5 years ago
New Delhi:
Coronavirus India Live Updates: China is "deeply concerned" over India's decision to stop using the COVID-19 rapid antibody test kits made by two Chinese companies, the country said today, adding that it hopes India will resolve the issue "reasonably". The government on Monday had said not a single rupee will be lost to Chinese firms who provided faulty COVID-19 test kits to India as the orders have been cancelled and the payments not made.
The NITI Aayog building in Delhi has been sealed for 48 hours after a director-level officer tested positive for coronavirus, a senior official said today. "A director-level officer working at NITI Bhawan has been tested positive for COVID-19. Today at 9 am, he got his report, and then he informed authorities," Alok Kumar adviser at NITI Aayog told PTI. He further said that those who came in contact with the person have been asked to go on self-quarantine. "We are following necessary protocol and the health ministry has been informed and all the due processes will be followed. So, we are closed for 48 hours," Alok Kumar added.
Death count due to COVID-19 rose to 937 and the number of cases climbed to 29,974 in the country today, registering an increase of 51 deaths and 1,594 cases since Monday evening, according to the Union Health Ministry. The number of active COVID-19 cases stand at 22,010, while 7,026 people have recovered, and one patient has migrated, the ministry said. Nearly 80 per cent of the deaths in the country have been reported from five states: Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi and Rajasthan.
Here are the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak Highlights:
12 new COVID-19 cases in Punjab
With 12 new positive cases of COVID-19 in the state on Tuesday, the total cases in Punjab have reached 342, said Punjab Health Department in a bulletin.
According to the bulletin, there are 219 active COVID-19 cases in the state. So far 104 persons have been cured and 19 deaths have been reported.
According to the district-wise breakup, a maximum of 85 cases were reported from Jalandhar, 65 from SAS Nagar and 61 from Patiala.
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh announced compulsory 21-day state quarantine for all those returning from other places to check further spread of COVID-19.
With 12 new positive cases of COVID-19 in the state on Tuesday, the total cases in Punjab have reached 342, said Punjab Health Department in a bulletin.
According to the bulletin, there are 219 active COVID-19 cases in the state. So far 104 persons have been cured and 19 deaths have been reported.
According to the district-wise breakup, a maximum of 85 cases were reported from Jalandhar, 65 from SAS Nagar and 61 from Patiala.
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh announced compulsory 21-day state quarantine for all those returning from other places to check further spread of COVID-19.
Coronavirus: Tripura Fifth State In Northeast To Become COVID-19 FreeTripura has become the fifth state in the northeast to become COVID-19 free. The state had two cases - both have been cured and discharged."
Coronavirus: 20 more test Covid-19 positive in Bihar; total reaches 366
Twenty more people tested positive for COVID-19 in Bihar on Tuesday, taking the total number of cases in the state to 366, a top official said.
With Araria, Sitamarhi and Sheikhpura reporting their first cases, the number of districts affected by the pandemic has reached 28, out of the 38 in the state.
Principal Secretary, Health, Sanjay Kumar said six people all men in the age range between 18 and 70 years tested positive for coronavirus infection in Gopalganj district.
Twenty more people tested positive for COVID-19 in Bihar on Tuesday, taking the total number of cases in the state to 366, a top official said.
With Araria, Sitamarhi and Sheikhpura reporting their first cases, the number of districts affected by the pandemic has reached 28, out of the 38 in the state.
Principal Secretary, Health, Sanjay Kumar said six people all men in the age range between 18 and 70 years tested positive for coronavirus infection in Gopalganj district.
Maharashtra COVID-19 tally crosses 9,000 with 729 new cases, 31 deaths
Maharashtra on Tuesday reported 729 new coronavirus patients, taking the tally to 9,318.
With 31 patients dying, the death toll due to the pandemic reached 400, said a state health official.
Maharashtra COVID-19 figures are, thus, as follows:
Positive cases 9,318, new cases 729, deaths 400, discharged 1,388, active cases 7,530 and people tested so far 1,29,931.
Mumbai city alone reported increase of 393 COVID-19 cases on Tuesday taking its tally to 6,169. The state capital has reported deaths of 244 patients so far.
Overall, the Thane division, which includes Mumbai and surrounding areas, has reported 7,223 cases and 263 deaths so far.
There are 1,288 cases of COVID-19 in Pune division with 89 deaths so far. Pune city has reported 1,044 cases and 76 deaths to date.
Maharashtra on Tuesday reported 729 new coronavirus patients, taking the tally to 9,318.
With 31 patients dying, the death toll due to the pandemic reached 400, said a state health official.
Maharashtra COVID-19 figures are, thus, as follows:
Positive cases 9,318, new cases 729, deaths 400, discharged 1,388, active cases 7,530 and people tested so far 1,29,931.
Mumbai city alone reported increase of 393 COVID-19 cases on Tuesday taking its tally to 6,169. The state capital has reported deaths of 244 patients so far.
Overall, the Thane division, which includes Mumbai and surrounding areas, has reported 7,223 cases and 263 deaths so far.
There are 1,288 cases of COVID-19 in Pune division with 89 deaths so far. Pune city has reported 1,044 cases and 76 deaths to date.
