5 years ago
New Delhi:
The Supreme Court on Monday sought a status report from the Centre by Tuesday on the measures taken in view of the large-scale migration of labourers from cities to their native villages amid the coronavirus outbreak and the consequent lockdown across the country. The top court observed that the migration of labourers out of panic and fear is becoming a bigger problem than the coronavirus. It said the court would not create more confusion by issuing directions on measures that the government is already taking to deal with the issue. The number of COVID-19 cases in Maharashtra climbed to 215 on Monday as 12 more people tested positive for coronavirus in the state, a health official said. Out of the 12 new patients, five are from Pune, three from Mumbai, two from Nagpur, and one each from Kolhapur and Nashik, the official said. So far, eight COVID-19 patients have died in the state.
The government on Sunday asked states to ensure the 21-day lockdown, asking them to help curb the exodus of migrant workers from cities, as the overall number of COVID-19 positive people crossed the 1000-mark. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who declared a 21-day lockdown last week, warned against violation of the restrictions, saying those doing so were "playing with their own lives". He also apologized for the lockdown decision inconveniencing the poor but made it clear that it was the need of the hour. Overall 27 people have died because of the virus. The deaths were reported from various states including Bengal, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Kerala, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Bihar. A death each has been reported from these states. Maharashtra has reported 6 deaths, Madhya Pradesh 2, Karnataka 3, Gujarat 4, and Delhi 2. On Sunday, the number of those infected rose to 1024.
Here are the Highlights on Coronavirus:
Rajasthan reports 8 more COVID-19 positive cases
Eight more people tested positive for COVID-19 in Jaipur on Monday night. All the people are family members of a person who is already positive. There are 56 active cases of COVID-19 in Rajasthan as on Monday night, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.
Pune cops warn against fake information on coronavirus on April Fool's Day
The police has asked people in Pune district of Maharashtra not to spread rumours or false information regarding coronavirus in the name of April Fool's Day jokes or pranks on social media.
The Pune rural police have issued a notification in this regard.
The notification warned of penal action under section 188 of the IPC if a person is found circulating misinformation and rumours related to the deadly disease on social media platforms.
Delhi government turns 11 schools into night shelters
The Delhi government said that it has converted 11 schools into night shelters, in a bid accommodate the migrant workers who are leaving Delhi towards their homes in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, amid the three-week nationwide lockdown imposed to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
"In the wake of the coronavirus lockdown in the country, a huge number of migrant workers had started leaving Delhi to head towards their homes in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. In an effort to accommodate more people and provide them with food, the Delhi government has converted 11 schools into night shelters," as per an official press release.
Nagpur man hides COVID-19 contact details, doctors quarantined
Eight doctors and four paramedics of Nagpur's Government Medical College and Hospital were
Two people who tested positive on Monday here were also close contacts of this man, officials said.
Eight doctors and four paramedics of Nagpur's Government Medical College and Hospital were
quarantined after they came in contact with a person who hid the fact that his younger brother was a COVID-19 patient and then went on to test positive himself for novel coronavirus, health officials said on Monday.
The man, who tested positive for the virus on Sunday, was examined by the 12 medical staff at GMCH last week, an official said.
Besides, a private hospital has also been sealed till further orders where this man, who suffers from paralysis, was admitted before being shifted to the government-run hospital.
Odisha government sets up 252 temporary camps for people stranded in state
Odisha government has set up 252 temporary camps in the state for 18,000 people stranded here and a 24x7 helpline number is functioning to facilitate these people in the view of coronavirus.
"Camps along with food have been started for people stranded in the state. Till now, about 18,000 labourers have been sheltered in 252 temporary camps. A 24x7 helpline number is functioning to facilitate these people," Subroto Bagchi, Chief Spokesperson of Odisha government said.
Addressing the media, he said that as per the direction of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, destitute and helpless people are being provided cooked food in gram panchayats and urban areas.
He said over 1.25 lakh people in 2,261 gram panchayats and 19,886 in 80 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) of the state have been provided cooked food.
"Advance pension for four months to beneficiaries under the Social Security Scheme is being given. Till now, 60 per cent of beneficiaries have already received their pension," he said.
Odisha government has set up 252 temporary camps in the state for 18,000 people stranded here and a 24x7 helpline number is functioning to facilitate these people in the view of coronavirus.
"Camps along with food have been started for people stranded in the state. Till now, about 18,000 labourers have been sheltered in 252 temporary camps. A 24x7 helpline number is functioning to facilitate these people," Subroto Bagchi, Chief Spokesperson of Odisha government said.
Addressing the media, he said that as per the direction of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, destitute and helpless people are being provided cooked food in gram panchayats and urban areas.
He said over 1.25 lakh people in 2,261 gram panchayats and 19,886 in 80 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) of the state have been provided cooked food.
"Advance pension for four months to beneficiaries under the Social Security Scheme is being given. Till now, 60 per cent of beneficiaries have already received their pension," he said.
COVID-19: Assam government announces package befitting 72 lakh families
Altogether 2.78 lakh registered construction workers and all families not covered by the National Food Security Act will receive one-time assistance of Rs 1,000 from the government, an official release said.
The Assam government announced on Monday a special package benefitting 72 lakh families, as the ongoing lockdown has rendered a large number of people in the state jobless.
The government decided at a meeting that construction of embankments, work at tea gardens and farming would start from April 1 though the lockdown would still be in force.
Air India to conduct eight cargo-only flights on Tuesday
The other three flights with cargo would be flying using another A320 aircraft on Delhi-Hyderabad route, Hyderabad-Chennai route and Chennai-Delhi route, the official noted.
Air India will undertake eight flights on Tuesday to transport cargo across various cities of the country amid the 21-day lockdown imposed due to the coronavirus pandemic, said a senior airline official on Monday.
"As required by the civil aviation ministry, Air India would be conducting three flights using the same A320 aircraft on Mumbai-Delhi route, Delhi-Guwahati route and Guwahati-Mumbai route," the official stated.
Pune Police create awareness about coronavirus through song
With the entire country battling against COVID-19, a team of Dattawadi police station in Pune is seeking to create awareness among the people about the disease through a song.
"Through this song, we are urging people to maintain social distance and wash hands regularly to prevent the spread of coronavirus," Pune Police ASI Pramod Kalamkar told ANI.
The total number of coronavirus cases in Pune is 32 and the total number of cases in Maharashtra is 215. The total number of COVID-19 positive cases has risen to 1071 in the country. This includes 99 people who have been discharged or cured of the highly contagious respiratory illness.
With the entire country battling against COVID-19, a team of Dattawadi police station in Pune is seeking to create awareness among the people about the disease through a song.
"Through this song, we are urging people to maintain social distance and wash hands regularly to prevent the spread of coronavirus," Pune Police ASI Pramod Kalamkar told ANI.
The total number of coronavirus cases in Pune is 32 and the total number of cases in Maharashtra is 215. The total number of COVID-19 positive cases has risen to 1071 in the country. This includes 99 people who have been discharged or cured of the highly contagious respiratory illness.
COVID-19: Doctors in Kashmir express concern over inadequate infrastructure, shortage of manpower
He said while it is the duty of doctors and health workers to fight this war, they need protection.
Most doctors and paramedics leading the fight against COVID-19 in Kashmir on Monday voiced concern over inadequate medical infrastructure, and said there is a lack of manpower to deal with the pandemic if it intensifies in the valley.
Doctors treating COVID-19 patients claimed they are stretched and unable to get proper rest.
Some medical workers also complained of shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Dr Suhail Nayak, president of Doctors Association Kashmir (DAK), said there is an urgent need for staff that can run ICUs and high-dependency units.
"I believe that even after these restrictions and lockdown, the COVID-19 cases will rise. I have no doubt that the government is focused on the COVID-19 battle, but the doctors are facing certain problems. For example, we lack manpower - the real manpower, which is trained to run the ICUs and high-dependency units," he said.
All private hospitals must remain operational, else face action: UP chief secretary
"Provision should be made to open all the private hospitals in the state. Instructions should be given to their managers that they should keep the medical equipment operational, ensure presence of doctors and para-medical staff and adequate medicines," it said.
In view of complaints that some private hospitals in Uttar Pradesh have either downed their shutters or are not catering to patients, the state government has directed all such facilities to continue with their services, failing which, they would face action.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary R K Tiwari said assistance of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) will be taken to ensure adequate medical services in the state.
In a letter to all district magistrates of the state, the chief secretary said, "For the past few days, complaints are coming that some private hospitals have either closed down, or are not catering to most of the patients."
Constitute monitoring committee in each village to fight COVID-19: Dushyant Chautala
Mr Chautala said these village-level committees will manage and monitor the sanitisation, food and lodging arrangements for migrant workers and labourers and the needy staying in such shelter homes.
