5 years ago
New Delhi:
In a big jump in the number of Coronavirus cases in the country, as many as 2,411 people were diagnosed with the highly contagious virus in the past 24 hours, taking the total number of patients to 2,411. The total number of fatalities have gone up to 1,223, while 10,018 patients have been cured.
The first ''Shramik Special'' train carrying 1,187 stranded migrant labourers from Rajasthan's Jaipur reached Bihar's Patna on Saturday afternoon. The 24-coach train departed at 10 pm on Friday from Jaipur and reached the Danapur railway station around 2 pm, railway official Rajesh Kumar told PTI.
Meanwhile, all 11 districts in the national capital will remain in red zone till May 17, Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain said on Saturday. Till Friday, the national capital had recorded 3,738 cases of coronavirus and 61 fatalities. On Friday, 223 new cases were reported. Forty four new cases were also reported from Delhi's Kapashera after the residents in a building tested positive for coronavirus today. The residents are believed to have contracted the virus from a COVID-19 patient who tested positive on April 18.
In neighbouring Uttar Pradesh, seven daily-wage labourers who recently returned from Maharashtra have tested positive for the highly infectious COVID-19. The labourers in eastern UP's Basti district, about 260 km from state capital Lucknow, were quarantined at a college after their return earlier this week; they have now been shifted to a local hospital.
Over 2,000 people tested positive for coronavirus in India in 24 hours, taking the total number of cases past the 37,000-mark, government data showed. 2,293 people have contracted the virus, the biggest jump in the country since the virus was first reported in January. The Health Ministry data showed that 1,218 people have died due to the virus.
The nationwide coronavirus lockdown will be extended by two more weeks after May 3, the government said today, noting significant gains from the six-week shutdown in India's fight to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Here are the Coronavirus Outbreak Live Updates:
Military jets fly over US cities to honour COVID-19 frontline workers
Military jets flew over US cities on Saturday to salute frontline workers in the country with the highest coronavirus caseload and death toll in the world.
Residents of the nation's capital Washington, as well as Baltimore and Atlanta were treated to sights of the Navy's Blue Angels and the Air Force's Thunderbirds arcing across the sky. The Thunderbirds hailed health workers and first responders battling the novel coronavirus, which has infected more than 1.1 million in the US and killed more than 66,000.
Maharashtra: A 'shramik special train' carrying around 1200 migrant workers left for Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh from Bhiwandi at around 1:23 am today. #CoronaLockdown pic.twitter.com/y7Vqw9QEZZ
- ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2020
Rajasthan government warns of fines for not wearing masks in public
The Rajasthan government has authorised all Executive Magistrates within their respective jurisdiction to impose fine of Rs 200 if any person is found without wearing a face mask or face covered in public or work place.
The government notification said that a shopkeeper will also be fined if he is found selling an item to a person not wearing face mask or face cover.
Punjab: Around 270 United Kingdom (UK) nationals left for their country in a special Qatar Airways flight from Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar, amid #CoronaLockdown. pic.twitter.com/5B3UMwO9f9
- ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2020
France extends virus emergency until July 24
The French government said it will extend a health emergency imposed to fight the new coronavirus by two months, allowing it to keep stringent anti-virus measures in place even after a partial lifting of the country's lockdown.
The government has announced the gradual lifting of some lockdown measures from May 11, including the re-opening of primary schools.
Mizoram approves ordinance seeking exemplary punishment for lockdown violators
Coronavirus: 384 New Coronavirus Cases In Delhi, Biggest One-Day SpikeThe national capital saw the biggest spike in coronavirus cases on Saturday with 384 new cases, taking the total to 4,122. Three deaths were reported on Saturday and 89 recovered the same day. The total number of patients who have recovered is 1,256 in Delhi, while 64 have died so far." itemprop="description
Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has categorised 6 districts of Tripura as green zones & 2 districts as orange zones. As per the MHA order, there is no restriction on the functioning of government offices in green & orange zones: Manoj Kumar, State Chief Secretary pic.twitter.com/CxRwEAHdZP
- ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2020
Haryana asks migrants to not leave the state
Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has asked migrant workers to not leave the state as some of industrial units have resumed operations during the lockdown.
"Industries have resumed operations, and those which remain, will open from tomorrow. Hence, I would like to appeal to the migrant labourers to not return to their homes. You will not face any difficulties here," the Chief Minister said.
Karnataka Govt allows movement of migrant workers, pilgrims, tourists, students&other persons who are stranded&also those who want to go to their residence as a 'one-time measure' from district to district, after obtaining 'one-day, one way' passes issued by concerned authorities pic.twitter.com/iByT1h9CJl
- ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2020
India will play a greater role in world post COVID-19: BJP Leader
Senior BJP leader Ram Madhav says India will play a greater role in the new world order that would emerge post COVID-19.
"The way Prime Minister Narendra Modi is handling the situation, it is appreciated by the world. It has also enhanced India's prestige in the world. It will help us in playing a greater role in the new world order that would emerge post COVID-19," Mr Madhav told news agency ANI.
The BJP General Secretary also said that the world will have a totally different agenda after the fight against Covid-19 is over worldwide.
Coronavirus News: Delhi To Reopen Standalone Liquor Shops On Monday
The Delhi government has started the process of allowing standalone liquor shops to reopen in the national capital, a coronavirus "red zone", from May 4 after the centre extended the lockdown by two more weeks.
The Home Ministry has said that except in containment areas, standalone liquor shops can open in all zones, including "green", where there are no coronavirus cases, and medium-risk "orange" areas. Read More Here
The Delhi government has started the process of allowing standalone liquor shops to reopen in the national capital, a coronavirus "red zone", from May 4 after the centre extended the lockdown by two more weeks.
The Home Ministry has said that except in containment areas, standalone liquor shops can open in all zones, including "green", where there are no coronavirus cases, and medium-risk "orange" areas. Read More Here
Coronavirus News: 17 Border Security Force Personnel Test COVID-19 +ve In Delhi, Tripura
Seventeen Border Security Force (BSF) personnel have tested positive for the coronavirus in Delhi and Tripura. They are part of the 126th and 178th battalion, sources said.
Seven of these personnel were deployed along with the police in Delhi's Chandani Mahal, one of the coronavirus epicentres in the national capital. They were admitted to a hospital in neighbouring Noida.
Five BSF personnel have reportedly contracted the virus from a BSF hospital in Delhi's RK Puram. A kidney ailment patient at the hospital had tested coronavirus positive last month. Read More
Seventeen Border Security Force (BSF) personnel have tested positive for the coronavirus in Delhi and Tripura. They are part of the 126th and 178th battalion, sources said.
Seven of these personnel were deployed along with the police in Delhi's Chandani Mahal, one of the coronavirus epicentres in the national capital. They were admitted to a hospital in neighbouring Noida.
Five BSF personnel have reportedly contracted the virus from a BSF hospital in Delhi's RK Puram. A kidney ailment patient at the hospital had tested coronavirus positive last month. Read More
Migrant Worker Tries Cycling Home 1,200 Km From Delhi, Dies In UP Town
A migrant labour, part of a group of seven workers cycling over 1,200 kilometres between Delhi and Bihar's Khagaria, died in UP's Shahjahanpur district on Friday morning.
The workers had reached Shahjahanpur on Thursday evening and spent a night there.
The worker, identified as Dharamveer, collapsed next morning and was rushed to a hospital in the district. Read More
Coronavirus News: Rahul Gandhi Criticises Arogya Setu App
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi today criticised the government over the coronavirus tracking app Aarogya Setu. The app that was meant for voluntary use when it was launched in early April has been made a must for all private and government employees. If a private firm employee is found without the app on their phone, the head of the company will be held responsible, the centre has said.
"The Arogya Setu app, is a sophisticated surveillance system, outsourced to a pvt operator, with no institutional oversight - raising serious data security & privacy concerns. Technology can help keep us safe; but fear must not be leveraged to track citizens without their consent," Rahul Gandhi tweeted today. Read More Here
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi today criticised the government over the coronavirus tracking app Aarogya Setu. The app that was meant for voluntary use when it was launched in early April has been made a must for all private and government employees. If a private firm employee is found without the app on their phone, the head of the company will be held responsible, the centre has said.
"The Arogya Setu app, is a sophisticated surveillance system, outsourced to a pvt operator, with no institutional oversight - raising serious data security & privacy concerns. Technology can help keep us safe; but fear must not be leveraged to track citizens without their consent," Rahul Gandhi tweeted today. Read More Here
COVID-19 Update: India Gets 7 Metric Tonnes Of Medical Supplies From UAE
The United Arab Emirates on Saturday sent a plane carrying seven metric tonnes of medical supplies to India.
"The UAE is committed to extending critical support to nations seeking to bolster their fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. UAE assistance to India comes in recognition of the profound and brotherly ties our two countries have shared throughout the years," said Dr Ahmed Abdul Rahman Albanna, UAE Ambassador to India.
The United Arab Emirates on Saturday sent a plane carrying seven metric tonnes of medical supplies to India.
"The UAE is committed to extending critical support to nations seeking to bolster their fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. UAE assistance to India comes in recognition of the profound and brotherly ties our two countries have shared throughout the years," said Dr Ahmed Abdul Rahman Albanna, UAE Ambassador to India.
Package For Small Businesses Soon: Nitin Gadkari
"We have sent recommendations for a relief package to the Finance Minister and Prime Minister, and I hope it will be announced soon. We will try to give relief to the extent possible," he said while addressing a webinar FICCI.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari today said that the government will soon announce an economic relief package for micro, small and medium enterprises.
Coronavirus: Zonal Railways To Run ''Shramik Special Trains'' As Per Demand Of States, Says Railways
The Indian Railways on Saturday said that the ''Shramik special trains'' will be run as per the demand of state administration amid the nationwide lockdown in the wake of COVID-19.
"We have taken a policy decision to run ''Shramik special trains''. Zonal railways to run these trains as per the demand of state administrations. Local DMs and DRMs are coordinating. Specific details can be obtained from the zonal CPROs," an Indian Railways official said.
The Indian Railways on Saturday said that the ''Shramik special trains'' will be run as per the demand of state administration amid the nationwide lockdown in the wake of COVID-19.
"We have taken a policy decision to run ''Shramik special trains''. Zonal railways to run these trains as per the demand of state administrations. Local DMs and DRMs are coordinating. Specific details can be obtained from the zonal CPROs," an Indian Railways official said.
Coronavirus: 38 COVID-19 Positive Cases In Indian Navy So Far, Says Navy Vice Chief
The India Navy had 38 COVID-19 positive cases in Mumbai of which 12 have recovered and have been discharged from hospital, a top Navy official said in Mumbai on Saturday, giving details of the pandemic outbreak at Indian Naval base INS Angre late last month.
"At INS Angre in Mumbai, we've had a total of 38 COVID19 positive cases. Of these, 12 have already been discharged from hospital while 26 are undergoing treatment. There have been no positive case on any of our warships and submarines," Indian Navy Vice Chief Vice Admiral G Ashok Kumar told ANI in an interaction.
The India Navy had 38 COVID-19 positive cases in Mumbai of which 12 have recovered and have been discharged from hospital, a top Navy official said in Mumbai on Saturday, giving details of the pandemic outbreak at Indian Naval base INS Angre late last month.
"At INS Angre in Mumbai, we've had a total of 38 COVID19 positive cases. Of these, 12 have already been discharged from hospital while 26 are undergoing treatment. There have been no positive case on any of our warships and submarines," Indian Navy Vice Chief Vice Admiral G Ashok Kumar told ANI in an interaction.