Coronavirus: Lockdown violators will be sent to institutional quarantine, say police in Andhra town
Srikalahasti Police on Tuesday held a demonstration to create awareness about complete lockdown among the public. In the demonstration, they showed that lockdown violators will now be sent to institutional quarantine.
An absolute lockdown has imposed in Srikalahasti town five days ago as the number of coronavirus cases is growing rapidly in the temple town. The absolute lockdown came to an end on Tuesday.
The demonstration was given by Town Police Station Circle Inspector Nagarjuna Reddy and his team. The official said that lockdown restrictions will be implemented strictly.
"People were being spared so far, but now the actions are going to be very strict. We will definitely send those who come out on the roads to the quarantine," Mr Reddy said.
Srikalahasti Police on Tuesday held a demonstration to create awareness about complete lockdown among the public. In the demonstration, they showed that lockdown violators will now be sent to institutional quarantine.
An absolute lockdown has imposed in Srikalahasti town five days ago as the number of coronavirus cases is growing rapidly in the temple town. The absolute lockdown came to an end on Tuesday.
The demonstration was given by Town Police Station Circle Inspector Nagarjuna Reddy and his team. The official said that lockdown restrictions will be implemented strictly.
"People were being spared so far, but now the actions are going to be very strict. We will definitely send those who come out on the roads to the quarantine," Mr Reddy said.
India's pharmaceutical capabilities will remain available for assisting world: PM Modi assures Justin Trudeau
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday conveyed his assurance to his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau on Tuesday that India''s productive capabilities in the pharmaceutical sector would remain available for assisting the citizens of the world, including those of Canada.
The assurance came during a telephonic conversation between the two leaders, where they talked about the COVID-19 pandemic situation.
"Prime Minister spoke on phone today with Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada. The two leaders discussed the prevailing global situation regarding the COVID-19 pandemic," a release from the PMO said.
Both the leaders agreed on the importance of "global solidarity and coordination, the maintenance of supply chains, and collaborative research activities."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday conveyed his assurance to his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau on Tuesday that India''s productive capabilities in the pharmaceutical sector would remain available for assisting the citizens of the world, including those of Canada.
The assurance came during a telephonic conversation between the two leaders, where they talked about the COVID-19 pandemic situation.
"Prime Minister spoke on phone today with Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada. The two leaders discussed the prevailing global situation regarding the COVID-19 pandemic," a release from the PMO said.
Both the leaders agreed on the importance of "global solidarity and coordination, the maintenance of supply chains, and collaborative research activities."
Coronavirus: 393 persons test positive for COVID-19 in Mumbai
A total of 393 persons have tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, taking the total number of positive cases to 5982 in Mumbai, informed Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in a bulletin.
Meanwhile, three deaths and 143 new COVID-19 positive cases have been reported in Pune district in the last 24 hours.
Total positive cases in the district stand at 1491 and death toll at 83, Health Department, Pune said.
According to Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, there are 8,590 COVID-19 cases including 1,282 people recovered and 3,69 deaths in Maharashtra.
A total of 393 persons have tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, taking the total number of positive cases to 5982 in Mumbai, informed Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in a bulletin.
Meanwhile, three deaths and 143 new COVID-19 positive cases have been reported in Pune district in the last 24 hours.
Total positive cases in the district stand at 1491 and death toll at 83, Health Department, Pune said.
According to Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, there are 8,590 COVID-19 cases including 1,282 people recovered and 3,69 deaths in Maharashtra.
Delhi's COVID-19 cases tally stands at 3,314; sees 201 recoveries, highest in a day
The total number of COVID-19 cases in Delhi rose to 3,314 on Tuesday, even as 201 coronavirus patients recovered from the disease, the highest so far in a day with no fatalities, authorities said.
No death was reported for the third consecutive day in the national capital.
Among the 3,314 cases includes a Delhi Police constable attached to the crime branch. The constable had visited the Tablighi Jamaat religious congregation in Nizamuddin, which had last month become the epicentre of the COVID-19 spread.
Fifteen members of the crime branch team, who came in touch with the constable, have been advised home quarantine.
So far, 1,078 COVID-19 patients have recovered and there are 2,182 active cases in Delhi.
The number of containment zones in the city reached 100.
The total number of COVID-19 cases in Delhi rose to 3,314 on Tuesday, even as 201 coronavirus patients recovered from the disease, the highest so far in a day with no fatalities, authorities said.
No death was reported for the third consecutive day in the national capital.
Among the 3,314 cases includes a Delhi Police constable attached to the crime branch. The constable had visited the Tablighi Jamaat religious congregation in Nizamuddin, which had last month become the epicentre of the COVID-19 spread.
Fifteen members of the crime branch team, who came in touch with the constable, have been advised home quarantine.
So far, 1,078 COVID-19 patients have recovered and there are 2,182 active cases in Delhi.
The number of containment zones in the city reached 100.
Coronavirus: 28 new COVID-19 cases in West Bengal
A total of 28 new COVID-19 cases were found in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of active cases to 522 in the state, Rajiva Sinha, Chief Secretary, West Bengal said on Tuesday.
"28 new COVID-19 positive cases have been reported in last 24 hours; total active cases in the state stand at 522," he said.
Total deaths due to COVID-19 till today stands at 22, he said.