Haryana Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala on Monnday asked all gram panchayats in the state to constitute a monitoring committee in view of the prevailing situation caused by the COVID-19 outbreak.
Mr Chautala, who also holds the portfolio of Development and Panchayat Department, has asked gram panchayats to constitute the committee by April 14.
He said in the committees ex-servicemen, retired persons and social organisations should be included.
Take action against landlords asking coronavirus doctors, nurses to vacate houses: Assam Governor to top cop
Assam Governor Jagdish Mukhi on Monday instructed the DGP to take strict action against the
He emphasised that the men and machinery of the government should be fully deployed to mitigate the emergent situation arising out of COVID-19 in the state.
Assam Governor Jagdish Mukhi on Monday instructed the DGP to take strict action against the
landlords asking doctors, nurses and medical staff to vacate their rented accommodation for treating COVID-19 patients.
Reviewing the ongoing situation in the state with top officials, Mr Mukhi said he has come across reports, where the doctors and paramedical staff living in rented apartments are being asked by the landlords to vacate the houses.
The Governor asked the Director General of Police to take stern action against such landlords and ensure the safety of the health workers, an official release said.
Special cargo flights to transport essential goods to Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh: Jitendra Singh
Following instructions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, northeastern states, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and island territories will be given highest priority for transporting essential commodities through special flights, Mr Singh said.
Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh will receive essential commodities and medical equipments through special air cargos during the lockdown, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said on Monday.
This comes a day after a similar decision was taken for transporting essential commodities and medicines to the northeastern states.
On the lines of the northeastern region, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh will also receive supplies, including essential commodities and medical equipments, through special air cargo flights during the lockdown, the Union Minister of State in Prime Minister''s Office (PMO) said.
The decision was taken after Singh took up the issue with Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri.
Delhi's Nehru Stadium to be converted into a quarantine centre for COVID-19 patients
The Sports Authority of India (SAI) will hand over Nehru Stadium to the Delhi government to be used as a quarantine center for Covid-19 patients.
"Delhi government has approached us officially for Nehru stadium. So, we are giving it, we have already handed over our Sonepat center. SAI Training Center (STC) in Patiala has also been made ready as a 120-bed quarantine center. The STC is outside NIS Patiala where our elite athletes are staying and training," a source from SAI told ANI.
The Sports Authority of India (SAI) will hand over Nehru Stadium to the Delhi government to be used as a quarantine center for Covid-19 patients.
"Delhi government has approached us officially for Nehru stadium. So, we are giving it, we have already handed over our Sonepat center. SAI Training Center (STC) in Patiala has also been made ready as a 120-bed quarantine center. The STC is outside NIS Patiala where our elite athletes are staying and training," a source from SAI told ANI.
Coronavirus: Madhya Pradesh hospitals get CCTVs to stop quarantine violations
Hospitals with COVID-19 patients and those quarantined for suspected exposure to novel
"One of them had escaped from hospital on two occasions," an official said
Hospitals with COVID-19 patients and those quarantined for suspected exposure to novel
coronavirus have been brought under CCTV cover and enhanced security measures to ensure nobody flees from isolation, said a senior Madhya Pradesh police official on Monday.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Harinarayanchari Mishra also said those fleeing quarantine would be charged under sections 188 (refusing to obey order of any government official) and 269 (negligent step that leads to the spread of life-threatening infection) of the Indian Penal Code.
"We have intensified security and installed CCTV cameras in the hospitals where coronavirus affected patients are admitted," he said.
Two people, including a COVID-19 patient, had escaped isolation from a hospital on Saturday night, though they were arrested soon and re-quarantined.
Sarbananda Sonowal writes to all states for safety of Assamese people during lockdown
Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday said his government has written
Assam is taking all the precautions to tackle the coronavirus pandemic. Mr Sonowal presided over a meeting to take stock of preparatory measures taken by the district administration to fight the COVID-19 outbreak.
Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday said his government has written
letters to all other states, seeking safety and security of Assamese people stranded there during the ongoing nationwide lockdown.
The chief minister's comment came amid reports that migrant workers across the country were trying to walk back home due to unemployment, lack of shelter and food after the 21-day lockdown imposed to contain the spread of coronavirus.
"The Assam government has written letters to all other state governments for safety and security of the Assamese people staying in their states during lockdown period," the chief minister told reporters.
Visiting Bongaigaon Civil Hospital to review its preparedness for treatment of COVID-19 patients, Mr Sonowal said.
Yogi Adityanath conducts aerial survey in Ghaziabad, Noida amid rising COVID-19 cases
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday conducted an aerial survey in Ghaziabad and Noida and also held a meeting with officials of Gautam Buddh Nagar amid rising cases of COVID-19 in the state and a nationwide lockdown.
Yogi Adityanath also distributed food items and ration to needy people in Greater Noida.
The Central government had last Tuesday announced a 21-day lockdown to prevent the spread of coronavirus, which, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has claimed the lives of 29 people and infected a total of 1,071 people in the country as on Monday.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday conducted an aerial survey in Ghaziabad and Noida and also held a meeting with officials of Gautam Buddh Nagar amid rising cases of COVID-19 in the state and a nationwide lockdown.
Yogi Adityanath also distributed food items and ration to needy people in Greater Noida.
The Central government had last Tuesday announced a 21-day lockdown to prevent the spread of coronavirus, which, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has claimed the lives of 29 people and infected a total of 1,071 people in the country as on Monday.
14 railway staff returning from Bengaluru quarantined in Tripura
Passenger train services in the country were suspended on March 21 in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. Three days later, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a nationwide lockdown for 21 days.
A total of 14 railway employees, who arrived at Ambassa in Dhalai district of Tripura, in a train from Bengaluru carrying no passengers were taken to a quarantine facility, officials said on Monday.
After the train reached Ambassa, the penultimate station before Agartala, were shifted to the quarantine centre for 14 days on Sunday, district COVID-19 surveillance officer Dr Subhash Barua said.
32 fresh COVID-19 cases reported in Kerala
At least 1.50 lakh people are under surveillance in the state and 623 people are in isolation wards of various hospitals.
erala on Monday reported 32 fresh coronavirus cases, with Kasargod district alone accounting for 17 cases, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said.
Kannur reported 15 cases, while Wayanad and Idukki reported two cases each, he told reporters here after a COVID-19 review meeting.
Of the 32 cases, 17 had come from abroad and 15 infected through contact.
The total number of people presently under treatment in the state is 213.
Ending of lockdown depends on how everyone follows it, says BS Yediyurappa
Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa on Monday appealed to people to strictly follow the restrictions in the state, saying that the ending of 21-day nationwide lockdown imposed to contain COVID-19 depends on how the public adheres to the rules.
In a press statement, BS Yediyurappa appealed to the people to help the government to prevent the spread of coronavirus by strictly following the lockdown.
"People of Karnataka are known for tolerance and patience. They are law-abiding citizens. Now, the lockdown in wake of coronavirus is a testing time for them. It has come to test the patience of our people, especially the people of Karnataka. Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself has apologized and said that lockdown was an inevitable step taken by the government to protect people from the pandemic. We have to realise the predicament of a prime minister who always cares for the well being of the country and its people," the statement quoted BS Yediyurappa as saying.
"At this hour of crisis, it is not good on our part to come out of houses and violate the curfew. The ending of lockdown depends on strictness with which one follows the curfew and maintain social distancing. If one follows the curfew strictly, the lockdown period will automatically end on April 14. Whether to end the lockdown or not is in your hands," he said.
The Chief Minister urged not to test the patience of police, saying, "Already our police are under stress as they are working without any rest. Do not force them to use the force and later blame them for stern action."
He also appealed to follow the lockdown provisions and stay back in their home.
"The government has taken all measures to maintain the supply of essentials and food to the needy. Consider this situation as a blessing in disguise and spend your valuable time reading books which in turn will boost your knowledge and intellectual capacity. My earnest request to even the poor is spending your time by involving yourselves in creative activities inside your houses," Mr Yediyurappa said.
"At the same time, it is time for us to respect the sacrificing work of the doctors, nurses, health staff and civic workers who are working round the clock to save the lives of hundreds of people affected by coronavirus. My appeal to you all strictly follows the curfew rules and maintains the social distance to combat COVID-19," he added.
Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa on Monday appealed to people to strictly follow the restrictions in the state, saying that the ending of 21-day nationwide lockdown imposed to contain COVID-19 depends on how the public adheres to the rules.
In a press statement, BS Yediyurappa appealed to the people to help the government to prevent the spread of coronavirus by strictly following the lockdown.