Coronavirus Latest Update: 2,411 Cases In 24 Hours, Total Count Rises To 37,776
In a big jump in the number of Coronavirus cases in the country, as many as 2,411 people were diagnosed with highly contagious virus in the past 24 hours, taking the total number of patients to 2,411.
The total number of fatalities have gone up to 1,223, while 10,018 patients have been cured.
In a big jump in the number of Coronavirus cases in the country, as many as 2,411 people were diagnosed with highly contagious virus in the past 24 hours, taking the total number of patients to 2,411.
The total number of fatalities have gone up to 1,223, while 10,018 patients have been cured.
Coronavirus News In Dehi: 135 Troops From Security Force Test Virus Positive In Delhi
The number of COVID-positive personnel in a Delhi-based battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), the country's largest paramilitary force, has risen to 135, officials said on Saturday.
The men belong to the 31st battalion of the paramilitary, based in Mayur Vihar Phase-III area of the national capital, that has been entirely sealed after the huge numbers of the COVID-19 infection started building up over the last few days.
The number of COVID-positive personnel in a Delhi-based battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), the country's largest paramilitary force, has risen to 135, officials said on Saturday.
The men belong to the 31st battalion of the paramilitary, based in Mayur Vihar Phase-III area of the national capital, that has been entirely sealed after the huge numbers of the COVID-19 infection started building up over the last few days.
Coronavirus News From Maharashtra: Police Can Allow Travel Inter-City Travel Except Pune, Mumbai
The Maharashtra government said on Saturday that concerned deputy commissioner of police (DCP) will have the power to allow inter-state or inter-district journey, news agency PTI has reported.
However, the movement of people will not be allowed between the areas under Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority and Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority and other parts of the state during lockdown, it said.
"However, permission has been granted (particularly to migrant workers) to travel outside Maharashtra from these two authority regions," an official statement said.
The Maharashtra government said on Saturday that concerned deputy commissioner of police (DCP) will have the power to allow inter-state or inter-district journey, news agency PTI has reported.
However, the movement of people will not be allowed between the areas under Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority and Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority and other parts of the state during lockdown, it said.
"However, permission has been granted (particularly to migrant workers) to travel outside Maharashtra from these two authority regions," an official statement said.
Coronavirus Update From Himachal Pradesh: Liquor Shops To Open From Monday
The liquor shops in Himachal Pradesh will be allowed to open from May 4, the day the third phase of the coronavirus lockdown begins, news agency PTI has reported.
Himachal Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Bhardwaj told reporters that the decision was taken during a state cabinet meeting on Saturday.
Giving some relaxations, the Union government had on Friday extended the lockdown by two weeks till May 17. The second phase of the nationwide lockdown will end on Sunday.
The liquor shops in Himachal Pradesh will be allowed to open from May 4, the day the third phase of the coronavirus lockdown begins, news agency PTI has reported.
Himachal Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Bhardwaj told reporters that the decision was taken during a state cabinet meeting on Saturday.
Giving some relaxations, the Union government had on Friday extended the lockdown by two weeks till May 17. The second phase of the nationwide lockdown will end on Sunday.
Coronavirus News: SpiceJet Operates Maiden Goods Plane To Bahrain For Medical Supplies
SpiceJet on Saturday said it operated its maiden freighter flight to Bahrain carrying around 17 tonnes of critical medical supplies.
In a press release, the SpiceJet said its B737 aircraft departed from Mumbai to Bahrain on late Friday night.
India has been under a lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of coronavirus that has infected over 37,000 people and killed more than 1,200 people in the country so far.
SpiceJet on Saturday said it operated its maiden freighter flight to Bahrain carrying around 17 tonnes of critical medical supplies.
In a press release, the SpiceJet said its B737 aircraft departed from Mumbai to Bahrain on late Friday night.
India has been under a lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of coronavirus that has infected over 37,000 people and killed more than 1,200 people in the country so far.
Coronavirus Lockdown: First Shramik Train Reaches Patna
The first ''Shramik Special'' train carrying 1,187 stranded migrant labourers reached Bihar's Patna from Rajasthan's jaipur on Saturday afternoon.
The 24-coach train departed at 10 pm on Friday from Jaipur and reached the Danapur railway station around 2 pm, railway official Rajesh Kumar told PTI.
COVID-19 Update: Functioning Of Delhi Courts Restricted Till May 17
The Delhi High Court on Saturday has restricted functioning of courts in the city till May 17, news agency PTI has reported.
High Court's administrative and general supervision committee, headed by Chief Justice D N Patel, decided that the restriction would be in place till May 17 and only urgent matters would continue to be heard via video-conferencing.
The administrative order said the progress of hearing urgent matters in the high court has been tremendous and all the courts in Delhi, including the high court, have already dealt with more than 11,427 urgent matters after the announcement of the lockdown.
The Delhi High Court on Saturday has restricted functioning of courts in the city till May 17, news agency PTI has reported.
High Court's administrative and general supervision committee, headed by Chief Justice D N Patel, decided that the restriction would be in place till May 17 and only urgent matters would continue to be heard via video-conferencing.
The administrative order said the progress of hearing urgent matters in the high court has been tremendous and all the courts in Delhi, including the high court, have already dealt with more than 11,427 urgent matters after the announcement of the lockdown.
Coronavirus Lockdown An Exam We Have To Pass: Venkaiah Naidu
Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said on Saturday said that coronavirus lockdown is like an exam that people have to pass.
He also said that the announcement of extension of coronavirus-induced lockdown by two more weeks from May 4, with attendant relaxations driven by economic concerns, "marks a landmark" in the nation's collective fight against COVID-19.
"In my view, this decision puts the onus of taking forward the fight against the virus more in the hands of stakeholders, including the people, state governments and concerned agencies, commercial and industrial establishments," he said in a Facebook post.
Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said on Saturday said that coronavirus lockdown is like an exam that people have to pass.
He also said that the announcement of extension of coronavirus-induced lockdown by two more weeks from May 4, with attendant relaxations driven by economic concerns, "marks a landmark" in the nation's collective fight against COVID-19.
"In my view, this decision puts the onus of taking forward the fight against the virus more in the hands of stakeholders, including the people, state governments and concerned agencies, commercial and industrial establishments," he said in a Facebook post.
Coronavirus news: 113 new cases reported in Jharkhand
As many as 113 cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Jharkhand, including two deaths, according to the state Health Department.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren had on Friday said that the first batch of Jharkhand students from Kota has left for Ranchi and thanked the Central Government and Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot for their assistance.
Taking to Twitter Hemant Soren wrote in Hindi, "The first batch of Jharkhand students in Kota has left for Ranchi. I thank the central government, Ashok Gehlot Ji and office bearers in the Rajasthan government for their assistance. Another train will commence its journey for Dhanbad tomorrow."
7 UP migrants who returned from Maharashtra test positive
Days after the central government cleared movement of stranded migrants, tourists and students amid a nationwide lockdown due to coronavirus, seven daily-wage labourers in Uttar Pradesh who recently returned from Maharashtra have tested positive for the highly infectious COVID-19.
The labourers in eastern UP's Basti district, about 260 km from state capital Lucknow, were quarantined at a college after their return earlier this week; they have now been shifted to a local hospital. The quarantine centre is being sanitised. All those who came in contact with these patients are being traced and isolated, according to the officials concerned. (Read full story here)
Watch | 18 migrant workers found travelling in a concrete mixer truck in Madhya Pradesh #CoronavirusLockdown pic.twitter.com/xGPZ79Tsj1
- NDTV (@ndtv) May 2, 2020
Coronavirus India Lockdown news: 38 people stranded in Rajasthan reach their homes in Madhya Pradesh
As many as 38 people from Madhya Pradesh, who were stranded in Rajasthan due to COVID-19 lockdown, have reached their homes, news agency ANI reported.
As per the new guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, citizens of Madhya Pradesh stranded in other states are being brought back to their homes amid the lockdown.
Additional Collector Dinesh Jain directed testing of all 38 people at Nehru Stadium and arranged vehicles to send them to their respective places in the state from Indore.
Coronavirus, India Lockdown: Watch: Punjab Cop Tried To Stop Car During Lockdown, Dragged On BonnetA policeman in Punjab was dragged on the bonnet of a car for several minutes this morning after a team of cops tried to stop the driver -a 20-year-old man - at a checkpost in Jalandhar amid a nationwide lockdown to check the spread of coronavirus."
Coronavirus cases: 44 living in same Delhi building test positive, were tested 10 days ago
Forty four people residing in a building near Delhi's Kapashera have tested positive for coronavirus today, officials said. The residents had undergone tests nearly 10 days ago, they added.
The residents are believed to have contracted the virus from a COVID-19 patient who tested positive on April 18. (Read full story here)
#WATCH Worldwide this app is being preferred. It curbs false information and you also know if there is a #COVID19 positive person in your vicinity. The app will continue for next 1-2 years: Union Min Prakash Javadekar on Asaduddin Owaisi raising privacy issue on Aarogya Setu app pic.twitter.com/d2bNJmGeEx
- ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2020
Who else can understand the importance of keeping our motherland safe than our Armed forces.
- Amit Shah (@AmitShah) May 2, 2020
Kudos to the CDS and our Armed forces for their decision to thank the Corona Warriors, who are working relentlessly to keep our nation safe against the menace of COVID-19.
Coronavirus news: Last COVID-19 patient discharged from INHS Patanjali in Karnataka
The last COVID-19 patient has been discharged from Indian Naval Hospital Ship (INHS) Patanjali in Karnataka's Uttara Kannada district.
INHS Patanjali has been at the frontline in treating COVID-19 positive patients. The doctors have successfully treated the last patient, who walked out of the naval hospital in good health and spirits on April 30, read a statement.
Tamil Nadu: Maintenance and repair work at Pamban Railway Bridge being carried out by the railway employees today in Rameswaram, amid #COVID19 lockdown. pic.twitter.com/yqu0plt4nw
- ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2020
Coronavirus news: All 11 districts in Delhi to stay in 'red zone' till May 17, says Delhi minister Satyendar Jain
All 11 districts in Delhi to stay in 'red zone' till May 17, Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain said today. Mr Jain added that relief measures given by centre in red zones will be applicable in these districts also.
Migrant workers eat food on special train arranged for their movement from Jaipur to Patna. The special train left Jaipur at 12:20 am with 1,187 migrant labours of Bihar.
Thiruvananthapuram: Police draw circles outside the railway station to maintain social distancing, ahead of the arrival of around 1200 migrant labourers who are scheduled to board a 'Shramik special train' from here for Hatia in Jharkhand today. #Kerala pic.twitter.com/8jPsk2pRe6
- ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2020
Coronavirus news: 122 cases at CRPF Battalion in Delhi, results of 100 others awaited
At least 122 jawans stationed at a CRPF battalion in Delhi have tested positive for Coronavirus, officials said, adding that test results of 100 others are yet to come.
The men belong to the 31st battalion of the paramilitary, based in Mayur Vihar phase-3 area of the national capital. The battalion has seen a massive spike in the number of cases in the last couple of days. A 55-year-old jawan from Assam stationed in the battalion had died last week at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital. (Read full story here)
Migrant labourers await for screening at Misrod railway station (near Bhopal) after arriving by "Shramik Special train". All passengers will be screened by health officials before departure to their respective districts in the state.