A total of 28 new COVID-19 cases were found in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of active cases to 522 in the state, Rajiva Sinha, Chief Secretary, West Bengal said on Tuesday.
"28 new COVID-19 positive cases have been reported in last 24 hours; total active cases in the state stand at 522," he said.
Total deaths due to COVID-19 till today stands at 22, he said.
Coronavirus news: Naveen Patnaik directs administration to ensure food security for migrants returning home
Stressing on food security, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday directed the administration that migrant workers and their families returning to the state will be covered under Public Distribution System even if they don''t have ration cards.
The decision was taken in a review meeting with the state''s senior officers, which Patnaik chaired, urging the district Covid-19 observers to take their responsibility of controlling the disease as ''primary work and not as additional charge.''
While the Housing and Urban Development Department was directed to complete the distribution of vendor assistance in one week, some other major decisions were also taken to improvise the system at the grass-root level.
The observers were asked to specifically monitor Gram Panchayat-level quarantine facilities on priority.
Stressing on food security, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday directed the administration that migrant workers and their families returning to the state will be covered under Public Distribution System even if they don''t have ration cards.
The decision was taken in a review meeting with the state''s senior officers, which Patnaik chaired, urging the district Covid-19 observers to take their responsibility of controlling the disease as ''primary work and not as additional charge.''
While the Housing and Urban Development Department was directed to complete the distribution of vendor assistance in one week, some other major decisions were also taken to improvise the system at the grass-root level.
The observers were asked to specifically monitor Gram Panchayat-level quarantine facilities on priority.
Fighter jets fly over New York to honour health workers battling coronavirus
US military flight squadrons paid tribute to coronavirus health care staff, first responders and other essential workers with a ceremonial flyover of COVID-19 epicenter New York City on Tuesday.
Twelve fighter jets of the air force's Thunderbirds and the navy's Blue Angels streaked across piercing blue skies above the Big Apple in "a collaborative salute" just after noon.
Dozens of residents gathered by the city's harbor, squinting into the midday sun to catch a glimpse of the aircraft in what appeared a breach of social distancing guidelines.
The planes circled New York and Newark in New Jersey for 40 minutes, then headed to Trenton, also in New Jersey, before flying to Philadelphia for a flyover there.
"We are incredibly honored to have the opportunity to salute those working on the frontline of the COVID-19 response, we are in awe of your strength and resilience," Blue Angels Commander Brian Kesselring said ahead of the show.
The flypast took more than a month to plan and was the first of several planned around the country over the coming weeks, the squadrons said in a statement.
"An amazing display of gratitude and patriotism from the best pilots on earth. Thank you," tweeted Shereef Elnahal, president and CEO of University Hospital in Newark.
Other social media users tweeted that they thought the cost of the flights would have been better spent on personal protective equipment for doctors and nurses.
More than 17,000 people have died from COVID-19 in New York state.
US military flight squadrons paid tribute to coronavirus health care staff, first responders and other essential workers with a ceremonial flyover of COVID-19 epicenter New York City on Tuesday.
Twelve fighter jets of the air force's Thunderbirds and the navy's Blue Angels streaked across piercing blue skies above the Big Apple in "a collaborative salute" just after noon.
Dozens of residents gathered by the city's harbor, squinting into the midday sun to catch a glimpse of the aircraft in what appeared a breach of social distancing guidelines.
The planes circled New York and Newark in New Jersey for 40 minutes, then headed to Trenton, also in New Jersey, before flying to Philadelphia for a flyover there.
"We are incredibly honored to have the opportunity to salute those working on the frontline of the COVID-19 response, we are in awe of your strength and resilience," Blue Angels Commander Brian Kesselring said ahead of the show.
The flypast took more than a month to plan and was the first of several planned around the country over the coming weeks, the squadrons said in a statement.
"An amazing display of gratitude and patriotism from the best pilots on earth. Thank you," tweeted Shereef Elnahal, president and CEO of University Hospital in Newark.
Other social media users tweeted that they thought the cost of the flights would have been better spent on personal protective equipment for doctors and nurses.
More than 17,000 people have died from COVID-19 in New York state.
Coronavirus: Decline in COVID-19 cases continue in Telangana; 6 on Tuesday
The decline in COVID-19 cases in Telangana continued on Tuesday with only six fresh cases being reported as Health Minister E Rajender hoped the trend would continue and the pandemic would soon end in the state without more deaths.
With these six cases, the total number of positive cases in the state has risen to 1,009.
No fresh death occurred and the number of people who died due to the virus continued to remain at25, Rajender said.
Forty two people were discharged today, taking the number of people discharged after recovery to 374, he said.
The number of active cases in the state stood at 610.
The decline in COVID-19 cases in Telangana continued on Tuesday with only six fresh cases being reported as Health Minister E Rajender hoped the trend would continue and the pandemic would soon end in the state without more deaths.
With these six cases, the total number of positive cases in the state has risen to 1,009.
No fresh death occurred and the number of people who died due to the virus continued to remain at25, Rajender said.
Forty two people were discharged today, taking the number of people discharged after recovery to 374, he said.
The number of active cases in the state stood at 610.
