -- contribute around 73 per cent of the active caseload.
Seven states -- Maharashtra, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal -- account for 81 per cent of total deaths due to coronavirus infection.
For every million population, India's coronavirus cases and fatalities are one of the lowest compared to the global averages, the high-level Group of Ministers (GoM) on COVID-19 was informed on Saturday.
At its 20th meeting held in Delhi on Saturday, the GoM on COVID-19 was briefed on the current status of the coronavirus outbreak in India, the health ministry said.
The meeting was informed that as of Saturday, eight states -- Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha and Telangana -- contribute around 73 per cent of the active caseload.
Seven states -- Maharashtra, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal -- account for 81 per cent of total deaths due to coronavirus infection.
COVID-19 Tests Cross 4-Crore Mark In India, Says Centre
Crossing another milestone, India has conducted over 4 crore COVID-19 tests since January this year, said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday.
"With focussed, consistent and coordinated efforts led by the Centre and implemented by the State/UT governments, India has set a new landmark of testing 4,04,06,609 people. India has come a long way from conducting just one test from the lab in Pune in January 2020 to crossing 4 crore tests milestone," the press statement from the Ministry read.
Notably, the single-day tests have also seen an upsurge. "Already having achieved the testing capacity of 10 lakh tests per day, 9,28,761 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours."
Crossing another milestone, India has conducted over 4 crore COVID-19 tests since January this year, said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday.
"With focussed, consistent and coordinated efforts led by the Centre and implemented by the State/UT governments, India has set a new landmark of testing 4,04,06,609 people. India has come a long way from conducting just one test from the lab in Pune in January 2020 to crossing 4 crore tests milestone," the press statement from the Ministry read.
Notably, the single-day tests have also seen an upsurge. "Already having achieved the testing capacity of 10 lakh tests per day, 9,28,761 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours."
Coronavirus - Amit Shah Has Recovered, To Be Released From Post Covid Care: AIIMSUnion Home Minister Amit Shah who had been admitted to Delhi's premier All India Institutes of Medical Sciences or AIIMS for "post-covid care" has recovered and will be released soon, the hospital said in a statement on Saturday." itemprop="description
COVID-19: Tamil Nadu has highest recovery rate of 85.45%, says Chief Minister K Palaniswami:
Tamil Nadu has achieved a recovery rate of 85.45 per cent with 3,49,682 people having been cured of coronavirus, the "highest" in the country, Chief Minister K Palaniswami said on Saturday.
The state's mortality rate was a "very low" 1.7 per cent, he said.
In his video-conference meeting with District Collectors on Saturday to review the lockdown being enforced to contain the spread of coronavirus, Palaniswami said his government had so far spent Rs 7,162 crore towards controlling the pandemic, treatment and relief measures.
"I wish to point out that Tamil Nadu has the highest recovery rate of 85.45 per cent (3,49,682 cured) in the country and the death rate is a very low 1.7 per cent," he said.
As of Friday, Tamil Nadu's overall tally of coronavirus cases stood at 4.09 lakh. So far 7,050 related deaths have been recorded.
Coronavirus news: Brain Dead Man Behind Asia's First Lung Transplant On COVID-19 Patient
A brain dead man has breathed new life into a COVID-19 patient with severe lung infection and given new hope to a young Mumbai woman after his lungs and hands were transplanted to the respective donors.
Incidentally, the 48 year-old recipient of lungs from Delhi turned out to be the first case of "successful completion of a critical bilateral lung transplant" on a COVID-19 positive patient, MGM Healthcare, where he is undergoing treatment, said.
It claimed this was Asia's "first known lung transplant" on a COVID-19 positive patient and the second in the hospital since the lockdown began.
The transplant was performed on August 27 and post the transplant, the patient is doing fine in the Transplant ICU at MGM Healthcare, the hospital said in a statement.
It claimed this was Asia's "first known lung transplant" on a COVID-19 positive patient and the second in the hospital since the lockdown began.
The transplant was performed on August 27 and post the transplant, the patient is doing fine in the Transplant ICU at MGM Healthcare, the hospital said in a statement.
