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As the number of coronavirus rise in India, the centre today declared a countrywide lockdown of schools, colleges, gyms and swimming pools -- crowded areas that could allow for exponential spread of the virus. After a meeting of a Group of Ministers which reviewed the situation today, the government also advised that people avoid non-essential travel and employees of private companies work from home.
The famous Siddhivinayak temple in Mumbai will remain shut to devotees from this evening till further notice to check the spread of coronavirus, the temple authorities have announced, reported news agency Press Trust of India. The temple, dedicated to the Lord Ganesha, is the latest among a string of temples to respond to the virus threat. Earlier, the temples at Shirdi and Sabarimala had asked devotees to postpone their visit for a few weeks.
On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggested the creation of an emergency fund with "voluntary contributions" to counter the novel coronavirus in SAARC nations -- India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka. India can start with an "initial offer" of $10 million, he said during a telephonic conversation with SAARC leaders to evolve a joint strategy to fight the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, which has killed more than 5,000 people worldwide.
The epicentre of the illness has shifted to Europe from China's Wuhan - where it originated in meat marker-with Italy and Spain recording highest number of cases in a day.
Here are the live updates on coronavirus cases in India, world:
Coronavirus: 3 Arrested In Telangana For Spreading Fake News On CoronavirusTelangana Police on Monday arrested three persons and charged a fourth man for spreading fake news about coronavirus on social media."
Coronavirus: Plea In Supreme Court Seeks More Labs, Quarantine CentresA PIL was filed in the Supreme Court on Monday seeking more authorised laboratories for testing coronavirus, increase in quarantine centres, temporary hospital beds in rural areas and thermal screening at public places to contain the COVID-19 pandemic."
US Begins First Human Trial Of Coronavirus VaccineThe first human trial to evaluate a candidate vaccine against the new coronavirus has begun in Seattle, US health officials said Monday, raising hopes in the global fight against the disease."
Coronavirus: Maharashtra Traffic Cops Asked Not To Use Breath AnalysersIn view of the coronavirus outbreak in Maharashtra, the Additional Director General of Police (Traffic) has asked police personnel not to use breath analysers in order to safeguard themselves from potential threat of getting infected."
Indian-Origin Man Called Chinese, Beaten Up In Israel Over CoronavirusAn Indian-origin Jew was badly beaten by two persons who called him a "Chinese" and yelled ''Corona! Corona" in Israel's Tiberias city, in an apparent racist assault linked to the virus outbreak."
COVID-19: Sikkim bans entry of domestic tourists
Sikkim has banned the entry of domestic tourists to the Himalayan state and closed all educational institutions till April 15 as a precautionary measure against any possible COVID-19 outbreak, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang announced on Monday.
So far, no coronavirus positive case has been reported in Sikkim.
Sikkim has banned the entry of domestic tourists to the Himalayan state and closed all educational institutions till April 15 as a precautionary measure against any possible COVID-19 outbreak, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang announced on Monday.
So far, no coronavirus positive case has been reported in Sikkim.
Idris Elba Coronavirus: Actor Idris Elba Tests Positive For Coronavirus, Says He Is Doing OkayBritish actor Idris Elba is the latest celebrity to test positive for coronavirus, tweeting in a video Monday that he had no symptoms yet but was quarantining."
Coronavirus: Tamil Nadu shuts educational institutions, malls, bars till March 31
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E Palaniswami on Monday ordered closure of all schools, colleges and universities (government and private), training institutes, barring medical and medicine-related institutions, till March 31 as a precaution against spread of coronavirus in the state.
In a statement issued, he also ordered closure of all malls, amusement parks, swimming pools, gyms, zoos and musuems till the end of the month.
He has also ordered a ban on functions in marriage halls till March 31, other than ones that were planned earlier.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E Palaniswami on Monday ordered closure of all schools, colleges and universities (government and private), training institutes, barring medical and medicine-related institutions, till March 31 as a precaution against spread of coronavirus in the state.
In a statement issued, he also ordered closure of all malls, amusement parks, swimming pools, gyms, zoos and musuems till the end of the month.
He has also ordered a ban on functions in marriage halls till March 31, other than ones that were planned earlier.
Mumbai's Siddhivinayak Temple Closed Amid Coronavirus ScareThe Siddhivinayak Temple of Mumbai -- a famous shrine to Lord Ganesh -- today closed its doors, emphasising the need to avoid crowded places and break the chain to counter coronavirus."