COVID-19 count in Kerala mounts to 485 with 4 new cases
Four more persons have tested positive for COVID-19 in Kerala, taking the total number of cases to 485 in the state including 123 active cases, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Tuesday.
Out of the four cases, two people are foreign returnees and two are from primary contacts, he said.
A total of 151 people have been admitted in hospital today, the Chief Minister informed.
Addressing a press conference here, he said, "A total of 23,980 samples have been sent for testing and 151 people have been admitted in hospital today."
Four more persons have tested positive for COVID-19 in Kerala, taking the total number of cases to 485 in the state including 123 active cases, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Tuesday.
Out of the four cases, two people are foreign returnees and two are from primary contacts, he said.
A total of 151 people have been admitted in hospital today, the Chief Minister informed.
Addressing a press conference here, he said, "A total of 23,980 samples have been sent for testing and 151 people have been admitted in hospital today."
19 new COVID-19 cases in Jammu and Kashmir in last 24 hours, count at 565
A total of 19 COVID-19 cases were reported in the Union Territory in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of cases to 565 in Jammu and Kashmir including 381 active cases.
According to the administration, all the new cases have been reported from the Kashmir division.
"19 new COVID-19 positive cases have been reported in Jammu and Kashmir in the last 24 hours; all are from Kashmir division. Total positive cases in the Union Territory stand at 565 which includes 381 active cases," the administration said in a statement.
A total of 19 COVID-19 cases were reported in the Union Territory in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of cases to 565 in Jammu and Kashmir including 381 active cases.
According to the administration, all the new cases have been reported from the Kashmir division.
"19 new COVID-19 positive cases have been reported in Jammu and Kashmir in the last 24 hours; all are from Kashmir division. Total positive cases in the Union Territory stand at 565 which includes 381 active cases," the administration said in a statement.
Ensure critical health services like dialysis, blood transfusion are not denied: Centre to states
While it is the need of the hour to keep the health systems in a state of readiness to surmount any possible surge in coronavirus cases, it is also important that the non-COVID essential services are also provided to those who need them, Ms Sudan said.
The Centre on Tuesday asked all states and Union territories to ensure that health facilities, especially in the private sector, remain functional and those needing critical healthcare such as dialysis, blood transfusion and chemotherapy are not denied such services amid the ongoing lockdown.
In a letter to chief secretaries of all states and union territories, Health Secretary Preeti Sudan also drew attention to reports of many hospitals and clinics insisting on a COVID-19 test before providing services and asserted that any coronavirus test be conducted only as per the guidelines of the Indian Council of Medical Research.
France reports 367 new virus deaths, fewer intensive care cases
France on Tuesday reported 367 new coronavirus deaths, bringing the country's toll since March 1 to 23,660 but with the number of people in intensive care continuing to decline.
The daily toll was lower than Monday's 437, and came as the government announced plans to cautiously lift France's epidemic lockdown from May 11. The health department said there were 221 fewer people in intensive care from a day earlier.
France on Tuesday reported 367 new coronavirus deaths, bringing the country's toll since March 1 to 23,660 but with the number of people in intensive care continuing to decline.
The daily toll was lower than Monday's 437, and came as the government announced plans to cautiously lift France's epidemic lockdown from May 11. The health department said there were 221 fewer people in intensive care from a day earlier.
British Airways set to slash 12,000 jobs over coronavirus: AFP news agency
- ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2020
36 Delhi cops deployed at top court sent on home quarantine
A day after a Supreme Court staffer tested positive for COVID-19, as many as 36 Delhi police personnel engaged in the security of the top court have been sent on home quarantine as a precautionary measure on Tuesday, sources told news agency PTI.
A massive disinfection drive as per mandated protocol to deal with the pandemic was conducted in the offices and corridors of the top court visited by the infected person on April 16, they said.
42 new COVID-19 cases in Mumbai's Dharavi
A total of 42 new COVID-19 cases and 4 deaths were reported in Mumbai's Dharavi area today. The total number of COVID-19 cases has reached 330 and the death toll has risen to 18.
We have to popularise work from home (WFH) norm. There are many restrictions for it like money deposits & clearances, these things were relaxed till April 30 after #COVID19 outbreak. We have decided to extend the relaxation till July 31: Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad pic.twitter.com/GucV56OcNF
- ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2020
Pilgrims, others returning to Punjab to be quarantined for 21 days: Chief Minister
Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said a 21-day quarantine was mandatory for all those returning to the state from other places, a day after eight pilgrims, who had recently returned from Nanded, tested positive for coronavirus.
All pilgrims returning from Nanded in Maharashtra and students and labourers coming from Rajasthan will be stopped at the border and sent to government quarantine centres, he said in an official statement.
Had a warm exchange with PM @JustinTrudeau. Thanked him for looking after Indian citizens in Canada in these difficult times. Collaboration and partnership between India and Canada is vital to fighting the pandemic including through medical research and supply chain management.
- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 28, 2020
SpiceJet engineer tests positive for coronavirus
Budget carrier SpiceJet said one of its engineers has tested positive for coronavirus and that all measures are being taken to provide appropriate medical care to the person.
The employee last reported for duty on April 22 and was tested positive on April 27, an airline spokesperson told news agency PTI.