JUST IN: India records biggest jump of 2,293 coronavirus cases in 24 hours; total cases cross 37,000-mark, 1,218 deaths
Coronavirus India Lockdown: What's Allowed And Where In Lockdown Phase 3
India will remain under lockdown till May 17, the government announced on Friday, tacking on a second extension to the full lockdown announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi originally on March 25. (Read full story here)
Delhi: People & vehicles queue outside the wholesale fruit and vegetable market in Ghazipur, amid #CoronaLockdown. pic.twitter.com/wrb02e1HQi
- ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2020
Haryana: Police personnel check vehicles at Delhi-Gurugram border, amid #CoronaLockdown. Individual inter-state and inter-district movement have been curtailed in Gurugram, including media persons, police and doctors, in a bid to contain coronavirus cases. pic.twitter.com/niYhKc1Ahx
- ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2020
2300 Siliguri students stranded in Kota return home
Hundreds of students studying in Rajasthan's Kota returned to Siliguri on Friday via buses. A total of 2300 students arrived in Asansol, Kolkata and Siliguri in West Bengal via 84 buses .
The students were stranded in Kota amid the lockdown and the guardians had appealed to the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to take steps to bring back those students.
Hundreds of students studying in Rajasthan's Kota returned to Siliguri on Friday via buses. A total of 2300 students arrived in Asansol, Kolkata and Siliguri in West Bengal via 84 buses .
The students were stranded in Kota amid the lockdown and the guardians had appealed to the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to take steps to bring back those students.
Bihar reports third COVID-19 death; total number of cases rises to 466
The death toll due to COVID-19 in Bihar rose to three with one more fatality on Friday while 41 more people tested positive for the disease, taking the total number of cases to 466, officials said.
The 54-year-old patient, who was admitted to the NMCH hospital here on April 27, died due to cardiac arrest, Principal Secretary, Health, Sanjay Kumar said.
He said the patient had a serious case of terminal oropharyngeal malignancy (cancer of mouth and throat) and he apparently contracted the infection in Mumbai, where he was working.
The resident of Banjaria in East Champaran had returned from the western metropolis on April 20 along with two other residents of the village. All of them tested positive for coronavirus on April 26.
Forty-one fresh cases were reported in a day in Katihar, Buxar, Rohtas, Madhubani, Kaimur and Bhojpur.
The state had reported its first couple of coronavirus cases on March 22 and the number rose at a moderate speed, taking four weeks to cross the three-digit-mark on April 19. However, it has been a steep rise since then.
East Champaran, Vaishali and Munger have accounted for one death
each. Out of the total 466 patients, 98 have been cured.
The death toll due to COVID-19 in Bihar rose to three with one more fatality on Friday while 41 more people tested positive for the disease, taking the total number of cases to 466, officials said.
The 54-year-old patient, who was admitted to the NMCH hospital here on April 27, died due to cardiac arrest, Principal Secretary, Health, Sanjay Kumar said.
He said the patient had a serious case of terminal oropharyngeal malignancy (cancer of mouth and throat) and he apparently contracted the infection in Mumbai, where he was working.
The resident of Banjaria in East Champaran had returned from the western metropolis on April 20 along with two other residents of the village. All of them tested positive for coronavirus on April 26.
Forty-one fresh cases were reported in a day in Katihar, Buxar, Rohtas, Madhubani, Kaimur and Bhojpur.
The state had reported its first couple of coronavirus cases on March 22 and the number rose at a moderate speed, taking four weeks to cross the three-digit-mark on April 19. However, it has been a steep rise since then.
East Champaran, Vaishali and Munger have accounted for one death
each. Out of the total 466 patients, 98 have been cured.
3,673 people arrested in Assam for violating lockdown, over Rs 1.62 crore fine collected
The Assam Police said on Friday that it has arrested 3,673 people across the state in the last 38 days for violating the lockdown order imposed to contain the COVID-19 outbreak and collected over Rs 1.62 crore as fine.
In its daily report on the lockdown, the police said 1,690 cases have been registered for 2,532 incidents since the beginning of the restrictions.
"A total of 3,673 people have been arrested for these cases and a collective fine of over Rs 1.62 core was collected from them for violating the lockdown norms," the statement said.
The Assam Police said on Friday that it has arrested 3,673 people across the state in the last 38 days for violating the lockdown order imposed to contain the COVID-19 outbreak and collected over Rs 1.62 crore as fine.
In its daily report on the lockdown, the police said 1,690 cases have been registered for 2,532 incidents since the beginning of the restrictions.
"A total of 3,673 people have been arrested for these cases and a collective fine of over Rs 1.62 core was collected from them for violating the lockdown norms," the statement said.
Bengal asks private hospitals to resume normal services
The West Bengal Health Department on Friday issued directives to private hospitals and
Failure to adhere to the directive shall make the health facilities concerned liable for penal action, it added.
The West Bengal Health Department on Friday issued directives to private hospitals and
healthcare facilities to resume normal services in a planned manner.
Ensuring the safety, protection and comfort of the medical staff engaged in such facilities needs highest priority, it said.
"There are reports that patients in need of regular critical care related to blood transfusion, dialysis, chemotherapy, owl, obstetric care, institutional deliveries, immunisation are facing hardship due to private hospitals and healthcare facilities either remaining non-functional or
turning away patients out of fear of contracting COVID-19.
"Some hospitals are insisting on COVID-free certificates before allowing the patients in. This situation needs to be redressed immediately," the department said in a notification.
Coronavirus: Four zones de-contained across Delhi, containment zones now at 97
Four zones have been removed from the COVID-19 containment zones list in Delhi taking the total number of containment zones in the national capital at 97.
The four zones that have been removed are from the list are--Mansara Apartments, Vasundhara Enclave in the East District which was contained on March 31; E-Block (E-284 to E-294) East of Kailash in the South-East District, contained on April 12; Vardhaman Apartments, Mayur Vihar, Phase 1, Extension in East district, contained on April 2 and Mayurdhwaj Apartments, I P Extension, Patparganj, contained on April 3 in the East district.
In an order issued on Thursday, Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Delhi Government had stated that screening of all residents living in containment zones will be carried out at least three times within 14 days of the issuance of the notification of the containment zone and COVID-19 tests to be done as per the protocol.
The Delhi Government has directed that the first screening of all residents within the containment zones, if not completed, should be concluded within three days of issue of this order.
Four zones have been removed from the COVID-19 containment zones list in Delhi taking the total number of containment zones in the national capital at 97.
The four zones that have been removed are from the list are--Mansara Apartments, Vasundhara Enclave in the East District which was contained on March 31; E-Block (E-284 to E-294) East of Kailash in the South-East District, contained on April 12; Vardhaman Apartments, Mayur Vihar, Phase 1, Extension in East district, contained on April 2 and Mayurdhwaj Apartments, I P Extension, Patparganj, contained on April 3 in the East district.
In an order issued on Thursday, Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Delhi Government had stated that screening of all residents living in containment zones will be carried out at least three times within 14 days of the issuance of the notification of the containment zone and COVID-19 tests to be done as per the protocol.
The Delhi Government has directed that the first screening of all residents within the containment zones, if not completed, should be concluded within three days of issue of this order.
US Issues Emergency Approval For Remdesivir For COVID-19 PatientsThe experimental drug remdesivir has been authorized by US regulators for emergency use against COVID-19, President Donald Trump announced Friday.
Health Ministry issues guidelines on rational use of Protective Gear in non-COVID hospitals
The Union Health Ministry on Friday issued additional guidelines on rational use of personal protective equipment (PPE) used by healthcare personnel working in non-COVID hospitals.
The ministry guides on the type of personal protective equipment to be used in mild, moderate, low and high-risk areas.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a combination of protective gears designed to safeguard the health of workers by minimising the exposure to a biological agent. Components of PPE are goggles, face-shield, mask, gloves, coverall/gowns (with or without aprons), head cover and shoe cover.
Help desk/ registration counter, doctors'' chamber used for clinical management of patients and pharmacy counters among others have been marked in the mild-risk category and the ministry has recommended the use of triple layer medical mask and latex examination gloves, besides following social distancing guidelines and frequent use of hand sanitiser over gloves.
Chambers of dental/ENT doctors/ophthalmology doctors and pre- anesthetic check-up clinics have been categorised as moderate-risk areas where the usage of N-95 mask, goggles, latex examination gloves has been advised.
The Union Health Ministry on Friday issued additional guidelines on rational use of personal protective equipment (PPE) used by healthcare personnel working in non-COVID hospitals.
The ministry guides on the type of personal protective equipment to be used in mild, moderate, low and high-risk areas.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a combination of protective gears designed to safeguard the health of workers by minimising the exposure to a biological agent. Components of PPE are goggles, face-shield, mask, gloves, coverall/gowns (with or without aprons), head cover and shoe cover.
Help desk/ registration counter, doctors'' chamber used for clinical management of patients and pharmacy counters among others have been marked in the mild-risk category and the ministry has recommended the use of triple layer medical mask and latex examination gloves, besides following social distancing guidelines and frequent use of hand sanitiser over gloves.
Chambers of dental/ENT doctors/ophthalmology doctors and pre- anesthetic check-up clinics have been categorised as moderate-risk areas where the usage of N-95 mask, goggles, latex examination gloves has been advised.
Returnees have to go for 14 days mandatory quarantine, says Odisha government
Odisha government has said that those who return to the state will have to go for mandatory 14 days quarantine.
"The returnees shall undergo a mandatory period of quarantine for 14 days or duration as decided by Health authorities. For urban areas, home quarantine is the preferred option. Wherever the home quarantine is not feasible, the returnee will be quarantined in an institutional quarantine facility arranged by the Urban Local Body," said a press release from the Information and Public Relations Department of state government.
It said the returnee may also opt for paid quarantine in a hotel/lodge identified for the purpose by the Quarantine Authority.
"The expenditure for such paid quarantine shall be borne by the returnee. The Quarantine Authority for the rural areas with the assistance of local health authorities will asses the health status of the returnee and direct institutional quarantine. However, in cases of pregnant and lactating women, children, students, professionals, persons of LGBT Community and physically and mentally challenged, preference will be given to home quarantine," the release said.
The government has worked out the detailed operational plan for the return of Odias stranded in other states due to lockdown for the fight against COVID-19.
Odisha government has said that those who return to the state will have to go for mandatory 14 days quarantine.
"The returnees shall undergo a mandatory period of quarantine for 14 days or duration as decided by Health authorities. For urban areas, home quarantine is the preferred option. Wherever the home quarantine is not feasible, the returnee will be quarantined in an institutional quarantine facility arranged by the Urban Local Body," said a press release from the Information and Public Relations Department of state government.
It said the returnee may also opt for paid quarantine in a hotel/lodge identified for the purpose by the Quarantine Authority.
"The expenditure for such paid quarantine shall be borne by the returnee. The Quarantine Authority for the rural areas with the assistance of local health authorities will asses the health status of the returnee and direct institutional quarantine. However, in cases of pregnant and lactating women, children, students, professionals, persons of LGBT Community and physically and mentally challenged, preference will be given to home quarantine," the release said.
The government has worked out the detailed operational plan for the return of Odias stranded in other states due to lockdown for the fight against COVID-19.
Coronavirus: 326 new coronavirus cases, 22 deaths in Gujarat in 24 hours
With 326 new cases reported since previous night, the total number of coronavirus cases in Gujarat reached 4,721 on Friday, a senior official said.