Directorate of Health Services, Uttarakhand: A total of 32 samples have been collected for #COVID19 testing till date. Result of 23 samples received, 22 are negative and 1 is positive. Result of 9 samples is awaited. pic.twitter.com/mNHykRLeRp
- ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020
Large gatherings banned in Nagpur in view of coronavirus outbreak, news agency PTI reported quoting police officer.
Rajesh Tope, Maharashtra Minister of Public Health and Family Welfare (in file pic): Those who have undergone 100% home quarantine, should be marked with instruction on their left hand with indelible ink, so that that this person can be identified in the community. #coronavirus pic.twitter.com/UTyL20mfW3
- ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020
Fresh Case Of Coronavirus In Telangana, Total Number Infected Is 4
A fresh case of coronavirus was reported on Monday, taking the number of such cases in Telangana to four even as the state government stepped up its preparedness to prevent the spread of the virus.
One person tested positive and the number of positive cases is four, according to a media bulletin on COVID-19. It said results of 22 samples are awaited.
The four cases include the first positive case of a 24-year-old techie who has been discharged from hospital after recovery.
A report from Karimnagar said 10 people, who came from Indonesia on a religious visit to the town, and three local residents were shifted to the state-run Gandhi hospital in Hyderabad after one of them showed symptoms related to COVID-19, a health official said, news agency PTI reported.
Italy reports 349 new coronavirus deaths, taking total to over 2,000, news agency AFP reported.
11 Coronavirus Suspects In Navi Mumbai Traced, Readmitted
Eleven suspected coronavirus patients, who ran away from the government hospital in Navi Mumbai, were traced by authorities and police on Monday. They had escaped the hospital on Sunday.
"All the people have been traced with the help of the police," Ganesh Deshmukh, Panvel Municipality Commissioner told ANI.
The suspects have been admitted to Gram Vikas Bhavan and are under the constant supervision of doctors.
"The suspects had run away from the government hospital because they were scared. Strict action will be taken against the accused," added Mr Deshmukh.
The Collector had issued an order that the Gram Vikas Bhavan to be converted into an isolation centre but the work was not done.
"We had even complained to the authorities as it was our responsibility to alert the official. Now employees have been deployed there," he added, news agency ANI reported.
11 Coronavirus Suspects In Navi Mumbai Traced, Readmitted
Pakistan's tally of COVID-19 positive cases balloons to 186, a sharp rise of 131 cases in 24 hours, news agency ANI reported quoting Pakistan media.
Indian Army Medical Team Deployed In Maldives To Set Up Coronavirus Testing Lab: Spokesperson
A team of Indian Army medical personnel including six doctors and eight paramedics have been deployed in the Maldives since March 13 to set up a viral testing lab, Army Spokesperson Colonel Aman Anand said on Monday in New Delhi.
Earlier, Maldives had requested the Indian government to supply protective gear and masks, Maldives was also a part of the SAARC video conference held on Sunday that discussed the ways to combat Covid-19 spread.
Coronavirus first originated in the city of Wuhan, China last December. The WHO declared pandemic has claimed more than 6,600 lives out of 173,285 confirmed cases, globally, news agency ANI reported.
One more case, with travel history to Saudi Arabia, confirmed positive. Had reported high viral load earlier. Total 3 positive cases now in the union territory: Rohit Kansal, Principal Secretary Planning, Jammu and Kashmir
Maharashtra: Tiger reserves, sanctuaries and national parks in the state to remain closed from 18th March to 31st March 2020, in wake of coronavirus outbreak.
Maharashtra: Entry of devotees into Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai has been closed till further notice. #Coronavirus https://t.co/j6j9QN9WQW pic.twitter.com/TzyZZaSHhJ
- ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020
Thermal Screening Of Passengers In Trains, Railway Stations Begins In Kerala
In the backdrop of the coronavirus spread, authorities have commenced thermal screening of passengers in trains passing through the state
and at major railway stations, including this capital city and Ernakulam, official sources said on Monday.
Officials of the Railways and state health department, including doctors, were part of the team engaged in the thermal screening, they said.
The Southern Railway also launched a massive awareness campaign to fight further spread of coronavirus, which has infected 24 people in the state.
A host of preventive measures had also been put in place by the railways, news agency PTI reported.