India extends $150 million foreign currency swap support to Maldives
India extended a $150 million foreign currency swap support to the Maldives to help the strategically important Indian Ocean island nation mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The swap facility was extended under the $400 million currency swap arrangement signed between India and the Maldives in July last year. The currency swap facility is part of the $1.4 billion economic package announced by India for the Maldives during the state visit of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in December 2018, according to an official statement.
#WATCH: A crowd, which had gathered at a market place in Tikiapara of Howrah today - defying the lockdown, attacked Police personnel & pelted stones at them when they asked the crowd to return to their homes. 2 police personnel injured. #WestBengal (Video source: Amateur video) pic.twitter.com/EAZbm5wWlc
- ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2020
Over 80,000 lockdown offences registered in Maharashtra: State Home Minister
Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh said 81,063 lockdown-related offences were registered in the state and at least 16,548 people were arrested in these cases.
According to an official release, 81,063 offences were registered from March 22 till date.
Russia sees record rise in coronavirus cases, deaths
Russia saw a record daily rise in new coronavirus cases and related deaths, its coronavirus crisis response centre said, with data suggesting the world's biggest country by territory has overtaken China and Iran in confirmed infections.
The number of new coronavirus cases in Russia rose by 6,411 on Tuesday, bringing its nationwide tally to 93,558.
Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh today announced compulsory 21-day state quarantine for all those returning to the state from other places to check further spread of #COVID19: Punjab Chief Minister's Office
- ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2020
Air Force airlifts consignment of medical supplies from Delhi to Jammu
The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Tuesday airlifted 1.5 tonnes of medical supplies from New Delhi to Jammu amid the lockdown imposed to contain the spread of coronavirus, officials said.
The consignment was handed over to the National Health Mission (NHM) at the Jammu airport and was subsequently transported to its godown in an ambulance, the officials said.
CRPF official dies of coronavirus in Delhi
A 55-year-old Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel died today due to coronavirus in Delhi, officials said. The assistant sub-inspector rank official was admitted to the Safdarjung hospital a few days back after being detected positive for the virus.
"He was posted with the 31st battalion of the force based in Delhi," a senior official said.
Migrants protest, vandalise property in Gujarat's Surat
Hundreds of migrant workers came out on roads and vandalised the office of an under-construction building and some vehicles in Gujarat's Surat district today while demanding that they be sent back to their native places, the police said.
The workers were earlier hired by contractors engaged in the construction of the Diamond Bourse Complex in Khajod area of Surat.
937 people killed due to coronavirus in India: Health Ministry
Death count due to COVID-19 rises to 937 in India, cases climb to 29,974, says Health Ministry.
1,594 new cases and 51 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours.
Haryana borders with Delhi sealed: Minister
Haryana's borders with Delhi sealed, essential services allowed but stricter restrictions on those coming in, Haryana minister Anil Vij says.
The state will be in a comfortable position as far as COVID-19 is concerned if borders stay sealed for 15-20 days.
Health & Family Welfare Ministry has issued guidelines for home isolation of people who either have very mild #COVID19 symptoms or are in the pre-symptomatic phase. Such patients with requisite self-isolation facility at their residence will now have the option for home isolation pic.twitter.com/k4cLVidl0e
- ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2020
Singapore says its COVID-19 cases may be higher than official tallies
Singapore said that the number of migrant workers infected with coronavirus in the city-state may be higher than official tallies as symptomatic patients had been isolated in dormitories with mass outbreaks before testing.
The nation of 5.7 million people has nearly 15,000 confirmed coronavirus infections, one of the highest in Asia, largely due to infections in cramped bunk-bed accommodation housing more than 300,000 mostly South Asian workers.
Two cops among 3 new COVID-19 cases in Chennai
Two Chennai police officials and a flower vendor at the Koyambedu market in the city have tested positive for the coronavirus, officials said.
Authorities have taken up disinfection work and testing of those associated with the trio who become the latest COVID-19 patients, taking the total in the state to 1,940, they said.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today reviewed contribution of Defence Public Sector Undertaking Units (DPSUs) and Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) to fight #COVID19 and their operational plans through video conferencing in Delhi: Defence Ministry pic.twitter.com/SyjwF0Zh47
- ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2020
1,543 new cases in last 24 hours in India: Health Ministry
About 1,543 new cases have been reported in last 24 hours, taking the total to 29,435 in India, the health ministry says. About 684 patients have been cured in the last 24 hours and overall, more than 6,000 patients have been cured.
"Before lockdown, the doubling rate was around 3.5 day... Today, that has increased to over 10.5 days. This shows that containment strategies have worked to an extent," the health ministry adds.
No cure or proven therapy for COVID-19: Health Ministry
Plasma therapy isn't a proven therapy. It's still in experimental stage, right now even ICMR is doing it as an experiment to identify & do additional understanding of this therapy. Till it is approved no one should use it, it'll be harmful to patient & illegal: Lav Aggarwal, MHA pic.twitter.com/mRfqrvP7zU
- ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2020
Asian Development Bank approves $1.5 billion loan to India
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) today approved a $1.5 billion loan to India to help fund its response to the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, including support for immediate priorities such as disease containment and prevention, as well as social protection for the poor and economically vulnerable sections of the society.