During the same period, 22 patients succumbed to the infection, taking the death toll due to coronavirus to 236 in the state, said Principal Secretary, Health, Jayanti Ravi.
Sixteen patients died at various hospitals in Ahmedabad, followed by Vadodara, where four persons died since Thursday night.
One person each from Panchmahal and Surat also died due to the infection in the past 24 hours, said Ms Ravi in her video message in the evening.
With 326 new cases reported since previous night, the total number of coronavirus cases in Gujarat reached 4,721 on Friday, a senior official said.
During the same period, 22 patients succumbed to the infection, taking the death toll due to coronavirus to 236 in the state, said Principal Secretary, Health, Jayanti Ravi.
Sixteen patients died at various hospitals in Ahmedabad, followed by Vadodara, where four persons died since Thursday night.
One person each from Panchmahal and Surat also died due to the infection in the past 24 hours, said Ms Ravi in her video message in the evening.
Coronavirus Updates: 24 more COVID-19 cases in Karnataka
24 cases of coronavirus were detected in Karnataka on Friday, taking the State''s number of COVID-19 cases to 589.
"24 new cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Karnataka today, taking the total number of cases to 589," said the state health department.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka government has made the request to all migrant workers to stay back in the State to resume economic activities as per the Centre's directions.
"Karnataka government intends to resume economic activities soon and has held a meeting with the representatives of associations of commerce and industries in this regard. The government has appealed to the employers to protect the interest of their workers and pay salaries," said the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).
24 cases of coronavirus were detected in Karnataka on Friday, taking the State''s number of COVID-19 cases to 589.
"24 new cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Karnataka today, taking the total number of cases to 589," said the state health department.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka government has made the request to all migrant workers to stay back in the State to resume economic activities as per the Centre's directions.
"Karnataka government intends to resume economic activities soon and has held a meeting with the representatives of associations of commerce and industries in this regard. The government has appealed to the employers to protect the interest of their workers and pay salaries," said the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).
Andhra government not able to control coronavirus cases: TDP leader
Former minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader Ayyanna Patrudu on Friday alleged that YSRC Party government has not been able to control coronavirus cases in the state and Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy was misleading people.
In a video message, Mr Patrudu alleged that the "situation is out of hands due to the ''useless activities" of the chief minister.
"YSRCP led Andhra Pradesh government is unable to control coronavirus cases in Andhra Pradesh. The situation is out of hands, now due to the useless activities of CM Reddy. YS Jagan Mohan Reddy is speaking out of ignorance on coronavirus and misleading public," said Mr Patrudu.
He alleged that MP Vijayasai Reddy was "blackmailing" the contractors and businessmen for money in the name of the corona fund.
Former minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader Ayyanna Patrudu on Friday alleged that YSRC Party government has not been able to control coronavirus cases in the state and Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy was misleading people.
In a video message, Mr Patrudu alleged that the "situation is out of hands due to the ''useless activities" of the chief minister.
"YSRCP led Andhra Pradesh government is unable to control coronavirus cases in Andhra Pradesh. The situation is out of hands, now due to the useless activities of CM Reddy. YS Jagan Mohan Reddy is speaking out of ignorance on coronavirus and misleading public," said Mr Patrudu.
He alleged that MP Vijayasai Reddy was "blackmailing" the contractors and businessmen for money in the name of the corona fund.
COVID-19: 115 new coronavirus cases in Pune, seven deaths
115 new cases of coronavirus were reported in Pune district since Thursday night, taking the total number of cases to 1,815, a health official said on Friday.
With seven deaths of COVID-19 patients reported on Friday, the death toll has now reached 99 in the district.
"In Pune municipal limits, a total of 102 new cases of infection were reported, taking the city's total to 1,607.
"In Pimpri Chinchwad, with no new cases, number of COVID-19 cases stood at 113," the official added.
In rural Pune and Pune Cantonment area the number has gone up to 95 with 13 more cases, the official said.
115 new cases of coronavirus were reported in Pune district since Thursday night, taking the total number of cases to 1,815, a health official said on Friday.
With seven deaths of COVID-19 patients reported on Friday, the death toll has now reached 99 in the district.
"In Pune municipal limits, a total of 102 new cases of infection were reported, taking the city's total to 1,607.
"In Pimpri Chinchwad, with no new cases, number of COVID-19 cases stood at 113," the official added.
In rural Pune and Pune Cantonment area the number has gone up to 95 with 13 more cases, the official said.
Odisha allows home quarantine for urban returnees
However, all the returnees will remain under surveillance of the health department personnel who will record their conditions on a daily basis, the chief secretary said.
As a large number of stranded people are set to return to Odisha following the Centre facilitating their movement by trains and buses, the state government on Friday decided to allow home quarantine for returnees who live in urban pockets and, in specific cases, in rural areas after stamping on their hands.
Chief Secrtetary A K Tripathy said quarantine for 14 days is a must for every one returning to the state.
Though the Odisha government has readied 2.60 lakh beds in quarantine centres in gram panchayat levels, it has decided to allow all returnees in urban areas to remain quarantined at their homes or hotels, he said.
In rural areas, the government will allow home quarantine in specific cases like pregnant women, lactating mothers, physically challenged persons and third genders.
PM Modi Welcomes Armed Forces' Thank You Gesture For "COVID-19 Warriors"
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday welcomed the decision of the armed forces to plan a series of events to thank doctors, paramedics and policemen engaged in the country's fight against the coronavirus pandemic. (Read more here)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday welcomed the decision of the armed forces to plan a series of events to thank doctors, paramedics and policemen engaged in the country's fight against the coronavirus pandemic. (Read more here)
Coronavirus: In Highest Spike, Maharashtra Reports 1,008 Coronavirus Cases In A DayMaharashtra on Friday reported 1,008 new coronavirus cases, the highest single-day spike so far. The state's total crossed the 11,500-mark including 485 deaths; 26 in the last 24 hours."
Trinamool Asks Centre For Exact Reasons For Extending COVID-19 LockdownThe Trinamool Congress on Friday criticised the BJP-led central government for extending the lockdown by two weeks from May 4 without giving an account of the prevailing coronavirus situation and "failing" to chalk out a roadmap for revival of the economy reeling under the COVID-19 outbreak.
Delhi Plans To Categorise COVID-19 Cases By Wards To Ease Restrictions: Report
With the Delhi government planning to categorise COVID-19 cases by wards instead of districts, parts of the national capital are likely to be out of the ''red zone'' classification and expect lockdown relaxations after May 3, sources said on Friday.
Currently, the Union Health Ministry has designated the entire national capital, which has 11 districts, a ''red zone'' in its new classification. The city has 272 wards.
The sources said Lt Governor Anil Baijal has directed the authorities to come up with a detailed plan on ward-wise mapping of red, orange and green zones.
According to an official, an area with three or more cases of COVID-19 is declared a red zone while those with one or two cases are identified as orange zone, news agency PTI reported.
Special trains are being planned for nominated people identified & registered by state governments. No one under any circumstances should come to railway stations looking for trains. Tickets will not be issued to any individual, no requests will be entertained: Central Railway
24 New Cases, One Death In Karnataka, Total COVID-19 Cases At 589
Twenty-four new cases and one COVID-19 death were reported in Karnataka on Friday, the health department said, even as the Bengaluru corporation made wearing of face masks in public and work spaces compulsory in the city besides banning spitting, urinating and littering in
public areas.
Cumulatively 589 COVID-19 positive cases have been confirmed in the state andit includes 23 deaths and 251 discharges,a department bulletin said.
A 69-year-old man from Davangere who was undergoing treatment for coronavirus infection has died, taking the death count in the state to 23, health department officials said, news agency PTI reported.
Rajasthan: A 'Shramik Special Train' carrying migrant labourers to leave from Jaipur for Bihar's Patna today, amid COVID19 lockdown pic.twitter.com/itG8AueNHM
- ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2020
No New COVID-19 Case In Himachal Pradesh In Last 8 Days
Himachal Pradesh has not reported any fresh COVID-19 case in the past eight days, a senior state government official said on Friday. So far, 41 coronavirus cases have been reported and the number of active cases in the state is five now, Additional Chief Secretary (Health) RD Dhiman said.
Two people have died of COVID-19 in the state. The fatalities include a 70-year-old Delhi resident who had stayed at a guest house of a factory in Solan's Baddi and died at the PGIMER, Chandigarh, on April 2, news agency PTI reported.
Ensure Virus Doesn't Spread To Municipalities-Villages: Gujarat Chief Minister
Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Friday said municipalities in semi-urban areas as well as villages must be on guard to ensure novel coronavirus infection does not break out in these parts.
Gujarat has 4,721 COVID-19 cases as on Friday evening, with the vast majority, or 89 per cent, being in urban centres like Ahmedabad, Surat and Vadodara.
He held video conference meets with office bearers of 162 municipalities and village heads and asked them to take all efforts to ensure areas under them are "coronavirus free".
"You must ensure your municipalities remain free of coronavirus. You need to regularly sanitize all the areas in your municipalities. Those municipalities which border cities having a high number of cases must be very alert. It must be ensured that people from red zones do not enter your areas and spread the infection," he told them, news agency PTI reported.
Maharashtra: A 'Shramik Special train' carrying migrant labourers leaves from Nashik railway station for Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. #COVID19Lockdown pic.twitter.com/cKS3s3WuzK
- ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2020
Clash Breaks Out Between Police And Locals While Sealing Containment Zone In Gujarat
A clash broke out between police and locals at Panchmahal in Godhra on Thursday night when the police were barricading the containment zone as a measure to curtail the coronavirus.
Superintendent of Police (SP) Leena Patil said, "The barricading of the containment area was being done by the civic authorities and the police. Some locals protested and pelted stones at them."
In a measure to control the situation, the authorities resorted to the use of tear gas. "We used tear gas as a measure to control the situation. At the moment, the situation is under control," added Mr Patil, news agency ANI reported.
82 more persons have tested positive for COVID 19 in Rajasthan taking the total number of cases to 2666; 62 deaths due to the virus recorded in state till date: Rajasthan Health department
223 new COVID-19 cases, 2 deaths reported in Delhi today; the total number of positive cases is now 3,738: Delhi Health Department
The total number of COVID-19 positive cases in Madhya Pradesh is now 2,715, death count at 145: Madhya Pradesh Health Department
1,008 new coronavirus cases detected in Maharashtra on Friday, highest in single day, taking tally to 11,506. Death count rises to 485 with 26 deaths: state health department, news agency PTI reported.
54-year-old man from East Champaran district dies due to COVID-19, death count reaches 3 in Bihar, news agency PTI reported quoting official
Kota: Around 1200 stranded students to leave from here on a special train to Ranchi, Jharkhand, today. SP Kota Gaurav Yadav says, "We are ensuring that social distancing guidelines are followed. Today, only one train will depart from here today". #Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/JRg72FWfKj
- ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2020
With 267 new patients, number of coronavirus cases in Ahmedabad rises to 3,293, death count at 165 with 16 deaths, news agency PTI reported quoting health official
16 more COVID-19 positive cases reported in Bihar taking the total number of cases to 466 in the state: Bihar Principal Secretary (Health) Sanjay Kumar
With 326 new patients, number of coronavirus cases in Gujarat rises to 4,721, death count reaches 236, news agency PTI reported quoting health official.