"People of Karnataka are known for tolerance and patience. They are law-abiding citizens. Now, the lockdown in wake of coronavirus is a testing time for them. It has come to test the patience of our people, especially the people of Karnataka. Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself has apologized and said that lockdown was an inevitable step taken by the government to protect people from the pandemic. We have to realise the predicament of a prime minister who always cares for the well being of the country and its people," the statement quoted BS Yediyurappa as saying.
"At this hour of crisis, it is not good on our part to come out of houses and violate the curfew. The ending of lockdown depends on strictness with which one follows the curfew and maintain social distancing. If one follows the curfew strictly, the lockdown period will automatically end on April 14. Whether to end the lockdown or not is in your hands," he said.
The Chief Minister urged not to test the patience of police, saying, "Already our police are under stress as they are working without any rest. Do not force them to use the force and later blame them for stern action."
He also appealed to follow the lockdown provisions and stay back in their home.
"The government has taken all measures to maintain the supply of essentials and food to the needy. Consider this situation as a blessing in disguise and spend your valuable time reading books which in turn will boost your knowledge and intellectual capacity. My earnest request to even the poor is spending your time by involving yourselves in creative activities inside your houses," Mr Yediyurappa said.
"At the same time, it is time for us to respect the sacrificing work of the doctors, nurses, health staff and civic workers who are working round the clock to save the lives of hundreds of people affected by coronavirus. My appeal to you all strictly follows the curfew rules and maintains the social distance to combat COVID-19," he added.
PM Modi asks Gayatri Parivar head to create awareness on coronavirus
PM Modi talked to Mr Pandya as part of his discussions on the coronavirus situation with spiritual leaders including Yoga guru Ramdev, Shri Shri Ravishankar and Jaggi Vasudev. P
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke to Gayatri Parivar head Pranav Pandya via video-conference, soliciting his help in creating awareness about COVID-19.
"Being a physician by training, you can educate people about the scientific ways in which they can save themselves from coronavirus," PM Modi told him.
Mr Pandya assured the Prime Minister of all possible help to contain the spread ot eh pandemic. He also apprised Modi on the steps being taken by Gayatri Parivar to provide food packets to stranded people during the ongoing lockdown.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra urges UP government to not treat migrant workers inhumanely
"UP government is requested to not do such an inhuman work as we all are together in the fight against this disaster. The workers have already suffered a lot. Do not bathe them like this with chemicals. This will not save them but will create more problems to their health," she said in a tweet in Hindi.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday hit out at the UP government, accusing it of spraying chemicals on migrant labourers, and said it should not treat them inhumanely.
She shared a video of government functionaries spraying water allegedly filled with chemicals at the labourers huddled together on a roadside.
Centre could consider suggestions for cash transfer to unemployed workers: NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman
"As far as the loss of cash income (of migrant workers due to the countrywide lockdown) is concerned, I think the government may consider at some stage giving them cash through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme to compensate them for loss of employment on account of the 21-day lockdown," Mr Kumar told PTI in an interview.
The government could consider suggestions for direct transfer of cash to unemployed workers, including migrant workers, to compensate them for loss of livelihood in the wake of the 21-day lockdown to curb spreading of coronavirus infections, Niti Aayog Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar said on Monday.
Following the nationwide lockdown, which will be in place till April 14, thousands of migrant workers from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and other states have started returning back to their home states from various cities, including Delhi and Mumbai.
Mr Kumar said the Centre and state governments have made big arrangements for migrant workers in different parts of the country where their sustenance is taken care of.
The central government has also received suggestions for direct cash transfer to unemployed workers, he said.
No lives should be lost in the name of fighting coronavirus: High Court on Karnataka-Kerala border block
Kerala High Court, while hearing a petition filed against Karnataka''s decision to block the border with Kerala, on Monday said that no lives should not be lost in the name of fighting coronavirus.
Kerala High Court also said that "the current problem should be resolved amicably. Both the Union government and the Karnataka government should rise to the occasion."
The Central government has informed Kerala High Court that the movement of goods and medical services qualify under essential services, which is permitted despite the lockdown, and added that directions have been issued to give priority to the movement of such goods and services.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka government has sought a day''s time to clarify their stand.
The matter will be taken up for further hearing via video conference tomorrow.
Kerala High Court, while hearing a petition filed against Karnataka''s decision to block the border with Kerala, on Monday said that no lives should not be lost in the name of fighting coronavirus.
Kerala High Court also said that "the current problem should be resolved amicably. Both the Union government and the Karnataka government should rise to the occasion."
The Central government has informed Kerala High Court that the movement of goods and medical services qualify under essential services, which is permitted despite the lockdown, and added that directions have been issued to give priority to the movement of such goods and services.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka government has sought a day''s time to clarify their stand.
The matter will be taken up for further hearing via video conference tomorrow.
Uttar Pradesh reports 16 new coronavirus cases, total reaches 88
Mr Prasad said of the total cases reported so far, 44 are from two clusters.
Sixteen new coronavirus positive cases were reported in Uttar Pradesh on Monday, taking the total tally in the state to 88, officials said.
Of the 88 COVID-19 patients, 14 have fully recovered and discharged. Gautam Buddh Nagar district alone has reported 36 cases, they said.
"So far, the number of samples which tested coronavirus positive is 88. Of this, 14 patients have fully recovered and discharged. The maximum 36 cases have been reported from Gautam Buddh Nagar, where 31 were from just one factory," Uttar Pradesh Principal Secretary (Medical and Health) Amit Mohan Prasad told reporters on Monday.
"In Meerut, 13 cases have been reported, all of which are relatives and acquaintances of one infected person."
Rs 52 crore mine fund to be used in coronavirus fight: Goa Chief Minister
Sawant informed that the condition of all five COVID- 19 patients in the state was stable.
He said a laboratory to test samples for coronavirus started functioning at the Goa Medical College and Hospital from Monday.
A sum of Rs 52 crore will be used from the District Mineral Fund to set up facilities to combat the novel coronavirus outbreak, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said on Monday.
The fund, collected for mining activity which has come to a standstill for two years now, currently has a corpus of Rs 180 crore, he told reporters.
"We will use Rs 52 crore from the district mineral fund to set up facilities including a COVID-19 hospital. The Centre has allowed us to utilise money in this fund," he said.
He said a laboratory to test samples for coronavirus started functioning at the Goa Medical College and Hospital from Monday.
Haryana police seal inter-state borders, urge migrant labourers to move into shelters
Haryana government had started enforcing a lockdown in the state before March 24.
Haryana police said on Monday they have completely sealed all inter-state borders to prevent the movement of migrant workers and effectively control the spread of COVID-19, after a large number of labourers from UP, Bihar and Odisha set out on foot for their homes.
The workers are being persuaded to move into temporary shelters and the local administration and social workers are serving food there, Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Navdeep Singh Virk said.
"Police officers and jawans posted at various ''nakas'' are providing all possible help to the people especially to the poor, homeless, needy and sick ones," he said in a statement.
Some of the migrants, however, said they were facing problems in the shelters.
Many migrant workers, most of them daily wagers, said they did not have money or work and their contractors did not pay them after the 21-day countrywide lockdown was announced on March 24.
Mumbai elderly man, who died two days ago, tests coronavirus positive
The sample of an elderly person, who died two days ago, tested positive for coronavirus on
"With this report, the casualty figure in Maharashtra is now 10. Already, a patient died in Pune today," the official said.
The sample of an elderly person, who died two days ago, tested positive for coronavirus on
Monday, said an official of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
The 78-year-old person had died in a hospital on Saturday.
Coronavirus: Five more test positive in Chandigarh; count rises to 13
All of them have been admitted to the GMCH at sector 32 here, they said.
Five more persons tested positive for coronavirus in Chandigarh on Monday, taking the total count of confirmed cases to 13 in the Union Territory, said officials.
Among the fresh COVID-19 infected cases were those of a NRI couple who had recently returned from Canada, official said.
A 32-year-old non-resident Indian and his wife of the same age have been admitted to isolation ward of the Government Medical College & Hospital and they have tested positive for coronavirus, official said.
Besides the couple, three other persons who contracted coronavirus were primary contacts of a COVID-19 patient, official added.
Congress Asks State Units To Set Up Control Rooms To Help Combat CoronavirusAll India Congress Committee (AICC) on Monday directed its Pradesh Congress Committees (PCCs) to set up control rooms to co-ordinate the party's efforts to combat the spread of coronavirus across the country."
All 22 districts in Bengal to have nodal COVID-19 hospital: Mamata Banerjee
"Also, we have decided to extend the facility to sanitation and allied workers. Police personnel will also be covered under this insurance scheme," she said.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday said her government will set up a nodal COVID-19 hospital in each of the state's 22 districts.
She also said an insurance cover of Rs 10 lakh will be extended to those who have been aiding the government in the fight against COVID-19, including healthcare professionals, sanitation workers and police personnel.