Worldwide Coronavirus Deaths Cross 2,10,000: ReportA total of 210,930 deaths have been recorded among 3,027,853 cases since the outbreak began in China late last year. About 85 percent of the deaths are in Europe and the United States, according to a tally compiled by AFP from official sources.
Europe, the hardest-hit continent, registered 126,793 fatalities from 1,404,171 infections, while the United States was the country with the most deaths -- 56,253.
EPFO has settled 12.91 lakh claims: Labour Ministry
Keeping up the momentum speedier EPF disbursal during lockdown, Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO), under Union Ministry of Labour and Employment, has settled a total of 12.91 lakh claims, including 7.40 lakh COVID-19 claims under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY) package.
This involves disbursal of a total amount of Rs 4,684.52 crore which includes Rs 2,367.65 crore COVID claims under PMGKY package.
Mantralaya building in Mumbai to be shut for sanitization
After two coronavirus positive patients were found in Mantralaya building in Mumbai yesterday, offices in the main building and annexe building will remain shut for two days for sanitization purpose. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation will carry out sanitization work.
PM Modi speaks to Indonesia President on coronavirus
Discussed COVID-19 pandemic with good friend President @Jokowi. As close maritime neighbours and Compreshensive Strategic Partners, close cooperation between India and Indonesia will be important to deal with the health and economic challenges posed by this crisis.
- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 28, 2020
Jagan Mohan Reddy's government responsible for COVID-19: Chandrababu Naidu
TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu today accused Jagan Mohan Reddy-led Andhra Pradesh government and State Election Commission (SEC) of causing a nonstop rise in coronavirus cases in the state. In an open letter to the people of Andhra Pradesh, Naidu appealed them to protect themselves by personally taking all possible preventive measures against the dangerous COVID threat.
China "deeply concerned" over India's move to cancel COVID-19 test kits
China is "deeply concerned" over India's decision to stop using the COVID-19 rapid antibody test kits made by two Chinese companies, the country said today, adding that it hopes India will resolve the issue "reasonably". The government on Monday had said not a single rupee will be lost to Chinese firms who provided faulty COVID-19 test kits to India as the orders have been cancelled and the payments not made. Read Here
Pope Francis today said at this time, as indications emerge for a way out of quarantine, we pray that the Lord will grant us the grace of prudence and obedience to these indications, so that the pandemic does not return.
At this time, as indications emerge for a way out of quarantine, we pray that the Lord will grant us the grace of prudence and obedience to these indications, so that the pandemic does not return. #PrayTogether
- Pope Francis (@Pontifex) April 28, 2020
Treat COVID-19 as an opportunity: Ravi Shankar Prasad
Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has asked state governments to treat the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity and prepare for the forthcoming boom in the electronics manufacturing sector. The comments of the minister came at a meeting with his state counterparts where he said that "anger against China can be used towards benefit for India's manufacturing sector".
COVID-19: Supreme Court asks Centre to ensure PPE kits are provided to health workers
The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to make suggestions in the guidelines for rational use of personal protective equipment so that the PPE kits are provided to all medical professionals who are working in non-COVID treatment areas in the country. A bench headed by Justice N V Ramana, hearing the matter through video-conferencing, passed the direction after it was informed that asymptomatic COVID-19 patients are reported to be on the rise in India.
Coronavirus latest: 8 new COVID-19 positive cases reported in Karnataka
8 new COVID-19 positive cases reported in Karnataka taking the total number of cases to 520: Karnataka Government
8 new #COVID19 positive cases reported in Karnataka from 27th April 2020, 5:00 PM to 28th April 2020, 12:00 noon, taking the total number of cases to 520: Karnataka Government pic.twitter.com/kf9nnjsXve
- ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2020
Employee working with Niti Aayog tested positive for COVID-19 today, the building is undergoing disinfection and sanitisation.
An employee working at NITI Bhavan has been detected positive with COVID-19. It was informed to the authorities at 9 am this morning. NITI Aayog is following all the due protocols necessary as per the Ministry of Health guidelines. The building has been sealed.
- NITI Aayog (@NITIAayog) April 28, 2020
No fresh case in 80 districts since a week: Harsh Vardhan
"No fresh case reported in 80 districts since last 7 days. In 47 districts, no case has been reported in last 14 days, while 39 districts have not reported a case since last 21 days. Seventeen districts have not reported a case for last 28 days," says Health Minister Harsh Vardhan.
Watch Live!! Dr Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister for HFW, S&T, ES interacts through Video Conferencing with Autonomous Institutes & PSUs under Dept of Biotechnology https://t.co/3QM2ioNx7d
- DrHarshVardhanOffice (@DrHVoffice) April 28, 2020
Harsh Vardhan on Coronavirus pandemic
Health Minister Harsh Vardhan addresses media on coronavirus pandemic -- "For the last 14 days, our doubling rate is 8.7, while for the last 7 days, it is 10.2 days. In last 3 days, it is 10.9 days roughly."
Coronavirus: 82 fresh COVID-19 cases reported in Andhra Pradesh
The rapid spread of coronavirus in Andhra Pradesh continued as 82 fresh cases were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the aggregate to 1,259 on Tuesday. For the fourth consecutive day, no COVID-19-related deaths were reported in the state as the toll remained at 31, a government bulletin said.