COVID-19: Tripura's tally rises to 10,879, death count reaches 94
At least 443 people tested positive for COVID-19 in Tripura on Saturday, raising the state's tally to 10,879, a health department official said.
The death count rose to 94 with five more persons succumbing to the infection, he said. All the fresh fatalities were reported from West Tripura district, the official said.
A total of 198 people were discharged from Agartala Government Medical College (AGMC) on Wednesday, taking the number of recoveries to 7,037, he said.
Tripura currently has 3,729 active COVID-19 cases. Nineteen patients have migrated to other states. West Tripura district accounted for 51 of the 94 fatalities reported in the state so far, the official said.
At least 443 people tested positive for COVID-19 in Tripura on Saturday, raising the state's tally to 10,879, a health department official said.
The death count rose to 94 with five more persons succumbing to the infection, he said. All the fresh fatalities were reported from West Tripura district, the official said.
A total of 198 people were discharged from Agartala Government Medical College (AGMC) on Wednesday, taking the number of recoveries to 7,037, he said.
Tripura currently has 3,729 active COVID-19 cases. Nineteen patients have migrated to other states. West Tripura district accounted for 51 of the 94 fatalities reported in the state so far, the official said.
COVID-19: 3,252 new cases push Odisha's tally to 97,920
Odisha recorded 3,252 new COVID-19 cases and 14 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total coronavirus count in the state to 97,920, informed the state health department.
It further stated that at present there are 29,571 active cases of the infection in Odisha.
So far, 470 people have lost their lives after contracting COVID-19 while 67,826 patients have recovered from the disease in the state.
Odisha recorded 3,252 new COVID-19 cases and 14 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total coronavirus count in the state to 97,920, informed the state health department.
It further stated that at present there are 29,571 active cases of the infection in Odisha.
So far, 470 people have lost their lives after contracting COVID-19 while 67,826 patients have recovered from the disease in the state.
COVID-19: Rajasthan reports 595 new cases, 8 deaths
As many as 595 new COVID-19 cases and eight deaths were reported in Rajasthan today, said the State Health Department on Saturday.
With this, the total number of cases stands at 77,965 including 14,697 active cases and 1,025 deaths.
India's COVID-19 tally crossed the 34 lakh-mark as the country registered a single-day spike of 76,472 new cases, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Saturday.
The cumulative count due to the virus reached 62,550 with 1,021 new deaths in the last 24 hours.
As many as 595 new COVID-19 cases and eight deaths were reported in Rajasthan today, said the State Health Department on Saturday.
With this, the total number of cases stands at 77,965 including 14,697 active cases and 1,025 deaths.
India's COVID-19 tally crossed the 34 lakh-mark as the country registered a single-day spike of 76,472 new cases, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Saturday.
The cumulative count due to the virus reached 62,550 with 1,021 new deaths in the last 24 hours.
2 Players Among 13 COVID-19 Cases In IPL Contingent: BCCI
The BCCI on Saturday revealed that two players are among a total of 13 who have tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the IPL after it came to light that over a dozen members of the Chennai Super Kings contingent have been infected by the dreaded virus in Dubai.
The two players who have tested positive include a white-ball T20 specialist seamer for India and a top-order India A batsman. the Board did not reveal any names. The tournament start September 19 and will be played across three cities in the UAE.
"Thirteen personnel have tested positive of which 2 are players. All the affected personnel as well as their close contacts are asymptomatic and have been isolated from other team members. They are being monitored by the IPL Medical Team," the BCCI press release stated.
The release stated that a total of 1,988 RT-PCR COVID-19 tests were carried out between August 20 and 28 across all participant groups in the UAE.
These include players, support staff, team management, BCCI staff, IPL operational team, hotel and ground transport staff.
"As per the IPL 2020 Health and Safety Protocols, testing on all participants will be conducted regularly throughout the IPL 2020 Season," it further stated.
All positive cases need to go through a 14-day quarantine period following which they will have to return two negative RT-PCR tests before being allowed inside the bio-bubble for the tournament.
Meghalaya's COVID-19 Tally Rises To 2,248
Eight more persons tested positive for COVID-19 in Meghalaya on Saturday, taking the northeastern state's coronavirus tally to 2,248, a Health Department official said.