Special Efforts Being Taken To Ensure COVID-19 Is Contained In Red Zone Districts: Rajasthan Minister
Rajasthan Health Minister Raghu Sharma on Friday said special efforts were being taken to make sure coronavirus is contained in eight red zone districts in the state.
Eight districts of Rajasthan have been kept in red zone, 19 in orange zone and six in green zone by the central government, he said.
"A special action plan is being worked out for the eight districts which have been put in the red zone by the Centre," Sharma said.
"Coronavirus infection rate in the state had once reached 75 per cent but due to planned efforts of the Rajasthan government, it has now come down to 4.84 per cent," the health minister said.
Sharma said strict legal action will be taken if any private hospital in the state does not provide necessary medical facilities to the patients in OPD, IPD or emergency.
"It has come to our notice that private hospitals are not following the rules. Hospitals are recovering money from patients covered under the Ayushman Bharat Mahatma Gandhi Rajasthan Health Insurance scheme and the National Food Security scheme. This will certainly not be tolerated," he added, news agency PTI reported.
Kerala: Migrant labourers begin to arrive at Aluva railway station to board the 'Shramik Special Train' to Bhubaneshwar, Odisha, Around 1140 migrant labourers from here will board the special train to Odisha pic.twitter.com/XCzQ0KqaWM
- ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2020
Kerala: Food and water brought to Aluva railway station from where a 'Shramik Special Train' will leave for Bhubaneshwar, Odisha, today. Around 1140 migrant labourers from here will board the special train to Odisha pic.twitter.com/XxjoihlKlU
- ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2020
Coronavirus - In Lockdown's Third Act, What's Allowed, What Isn'tIndia will remain under lockdown till May 18, the government announced today, tacking on a second extension to the full lockdown announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi originally on March 25.
Movement of individuals in all zones, for all non-essential activities, shall remain strictly prohibited between 7 pm to 7 am: Ministry of Home Affairs
What Centre's New Lockdown Guidelines Say: 10 PointsThe centre on Friday extended the nationwide coronavirus lockdown - which was scheduled to end on May 4 - by two weeks. In a press statement, the Ministry of Home Affairs said the lockdown led to "significant gains in the COVID-19 situation in the country". It issued a fresh set of guidelines to regulate the lockdown, and said it has permitted considerable relaxations in the districts falling in the low-risk Green and Orange zones.
Delhi government appoints 10 nodal officers to coordinate with different states for movement of stranded persons, following Home Ministry order, news agency ANI reported.
Coronavirus: Full List Of Red, Orange, Green Districts In IndiaThe number of coronavirus or COVID-19 hotspots, or "red zones", across India witnessed a drop of around 23 per cent in 15 days, from 170 on April 15 to 130 on April 30. All four major metropolitans - Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai and Mumbai - have been classified as red zones.
However, in the same period, the number of "green zones", or districts reporting no new case linked to Coronavirus, dropped from 356 to 319, while the number of "orange zones" increased - from 207 to 284, as per a letter from the Union Health Ministry to the chief secretaries of all states and union territories, following a video conference yesterday.
83 percent of COVID-19 patients in Maharashtra are asymptomatic, 20 percent of patients cured, mortality rate has come down to 3.5 per cent: Health Minister Rajesh Tope
2 More Weeks Of Lockdown Starting May 4The nationwide coronavirus lockdown will be extended by two weeks after May 4, the government has said.
The home ministry has also issued new guidelines to regulate different activities in this period, based on the risk profiling of the districts of the country into red (hotspot), green and orange zones.
Ministry of Home Affairs issues order under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 to further extend the Lockdown for a further period of two weeks beyond May 4: MHA pic.twitter.com/Cw4bkdMTFU
- ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2020
Navy helicopters to shower flower petals on hospitals treating COVID-19 patients: Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat
The Army on its part will conduct mountain band displays along some of the COVID hospitals in almost every district of our country. The armed forces will also lay wreathe at the police memorial on May 3 in support of our police forces: Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat
There has been a spike of 1,755 new COVID-19 positive cases and 77 deaths in the last 24 hours.
Total number of COVID-19 positive cases in India rises to 35,365 including 9,064 cured/discharged and 1,152 deaths: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Coronavirus India Lockdown: COVID-19-Infected Woman Dies In Uttarakhand, First Such Case In State
A COVID-19 positive woman died at AIIMS in Rishikesh on Friday, the first death of an infected person in Uttarakhand.
While confirming that the woman had tested positive for coronavirus, the state health department maintained that it was not the cause of death. So far, 57 coronavirus cases have been detected in the hill state.
The 56-year-old woman from Nainital was admitted at AIIMS on April 22 after suffering a brain stroke and tested positive for COVID-19 on April 28, said Madhur Uniyal, nodal officer for coronavirus cases at the facility.
"The woman died of ventricular tachycardia secondary to ACS (acute coronary syndrome). In simple terms, it means sudden reduced blood flow to the heart," a state health department bulletin later said, news agency PTI reported.
Postal Department Ferries 6 Tonnes Of Medicine In Uttar Pradesh During Lockdown
The Department of Posts has transported over six tonnes of medicines from one place to another in Uttar Pradesh during the coronavirus-triggered lockdown, a senior official said here on Friday.
"Big companies like Cipla and Torent had problems in distribution of medicines. They contacted us after which we ran intra-circle vehicles and connected with big cities and then other places," UP's Chief Post Master General,Kaushlendra Kumar Sinha told PTI-Bhasha.
"We booked over six tonnes of medicines through speed post and transported them. We also booked around 12,000 parcels and delivered them," he added.
"During the lockdown, many persons needed medicines and we never stopped delivering them. We get a number of queries. We have helpline numbers and website. We never stopped delivering medicines," said Mr Sinha.
He said the department also delivered more than four lakh articles during the lockdown.
"We tried our best to ensure that the postal department becomes a corona warrior and deliver things to people," he added, news agency PTI reported.
Jammu and Kashmir reports 25 new COVID-19 cases, total rises to 639, news agency PTI reported quoting officials.
Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath holds interaction with labourers in the state through video conference. #MayDay2020 pic.twitter.com/8hm5ZlsYUD
- ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 1, 2020
Uttar Pradesh Reports 70 New COVID-19 Cases, Total Rises To 2,281
Uttar Pradesh reported 70 fresh coronavirus cases on Friday, taking the total number of COVID-19 cases in the state to 2,281, a senior official said.
So far, 2,281 cases have been reported in the state from 63 districts, Principal Secretary, Medical Health, Amit Mohan Prasad said.
Fourty-one deaths have so far been reported while the number of active cases is 1,685, he said.
As many as 555 patients have been treated and discharged, he added. Mr Prasad said pool testing has started in the state which was the first one in the country to do so, news agency PTI reported.
More than 4 lakh oxygen cylinders are available; orders for more than 1 lakh oxygen cylinders have been placed. Industrial oxygen also being converted into medical oxygen: PD Vaghela, Chairman, Empowered Group-3
Of total 2.49 crore N-95/N-99 masks ordered, 1.49 crore masks ordered from domestic manufacturers: Centre, news agency PTI reported.
We have ordered 2.22 crore Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to meet projected demand of 2.01 crore PPE, says Centre, news agency PTI reported.
About 19,398 ventilators available in India, orders placed for 60,884 more of which 59,884 will be made by domestic manufacturers: Centre, news agency PTI reported.
State and district administration to ensure through focused efforts that 'Red' and 'Orange' zone districts, break the chain of transmission through effective and stringent containment measure: Lav Agrawal, Joint Secy, Health Ministry pic.twitter.com/mCcwJnTmqn
- ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2020
Allowing migrant workers to walk for miles without food, water, safety is worrisome, wrong practice: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel to news agency PTI.
Ministry of Home Affairs allows the movement of migrant workers, tourists, students and other persons stranded at different places, by special trains. pic.twitter.com/cYFRCvTBLj
- ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2020
Chhattisgarh will not open its borders till COVID-19 situation normalises; states should be given right to decide which district to open: Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel to news agency PTI.
12 more jawans of CRPF of the same battalion which has recorded maximum COVID-19 cases, tested positive today. The total number of COVID-19 cases in the battalion crosses 60: Central Reserve Police Force
Coronavirus India Lockdown: Goa Declared Green Zone; Fight Against COVID-19 Far From Over, Says Pramod Sawant
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said that the war against COVID-19 "is far from over", here on Friday, soon after the central government formally declared both districts of Goa as Covid-free green zones.
"With the efforts of our CoronaWarriors and support of the people of Goa, our state has now been classified as a green zone by the Government of India. The war against COVID19 is far from over," Mr Sawant wrote on the microblogging site--Twitter.
He added that the fight must continue by adopting a modified lifestyle giving priority to "safe health norms".
"We must continue our fight against this virus by adopting a modified lifestyle which gives priority to safe health norms such as sanitization, wearing of face covers, social distancing and staying at home during the lockdown period," he stressed.
According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Goa has a total of seven positive coronavirus cases. All seven patients have recovered.
A district will be considered under Green Zone, if there are no confirmed cases so far or there is no reported case since last 21 days in the district, said the Union Health Secretary, Preeti Sudan on Friday, news agency ANI reported.
Coronavirus India Lockdown: Special Kerala-Odisha Train To Run For Migrant Workers
The first special train from Kerala carrying 1,200 migrant workers to Bhubaneswar in Odisha will leave from the Aluva railway station near here on Friday evening, state Minister VS Sunil Kumar said.
The migrant workers from Odisha accommodated in camps in Ernakulam District since the COVID-19 lockdown will be brought to the station in state-run corporation buses as per the protocol announced by the government, he said.
Official sources said the train was scheduled for 6 pm departure, news agency PTI reported.
Our Government Will Contact You And Bring You Back: Jharkhand Chief Minister To Migrants
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Friday assured the migrants from the state, stranded in other parts of the country, that his government will bring them back.
"I assure all students, migrant workers and other people stranded in other states amid COVID-19 lockdown that our administration will soon contact you and help you in coming back to the state. Don't panic," Mr Hemant Soren said.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday allowed movement of the stranded people, including migrant labourers, workers, students, tourists, and provided the procedure for the same.
India is under a nation-wide lockdown which was imposed on March 25 and later extended on April 14 to May 3 to stem the spread of coronavirus, news agency ANI reported.
In the last 48 hours, 5 jawans of ITBP have tested COVID-19 positive in Delhi. 2 of them were performing law and order duty in Delhi with police: Indo-Tibetan Border Police
Coronavirus India Lockdown: Mumbai Civic Body Asks Staff Above Age Of 55 To Work From Home
The civic body in Mumbai has asked its staff above the age of 55 years to work from home or abstain from field duties, while those with comorbidities have been given leave for two weeks in view of the coronavirus outbreak, officials said on Friday.
This includes emergency staff like doctors, nurses and paramedics, a Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation official said.
"Emergency staff above the age of 55 with cormorbidities like hypertension, diabetes, heart and kidney ailments among others have been asked to stay at home for two weeks," said a BMC spokesperson.
However, attendance is absolutely compulsory for all other staff employed in office and on field assignments, officials added, news agency PTI reported.
Coronavirus India Lockdown: Karnataka Chief Minister Appeals To Migrant Workers In The State To Stay Back
Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa on the occasion of International Labour Day has appealed to migrant workers in the state to stay back and co-operate with it in resuming economic activities once the Central government issues further directions.
"It is my sincere request to all the migrant workers to stay back in the state and co-operate with us to resume the economic activities once we receive directions from Union Government," Mr Yediyurappa said in a release issued by the CMO.