Coronavirus: Bengal students develop device to detect if person coughing has COVID-19
Two students of the Jadavpur University have developed an intelligent device which will analyse if a coughing person is a COVID-19 carrier. A teacher of Innovation Council of Jadavpur University said on Tuesday that two undergraduate students of the Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering have developed the device which will track a coughing person and analyse if the same person is a possible suspect of novel coronavirus.
Trump was warned about virus repeatedly in January, February: Report
US President Donald Trump was repeatedly warned about the dangers of the novel coronavirus in intelligence briefings in January and February, The Washington Post reported late Monday. The warnings -- more than a dozen included in classified briefings known as the President's Daily Brief -- came during a time the president was mostly downplaying the threat of a COVID-19 pandemic.
Coronavirus: Mumbai cops over 55 told to stay home after 3 colleagues die of COVID-19
Mumbai policemen over 55 have been asked to stay home after three cops died of coronavirus in the city. Policemen over 55 will not be on duty as Mumbai fights the COVID-19 pandemic. They have been asked to stay at home until the virus was brought under control, said officials. This was decided by the Mumbai Police Chief Param Bir Singh after three policemen lost their lives in a matter of three days. All three were 50-plus. Read Here
Coronavirus: UN Chief says as we recover, we must build a better future for all
Coronavirus has exposed the fragility of our societies to global shocks, such as disease or the climate crisis.
#COVID19 has exposed the fragility of our societies to global shocks, such as disease or the climate crisis.
- António Guterres (@antonioguterres) April 28, 2020
As we recover, we must build a better future for all.
Together, we can protect our planet, improve health, reduce inequality & re-energize struggling economies.#PCD11 pic.twitter.com/C8CgIvcdtG
COVID-19: Agra coronavirus cases rise
Eight new cases of the novel coronavirus disease, COVID-19, were reported in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.
Coronavirus: Mohali's COVID-19 count reaches 64
One more COVID-19 case has been reported from Mohali on Tuesday, taking the total number of people infected with coronavirus in the district to 64, the district administration said. Out of 64 COVID-19 cases, 27 people have been cured. Two deaths have been reported in the district till date.
COVID-19 patients with very mild symptoms can be at home. see conditions
The Union Health Ministry has issued fresh guidelines on home isolation for coronavirus patients who have only either very mild symptoms of the infection or are "pre-symptomatic. Read Here
Coronavirus: Yogi Adityanath holds COVID-19 meeting
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath chairs a meeting with 'COVID-19 management Team-11' of the state, over the coronavirus pandemic.
Coronavirus: 66 more COVID-19 cases in Rajasthan
66 more COVID-19 cases have been reported from Rajasthan, taking the total number of coronavirus cases in the state to 2,328 on Tuesday.
Coronavirus: 7 more COVID-19 cases in Odisha
Seven more COVID-19 cases were reported from Odisha, taking the total number of coronavirus cases in the state to 118 on Monday, according to the state Health Department. As per the latest figure, there are 80 active COVID-19 cases including 37 cured/recovered and one death.
COVID-19 lockdown: UP government sends students stranded in Prayagraj to their homes
The Uttar Pradesh government has started sending students, who are stranded in Prayagraj due to COVID-19 lockdown, to their respective districts. The first batch of students boarded buses on late Monday night to return home.
Coronavirus: 1,543 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours
India recorded 1,543 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours and 62 deaths linked to the highly contagious illness - the biggest single-day spike - taking the total to 29,435 COVID-19 cases so far, including 934 deaths.
Police personnel checking passes and identity cards of people to control the movement of vehicles during coronavirus lockdown
Police personnel checking passes and identity cards of people to control the movement of vehicles during #CoronavirusLockdown; Visuals from Delhi-Gurugram border pic.twitter.com/M8P7IEHFSx
- ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2020
COVID-19 news: US doing very serious investigation against China, says Trump
The United States is doing a "very serious" investigation against China, President Donald Trump said, indicating his administration is looking at a lot more money as compensation from Beijing than euro 130 billion being sought by Germany.
COVID-19: Assam govt announces Rs 50 lakh insurance cover to journalists
Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday lauded the frontline journalists who are covering COVID-19 and said that the state will give them insurance cover of Rs 50 lakh. "Frontline journalists have been bravely covering COVID-19 against all odds, risking their lives and they are our real heroes. Our government will cover each one of them with a life insurance cover of Rs 50 lakh," Mr Sonowal said.
Coronavirus update: Delhi Health Minister visits Plasma Donation Centre in Narela
Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Monday visited the Plasma Donation Centre in Narela, where 25 people who recovered from COVID-19, donated their blood plasma.