Of the eight new cases, six were reported from East Khasi Hills district and two from South Garo Hills district, Health Services Director Aman War said.
Twenty-three patients recovered from COVID-19, taking the total number of recoveries in the state to 981, Mr War said.
Meghalaya currently has 1,257 active COVID-19 cases, as 981 people have recovered from the disease and 10 patients have died, he said.
Tamil Nadu: Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami held a meeting with all District Collectors of the State via video conference earlier today. He said, "State Government has spent 7,162 crores till now to combat #COVID19." pic.twitter.com/fkviq5KBuo
- ANI (@ANI) August 29, 2020
COVID-19 tests in India cross 4 crore-mark. 4,04,06,609 tests have been conducted as of today: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Total number of COVID-19 cases in the state is now 5,661 including 1,433 active cases, 4,153 recoveries and 31 deaths: Himachal Pradesh Health Department
151 more police personnel found COVID-19 positive & 5 died in the last 24 hours in Maharashtra. Total number of coronavirus positive police personnel in the state reaches to 14,792 including 2,772 active cases, 11,867 recoveries & 153 deaths till date: Maharashtra Police
Record 14 Fatalities Push COVID-19 Death Count In Odisha To 470, Over 3,200 New Cases Reported
Odisha on Saturday registered the highest single-day spike of 14 COVID-19 fatalities, which pushed the death count in the state to 470, a health department official said.
At least 3,252 fresh cases were recorded in all the 30 districts of the state, raising the coronavirus tally to 97,920, he said.
Of the new fatalities, two each were reported from Balasore, Khurda, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur and Malkangiri and one each from Bargah, Jajpur, Puri and Sundargarh districts, the official said.
"Regret to inform the demise of fourteen #COVID-19 positive patients while under treatment in hospitals," the Health and Family Welfare Department said on Twitter.
In A First, Sportspersons Receive National Honours Virtually Amid Coronavirus Pandemic
India's sporting heroes were bestowed the annual national awards in an unparalleled online ceremony amid the COVID-19 pandemic during which athletes logged in from multiple cities to be honoured by President Ram Nath Kovind.
This year a whopping 74 were picked for the national honours, including an unprecedented five Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratnas and 27 Arjuna awardees. Of these, 60 attended the virtual ceremony conducted across 11 Sports Authority of India (SAI) centres in various cities.
Cricketers Rohit Sharma (Khel Ratna) and Ishant Sharma (Arjuna) missed the ceremony due to their IPL commitments in the UAE, while star wrestler Vinesh Phogat (Khel Ratna) and badminton player Satwiksairaj Rankireddy (Arjuna) had to pull out of the ceremony after testing positive for the dreaded virus.
UP Minister Satish Mahana Tests COVID-19 Positive
Uttar Pradesh cabinet minister Satish Mahana said on Saturday that he had tested positive for the novel coronavirus and isolated himself at home.
Mr Mahana requested those who have come in contact with him in the past few days to get their coronavirus tests done.
"After initial symptoms of COVID, I got myself tested yesterday (Friday) and the report came positive," the infrastructure and industrial development minister tweeted. "I have isolated myself at home on the advice of doctors."
Telangana Reports 2,751 Fresh COVID-19 Cases, Death Count Crosses 800-Mark
Telangana logged 2,751 new COVID-19 cases, pushing the tally to 1,20,166, while the death count rose to 808 with nine more fatalities.
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) recorded 432 fresh positive cases, followed by Karimnagar (192), Rangareddy (185), Nalgonda (147), Khammam (132), Medchal Malkajgiri (128), Nizamabad (113), Suryapet (111) and Warangal Urban (101) districts, a state government bulletin said on Saturday, providing data as of 8 pm on August 28.
All 33 districts in the state reported positive cases in double digits.
Aggressive testing continued in the state with as many as 62,300 samples being tested on August 28.
595 new COVID-19 cases and 8 deaths reported in Rajasthan today. Total number of cases now at 77,965 including 14,697 active cases and 1,025 deaths: State Health Department
The total number of samples tested up to 28th August is 40,406,609 including 9,28,761 samples tested yesterday: Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
India's COVID-19 case tally crosses 34-lakh mark with a spike of 76,472 new cases & 1,021 deaths in the last 24 hours.