Earlier, the government had sanctioned an insurance cover of Rs 5 lakh for people working in the healthcare sector.
"We had initially announced an insurance cover of Rs 5 lakh for doctors and healthcare workers. Now the amount has been increased to 10 lakh," Ms Banerjee said at a review meeting.
Central Railway releases list of parcel trains that will run amid lockdown
The Central Railway has released a list of parcel trains carrying essential commodities that will be running amid the countrywide lockdown.
All these trains will run with 20 VPU coaches and one guard-cum-luggage van. Their frequency may be increased if there is increase in demand.
Congress leaders to discuss COVID-19 lockdown implication at CWC meet on April 2
Top Congress leaders will discuss the implication and consequent problems of the 21-day country-wide lockdown imposed to check the spread of the novel coronavirus infection at the party's working committee meeting on April 2.
The Congress Working Committee (CWC) will meet on April 2 through video conferencing to discuss the party's strategy on the issue, AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal said.
BSNL's prepaid SIMs won't be discontinued till April 20: Ravi Shankar Prasad
Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Monday said the prepaid SIMs of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) will not be discontinued till April 20 and for outgoing calls, a Rs 10 incentive has also been provided so that the poor people continue to communicate amid the coronavirus lockdown.
"The Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited has decided that prepaid SIMs will not be discontinued till April 20. For outgoing calls, a Rs 10 incentive has been provided automatically from today so that the poor and the needy people continue to work," Minister for Electronics & IT, Communications and Law & Justice Prasad told ANI.
Coronavirus: 35 Indians land in Delhi from Kabul, being sent to ITBP quarantine facility
A flight carrying 35 Indians from Afghanistan landed at the Delhi airport on Monday and the passengers were being sent to an ITBP quarantine facility set up in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, officials said.
They said the Kam Air flight from Kabul landed at about 2:40 pm at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport.
Person Who Took Mumbai-Goa Flight COVID-19 Positive, Contact Tracing On
A person tested positive for coronavirus was onboard a Mumbai-Goa Vistara flight, the Goa government said today in a statement, asking the co-passengers to establish contact with the authorities. The patient had travelled from New York to Mumbai before taking the domestic flight and was found to be positive on Sunday, it added.
Personnel involved in cargo flight ops must have protective gear like masks, gloves, says DGCA
Amid the the 21-day lockdown imposed to combat coronavirus pandemic, aviation regulator DGCA on Monday asked all companies to ensure that the personnel dealing with cargo flight operations are provided protective gear like masks and gloves.
"All personnel involved with cargo operations to be made aware of the importance of ensuring adequate distance (Minimum 1 to 1.15 mtrs) at all work-stations. Shift incharge of airports, packaging and handling centre shall ensure the same," the circular of DGCA said.
Four more test positive for coronavirus in UP's Gautam Buddh Nagar
Four people, including three of a family, tested positive for coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh's Gautam Buddh Nagar on Monday, taking the total cases in the district to 36, officials said.
Those tested positive include the wife (37), sister (25) and son (5) of a man from Accheja village in Dadri area who was detected with the infection on March 28, Health Department officials said.
COVID-19 Protective Gear Hits Lockdown Hurdle: NDTV Exclusive
The nationwide lockdown and "curfew situations" could delay the supply of protective gear for medical professionals at the frontline of the battle against the Coronavirus by at least a month, a government agency has admitted. The admission forms part of an email dated March 28 sent by HLL Lifecare, a government company under the Health Ministry to the Chief Medical Director, Procurement, of South Western Railways.
The nationwide lockdown and "curfew situations" could delay the supply of protective gear for medical professionals at the frontline of the battle against the Coronavirus by at least a month, a government agency has admitted. The admission forms part of an email dated March 28 sent by HLL Lifecare, a government company under the Health Ministry to the Chief Medical Director, Procurement, of South Western Railways.
Flimsy Gear, Not Enough Sanitisers: Air India Pilots On Rescue Flights
Air India pilots who have flown to various parts of the world to bring back Indians who were stranded because of the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic have written to Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri complaining about the poor quality of protective gear that they have been provided on their flights.
Air India pilots who have flown to various parts of the world to bring back Indians who were stranded because of the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic have written to Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri complaining about the poor quality of protective gear that they have been provided on their flights.
JNU extends deadline for entrance exam amid COVID-19 scare
The Jawaharlal Nehru University on Monday extended the deadline for its entrance examination in view of the coronavirus outbreak.
The students' union had requested the varsity administration to extend the deadline in view of the national lockdown imposed by the Centre to arrest the spread of the deadly disease.
"Due to the COVID-19 challenging times, the application deadline for JNU entrance exam (JNUEE) is extended and students can make use of this extended time to fill up the application form and prepare for JNUEE," JNU VC M Jagadesh Kumar said.
"Students may please visit the National Testing Agency website for the new date of the entrance exam," he said.
JNU extends deadline for entrance exam amid COVID-19 scare
The Jawaharlal Nehru University on Monday extended the deadline for its entrance examination in view of the coronavirus outbreak.
The students' union had requested the varsity administration to extend the deadline in view of the national lockdown imposed by the Centre to arrest the spread of the deadly disease.
"Due to the COVID-19 challenging times, the application deadline for JNU entrance exam (JNUEE) is extended and students can make use of this extended time to fill up the application form and prepare for JNUEE," JNU VC M Jagadesh Kumar said.
"Students may please visit the National Testing Agency website for the new date of the entrance exam," he said.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited pledges Rs 26.25 crore to PM-CARES Fund
The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has pledged Rs 20 crore from its CSR fund to the Prime Ministers Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency
Situations (PM-CARES) Fund.
In addition, the Bengaluru-headquartered defence PSUs employees have pledged their one day salary amounting to Rs. 6.25 crore.
Coronavirus testing begins at AIIMS, Rishikesh
The All India Institute of Medical Sciences here began testing suspected coronavirus cases on Monday, officials said.
Initially, 30 samples of suspected coronavirus cases will be tested at the facility per day which may gradually be increased up to 100, coronavirus tests coordinator at AIIMS, Rishikesh, Madhur Uniyal, said.
This augments coronavirus testing facilities in the state as earlier all suspected samples had to be sent to a designated lab in Haldwani for examination.
Number of COVID-19 patients rises to 22 in Haryana
The total number of coronavirus patients in Haryana rises to 22 on Monday, with a fresh case reported from Faridabad, the state health department said.
With this, Faridabad has four positive cases, it said.
Gurgaon has the highest number of cases in the state at 10, followed by Panipat 4 and Ambala, Palwal, Panchkula and Sonipat recording one case each.
Total positive COVID-19 cases in Madhya Pradesh climbs to 47
The number of COVID-19 positive cases in Madhya Pradesh climbed to 47 on Monday. Out of these cases, Indore has the majority of positive cases at 32.
Eight cases have been reported from Jabalpur, while Bhopal has confirmed three positive cases. The areas of Shivpuri and Gwalior have reported two cases each.
Army teams decontaminate Command Hospital in Kolkata after doctor tests positive for COVID-19
Army personnel have decontaminated the premises of Command Hospital in the city and identified those that came in contact with a doctor there who have tested positive for COVID-19, an official statement said on Monday.
People found to have come in direct contact with the doctor were relocated to a separate quarantine facility with full medical and administration support, it said.
Coronavirus: Western Railway suffers Rs 178 crore loss due to lockdown
Train cancellations on account of the lockdown for the novel coronavirus outbreak has led to losses of close to Rs 180 crore, Western Railway said on Monday.
The loss was Rs 78.50 crore before March 22 and Rs 100.03 crore between March 23 and 29, it said in a release.
#Watch | "Over-zealous employees did something that was not required. There were no guidelines to do so": Health Ministry on spraying chemicals on migrant labourers in Uttar Pradesh.#CoronavirusOutbreak #CoronavirusPandemic #CoronavirusLockdown pic.twitter.com/GDVLnrZq9C
- NDTV (@ndtv) March 30, 2020
Here's the latest update from the Health Ministry:
- 92 new cases of COVID-19
- 4 deaths reported in last 24 hours
- Total number of deaths: 29
- Total number of cases: 1071
- 99 people have recovered
India In Local Transmission Stage, Says Government On Coronavirus
India is still in the local transmission stage of the coronavirus pandemic, the government said today, responding to questions about a health ministry document that said the country was currently in "local transmission and limited community transmission phase."
No More Morning Walks, Delhi Police Says Action Will Be Taken
The first of the three-week lockdown across the country has improved the air quality beyond recognition, but going out for morning walks is strictly prohibited, the Delhi Police said today. The police will post its personnel in various parks across the to take action against walkers and joggers as they are violating the lockdown by being out of doors.