Community Kitchen Banned In Himachal Pradesh's Shimla Till March 31
Community kitchen has been banned in Himachal Pradesh''s Shimla district till March 31 in order to check the spread of coronavirus, a district official said on Monday.
No confirmed COVID-19 case has been reported in Himachal Pradesh so far.
Shimla Deputy Commissioner Amit Kashyap said in order to mitigate the COVID-19 threat in the district, no langar and bhandara will be held till 31 March.
The DC further said no conference, event, rally or protest will be organised in the district till March 31.
Also, no massage centre, spa, swimming pool and gym will operate in the district till March 31, he added, news agency PTI reported.
Tackling Coronavirus Might Get Difficult If It Spreads To Far-Flung Areas: Assam Minister
Assam minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said tackling the coronavirus crisis will be difficult if it spreads to "unreachable areas" of the state.
He, however, assured that the state machinery is prepared to handle any situation arising out of the pandemic.
"Assam has lots of unreachable areas like the Char (riverine regions) or the hills. If these areas are affected, managing the situation will not be easy," the state's health and family welfare minister told reporters in Guwahati.
There are many places in the state where even officials from the health department will not be able to visit, he added.
"Assam has limited facilities. That is why we are focusing more on prevention rather than cure. We appeal to people not to attend social gatherings if it is not necessary," Himanta Biswa Sarma said, news agency PTI reported.
100-Bed Isolation Ward Set Up In Uttarakhand's Kichha
The health department in Uttarakhand's Udham Singh Nagar district on Monday set up a 100-bed isolation ward to deal with the coronavirus threat.
Coronavirus suspects will be kept and monitored in the isolation ward at Surajmal Medical College of Ayurveda and Hospital in Kichha, said Udham Singh Nagar District Magistrate Niraj Khairwal.
The DM visited the isolation ward and appealed to college authorities to cooperate, news agency PTI reported.
Haryana To Set Up 500 Isolation beds In Gurugram
Haryana Chief Secretary Keshni Anand Arora on Monday gave directions to set up at least 100 isolation beds in all districts and over 500 isolation beds in Gurugram only to contain the spread of coronavirus.
She said the government's decision to close all cinema halls, schools except examination centres, gyms, swimming pools and night clubs should be strictly implemented till March 31.
Besides, attention should be paid to ban the gathering of more than 200 people in any social, political, cultural, educational, sports competition and family events in the state.
The state has issued guidelines to ensure the availability of medicines, masks, and sanitisers to the public at reasonable prices.
The government has set-up two helpline numbers -- 8558893911 and 108 -- where information regarding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) suspects can be taken, news agency IANS reported.
In the wake of Coronavirus (COVID-19), Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Monday ordered the closure of all zoos in the state till March 31: Punjab Chief Minister's Office
Himachal Pradesh, Health Department: As of today, 588 persons in the state are under surveillance, who have history of travel to #COVID19 affected countries. Eight suspected COVID-19 was investigated in which seven samples were found negative and one sample is awaited. pic.twitter.com/X9IckKbQcA
- ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020
Health Dept, Haryana: 35 passengers with travel history from affected countries were admitted out of which 29 discharged as their result is negative, they're still under surveillance at home. Till date, 66 samples sent, out of which 54 found negative & result of 12 is awaited. pic.twitter.com/bKcU4Se8gC
- ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020
Due to COVID19, the events planned for March 17 in Bangladesh will be without any public gatherings: Prime Minister's Office, news agency ANI reported
Woman Presumed To Be US National Hospitalised Following Symptoms Of Fever
A foreign national who reached the railway station here on Monday afternoon was shifted to the medical college hospital here after she displayed extreme symptoms of fever and temperature, railway police said.
The 59-year-old woman, who was presumed to be a US national, reached Kollam station by the Kerala Express.
"We were informed that she was not well. We informed the health officials who reached the station and shifted her to the hospital.
She told us that she got into the train from Thrissur and was planning to visit the Amrithanandamayi Ashram near here," a railway police official said.
The official said the foreigner was in India for the past two years and told officials that she was engaged in humanitarian works, news agency PTI reported.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin on Monday announced new measures in the Russian capital to contain the spread of the coronavirus, including prohibiting gatherings of more than 50 people, and closing schools and universities from March 21.
Russia has confirmed 93 cases of the virus, but no deaths, according to official figures, news agency AFP reported.
In light of the ongoing global health crisis, we wish for everyone to stay calm and stay safe.