COVID-19 case tally in the country stands at 34,63,973 including 7,52,424 active cases, 26,48,999 cured/discharged/migrated & 62,550 deaths: Health Ministry
Jharkhand Extends Lockdown Restrictions Within Containment Zones Till September 30
Jharkhand government on Friday extended coronavirus-induced lockdown related restrictions currently in place in the state within the containment zones up to September 30.
As per the government order, all economic activities, not specifically prohibited, shall be permitted outside the containment zones.
Large congregations including, social, political, sports, entertainment, academic, cultural, religious functions or processions will remain banned till September 30.
Educational institutions, including schools, colleges, training and coaching institutions will continue to remain closed.
Interstate transport by bus remains prohibited.
The latest rules come into effect with immediate effect.
Jharkhand's COVID-19 count rose to 34,676 after 1,365 fresh cases were reported on Friday. A total of 11 more coronavirus patients died, taking the fatalities count to 378. As per the state health bulletin, Jharkhand at present has 10,799 active cases and 23,499 people have recovered from the illness.
55 More Test Positive For COVID-19 In UP's Muzaffarnagar
Fifty-five more people, including four policemen and eight inmates of a district jail, tested positive for COVID-19 in Uttar Pradesh's Muzaffarnagar on Friday, an official said.
There are 521 active cases in the district, while a total of 1,306 patients have recovered from the infection, according to District Magistrate Selva Kumari.
She said 279 samples were tested for COVID-19, of which 55 came out positive.
The fresh cases include four policemen and eight jail inmates, the district magistrate added.
2,560 new COVID-19 cases detected in the last 24 hours. Total cases in the state rise to 1,01,367, including 79,307 recovered patients and 286 deaths. Active cases stand at 21,771: Government of Assam
J&K: 35 'Made in India' ventilators provided to District Hospital Udhampur, under PM-CARES fund for help in treatment of #COVID19 patients. Hospital's Superintendent says "Govt provided ventilator support to all district hospitals, on a short notice. We will install them shortly" pic.twitter.com/AA6XNEBHr5
- ANI (@ANI) August 29, 2020
12 more coronavirus-deaths, 1,017 new cases in Rajasthan
Rajasthan reported 12 more fatalities linked to COVID-19 and 1,355 fresh infections on Friday, bringing the death toll from the disease to 1,017 and the virus count to 77,370, according to an official report.
The deaths were reported one each from Ajmer, Alwar, Bikaner, Jalore, Kota, Nagaur and Pali, two from Jodhpur and three from Jaipur, it said.
Maximum of 237 fresh COVID-19 cases were reported from Jaipur, followed by Jodhpur, where 195 people tested positive.
Kerala Reports 2,543 New COVID-19 Cases: Health Minister KK Shailaja
As many as 2,543 new active cases of COVID-19 were confirmed in Kerala, according to Health Minister KK Shailaja on Friday, taking total active cases in the state to 23,111.
At the same time, 2,097 patients under treatment for the disease have recovered and were discharged from hospitals on Friday.
Of those diagnosed today, 2,260 were cases of local transmission and the contact source in 229 was unknown. In this, 75 are returnees from abroad and 156, from other states. As many as 52 healthcare workers were also infected by a coronavirus.
331 deaths, 14,361 new COVID-19 cases reported in Maharashtra
A total of 14,361 new COVID-19 cases and 331 deaths were reported from Maharashtra on Friday, taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 7,47,995, the state health department informed.
The total figure includes 1,80,718 active cases and 5,43,170 recoveries.
So far, 23,775 deaths have been reported in the state.
With a record spike of 77,266 coronavirus cases, India''s COVID-19 count reached 33.87 lakh on Friday and 1,057 patients died of the virus in the last 24 hours.
COVID-19: Jharkhand govt extends lockdown restrictions within containment zones till September 30
Jharkhand government on Friday extended coronavirus-induced lockdown related restrictions currently in place in the state within the containment zones up to September 30.
As per the government order, all economic activities, not specifically prohibited, shall be permitted outside the containment zones.