"COVID-19 situation in India is much better than other countries because of people's cooperation. We intend to resume economic activities soon. The government has already held a meeting with representatives of associations of commerce and industry in this regard. The government has also appealed to the employers to protect the interest of their workers and pay salaries," he added.
The ongoing nationwide lockdown, imposed to contain the coronavirus spread, is scheduled to end on May 3, news agency ANI reported.
Delhi: Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, Minister of State for Health Ashwini Kumar Choubey hold a meeting with Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey through video conference. pic.twitter.com/Klltw0CjYL
- ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2020
COVID-19 India Lockdown: BMC Raises Retirement Age For Civic Health Officers
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has increased by one year the retirement age health officers working in all the civic-run hospitals as a temporary measure in view of the coronavirus pandemic.
Their retirement age will now be 59 instead of 58, it said.
It also increased by one year the retirement age of professors in the BMC-run medical colleges temporarily.
"The retirement age of the health officers and senior health officers of all the BMC-run hospitals has been temporarily increased by a year from the existing retirement age of 58 years," the civic body said.
However, the decision of continuing in service is voluntary, it said.
It said the decision is not applicable for those health officers, who are set to retire in the next three months.
The BMC said that since a large number of posts of professors in civic medical colleges are lying vacant, it has decided to increase the retirement age of professors there temporarily by one year to 64 years, from the existing retirement age of 63 years, news agency PTI reported.
Coronavirus India lockdown: Andaman and Nicobar Islands to arrange special ships for stranded people
Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration decides to arrange special ships between Port Blair and Chennai to ferry stranded migrant workers, students, pilgrims, tourists, reports news agency PTI quoting officials
Coronavirus India: Should COVID-19 Aarogya Setu App Be Mandatory? Talks On, No Decision Yet, Say SourcesAarogya Setu, the contact-tracing app the government has been pushing in its fight against coronavirus, may be made mandatory for all citizens amid concerns expressed by experts about privacy and surveillance. In discussions to renew its push for more and more users, the government is debating whether it can make the app a must."
Coronavirus India Lockdown news: Full List Of Red, Orange, Green Districts In India
As the second phase of lockdown nears its end, the number of coronavirus or COVID-19 hotspots, or "red zones", across India witnessed a drop of around 23 per cent in 15 days, from 170 on April 15 to 130 on April 30. All four major metropolitans - Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai and Mumbai - have been classified as red zones.
However, in the same period, the number of "green zones", or districts reporting no new case linked to Coronavirus, dropped from 356 to 319, while the number of "orange zones" increased - from 207 to 284, as per a letter from the Union Health Ministry to the chief secretaries of all states and union territories, following a video conference yesterday. (Read full list here)
Eye in the Sky is Watching
- DCP South Delhi (@DCPSouthDelhi) May 1, 2020
Social Distancing being ensured in Mandis through Drone Cameras with Remote Surveillance and Live Announcement System
Here we see Mehrauli Mandi being monitored#DelhiPoliceFightsCOVID@CPDelhi @LtGovDelhi @DelhiPolice pic.twitter.com/z5AdneHQQw
Number Of COVID-19 Red Zones Down In 2 Weeks, But So Are Virus-Free Green Zones While COVID-19 Orange Zones IncreaseThe number of coronavirus "red zones", across India have fallen by 23 per cent in 15 days, the government has said, from 170 on April 15 to 130 on April 30"
Coronavirus news: AIIMS Bhopal begins clinical trial of Mycobacterium on COVID-19 patients
All India Institute of Medical Sciences Bhopal has begun the clinical trial of the drug Mycobacterium (Mw) on a COVID-19 patient on Thursday.
"(For the) first time globally, the first dose of the trial drug Mycobacterium (Mw) was administered to a COVID-19 patient today (Thursday) under the supervision of a clinical trial team of doctors under the leadership of Dr Sarman Singh, Director, AIIMS, Bhopal," said a release from the hospital.
Dr Sarman Singh, the Director hospital, said, "the hospital was the first to receive the medicine and first to start the clinical trial by administering the drug to a patient."
"The patients are distributed in three groups and in the initial phase the drug is administered to the critical patients in ICU," he added.
Coronavirus cases: BMC directs its employees to ensure 100 per cent attendance
In an order, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has directed all its employees to ensure 100 per cent attendance in offices and on-field. The cici body, however, has given relaxation to people over 55 years of age and people with medical conditions.
"All staff over the age of 55 years are advised to either work from home or work in office and not go on field. People in medical department, including doctors, nursing staff and paramedics over the age of 55 years with co-morbidities are advised to stay home for 2 weeks," the order states.
Coronavirus India Lockdown news: 1st "one-off special" train to move migrants journeys from Telangana to Jharkhand
The Indian Railways has deployed its first train transport migrants who have been stranded by the lockdown. The train with 24 coaches is carrying 1200 migrants from Lingampally in Telangana to Hatia in Jharkhand started at 4:50 am today. This comes a day after the centre permitted migrant labourers, students and other people who do not have symptoms of coronavirus infection to return home, nearly five weeks after a nationwide lockdown was imposed to break the chain of transmission of the virus.
Following the centre's order several states, including Punjab, Bihar, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and some southern states, asked for trains to return the migrants, citing distance and the logistics of bus travel. In its order the centre had said people should go by road and states should make transportation arrangements. (Read full story here)
One woman who tested positive for #COVID19 3 days ago, passed away today at AIIMS in Rishikesh due to multiple organ failure. She was admitted at the hospital after she suffered a brain stroke: Virender Rawat, Circle Officer, Rishikesh. #Uttarakhand
- ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2020
Maruti Suzuki Records Zero Monthly Sales For First Time Ever In April Due To Coronavirus LockdownMaruti Suzuki India on Friday reported zero monthly domestic sales for the first time ever in April, as the country remained under lockdown to contain the spread of the coronavirus."
Coronavirus cases: COVID-19 cases in India cross 35,000, biggest jump in 24 hours
India recorded the largest single-day jump of 1,993 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours taking the total to 35,043 cases, including 1,147 deaths, the Union Health Ministry said this morning, adding that 73 deaths linked to the highly infectious illness were reported from different parts of the country since yesterday.
The country's recovery rate - the share of people who have been discharged from hospital after treatment - stood at 25.36 per cent this morning; a total of 8,889 patients have recovered so far. (Read full story here)
मुरादाबाद:#CoronavirusLockdown के कारण टमाटर व्यापारियों को काफी नुकसान हो रहा है।टमाटर व्यापारी बादशाह ने बताया कि इस बार की स्थिति बहुत खराब है।मंडी में रोज़ माल लाते हैं लेकिन टमाटर की बिक्री नहीं होने की वजह से टमाटर सड़ रहे हैं जिससे हमारा2.50लाख रुपए का नुकसान हो रहा है। pic.twitter.com/qzWa9JpKJ9
- ANI_HindiNews (@AHindinews) May 1, 2020
PM's message for Russian counterpart who tested positive for Coronavirus
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today wished fast recovery from COVID-19 to his Russian counterpart Mikhail Mishustin, who was found infected with the highly infectious coronavirus on Thursday.
In a televised meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Mr Mishustin said he has to "observe self-isolation" to protect his colleagues, suggesting a temporary acting Prime Minister for Russia.
"My best wishes to Russian PM Mishustin for early recovery and good health. We stand with our close friend Russia in efforts to defeat the COVID-19 pandemic. @GovernmentRF," PM Modi tweeted this morning. (Read full story here)
JUST IN: 1,993 coronavirus cases in India in 24 hours, biggest jump, total cases cross 35,000-mark; 1,147 deaths
Medical workers in Chennai shift a suspected COVID-19 patient to a quarantine facility. (PTI)
Extremely constructive, positive & fruitful interaction of @drharshvardhan with Civil Society Organisations/ NGOs on all issues relating to #Covid_19 Emphasis & focus was on stigmatisation, physical distancing, food for migrant labourers & collaborative partnerships. pic.twitter.com/88DWcqw8MQ
- Amitabh Kant (@amitabhk87) April 30, 2020
Coronavirus - Couldn't See His Face For Last Time: Daughter Of Delhi COVID-19 Victim17-year-old Rita expected her father to be back soon from Delhi's Safdarjung hospital where he was admitted on April 16 for high sugar levels and fever, but he died the next day and it was later found that he was coronavirus positive."
Coronavirus India Lockdown: "Drinking alcohol will remove virus": Rajasthan MLA calls for opening of liquor shops
A Congress MLA in Rajasthan has written a letter to Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot for opening liquor shops in the state.
"When #coronavirus can be removed by washing hands with alcohol, then drinking alcohol will surely remove virus from the throat", states Congress MLA Bharat Singh Kundanpur in his letter.
(ANI)
1 more #COVID19 case reported in Odisha, total positive cases in the state now at 143: State Health Department
- ANI (@ANI) May 1, 2020
Coronavirus Scarecrows Urges Delhi Residents To Stay Home Amid LockdownThe Delhi Police has come up with an important and innovative method to spread awareness of COVID-19 among the citizens by installing coronavirus lookalike "scarecrows" with a message displayed on them reading--"stay home" at several places in Chandni Mahal area, amid the coronavirus lockdown.
Delhi to screen residents of containment zones thrice within 14 days
Screening of all residents living in containment zones will be carried out at least three times within 14 days of the issuance of the notification of the containment zone and COVID-19 tests to be done as per the protocol, said Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Delhi Government.
The Delhi Government has directed that the first screening of all residents within the containment zone, if not completed, should be concluded within three days of issue of this order.
The order issued by Delhi Government on Thursday read that every person living in the containment zones should be made aware of "Aarogya Setu" application, developed by Ministry of AYUSH, GoI.
Database of senior citizens (above 60 years of age) and the persons having co-morbid conditions/underlying medical conditions may be properly maintained for close monitoring and surveillance of such persons.
After de-containment of Vardhaman Apartments in Mayur Vihar Phase I Extention and E block, East of Kailash, the total count of containment zones in Delhi now stands at 98.
Screening of all residents living in containment zones will be carried out at least three times within 14 days of the issuance of the notification of the containment zone and COVID-19 tests to be done as per the protocol, said Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Delhi Government.
The Delhi Government has directed that the first screening of all residents within the containment zone, if not completed, should be concluded within three days of issue of this order.
The order issued by Delhi Government on Thursday read that every person living in the containment zones should be made aware of "Aarogya Setu" application, developed by Ministry of AYUSH, GoI.
Database of senior citizens (above 60 years of age) and the persons having co-morbid conditions/underlying medical conditions may be properly maintained for close monitoring and surveillance of such persons.
After de-containment of Vardhaman Apartments in Mayur Vihar Phase I Extention and E block, East of Kailash, the total count of containment zones in Delhi now stands at 98.
Coronavirus - 16,962 people held in Maharashtra for lockdown violations
Enforcing prohibitory orders strictly, the Maharashtra police have registered over 85,500 offences against lockdown violators across the state and arrested 16,962 people so far, an official said on Thursday.
While combating COVID-19 and enforcing lockdown since late March, police have registered offences under section 188 of IPC against 85,586 persons, who violated prohibitory orders, he said.
Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code is related to disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant.
Also, 16,962 people were arrested for violation of lockdown-related norms, he said.
During the period, at least 161 police personnel, 21 of them officers, have tested coronavirus positive, he said.