- Dharma Productions (@DharmaMovies) March 16, 2020
- The Dharma Family pic.twitter.com/6QFpBHW5RR
One More Coronavirus Case In Maharashtra, Total Now At 39
Maharashtra has reported another positive case of coronavirus, taking the total number of COVID-19 cases in the state to 39.
A total of 114 cases of coronavirus, including 17 foreign nationals, have been confirmed across India, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Sunday.
Two people have died of the infection in the country so far.
The virus had first emerged in China''s Wuhan city in December last year, news agency ANI reported.
Arunachal has closed its door to tourists temporarily to prevent the possibility of the spread of COVID-19 in our state. Earlier the state had restricted the entry of foreigners in the state: Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Pema Khandu, news agency ANI reported.
All the national monuments and museums under Archaeological Survey of India to remain closed till 31st March: Tourism Minister Prahlad Patel to ANI
Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan: 'Break the Chain' campaign launched by State Health Minister to spread awareness & urge people to use sanitizers has been well received by the people. Sanitisers will be made available in all offices. Private offices should also implement it. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/6FiD2479xk
- ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020
Tamil Nadu government: All educational institutions, theatres, malls, gyms, amusement parks, swimming pools to remain closed till 31st March. No permission for rallies, public meetings, summer camps, conferences, exhibitions, cultural or sporting events till March 31.
Shree Mumbadevi Temple in Mumbai to remain closed for devotees from tomorrow till further notice, news agency ANI reported.
Union Health Ministry has generated its new helpline number for #COVID19-1075. The previous number, 01123978046, is also active. pic.twitter.com/HzGcpV8cyt
- ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020
Geneva Limits Gatherings To Five In Coronavirus Shutdown
The Swiss region of Geneva declared a "state of necessity" on Monday due to the coronavirus global pandemic, shutting bars and restaurants and limiting gatherings to just five people.
Geneva city, home to many international institutions including the United Nations' headquarters in Europe and the World Health Organization, banned non-work gatherings of more than five people both indoors or outdoors.
"The council took strong restrictive measures this morning to make haste. Geneva will be in semi-containment," canton council president Antonio Hodgers told a press conference, according to the ATS national news agency.
Shops, restaurants and bars were to close on Monday at 6:00pm (1700 GMT) until March 29.
Cinemas, theatres, sports centres and all other entertainment outlets will be shut.
Hotels, food shops, pharmacies, fuel stations and small kiosks will remain open along with food markets, news agency AFP reported.
Jharkhand Announces Closure Of Educational Institutions Till April 14 Amid Coronavirus Fear
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Monday announced closure of all educational institutions in the state till April 14 as a precautionary measure in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.
Informing the Jharkhand Assembly about this, Mr Soren said the shutdown will be applicable on government as well as private educational institutions, besides coaching centres and hostels, starting March 17, news agency PTI reported.
West Bengal Civic Polls Deferred Amid Coronavirus Scare
Civic polls in West Bengal, including for the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), have been postponed "for the time being" in the wake of the novel coronavirus outbreak, a senior official said on Monday.
The decision was taken at an all-party meeting called to decide the dates for the elections, State Election Commissioner Sourav Das said.
"We have decided to defer the civic polls for the time being because of the coronavirus outbreak. We will again hold a meeting to take a call on the matter after 15 days," he said.
The ruling TMC had appealed to the SEC on Sunday to defer the polls, a demand that also had the backing of opposition parties.
Elections to 107 municipal bodies of the state and the Kolkata Municipal Corporation are being viewed as a litmus test for the TMC and the BJP, a year ahead of the crucial Assembly polls, news agency PTI reported.
Harnessing innovation for a healthier planet.
- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 16, 2020
A lot of people have been sharing technology-driven solutions for COVID-19.
I would urge them to share them on @mygovindia. These efforts can help many. #IndiaFightsCorona https://t.co/qw79Kjtkv2
All employees in Mumbai Headquarters have been given the option to work from home from tomorrow onwards. Those who want to come to the office can come: BCCI
Travellers from the European Union, Turkey and the United Kingdom are prohibited from March 18, 2020. This will be reviewed again: Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry
Maharashtra Raj Bhavan Tour Suspended Till March 31
The Maharashtra Raj Bhavan tour for citizens has been suspended till March 31 due to the novel coronavirus threat, an official said on Monday.
The tour of the sprawling complex, the residence of the state governor, is well patronised and 20 people are let in every day after prior booking, the official informed.