Odisha government stresses on surveillance of people returning from COVID-19 affected areas
The Odisha Government has asked all the Collectors and Municipal Commissioners to stress on the surveillance of those returning to the state from abroad and other states, as a precautionary measure against the spread of the coronavirus.
"COVID-19 pandemic has created a huge problem and poses as a big challenge to all of us, in view of the evolving situation in India, the three most important pillars of the state's containment strategy have to be followed," said Nikunj Dhal, Principal Secretary Health, Odisha in a letter to all the collectors and municipal Commissioners.
How Mumbai's Oldest Community Is Coping Amid The COVID-19 Lockdown
With Mumbai in a lockdown, business has been hit severely for several entities, but one community that depends on fishing are struggling during the coronavirus lockdown, which some of them describe as worse than storms which they encounter regularly.
COVID-19: DMK Foundation donates Rs 1 crore to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister's Relief Fund
Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Foundation has donated Rs 1 crore to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister's Relief Fund in view of the situation arising out of COVID-19 crisis.
UK Lockdown Could Last 6 Months Or Longer, Says Medical Officer
Britons may be subject to some form of lockdown measures for six months or longer, England's Deputy Chief Medical Officer Jenny Harries said on Sunday, warning the country faces a second wave of coronavirus if they are lifted too quickly.
Centre extends dates for completing employees' annual appraisal process
The Central government on Monday extended the dates for initiation and completion of its employees' annual performance appraisal reports (APARs) due to coronavirus pandemic, according to a Personnel Ministry order.
A revised target date for completion of APARs for Group A, B and C officers of central civil services has been issued.
According to the revised schedule, the distribution of blank APAR forms needs to be completed by May 30 and the submission of self-appraisal to reporting officer by June 30, the order said.
Over 7 Lakhs COVID-19 Cases Globally Since Beginning Of Pandemic: Report
More than 700,000 cases of the novel coronavirus have been officially declared around the world since the start of the pandemic, according to an AFP tally on Monday based on official sources.
Spain Announces 812 Coronavirus Deaths In 24 Hours, Count Rises To 7,340
Spain confirmed another 812 deaths in 24 hours from the coronavirus on Monday, bringing the total number of deaths to 7,340, according to health ministry figures.
Maharashtra government sets up relief camps for migrant workers
Amid the nationwide lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus, the Maharashtra government has set up 262 relief camps for migrant labourers where they will be provided food and shelter, Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray said on Monday.
Mumbai man arrested for spreading military deployment rumour
A 28-year-old man was arrested in Byculla in Mumbai on Monday for allegedly circulating a message on WhatsApp that the military had been deployed in some parts of the locality to enforce the lockdown for the novel coronavirus outbreak with the mandate to "fire to control mobs".
Dubai-Based Indian Businessman Donates Building To Fight Against COVID-19
A Dubai-based Indian businessman has donated a fully-equipped building owned by him to the country's health authorities for the purpose of quarantining coronavirus affected patients, according to media reports.
A Dubai-based Indian businessman has donated a fully-equipped building owned by him to the country's health authorities for the purpose of quarantining coronavirus affected patients, according to media reports.
In Yogi Adityanath's Letter To Arvind Kejriwal, An Appeal And Assurance On Migrants
As disturbing stories emerge of migrants workers - stranded amid nationwide lockdown over COVID-19 - struggling to reach their hometowns, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath today wrote a letter to his Delhi counterpart, Arvind Kerjiwal.
Renault says China, South Korea plants restarting after virus shutdown
French automaker Renault said Monday it was resuming production at two factories in China and South Korea after they were shut down as authorities tried to limit the coronavirus outbreak.
"All of the group's factories are currently shut down, except for the factories in China and South Korea, which have resumed operations or are in the process of doing so," the company said in a statement.
Moscow begins lockdown during tougher push to curb coronavirus
Moscow, with its more than 12 million people, went into lockdown on Monday while other parts of Russia moved to introduce similar steps to curb the coronavirus outbreak.
The enforcement of the strict new rules, which Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin suddenly announced for the capital late Sunday, coincide with the beginning of a "non-working" week declared by President Vladimir Putin last Wednesday.
Number of deaths in Belgium crosses 500, with 12,000 cases
The number of deaths in Belgium from the novel coronavirus passed the 500 mark Monday, with almost 12,000 cases detected since the start of the epidemic.
Health authorities in the country of 11.4 million said 513 COVID-19 deaths had been recorded and 11,899 cases confirmed by laboratory tests.
Spain confirms 812 virus deaths in 24 hours, total 7,340
Spain confirmed another 812 deaths in 24 hours from the coronavirus on Monday, bringing the total number of deaths to 7,340, according to health ministry figures.
It is the first decline in the number of deaths in a 24-hour period since Thursday in Spain, which has world's second most deadly outbreak after Italy. Spain recorded 838 virus deaths on Sunday.
Senior lawyer contributes Rs one crore in PM''s relief fund
Senior lawyer and constitutional law expert Rakesh Dwivedi donated Rs one crore to the Prime Minister Citizens'' Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situation (PM CARES) fund on Monday to aid the fight against COVID-19. Two days ago, the seniormost judge in the Supreme Court, Justice N V Ramana, contributed Rs three lakh to relief funds, including the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund, for helping people facing difficulties in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.
UK lockdown could last 6 months or longer, says medical officer
Britons may be subject to some form of lockdown measures for six months or longer, England's Deputy Chief Medical Officer Jenny Harries said on Sunday, warning the country faces a second wave of coronavirus if they are lifted too quickly. The government has said it will review in three weeks the lockdown steps it put in place last Monday. Harries said it is too soon to know if they have had the desired effect of reducing the peak of the spread of the virus in Britain.
UP government issues licences to 42 companies to make 40,000 litres of sanitisers per day
The Uttar Pradesh government has issued licences to 42 companies to make 40,000 litres of sanitisers every day in order to ensure adequate supply, officials said on Monday. There has been a spurt in the demand for sanitisers following the outbreak of coronavirus in the state and to deal with this, the government issued licences to 27 distilleries and 15 sanitizer-manufacturing companies, Principal Secretary, Excise, Sanjay Bhoosreddy said. These companies are currently producing 40,000 litres of sanitisers per day and it will be increased to 60,000 litres soon, he said. The product is being made available in the markets through dealers, Bhoosreddy said. Chief medical officers who are placing requests are being provided promptly, he added. There will be no shortage of sanitizers in the state and if required, production can be further increased, the official said.
Maharashtra releases 601 inmates from 37 jails in 3 days
The Maharashtra government has released 601 inmates from 37 prisons in the last three days to reduce crowding in view of the coronavirus outbreak, an official said. The prisoners were released on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Additional Director General of Police (Prisons) Sunil Ramanand said. "A total of 104 prisoners were released in the western region, 113 in central, 145 in south and 239 in east. These are from Central as well as district prisons," another official said.
In the eastern region, 86 prisoners were released from Nagpur Central Jail, while in the western region, the number was 51 from Yerawada Jail, he added. "Mumbai Central Jail released 68 prisoners on Friday, the Nagpur Central Jail 83 on Saturday, and Chandrapur Jail 31 on Sunday," the official said.
COVID-19: Tamil Nadu sees spike of 17 new cases
In a spike, as many as 17 people tested positive for coronavirus, the highest so far in a single day in Tamil Nadu and there are totally 67 positive cases, Chief Minister K Palaniswami said on Monday. The tally, which stood at 50 on Sunday saw fresh cases from a couple of regions in Tamil Nadu. The new cases include 10 from Erode, Palaniswami told reporters at the Secretariat here adding additional personal protective equipment like N-95 masks for the health personnel have been ordered. The 10 men from Erode have a travel history to Delhi, he said. A government release said they had contact with two Thailand nationals who are being treated at Perundurai
Medical College Hospital in Erode District. Further, the release said, of the remaining seven new cases, four were Chennai-based ''family contacts'' of a US returnee who had tested positive.
"Disinfectant" sprayed on migrants on return to UP, shows shocking video
In a horrifying turn of events, migrant labourers entering Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh were doused with sanitisers and other chemicals to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
यूपी सरकार से गुजारिश है कि हम सब मिलकर इस आपदा के खिलाफ लड़ रहे हैं लेकिन कृपा करके ऐसे अमानवीय काम मत करिए।
- Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) March 30, 2020
मजदूरों ने पहले से ही बहुत दुख झेल लिए हैं। उनको केमिकल डाल कर इस तरह नहलाइए मत। इससे उनका बचाव नहीं होगा बल्कि उनकी सेहत के लिए और खतरे पैदा हो जाएंगे। pic.twitter.com/ftovaFHR5q
Shashi Tharoor raises questions on PM Cares
"This is important. Why not simply rename PMNRF as PM-CARES, given the PM's penchant for catchy acronyms, instead of creating a separate Public Charitable Trust whose rules and expenditure are totally opaque?" Shashi Tharoor asked PM Modi for an explanation on the issue.