Enforcing prohibitory orders strictly, the Maharashtra police have registered over 85,500 offences against lockdown violators across the state and arrested 16,962 people so far, an official said on Thursday.
While combating COVID-19 and enforcing lockdown since late March, police have registered offences under section 188 of IPC against 85,586 persons, who violated prohibitory orders, he said.
Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code is related to disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant.
Also, 16,962 people were arrested for violation of lockdown-related norms, he said.
During the period, at least 161 police personnel, 21 of them officers, have tested coronavirus positive, he said.
Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury requests PM Modi to arrange trains to ferry stranded migrants
Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Thursday requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to facilitate the return of migrant labourers stranded across different States, by trains while ensuring all safety protocols.
In the letter, Chowdhury wrote that the persons from his state of West Bengal are very much concentrated specifically in the southern states Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Western states like Gujarat, Maharashtra and other stranded, in Karnataka more than 80,000 people have been stranded as per a conservative estimate, let alone other states.
"In view of the magnitude of this supposed mass movement in so far as stranded persons are concerned, I think movements of trains will certainly be the best option which I have spelt out in my earlier communications to you. So, again I am pleading to facilitate the journey of those stranded persons by trains while taking all safety protocols," the letter further read.
Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Thursday requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to facilitate the return of migrant labourers stranded across different States, by trains while ensuring all safety protocols.
In the letter, Chowdhury wrote that the persons from his state of West Bengal are very much concentrated specifically in the southern states Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Western states like Gujarat, Maharashtra and other stranded, in Karnataka more than 80,000 people have been stranded as per a conservative estimate, let alone other states.
"In view of the magnitude of this supposed mass movement in so far as stranded persons are concerned, I think movements of trains will certainly be the best option which I have spelt out in my earlier communications to you. So, again I am pleading to facilitate the journey of those stranded persons by trains while taking all safety protocols," the letter further read.
COVID-19 pandemic: Jammu and Kashmir administration announces Rs 350-crore relief package
The Jammu and Kashmir administration has announced a Rs 350-crore package to mitigate hardships of people, particularly labourers and the destitute, during the coronavirus-triggered lockdown.
The administrative council, in its latest meeting under the chairmanship of Lieutenant Governor G C Murmu, has approved the relief package for various categories of people, Principal Secretary of Planning, Development and Monitoring and Information Rohit Kansal said.
"We are conscious of the fact that the lockdown has led to hardships to a number of people. The UT administration under the directions of the LG has been implementing a number of welfare measures for labourers, workers, the destitute, etc.," he said.
He gave a detailed breakup of relief being provided under different categories.
The Jammu and Kashmir administration has announced a Rs 350-crore package to mitigate hardships of people, particularly labourers and the destitute, during the coronavirus-triggered lockdown.
The administrative council, in its latest meeting under the chairmanship of Lieutenant Governor G C Murmu, has approved the relief package for various categories of people, Principal Secretary of Planning, Development and Monitoring and Information Rohit Kansal said.
"We are conscious of the fact that the lockdown has led to hardships to a number of people. The UT administration under the directions of the LG has been implementing a number of welfare measures for labourers, workers, the destitute, etc.," he said.
He gave a detailed breakup of relief being provided under different categories.
Coronavirus: 48 hotels, lodges in Karnataka's Kalaburagi to be converted into quarantine facilities
In Karnataka, Kalaburagi Deputy Commissioner, Sharat B has directed the district's Health and Social Welfare Department to take over 48 hotels and lodges to convert them into quarantine facilities for primary contacts of COVID-19 patients.
This measure has been taken due to rising COVID-19 positive cases in the district.
Some of the hotels and lodges that have been taken over are Kaling Delux Lodge (16 rooms), City Park (20 rooms), Central Park (20 rooms), Mallige Lodge (14 rooms) among others.
As many as 30 new COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Karnataka from April 29, 5:00 pm to April 30, 5:00 pm, taking the total number of cases to 565, informed the State Health Department on Thursday.
In Karnataka, Kalaburagi Deputy Commissioner, Sharat B has directed the district's Health and Social Welfare Department to take over 48 hotels and lodges to convert them into quarantine facilities for primary contacts of COVID-19 patients.
This measure has been taken due to rising COVID-19 positive cases in the district.
Some of the hotels and lodges that have been taken over are Kaling Delux Lodge (16 rooms), City Park (20 rooms), Central Park (20 rooms), Mallige Lodge (14 rooms) among others.
As many as 30 new COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Karnataka from April 29, 5:00 pm to April 30, 5:00 pm, taking the total number of cases to 565, informed the State Health Department on Thursday.
Punjab Chief Minister urges PM Modi for special trains to facilitate return of migrants to their home states
Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting him to advise Railway Ministry to arrange special trains to move stranded migrants to their respective destinations.
"Estimates indicate that nearly one million workers will need transport to go back to their states. The only feasible option in the circumstances was to arrange special trains, which the Railways may run from point to point, keeping in view the number of persons to be transported to a given destination," Punjab CM wrote in the letter.
Noting that since many other states might also be facing a similar situation, the Chief Minister sought the Prime Minister''s intervention in the matter, urging him to advise the Ministry of Railways to make special arrangements to ensure that these migrant workers reachtheir destination safely.
Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting him to advise Railway Ministry to arrange special trains to move stranded migrants to their respective destinations.
"Estimates indicate that nearly one million workers will need transport to go back to their states. The only feasible option in the circumstances was to arrange special trains, which the Railways may run from point to point, keeping in view the number of persons to be transported to a given destination," Punjab CM wrote in the letter.
Noting that since many other states might also be facing a similar situation, the Chief Minister sought the Prime Minister''s intervention in the matter, urging him to advise the Ministry of Railways to make special arrangements to ensure that these migrant workers reachtheir destination safely.
Coronavirus News: Five test positive for COVID-19 in Assam
Five more people, including two women, tested positive for COVID-19 in Assam on Thursday, taking the total number of such cases in the state to 42, Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said.
Of the five fresh cases, one was reported from Karimganj and four were from Bongaigaon district, he said.
"The person from Karimganj is a secondary contact of a Nizamuddin Markaz attendee and was in institutional quarantine," Mr Sarma said.
In a first in the state, other new patients -- three from Bongaigaon town and one from Chaprakat -- were found to have no contact history. Their samples were sent for COVID-19 examination as they had fever.
Of the total cases reported in the state so far, 29 have recovered and one person has succumbed to the disease.
"Active hospital cases now stand at 12," Mr Sarma said.
Bongaigaon has emerged as the new ''red zone'' in the state with five cases in a week, including that of a 16-year- old girl who tested positive for the disease on Tuesday, Himanta Sarma told reporters.
Five more people, including two women, tested positive for COVID-19 in Assam on Thursday, taking the total number of such cases in the state to 42, Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said.
Of the five fresh cases, one was reported from Karimganj and four were from Bongaigaon district, he said.
"The person from Karimganj is a secondary contact of a Nizamuddin Markaz attendee and was in institutional quarantine," Mr Sarma said.
In a first in the state, other new patients -- three from Bongaigaon town and one from Chaprakat -- were found to have no contact history. Their samples were sent for COVID-19 examination as they had fever.
Of the total cases reported in the state so far, 29 have recovered and one person has succumbed to the disease.
"Active hospital cases now stand at 12," Mr Sarma said.
Bongaigaon has emerged as the new ''red zone'' in the state with five cases in a week, including that of a 16-year- old girl who tested positive for the disease on Tuesday, Himanta Sarma told reporters.
Coronavirus situation in Madhya Pradesh improving: Shivraj Chouhan
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Thursday claimed there was a "significant" decline in the number of coronavirus cases in the state.
So far, Madhya Pradesh has recorded 2,625 COVID-19 cases, including 137 deaths.
Only 2.4 per cent (out of total samples tested) have tested virus positive in the test reports of Thursday, he said.
Of it, 1.9 per cent were detected positive in Bhopal while 2.2 per cent in Indore, he said.
Besides, 4.4 per cent (of the total samples) tested positive in Jabalpur, he said.
This is a good indication. We will be able to defeat the virus soon, Mr Chouhan said.
The Chief Minister made the remarks while reviewing the work in progress to stem the pandemic spread with senior officials via video conferencing in Mantralaya (secretariat), an official statement said.
He said the situation in worst-hit Indore, too is drastically improving.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Thursday claimed there was a "significant" decline in the number of coronavirus cases in the state.
So far, Madhya Pradesh has recorded 2,625 COVID-19 cases, including 137 deaths.
Only 2.4 per cent (out of total samples tested) have tested virus positive in the test reports of Thursday, he said.
Of it, 1.9 per cent were detected positive in Bhopal while 2.2 per cent in Indore, he said.
Besides, 4.4 per cent (of the total samples) tested positive in Jabalpur, he said.
This is a good indication. We will be able to defeat the virus soon, Mr Chouhan said.
The Chief Minister made the remarks while reviewing the work in progress to stem the pandemic spread with senior officials via video conferencing in Mantralaya (secretariat), an official statement said.
He said the situation in worst-hit Indore, too is drastically improving.
Two medical teams deployed at Delhi's Azadpur Mandi to conduct COVID-19 check-up
Two medical teams have been deployed at Delhi's Azadpur Mandi with immediate effect for medical check-up of any person with COVID-19 symptoms after coronavirus positive cases were detected at the wholesale market.
Earlier on Thursday, four more traders associated with Azadpur Sabzi Mandi were tested positive for COVID-19, an official said.
"They did not commute to and fro from the vegetable market. A total of 15 positive cases in the vegetable market have been reported so far," an Azadpur Mandi official stated.
Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain had earlier said that the Azadpur Mandi was being disinfected and other preventive measures were being taken.
Two medical teams have been deployed at Delhi's Azadpur Mandi with immediate effect for medical check-up of any person with COVID-19 symptoms after coronavirus positive cases were detected at the wholesale market.
Earlier on Thursday, four more traders associated with Azadpur Sabzi Mandi were tested positive for COVID-19, an official said.
"They did not commute to and fro from the vegetable market. A total of 15 positive cases in the vegetable market have been reported so far," an Azadpur Mandi official stated.
Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain had earlier said that the Azadpur Mandi was being disinfected and other preventive measures were being taken.
Coronavirus News: Centre satisfied with Telangana State's COVID-19 battle
The Ministry of Home Affairs of Thursday expressed satisfaction over the measures taken by Telangana to combat COVID-19, stating that the Inter-Ministerial Central Teams (IMCTs) during their visit to Hyderabad observed that the State has an adequate number of testing kits along with other essential equipment.
Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) while addressing media at Delhi regarding the Central Team visit to Hyderabad said, "The IMCT, which visited Hyderabad, has found that the Telangana State has the adequate number of testing kits, PPE and other essential equipment."
The team visited Gandhi Hospital, the State''s nodal centre for COVID-19. Required protocols for discharge and treatment are being followed, she added.
The Ministry of Home Affairs of Thursday expressed satisfaction over the measures taken by Telangana to combat COVID-19, stating that the Inter-Ministerial Central Teams (IMCTs) during their visit to Hyderabad observed that the State has an adequate number of testing kits along with other essential equipment.
Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) while addressing media at Delhi regarding the Central Team visit to Hyderabad said, "The IMCT, which visited Hyderabad, has found that the Telangana State has the adequate number of testing kits, PPE and other essential equipment."
The team visited Gandhi Hospital, the State''s nodal centre for COVID-19. Required protocols for discharge and treatment are being followed, she added.