Health and Family Welfare Ministry has issued guidelines for home isolation of people who either have very mild COVID1-9 symptoms or are in the pre-symptomatic phase. Such patients with requisite self-isolation facility at their residence will now have the option for home isolation
Health & Family Welfare Ministry has issued guidelines for home isolation of people who either have very mild #COVID19 symptoms or are in the pre-symptomatic phase. Such patients with requisite self-isolation facility at their residence will now have the option for home isolation pic.twitter.com/c7KdGyabWP
- ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2020
Delhi government on Monday lifted the bar on veterinarians, plumbers and electricians after reviewing coronavirus situation
Delhi Government yesterday lifted the bar on veterinarians, plumbers,& electricians after reviewing #COVID19 situation in the national capital. In the order, Delhi Disaster Management Authority(DDMA) also allowed inter-state travel of health workers, lab technicians & scientists. pic.twi > tter.com/4wlyzF6Mus
- ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2020
US records 1,303 coronavirus deaths in 24 hours: Report
The United States recorded 1,303 more novel coronavirus deaths in the past 24 hours, according to figures reported late Monday by the Johns Hopkins University, with confirmed US cases nearing one million. The country now has an overall death toll of 56,144, with 987,022 infections, according to a tally by the Baltimore-based institution at 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Tuesday).
Coronavirus Lockdowns Begin To Ease, Cases Top 3 MillionThe number of confirmed coronavirus cases worldwide soared past three million on Monday as several European nations and a handful of US states began taking steps to reopen their shuttered economies."
Coronavirus: COVID-19 Vaccine Likely By September, Says Indian Firm Partnering OxfordA vaccine for coronavirus may be available in the market as early as the end of September, the chief of the world's largest vaccine maker has told NDTV."
After COVID-19 recovery, Delhi-based doctor donates plasma; urges survivors as well
A Delhi-based doctor, who is working at one of the government hospitals in the national capital, has donated his plasma after recovering from COVID-19 and has urged other coronavirus survivors to do the same.
Dr Ahmad was asymptomatic and was admitted for three days at Safdarjung Hospital. Later, he was discharged after his two consecutive tests came out negative. He has also completed his 14-day quarantine period and returned to duty on April 20.
"I have recovered from COVID-19. Recently, I have donated my plasma for convalescent plasma therapy. As you all know, the first patient who was given this therapy has recovered successfully. The results of this plasma therapy are very promising. So, I would like to urge each one of the survivors or the people who have recovered from COVID-19 to please come forward and donate your plasma," Dr Ahmad told ANI.
"There is nothing which should be stopping you from donating your plasma," he said.
The doctor explained that plasma donation is a 30-minute procedure, done under the supervision of well-trained doctors and there are no side effects of it.
"This is the least what you could do for the society at present and you all should come forward and donate your plasma," he said.
A Delhi-based doctor, who is working at one of the government hospitals in the national capital, has donated his plasma after recovering from COVID-19 and has urged other coronavirus survivors to do the same.
Dr Ahmad was asymptomatic and was admitted for three days at Safdarjung Hospital. Later, he was discharged after his two consecutive tests came out negative. He has also completed his 14-day quarantine period and returned to duty on April 20.
"I have recovered from COVID-19. Recently, I have donated my plasma for convalescent plasma therapy. As you all know, the first patient who was given this therapy has recovered successfully. The results of this plasma therapy are very promising. So, I would like to urge each one of the survivors or the people who have recovered from COVID-19 to please come forward and donate your plasma," Dr Ahmad told ANI.
"There is nothing which should be stopping you from donating your plasma," he said.
The doctor explained that plasma donation is a 30-minute procedure, done under the supervision of well-trained doctors and there are no side effects of it.
"This is the least what you could do for the society at present and you all should come forward and donate your plasma," he said.
Coronavirus News: NCC cadets should be deployed at quarantine centres: Yogi Adityanath
The chief minister further said the health and medical education departments will be required to ensure all precautions in order to guard against any type of medical infection.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday said trained NCC cadets should be deployed at quarantine centres.
Addressing a review meeting of senior office at his official residence, Yogi Adityanath said, "All migrant labourers coming from other states should be medically examined before being sent in a quarantine. Trained cadets of the NCC should be deployed at quarantine centres."
Yogi Adityanath also directed officials to prepare an action plan for industrial activities after May 3, a statement issued by the UP government said, adding that an effective implementation of the lockdown will have to be ensured.
Coronavirus: 8 fresh COVID-19 cases reported in Odisha, total mounts to 111
With Koraput district reporting a coronavirus patient, COVID-19 cases have now been found in 11 out of the 30 districts of Odisha.
Eight people, including four women, tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday, taking the total number of cases in Odisha to 111, officials said.
While six fresh cases were reported from Balasore, one each was detected from Jajpur and Koraput districts, they said.
The patient from Koraput is a 22-year-old male health worker from Dasmantpur block, the first COVID-19 case reported from the tribal-dominated district as well as south Odisha.
The male staff nurse in a government facility is the state's first health worker to get infected with the deadly virus, the officials said, adding that he was asymptomatic.
The Koraput patient, who had returned from Kolkata on April 14 to join duty, was put under quarantine in view of his travel history, and had not joined work.
Following the COVID-19 test, he was diagnosed with the disease, the officials said.
Coronavirus - Passes Must For Gurgaon, Faridabad, Says Haryana, Blaming Delhi For COVID-19 SpreadHaryana will tighten its borders with Delhi, clamping down on travel to its satellite cities of Gurgaon and Faridabad, after a number of recent coronavirus cases were traced to the national capital, authorities said. At least two other borders - Sonipat and Jhajjar - were sealed earlier amid the COVID-19 outbreak."