"The tour booking for April is full but we will try to adjust those who missed out on it this month," he added.
It was introduced in 2015, news agency PTI reported.
Ajanta And Ellora, Other Sites In Aurangabad Shut Due To Coronavirus
Several historical sites, prime being the world famous Ajanta and Ellora Caves, in Aurangabad in Maharashtra will be shut from Thursday till April 7 as a precautionary move in view of the novel coronavirus outbreak, a senior official said.
The other sites that have been put under lockdown are the Bibi-ka-Maqbara, Aurangabad Caves, Daulatabad (Devgiri) Fort, all of which attract robust tourist footfalls, including foreign nationals.
"All monuments in Aurangabad under the Archeological Survey of India and Maharashtra government will remain closed from March 19 to April 7. Tourists who have been allowed to visit these sites over the next two days have already been screened by the ASI," Collector Uday Choudhari said, news agency PTI reported.
Bengaluru's IISc Announces 15-Day Lockdown Amid Coronavirus Fear
City-based premier Indian Institute of Science (IISc) has declared a 15-day lockdown on the campus to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
"All academic, co-curricular, and extra-curricular activities are suspended for 15 days, effective from March 14. These include classes, examinations, seminars, conferences, visits, laboratory and project works for interns and others," said deemed varsity's Registrar V Rajarajan in a statement.
The IISc asked for the students to leave campus by Monday afternoon till further directions.
While all students were asked to leave for their hometowns, residents on the campus and faculty were directed to avoid social gatherings and maintain social distance to prevent the spread of the virus, news agency IANS reported.
Prime Minister undertook extraordinary initiative with SAARC leaders and they responded positively. The 24x7 MEA COVID-19 control room has now become operational: Dammu Ravi, Ministry of External Affairs
Fourth batch of 53 evacuates from Iran have arrived today & are being quarantined at the Army facility in Jaisalmer. All are reported to be asymptomatic as present and are in quarantine as per protocol: Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry
China To Will Withdraw Medical Staff From Hubei Gradually
China will gradually withdraw medical staff from Hubei province, the origin of the outbreak and the main site of its spread, state broadcaster CCTV reported on Monday, citing a work group meeting chaired by Chinese premier Li Keqiang. Imported coronavirus cases in China, however, bring uncertainties to the end of the outbreak, CCTV reported, citing the meeting, news agency Reuters reported.
Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry on #Coronavirus: Important measures including closing of schools, swimming pools, malls, allow employees to work from home,less use of public transport, 1 meter distance between people should be maintained till 31st March. pic.twitter.com/Bk08PfhvHZ
- ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020
Pope In Dramatic Visit To Empty Rome To Pray For End Of Coronavirus
Pope Francis ventured into a deserted Rome on Sunday to pray at two shrines for the end of the coronavirus pandemic, as the Vatican said his Easter services will be held without the public for the first time.
Pope Francis left the Vatican City unannounced to pray at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and then walked along one of Rome's main streets to visit St Marcello church to pray before a crucifix that was used in a procession when the plague hit Rome in 1522.
A Vatican statement said he prayed for an end to the pandemic and also for the sick, their families and health providers and workers keeping pharmacies and food stories open amid a national lockdown, news agency Reuters reported.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Convenes Meeting On Coronavirus
Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Monday convened a meeting to review steps taken to contain the spread of coronavirus after the number of COVID-19 cases in the state rose to 38.
The meeting was attended by Health Minister Rajesh Tope and the Chief Secretary of the state.
All district magistrates joined the meeting via video-conferencing.
Earlier in the day, Rajesh Tope chaired a meeting of Health Department officials and reviewed the coronavirus spread situation.
Maharashtra has recorded the highest number of coronavirus cases in India, news agency ANI reported.
Parliament Unwilling To Curtail Session As Coronavirus Cases Rise
While MPs from several political parties have suggested curtailment of the ongoing Parliament session in the wake of COVID-19 outbreak, senior leaders of the BJP said that there is no plan for rescheduling the session till now.
This comes even as several MPs in and outside the House suggested that Parliament should be adjourned till the government is fully assured of containing coronavirus.
Government sources said that there is no plan to curtail the session as of now.
"I believe that the session will end at its scheduled time," stated a senior leader of BJP involved in planning the proceedings of the House, news agency ANI reported.