Donald Trump Says Evidence Ties Coronavirus To Wuhan Lab, Threatens Tariffs Against ChinaUS President Donald Trump on Thursday threatened new tariffs against Beijing as he claimed to have seen evidence linking the coronavirus to a lab in China's ground-zero city of Wuhan.
Kangra, Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh become coronavirus free as five more patients recover
Five more COVID-19 patients recovered in Himachal Pradesh on Thursday, taking the total number of those cured in the state to 30, officials said.
One patient from Jawali subdivision in Kangra district, one from Sihunta tehsil in Chamba district and one from Una district have recovered from the disease on Thursday, Additional Chief Secretary (Health) R D Dhiman said.
Hamirpur Deputy Commissioner Harikesh Meena said two patients from Hamirpur district also recovered as they tested negative on late Thursday night.
With this, Kangra and Hamirpur districts have become coronavirus free.
Hamirpur District Magistrate Harikesh Meena on Thursday evening issued an order de-notifying all such areas that had been declared as containment zones following detection of two novel coronavirus positive cases on April 17.
The first two cases in the state surfaced in Kangra district on March 20. A total of five cases were reported from Kangra district. Four of them recovered whereas a 69-year-old man who had travelled from USA died of coronavirus on March 23.
Five more COVID-19 patients recovered in Himachal Pradesh on Thursday, taking the total number of those cured in the state to 30, officials said.
One patient from Jawali subdivision in Kangra district, one from Sihunta tehsil in Chamba district and one from Una district have recovered from the disease on Thursday, Additional Chief Secretary (Health) R D Dhiman said.
Hamirpur Deputy Commissioner Harikesh Meena said two patients from Hamirpur district also recovered as they tested negative on late Thursday night.
With this, Kangra and Hamirpur districts have become coronavirus free.
Hamirpur District Magistrate Harikesh Meena on Thursday evening issued an order de-notifying all such areas that had been declared as containment zones following detection of two novel coronavirus positive cases on April 17.
The first two cases in the state surfaced in Kangra district on March 20. A total of five cases were reported from Kangra district. Four of them recovered whereas a 69-year-old man who had travelled from USA died of coronavirus on March 23.
Coronavirus: Singapore reports 528 new COVID-19 cases
Singapore on Thursday announced 528 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number of infections in the country to 16,169, with a majority of them being foreigners.
Six coronavirus cases were Singapore citizens and permanent residents (foreigners).
Foreign workers living in dormitories continue to form the bulk of the cases, said the Health Ministry.
A 58-year-old woman also died on Thursday from complications due to COVID-19 infection, bringing the total number of such deaths in the country to 15, said the ministry.
She was confirmed to have the virus on March 26.
In the new infection cases, 31 are foreign workers who were living outside dormitories.
Twelve new clusters were declared, including one linked to the Institute of Mental Health.
Singapore Parliament will hear issues related to the COVID-19 outbreak on Monday.
Singapore on Thursday announced 528 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number of infections in the country to 16,169, with a majority of them being foreigners.
Six coronavirus cases were Singapore citizens and permanent residents (foreigners).
Foreign workers living in dormitories continue to form the bulk of the cases, said the Health Ministry.
A 58-year-old woman also died on Thursday from complications due to COVID-19 infection, bringing the total number of such deaths in the country to 15, said the ministry.
She was confirmed to have the virus on March 26.
In the new infection cases, 31 are foreign workers who were living outside dormitories.
Twelve new clusters were declared, including one linked to the Institute of Mental Health.
Singapore Parliament will hear issues related to the COVID-19 outbreak on Monday.
Coronavirus - No Hospital Can Deny Treatment To COVID-19 Patients: Bengal GovernmentThe West Bengal government on Thursday said no approval is required by any hospital for testing an individual for COVID-19 as per the protocol of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)."
105 new cases of coronavirus found in Pune; 6 dead
A total of 105 new cases of coronavirus were reported in the last 24 hours in Pune, taking the overall number to 1 00 in the district on Thursday, a health official said.
With death of six more COVID-19 patients during the same period, the toll has now reached 92 in the district, he said.
"In Pune municipal limits, a total of 92 new cases of infection were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the city total to 1505.
"In PCMC (Pimpri-Chinchwad), three more COVID-19 cases were reported, raising the tally to 113," he said.
In the rural Pune and Pune Cantonment area, the number has gone up to 82 with 10 more cases," said the official from the district health department.
A total of 105 new cases of coronavirus were reported in the last 24 hours in Pune, taking the overall number to 1 00 in the district on Thursday, a health official said.
With death of six more COVID-19 patients during the same period, the toll has now reached 92 in the district, he said.
"In Pune municipal limits, a total of 92 new cases of infection were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the city total to 1505.
"In PCMC (Pimpri-Chinchwad), three more COVID-19 cases were reported, raising the tally to 113," he said.
In the rural Pune and Pune Cantonment area, the number has gone up to 82 with 10 more cases," said the official from the district health department.
Brace up for post-coronavirus world: Telangana Minister KTR tells officials
Telangana Minister KT Rama Rao on Thursday conducted a review meeting with senior officials of IT and Industries Departments in Hyderabad to discuss the emerging situation in the post-coronavirus world.
"Every one of us should brace up for a post-COVID-19 world," said Minister KTR in his opening remark.
He said that both IT and Industries Department officials should review the impact of COVID-19 on each sector and come up with strategies to mitigate the negative impact.
Minister instructed the IT Department to focus more on the mobile governance initiatives which facilitate effective service delivery in these testing times.
Minister asked his officials to leverage technology and conduct more video conferences and webinars going forward.
He further said that Telangana should also look out for opportunities that will emerge in a post coronavirus world.
IT and Industries Principal Secretary Jayesh Ranjan, Director Electronic Service Delivery GT Venkateshwar Rao, TSIIC MD Venkat Narsimha Reddy, and other senior officials attended the review meeting.
Telangana Minister KT Rama Rao on Thursday conducted a review meeting with senior officials of IT and Industries Departments in Hyderabad to discuss the emerging situation in the post-coronavirus world.
"Every one of us should brace up for a post-COVID-19 world," said Minister KTR in his opening remark.
He said that both IT and Industries Department officials should review the impact of COVID-19 on each sector and come up with strategies to mitigate the negative impact.
Minister instructed the IT Department to focus more on the mobile governance initiatives which facilitate effective service delivery in these testing times.
Minister asked his officials to leverage technology and conduct more video conferences and webinars going forward.
He further said that Telangana should also look out for opportunities that will emerge in a post coronavirus world.
IT and Industries Principal Secretary Jayesh Ranjan, Director Electronic Service Delivery GT Venkateshwar Rao, TSIIC MD Venkat Narsimha Reddy, and other senior officials attended the review meeting.
7 students stranded in Delhi sent to J&K by bus, says police
Delhi Police on Thursday said that seven Kashmiri students who were stranded in the national capital''s Jia Sarai area have been sent to Jammu and Kashmir by a bus.
Earlier on Wednesday, giving a huge relief to people stuck in various states, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had allowed movement of such people - including migrant labours, workers, students, tourists and others - and also provided the procedure for the same.
MHA has included a sub-clause regarding the movement of people who are stranded due to lockdown announced last month due to coronavirus outbreak.
"Due to lockdown, migrant workers, pilgrims, tourists, students and other persons are stranded at different places. They would be allowed to move as under," the MHA had said while asking States to designate nodal authorities to facilitate the process.
Delhi Police on Thursday said that seven Kashmiri students who were stranded in the national capital''s Jia Sarai area have been sent to Jammu and Kashmir by a bus.
Earlier on Wednesday, giving a huge relief to people stuck in various states, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had allowed movement of such people - including migrant labours, workers, students, tourists and others - and also provided the procedure for the same.
MHA has included a sub-clause regarding the movement of people who are stranded due to lockdown announced last month due to coronavirus outbreak.
"Due to lockdown, migrant workers, pilgrims, tourists, students and other persons are stranded at different places. They would be allowed to move as under," the MHA had said while asking States to designate nodal authorities to facilitate the process.
Andhra likely to see more discharged cases of COVID-19 in next few days, say officials
Andhra Pradesh is likely to see more number of discharged cases in the next two to three days and there were no COVID-19 casualties in the State from the past three to four days, informed officials at a review meeting with Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday.
Briefing the COIVD-19 situation in the State, the officials told the Chief Minister that so far, 94,558 coronavirus tests have been conducted averaging to 1,771 tests per million population. The country''s COVID-19 positive rate and the mortality rate are 4 per cent and 3.26 per cent respectively, whereas, for the State, it is 1.48 per cent and 2.21 per cent respectively. Apart from this, more than, 68,000 rapid tests have been conducted.
Andhra Pradesh is likely to see more number of discharged cases in the next two to three days and there were no COVID-19 casualties in the State from the past three to four days, informed officials at a review meeting with Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday.
Briefing the COIVD-19 situation in the State, the officials told the Chief Minister that so far, 94,558 coronavirus tests have been conducted averaging to 1,771 tests per million population. The country''s COVID-19 positive rate and the mortality rate are 4 per cent and 3.26 per cent respectively, whereas, for the State, it is 1.48 per cent and 2.21 per cent respectively. Apart from this, more than, 68,000 rapid tests have been conducted.
Delhi government issues guidelines for asymptomatic COVID-19 patients under home isolation
The guidelines also listed out the safety protocols to be followed by the care givers and the patient which include daily reporting of health condition of the patient and care giver, hand hygiene and using triple layer mask and gloves by the patient and the care givers.
Use triple-layer masks, download ''Arogya Setu app'' on mobile phones and regularly inform the district health surveillance officer about health status are some of the guidelines issued by the Delhi government for asymptomatic coronavirus patients under home isolation.
The guidelines have instructions for the patients and their caregivers.
According to the guidelines, cases should have the requisite facility at their residence for self-isolation and also for quarantining the family contacts.
"A team comprising ASHA workers will do the assessment of the suitability/appropriateness of the requisite facility for home isolation of COVID-19 patients, under the supervision of in-charge of a nearby Public Health facility," the guidelines said.
Patients should download ''Arogya Setu'' app on their phones and regularly inform about their health status to the district health surveillance officer, the guidelines said.
Only Vehicles With Essentials To Be Allowed: Gurgaon Tweaks Border Rules
The Gurgaon administration has made its cross-border transit rules more stringent to arrest the growth in the number of coronavirus cases in Haryana. In an order dated April 29, the authorities said no cross-border travel, barring exemptions, will be allowed from May 1. Movement for any additional purposes will require permission from the district magistrate. (Read more here)
Coronavirus Numbers Growing, Delhi Plans Stricter Measures In HotspotsThe number of coronavirus patients in the national capital crossing 3,500, the Delhi government today upped its surveillance measures in containment zones, declaring that instead of once, the screening of all people in these areas will be done thrice in 14 days. If screening in any containment zone has not been conducted yet, it will be done within the next three days, the government's order said."
Northeast, South India Take Lead In Containing COVID-19 Spread: Data
The growth rate of coronavirus cases is down to nearly zero in the northeastern states and under 3 per cent per day in Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Kerala and Haryana where cases are taking well over 20 days to double, data from the Union Health Ministry shows. (Read more here)
The growth rate of coronavirus cases is down to nearly zero in the northeastern states and under 3 per cent per day in Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Kerala and Haryana where cases are taking well over 20 days to double, data from the Union Health Ministry shows. (Read more here)