This is important. Why not simply rename PMNRF as PM-CARES, given the PM's penchant for catchy acronyms, instead of creating a separate Public Charitable Trust whose rules & expenditure are totally opaque? @PMOIndia you owe the country an explanation for this highly unusual step. https://t.co/qRhX0T1PmB
- Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) March 30, 2020
Amritsar: Police in Ram Bagh area distribute ration to needy peopamid lockdown due to coronavirus.
Supreme Court staff to donate up to 3 days salary to PM CARES fund
The officials and staff of the Supreme Court registry have decided to donate up to three days'' salary to the PM CARES fund in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. According to a circular issued by Registrar (cash and accounts) Rajesh Kumar Goel, all gazetted officers will donate three days'' salary, non-gazetted employees will donate two days'' salary and group "C" employees will donate one day''s salary to the Prime Minister Citizens'' Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situation (PM CARES) fund. The contribution of the employees will be deducted from the salary of March. "We are all in the know of the pandemic (COVID-19), which has engulfed the entire world, posing serious challenges for millions of people worldwide and India is no exception. At a time when the coronavirus is posing severe health and economic problems for our country, it is imperative to contribute by donating generously for the cause of humanity," the circular said.
Maharashtra civic bodies using apps in fight against coronavirus
Three municipal corporations in Maharashtra have started using mobile phone apps specifically designed to help curb the spread of coronavirus, a senior official said on Monday. Navi Mumbai, Thane, and Panvel municipal corporations are using the Coviguard and Covicare apps, developed with the support of Directorate of Industries, the official said. Municipal corporations in Kalyan-Dombivali, Ulhasnagar, and Bhiwandi would be using the apps soon, he said. Harshadeep Kamble, Secretary (Small and Medium Industries) and Development Commissioner (Industries) of Maharashtra told PTI that the Coviguard app has been developed in order to keep in touch with people who are quarantined at their homes.
Nirmala Sitharaman says banks being kept functional
All banks are ensuring that their branches are kept open, ATMs filled up and are working. Banking correspondents are active. Social distancing is respected and sanitizers are provided where necessary.
2 more COVID-19 cases in Andhra Pradesh, count rises to 23
Two more COVID-19 cases have been reported in the state on Sunday, a coronavirus bulletin released by Director Andhra Pradesh Health and Family Welfare said. With this, the total number of coronavirus cases in the state has increased to 23, the COVID-19 bulletin stated. A 49-year-old male from Kakinada city in East Godavari district and a 72-year-old male from Rajahmundry city in East Godavari district are the two new cases of COVID-19 in the state. The travel details of the two patients are being traced.
Health Ministry issues advisory for aged people
Stating that the course of COVID-19 tends to be more severe in the case of the elderly population, resulting in higher mortality, the Union Health Ministry has issued a health advisory, listing some "dos" and "don'ts" for reducing the transmission of the virus among the aged section. The advisory said globally, COVID-19 has impacted several lives and is steadily increasing its reach. While the Indian government has taken stringent actions to contain the spread of COVID-19, including a nationwide lockdown, it is also critical for each one of us to follow the protocols and take necessary measures and precautions to break the chain of transmission of the disease, it added. "Elderly people are at a higher risk of COVID-19 infection due to their decreased immunity and body reserves, as well as multiple associated comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. "Also, the course of disease tends to be more severe in case of elderlies, resulting in higher mortality," the advisory stated. The ministry advised the elderly people to wash their hands and face at regular intervals with soap, stay at home, avoid meeting visitors at home and if such a meeting is essential, maintain a distance of at least one metre.
Mizoram Chief Minister raises concern over racial attacks on people of Northeast
The issue of alleged incidents of attack and racial discrimination on people of the Northeast in some states has been raised by Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga who sought the Prime Minister and the Home Ministers intervention in ensuring immediate action against the culprits. The chief minister on Sunday took to twitter after a video showing some persons from the Northeast allegedly being denied entry to a grocery shop went viral. "I am pained, shocked and in my worst awe seeing this video. When has humanity stooped so low," Zoramthanga said as he attached the video with his tweet.
Disinfectant sprayed on migrants on return to UP, shows shocking video
At a time when thousands of migrants across the country are trying to return to their hometowns amid nationwide lockdown over coronavirus or COVID-19, a shocking video has emerged from Uttar Pradesh's Bareilly district - about 270 km from Lucknow - that shows a batch of migrants being sprayed by disinfectants. In the video, some men in protective gear are seen spraying disinfectants on a group of migrants, including women and children, sitting on the road. The batch had returned to UP over the weekend after special buses were arranged for them. Among the spectators are some policemen.
COVID-19 crisis: We will control situation in Indore, says Shivraj Singh Chouhan
We will control the coronavirus situation in Indore soon, says Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
Gujarat reports 69 coronavirus cases, 6 dead
The number of deaths due to coronavirus in Gujarat has gone up to six after one more patient succumbed to the infection, a senior health official said on Monday. Besides, the number COVID-19 cases in the state went up to 69 as six more people tested positive for the deadly virus on Monday, principal secretary (health) Jayanti Ravi said. A 45-year-old woman died at a hospital in Bhavnagar late Sunday night, taking the total number of deaths of coronavirus patients in the state to six, she said. The woman had a mental ailment and suffered a stroke about two weeks back, Ravi said.
Coronavirus testing lab in Goa
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane said they received a certification from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to start the virology laboratory at the Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH).
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane said they received a certification from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to start the virology laboratory at the Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH).
Happy to announce that our Virology lab has been certified by the ICMR. The testing facility has started full-fledged at GMCH, we are also parallely using the testing kits from MyLab. All our facilities are now up to date.
- VishwajitRane (@visrane) March 30, 2020
Goa stands united against #Coronavirus
Coronavirus: Supreme Court seeks status report from Centre on steps taken to prevent migration of workers
The Supreme Court on Monday sought a status report from the Centre by Tuesday on the measures taken in view of the large-scale migration of labourers from cities to their native villages amid the coronavirus outbreak and the consequent lockdown across the country. The top court observed that the migration of labourers out of panic and fear is becoming a bigger problem than the coronavirus. It said the court would not create more confusion by issuing directions on measures that the government is already taking to deal with the issue.
Transgender community in Bengaluru faces difficulties amid lockdown
Amid lockdown aimed at controlling the spread of COVID-19, the marginalised transgender community of the city is facing difficulty to meet basic needs. With large fraction of the community dependent on beggary for sustenance, the situation has resulted in literally no earnings for most of them, as the general public is away from streets and shops being closed. "We are facing difficulty for even one-time food... no one is coming forward to help us," a transgender said. While pointing out that the government was helping labourers and other needy, another transgender said, "what have we done wrong? The situation is such that we cannot go out and ask for money or food...at least provide us with food."
One more tests positive for COVID-19 in Andaman and Nicobar
A man in his late 20s on Monday tested positive for COVID-19 in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, taking the number of coronavirus positive cases in the Union Territory to 10, officials said. He was part of a group of people that had gone to Delhi to attend a religious programme and returned to Port Blair via Kolkata on March 24, they said. The man has been admitted to the G B Pant Hospital, where a 48-bed isolation ward was set up to attend to coronavirus patients. The islands, home to several vulnerable tribes, have been put on alert following the COVID-19 outbreak.
Delhi Police Greater Kailash SHO helps senior citizen parents of NRIs with food, medicines
Delhi Police Greater Kailash SHO Som Nath Paruthi helps senior citizen parents of NRIs with food, medicines and other essential items during the lockdown in the national capital due to Coronavirus.
#WATCH Delhi Police Greater Kailash SHO Som Nath Paruthi helps senior citizen parents of NRIs with food, medicines and other essential items during lockdown in the national capital due to Coronavirus. pic.twitter.com/1kFL9AoCrq
- ANI (@ANI) March 30, 2020
5-star hotels in Delhi, UP to isolate doctors treating COVID-19 patients
Doctors treating coronavirus patients will be quarantined at five-star hotels in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh at the government's expense. Doctors of LNJP and GB Pant hospitals in Delhi will be put up at Lalit, a luxury hotel a few km away. 100 rooms will be booked in the hotel and Delhi government will fully fund their stay, says an order from city Health Minister Satyender Jain.
Priyanka Gandhi tweeted suggestions made by Rahul Gandhi
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi today tweeted suggestions made by Rahul Gandhi on tackling the coronavirus pandemic.
- Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) March 30, 2020
Israeli PM aide diagnosed With coronavirus, unclear if PM affected
An aide to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has tested positive for coronavirus, officials said on Monday, but it was not immediately clear if the 70-year-old leader had been exposed or his work affected."We will take action in accordance with Health Ministry directives," an official said, announcing the diagnosis of the parliamentary aide, whom Israeli media described as being in good condition.
93 migrant workers held for defying lockdown, attacking cops
At least 93 migrant labourers have been arrested in Gujarat''s Surat city for allegedly defying the nationwide lockdown and attacking police, an official said on Monday. The situation became tense in Ganesh Nagar and Tirupati Nagar localities late Sunday night after nearly 500 migrant
workers residing there came on roads, demanding transportation facility to reach their native places, Deputy Commissioner of Police Vidhi Chaudhari said.
Will take care of residents of Delhi, says Yogi Adityanath
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath wrote to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, assuring him that his government would take care of all residents of Delhi, living in Uttar Pradesh.
CM Yogi Adityanath writes to Delhi CM assuring him that his govt will take care of all residents of Delhi, living in UP. His letter also reads that he hopes Delhi govt will ensure that health, security & other necessities of residents of UP, living in Delhi, will be looked after. pic.twitter.com/Ex3QVXfmQa
- ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 30, 2020
Yogi Adityanath to visit Noida
Paramilitary troops and policemen were seen on roads in Noida this morning making announcements on loudspeakers, asking people to stay indoors. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will be visiting the district this afternoon amid rise in the number of COVID-19 cases. "Nobody should be seen on roads. If anyone is found on roads for unnecessary reasons, strict action will be taken (against him or her) under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code. Please follow orders, in interest of the country and your families," a cop is heard saying in a clip as policemen, along with paramilitary troops, march on the road.
5 vehicles with over 140 people stopped in Maharashtra
Over 130 labourers and 13 members of two families were stopped while they were trying to leave Maharashtra in goods vehicles amid the nationwide lockdown, police said on Monday. Five drivers have been arrested in this connection, they said.
Coronavirus cases in India rise to 1,071
The cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in India have risen to 1,071, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. 29 deaths have been reported so far.
Stay home, paramilitary tells locals in UP town near Delhi, now sealed
Six days into the nationwide lockdown to fight the highly infectious coronavirus or COVID-19, the borders are being sealed in Gautam Buddha Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh near Delhi, a day after the central government issued orders to the states to strictly enforce the curbs to ensure social distancing. The twin cities of Noida-Greater Noida are a part of this district. Paramilitary troops and policemen were seen on roads in Noida this morning making announcements on loudspeakers, asking people to stay indoors. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will be visiting the district this afternoon amid rise in the number of COVID-19 cases.
At Telangana coronavirus victim's funeral, no family, just health workers
A 74-year-old man in Telangana was the first person in the state to die of coronavirus on Saturday. His samples, which were taken after his death three days ago, tested positive for the highly contagious virus that has infected over 1,000 people in the country and killed 27. The elderly man was buried on Sunday with no family members and only in the presence of health workers. His bereaved family was confined to their homes.
Yogi Adityanath transferred Rs 611 Crore to the bank account of workers of the state
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath today transferred Rs 611 Crore directly to the bank account of 27.5 Lakh workers of the state, under the MNREGA scheme, in the light of coronavirus lockdown.
Lucknow: CM Yogi Adityanath today transferred Rs 611 Crore directly to the bank account of 27.5 Lakh workers of the state, under MNREGA scheme, in the light of #CoronavirusLockdown. The CM also talked to them through video-conference today, informing them of the scheme. pic.twitter.com/FRyKFU4tg2
- ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 30, 2020
Another COVID-19 patient dies in West Bengal, death count 2
A woman infected with the coronavirus died at a state-run hospital in north Bengal on Monday, taking the total number of COVID-19 deaths in West Bengal to two, hospital sources said. The 44-year-old woman from Kalimpong in Darjeeling district breathed her last around 2 am at the North Bengal Medical College and Hospital, where she was admitted. She had recently returned from Chennai, where she had gone for the treatment of her daughter. Her daughter and the doctor, who was treating the woman, have been quarantined at a centre, a health department official said. Earlier, an elderly man from Kolkata had died from COVID-19 last week. The total number of COVID-19 cases has risen to 21 in West Bengal, including the two deaths.
More than 10 doctors and nurses at Delhi's RML hospital exposed to COVID-19 patient
More than 10 doctors and nurses of RML hospital have been sent to quarantine after getting exposed to a coronavirus patient.
AIIMS to convert Trauma Centre into COVID-19 hospital
Joining the fight against the coronavirus, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) here has decided to convert its sprawling Trauma Centre building into a COVID-19 hospital. Preparations are underway to convert the facility, which provides treatment mostly to victims of road accidents, into a dedicated COVID-19 hospital, official sources said, adding that initially, it will have around 260 beds. The AIIMS administration is likely to make an official announcement in this regard very soon. "The entire trauma casualty and the emergency is being shifted to the AIIMS'' main emergency. Most of the patients have already been shifted to multiple wards at the main AIIMS hospital," a source said. The Trauma Centre currently has 242 beds and 18 more are being added to it. Of the total number of beds, there are about 50 ICU beds and around 30-40 beds in the high-dependency unit. It has around 70 ventilators.
Gujarat creates craft amid coronavirus
The SP of Surendranagar in Gujarat created a craft competition for people staying indoors amid the coronavirus lockdown.
Wonderful initiative by @SPSurendranagar #IndiaFightsCorona#GujaratFightsCovid19 https://t.co/hHwvZ5iTs8
- Vijay Rupani (@vijayrupanibjp) March 29, 2020
Passes in Delhi Being Checked Amid coronavirus lockdown
In Delhi, the identity cards of people are being checked by the police amid the movement of vehicles during the coronavirus lockdown.
Delhi: Passes and identity cards of people being checked by Police amid the movement of vehicles during #CoronavirusLockdown, only those availing or providing essential services are being allowed. Visuals from Delhi-Ghazipur border. pic.twitter.com/cYobCqfKPX
- ANI (@ANI) March 30, 2020
Mohali resident tests positive for COVID-19, count rises to 39 in Punjab
A 65-year-old Mohali resident tested positive for the coronavirus on Monday, taking the total number of COVID-19 cases to 39 in Punjab, officials said. The man was admitted to the PGIMER hospital six days ago, Mohali Deputy Commissioner Girish Dayalan said, adding, "He was taken to the hospital after he complained of chest pain and breathlessness. Now his test report for coronavirus has come positive." "We are tracing all his contacts and their tests will be conducted," he said. With this, the total number of coronavirus cases rose to 39 in the state. On Sunday evening, a 62-year-old coronavirus patient died at the Government Medical College in Amritsar, the second death due to COVID-19 in the state. Of the 39 cases, 19 were reported from Nawanshahr, seven from Mohali, six from Hoshiarpur, five from Jalandhar and one each from Amritsar and Ludhiana. Of them, two patients have died and one has been discharged from the hospital after his second test results came negative.
How union minister who chanted "Go Corona" is spending time during lockdown
Amid the coronavirus gloom and the nationwide 21-day lockdown, Union minister Ramdas Athawale, who raised the chant of "Go Corona Go", is using the time to improve his fitness by cycling and meditating. The 60-year-old Republican Party of India (A) leader, who lives in the ''Samvidhan'' bungalow in suburban Bandra, is also devoting his time to reading and playing with his teenaged son. "My daily routine includes walking, cycling, meditation for half-an-hour and reading. I also don't miss the daily news briefings," Mr Athawale said.
12 new coronavirus cases in Maharashtra
The number of COVID-19 cases in Maharashtra climbed to 215 on Monday as 12 more people tested positive for coronavirus in the state, a health official said. Out of the 12 new patients, five are from Pune, three from Mumbai, two from Nagpur, and one each from Kolhapur and Nashik, the official said. So far, eight COVID-19 patients have died in the state.
Government denies reports claiming 21-day lockdown over coronavirus will be extended
"Rumours and media reports" claiming that the 21-day lockdown to check the spread of coronavirus or COVID-19 would be extended are "baseless", the government asserted on Monday. "There are rumours and media reports, claiming that the Government will extend the #Lockdown21 when it expires. The Cabinet Secretary has denied these reports, and stated that they are baseless," said the Press Information Bureau, the government's media body.
11 empowered groups formed to deal with COVID-19
The Centre on Sunday set up 11 empowered groups for ensuring a comprehensive and integrated response to COVID-19, which has infected more than 1000 people in the country and killed more than 25 people. The groups - set up under the Disaster Management Act - are expected to set things back on track during the lockdown period, government sources said. The groups have been empowered to formulate plans and take all necessary steps for their time-bound implementation.