Starbucks Temporarily Moves To "To Go" Model In US Amid Coronavirus Fear
Starbucks Corp has moved to a "to go" model in all its company-owned stores in the United States and Canada for at least two weeks to facilitate social distancing among customers amid the spread of coronavirus, the coffee chain said on Sunday.
As part of the move, Starbucks said it would also stop using seating both at its cafe and patio areas and temporarily close stores in communities with high numbers of coronavirus cases as well as malls and university campuses.
"The situation with COVID-19 is extremely dynamic and we will continue to review the facts and science and make the proactive decisions necessary," said Rossann Williams, president of US company-operated and Canada businesses, news agency Reuters reported.
All hands on deck! @MEAIndia's helplines for COVID-19 Control Centre are open.
- Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) March 16, 2020
📞Control Room : 1800118797 (toll free)
+91- 11- 23012113
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Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU): Hostel services will be limited to only basic mess facility and will be available in a few hostels for foreign nationals & those students who stay back in hostels for valid reasons. #CoronaVirus https://t.co/x1K524XEJe
- ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020
Devotees will not be allowed to attend 'Bhasmarti' at Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh till March 31, news agency ANI reported.
Odisha Government instructs all foreigners to register their arrival into state and home quarantine for 14 days. Incentive of Rs 15,000 per foreigner after registration announced, failure to do so will be considered a crime. #Coronavirus pic.twitter.com/vLqxCk6sRu
- ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020
All schools, colleges, universities will remain closed till April 15 in the state. However, the board examinations will take place as per the schedule: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar: People with symptoms of #Coronavirus should reach the hospital in time so that they can be treated in time. There is no need to be scared. Isolation facility is being developed in medical colleges. We should stay cautious and prepared. pic.twitter.com/SbsDgOFd1A
- ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020
Delhi Government Orders Municipal Corporation To Set Up Mobile Washbasins Amid Coronavirus Scare
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday instructed the municipal corporations to set up mobile washbasins in the national capital as part of preventive measures to contain the spread of coronavirus.
The Chief Minister said that more than 500 beds have been readied for COVID-19 cases in case of an outbreak of the disease.
He was addressing a media briefing after a review meeting on Delhi government''s effort on the ground to contain coronavirus.
"We have ordered all MCD (Municipal Corporation of Delhi) commissioners and all (Sub-Divisional Magistrate) SDM has been asked to install soap and water at different places. They have asked to set up mobile washbasins so that people can wash their hands more frequently. Hand sanitizers will be put at entry and exit points of buildings.," said Arvind Kejriwal, news agency ANI reported.
Parliament Starts Thermal Screening Of Visitors Amid Coronavirus Scare
Amid COVID-19 scare, security at Parliament has started thermal screening of visitors at all its entrances on Monday. With coronavirus being declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation, the issue also dominated discussion among MPs on Monday.
As the Rajya Sabha discussed precautions required to contain the spread of COVID-19, the members of both Houses believe that a stringent screening process is required at every place of gathering, including Parliament.
Ram Gopal Yadav, Rajya Sabha MP of Samajwadi Party suggested that thermal screening should be started at each of the Parliament gates to ensure that no infected person can enter the premises even as the number of those infected by the virus crossed the figure of 100, news agency ANI reported.
4 Arrested For Locking Up Couple In Flat Who Were Under Self-Quarantine
Four people have been arrested for allegedly locking up a couple, who were in self- quarantine following the COVID-19 scare, in their flat in an apartment complex in Thrissur, police said on Monday.
The elderly couple, who had returned from Saudi Arabia on Sunday, had undergone screening at the airport and did not have any symptoms of coronavirus, they said.
"The couple found their door locked up from outside and informed the police. The residents association members took the extreme step of confining the couple to the flat and pasting a sticker related to coronavirus on their door. That is not the right way. The couple was already under self- quarantine. We have registered a case," police said.
The couple's helper bought all the groceries and kept them at the door and when the couple tried to open it, they found it locked from the outside, they said.
"The association members are supposed to help the couple. Instead, they tried to lock them up," police said, adding the arrest was made to be deterrent to other from following this act.
Police took into custody, the president, secretary and two members of the residents association, news agency PTI reported.
Mumbai's Siddhivinayak Temple to close entry for devotees from today amid coronavirus outbreak.