"General motors doing fantastic job": Trump's abrupt praise for automaker
President Donald Trump, who excoriated General Motors Co on Friday and invoked emergency powers to compel the production of badly needed ventilators to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, has abruptly shifted gears to praise the automaker. "General Motors is doing a fantastic job. I don't think we need to worry about General Motors," Trump said Sunday, speaking highly of the company in two appearances. "They really seem to be working very, very hard I think I'm getting very good reports about General Motors."
China defends against incoming second wave of coronavirus
A growing number of imported coronavirus cases in China risked fanning a second wave of infections when domestic transmissions had "basically been stopped", a senior health official said on Sunday, while eased travel curbs may also add to domestic risks. China, where the disease first emerged in the central city of Wuhan, had an accumulated total of 693 cases entering from overseas, which meant "the possibility of a new round of infections remains relatively big", Mi Feng, spokesman for the National Health Commission (NHC), said.
US regulator approves limited use of malaria drugs for coronavirus
A limited emergency-use authorization for two antimalarial drugs touted as game-changers by President Donald Trump has been issued by the US Food and Drug Administration to treat coronavirus patients. In a statement published Sunday, the US Department of Health and Human Services detailed recent donations of medicine to a national stockpile -- including chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, both being investigated as potential COVID-19 treatments. It said the FDA had allowed them "to be distributed and prescribed by doctors to hospitalized teen and adult patients with COVID-19, as appropriate, when a clinical trial is not available or feasible." Trump said last week that the two drugs could be a "gift from God," despite scientists warning against the dangers of overhyping unproven treatments. Many researchers including Anthony Fauci, the United States' leading infectious disease expert, have urged the public to remain cautious until larger clinical trials validate smaller studies.
Prohibitory orders in Kerala district, day after migrant workers stage protest
Prohibitory orders under section 144, CrPC were issued in Kottayam district on Monday, a day after a village near Changanassery saw a massive protest by hundreds of migrant workers, violating the 21-day lockdown announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to curb the spread of the coronavirus. District Collector PK Sudheer Babu issued the prohibitory orders as a measure "to prevent the spread of the coronavirus in the district", officials said.
Twitter removes two Bolsonaro tweets questioning virus quarantine
Two tweets by Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro in which he questioned quarantine measures aimed at containing the novel coronavirus were removed Sunday, on the grounds that they violated the social network's rules. The far-right leader had posted several videos in which he flouted his government's social distancing guidelines by mixing with supporters on the streets of Brasilia and urging them to keep the economy going. Two of the posts were removed and replaced with a notice explaining why they had been taken down. Twitter explained in a statement that it had recently expanded its global rules on managing content that contradicted public health information from official sources and could put people at greater risk of transmitting COVID-19. In one of the deleted videos, Bolsonaro tells a street vendor, "What I have been hearing from people is that they want to work."
📢 We're stepping up internal & external efforts to protect the public conversation & help people find authoritative health information on #Coronavirus / Covid-19. https://t.co/sajbTsOCmV
- Twitter Public Policy (@Policy) March 4, 2020
China sees drop in new coronavirus cases; none in Hubei for sixth day
Mainland China reported a drop in new coronavirus cases for the fourth consecutive day on Sunday, as Beijing seeks to stamp out the risk of a second wave of infections by shutting its borders to foreign travellers and cutting international flights. The National Health Commission said in a statement on Monday that 31 new coronavirus cases were recorded on Sunday, including one locally transmitted infection, dropping from 45 cases a day earlier. Four new deaths were reported, taking the cumulative death toll from the coronavirus outbreak in the mainland to 3,304, from 81,470 infections. The number of new infections has fallen sharply in the mainland from the peak in February.
COVID-19: SKV in Delhi's Ghazipur converted to temporary shelter home for migrant workers
Sarvodaya Kanya Vidyalaya in Ghazipur has been converted to a temporary shelter home by the Delhi government to accommodate homeless and migrant workers amid the 21-day nationwide lockdown. "There are around 400 people here. They are from UP, Bihar and Haryana," said Shailendra K Nirala, Delhi Civil Defence volunteer. "These people were waiting at Anand Vihar Bus Terminal to leave Delhi. We motivated them and asked them to stay here. All arrangements have been made for them," he added. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had earlier requested the migrant workers to stay back, stating that his government is working tirelessly to provide them with all basic facilities during the lockdown imposed to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Regional Managers and Depot Managers are directed to comply with the following order - They should ensure that the buses should have stickers pasted on the front left wind screen "For Staff of essential services only & on govt today".: Delhi Transport Corporation, Govt of NCT of Delhi.
Regional Managers & Depot Managers are directed to comply with following order - They should ensure that the buses should have stickers pasted on the front left wind screen "For Staff of essential services only & on govt today".: Delhi Transport Corporation, Govt of NCT of Delhi pic.twitter.com/DOGhY1X8TK
- ANI (@ANI) March 30, 2020
2 senior Delhi officers suspended over "serious lapses" in COVID-19 duty
The centre has suspended two senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers and sent show-cause notices to two others on charge of "dereliction" of their duty in the fight against the coronavirus outbreak in the national capital. "These officers have failed to ensure public health and safety during the lockdown restrictions to combat COVID-19," the government said.
PM Modi shares yoga tips amid coronavirus lockdown
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared Yoga tips on Twitter, for people to entertain themselves amid the lockdown due to Covid-19.
During yesterday's #MannKiBaat, someone asked me about my fitness routine during this time. Hence, thought of sharing these Yoga videos. I hope you also begin practising Yoga regularly. https://t.co/Ptzxb7R8dN
- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 30, 2020
Donald Trump ditches hopes of quick virus bounce-back for US
President Donald Trump on Sunday abandoned his timetable for life returning to normal in the United States, extending emergency coronavirus restrictions for another month, while Spain suffered its deadliest day. Trump, who had hoped to shortly re-open much of the US, said the death rate in the country was likely to increase for two weeks and announced "social distancing" guidelines would be in place until at least the end of April. More than 40 percent of the world's population has been asked to stay at home to halt the deadly march of a disease that has claimed some 33,880 lives. Hospitals are rapidly filling with patients in Europe and the United States -- now the focal points of a pandemic that began in Asia but has upended the global economy and upset everyday life in unprecedented ways. Spain announced 838 deaths in a 24-hour period, the third consecutive day it has seen a rise.
Government Of India Principal Scientific Adviser explanation on Coronavirus
The principal scientific adviser to the Government of India, K. Vijay Raghavan explained the ongoing efforts of the scientific community to combat the coronavirus in India.
Our start-up and incubators have been astounding. They have been working on the highest end drug- repurposing, using AI to predict targets, to making equipment and tools for treatment. See, for example, the wonderful efforts from @IITKanpur @abandopa 16
- Principal Scientific Adviser, Govt. of India (@PrinSciAdvGoI) March 29, 2020
John Prine condition critical with coronavirus
Grammy-winning American singer John Prine has been hospitalized for coronavirus and is in "critical" condition, his family said Sunday.
An update on John pic.twitter.com/fPQbv0tLyB
- John Prine (@JohnPrineMusic) March 29, 2020
Belgaum: 2442 Karnataka labourers working in Maharashtra were brought back in 62 buses by the state government yesterday.
Belgaum: 2442 labourers from Karnataka who were in Maharashtra have been brought back in 62 buses by the state govt, yesterday. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/tBVDR3ndpt
- ANI (@ANI) March 30, 2020
Yogi Adityanath reviews arrangement for migrants at Agra Expressway
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday visited Agra Expressway to review the situation of the migrants, who were waiting for the bus amid lockdown in the country due to coronavirus pandemic. He took stock of the status of the transport and food facility having been made for the people sitting there.
Goa allows food delivery services to function during lockdown
The government of Goa on Sunday issued a notice, whereby, it authorised Swiggy, Zomato and other home delivery platforms to operate and deliver food, groceries and other essential items at doorsteps during the lockdown due to COVID-19.
Peak US death rate likely to hit in two weeks: Donald Trump
US President Donald Trump said Sunday that the peak death rate in the United States from the coronavirus pandemic was likely to hit in two weeks. Trump, during a briefing at the White House, also said that he was extending the government's "social distancing" guidelines until April 30. "The modelling estimates that the peak in death rate is likely to hit in two weeks," the president said.
Railways starts converting train coaches into isolation wards in Guwahati
The Indian Railways is converting train coaches into isolation wards to prepare for a fight against coronavirus to meet the increasing demand for beds. As part of this initiative, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has started converting coaches into isolation wards at the Coach Maintenance Depot in Kamakhya and Guwahati after consulting medical professionals at its NF Railway Central Hospital, Maligaon. Non-AC sleeper coaches are being converted into isolation wards for patients.