Sectors such as tourism, airlines, hospitality industry and domestic trade and transporters are suffering a loss of activity. Spillovers are being transported through finance&confidence channels to overseas and domestic equity markets. Forex & Bond markets are also not immune: RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das
Second round of effects of the pandemic could operate through a slowdown in the domestic economic growth and it would obviously be a result of synchronised slowdown in global growth and as a part of that, the growth momentum in India would also be impacted somewhat: RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das
India is not immune to this (coronavirus) pandemic, already more than 100 cases have been reported. Effort are being mounted by the government on war-footing. COVID-19 could impact India directly through trade channels, in which exposure to China is really high, said RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das, news agency ANI reported.
Iran announces 129 new virus fatalities, total number of deaths now at 853, news agency AFP reported.
United Flight 82 Newark (New York) to New Delhi diverted to London's Heathrow airport after a passenger became unwell onboard, news agency ANI reported.
Long Wait For Coronavirus Free Certificate For Indian Students In Italy
The COVID-19 free certificate that has been made compulsory for travellers from Italy and South Korea has now become a hurdle for Indian students stranded in Italy. The students claimed that in the absence of a proper testing facility in Italy, they have been forced to wait for about a week to get the certificate and return to India.
Indian students who were in Italy have raised concerns about the way arrangements have been made by the Indian authorities over the certificate.
"We had to first spend two nights at Rome airport before the authorities arranged for a facility for us to stay. They then informed us our samples will be flown to Pune for testing, and the entire process will take about 5-7 days," Vaishnavi Singh, an undergraduate student of Interior Designing told IANS.
Cases in India due to coronavirus rise to 116
Man Admitted To Isolation Ward Of City Hospital With Coronavirus-Like Symptoms
A 19-year-old man, who returned from Thailand on Monday, was admitted to the isolation ward of a government hospital here with novel coronavirus-like symptoms, a senior official of the state health department said.
With this, the total number of patients admitted at the isolation ward of the Beliaghata ID and BG Hospital, rose to 12, he said.
The man exhibited coronavirus-like symptoms during thermal scanning at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport on Monday.
Swabs of all those admitted at the isolation ward of the hospital have been collected and sent for examination, he said, news agency PTI reported.
AMU Asks Students, Teachers Who Have Travelled Abroad To Undergo Coronavirus Screening
The Aligarh Muslim University, in a fresh advisory pertaining to COVID-19 outbreak, has directed all teachers and students who have travelled abroad recently to undergo screening and evaluation at the Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College Hospital in Aligarh.
AMU spokesman Omar Peerzada said all members of the university community, who have recently returned to India after a foreign visit, and are suffering from symptoms such as headache, sore throat, fever, cough and respiratory difficulty, should immediately report to the chief medical superintendent of JN Medical College.
The university has also advised all people offering congregational prayers in different mosques "to skip one row" during such prayers to prevent cross infection inside mosques, news agency PTI reported.
Maharashtra Coronavirus Cases Rise To 37
Four new cases of novel coronavirus infection have been detected from Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, taking the tally in Maharashtra to 37 as on Monday, a state government official said.
Of these four cases, three were reported from Mumbai and one from Navi Mumbai, he said.
The total number of coronavirus positive cases has increased to 37 in the state, the official added.
With the four fresh cases coming to the fore, the number of total COVID-19 cases from Mumbai and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) has risen to 13 from the nine on Sunday.
Meanwhile, the Mumbai civic body has decided to display awareness messages about coronavirus infection on around 1200 hoardings in the city for the next ten days, beginning from Monday, news agency PTI reported.
''Coronavirus Reprieve'' For Kamal Nath Government, BJP Approaches Supreme Court
The budget session of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly, which began on Monday, was adjourned till March 26 after the Kamal Nath-led government cited concerns over coronavirus, while the BJP demanded holding of a floor test as directed by Governor Lalji Tandon.
Speaker N P Prajapati adjourned the House after Legislative Affairs Minister Govind Singh broached the issue of coronavirus scare, saying the World Health Organisation has declared it a pandemic, news agency PTI reported.
Former RSS ideologue K N Gonvindacharya moved the Supreme Court on Monday seeking live streaming of proceedings in view of pandemic coronavirus (COVID-19).
Govindacharya, who had earlier filed a separate petition for live streaming of day-to-day proceedings in the Ayodhya land dispute case, filed a fresh interim application in the pending petition seeking live streaming of court proceedings in view of coronavirus scare, PTI reported.
Uttar Pradesh government has taken all possible steps to prevent the spread of deadly coronavirus, said Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday.
"The Uttar Pradesh government has taken all possible steps, as advised by the Central government, to fight the spread of coronavirus. The Prime Minister has repeatedly said that prevention is better than cure and we are following the same and spreading awareness about it," Adityanath was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.
Asian markets tumbled Monday as interest rate cuts and fresh stimulus measures by central banks failed to lift confidence, with analysts warning that the Federal Reserve may have reached the limits of its power to fend off recession as the coronavirus spreads, news agency AFP reported.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has asked all licenced hoarding owners in Mumbai to display messages till March 25, starting from Monday, on fighting the novel coronavirus outbreak, news agency PTI reported.
In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the ongoing budget session of Chhattisgarh Assembly has been adjourned till March 25, news agency ANI reported.
The state government had also announced the closure of cinema halls and multiplexes in the state till March 31.
350 Coronavirus Cases In Australia
The total number of confirmed novel coronavirus cases in Australia on Monday reached 350 as some states in the country declared a state of emergency and announced penalties for breaching quarantine and self-isolation guidelines issued by them to contain the spread of the deadly disease.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Sunday announced that anyone returning to Australia from overseas would be required to self-isolate for two weeks and cruise ships from foreign ports would be banned from docking in Australia.
Thermal screening of people visiting the Parliament complex was carried out on Monday in view of the threat of coronavirus. Staff and journalists visiting the complex were subjected to thermal screening, news agency PTI reported.
A Bahraini woman has died from the novel coronavirus, the health ministry announced on Monday, marking the first death from the disease among Gulf Co-operation Council states. The 65-year-old woman had pre-existing medical conditions, the ministry said on Twitter.
Nearly 1,000 cases of the virus have been recorded so far across the six nations of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said there has been a coordinated response to the coronavirus outbreak and asserted that "no stone is being left unturned" to ensure people are healthy.
Modi also hailed the contribution of doctors, nurses and healthcare workers in fighting the virus and said the country will always cherish their contribution.
Gyms, clubs and spa shut till March 31 in Delhi, says Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal
Coronavirus Scare: 3,000 Chennai Women Call Off Anti-CAA Protest
Around 3,000 women in Chennai who were protesting against contentious citizenship law for the last month, have called off their protest amid coronavirus scare.
Around 3,000 women in Chennai who were protesting against contentious citizenship law for the last month, have called off their protest amid coronavirus scare.
Four New COVID-19 Cases In Maharashtra
Four new cases of novel coronavirus infection have been detected in Maharashtra, taking the state tally to 37 on Monday. Of the four cases, three were reported from Mumbai and one from Navi Mumbai, a state government official said. "The total number of coronavirus positive cases
increased to 37," he said, news agency PTI reported.
Coronavirus Updates: First Coronavirus Case In Odisha
The first confirmed case of novel coronavirus was reported in Odisha on Monday after a researcher who recently returned from Italy tested positive for it, a senior official said. The 33-year-old man is being treated at Capital Hospital here, he said. "His condition is stable and he is not showing any other complications," state government''s chief spokesperson on coronavirus cases Subroto Bagchi told reporters, news agency PTI reported.
The first confirmed case of novel coronavirus was reported in Odisha on Monday after a researcher who recently returned from Italy tested positive for it, a senior official said. The 33-year-old man is being treated at Capital Hospital here, he said. "His condition is stable and he is not showing any other complications," state government''s chief spokesperson on coronavirus cases Subroto Bagchi told reporters, news agency PTI reported.
A health worker posted in Rajasthan's Dausa district was arrested and his services were terminated for allegedly spreading fake news about the coronavirus, police said on Monday.
Coronavirus Updates: Mumbai Civic Body On Work From Home
The BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation chief Praveen Pardeshi on Monday issued a veiled warning to all companies to initiate 'work-from-home' wherever possible over coronavirus.
"We highly advise companies to initiate work-from-home policiesa If necessary, we will make this mandatory in the days to come," Mr Pardeshi said.
Airlines around the world announced they would make more drastic reductions to their flying schedules, cut jobs and seek government aid after countries further tightened border restrictions due to the fast spreading coronavirus.
Aviation Industry Badly Hit By Coronavirus, Says Consultancy Firm
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, most airlines in the world will be bankrupt by the end of May and only a coordinated government and industry action right now can avoid the catastrophe, said global aviation consultancy firm CAPA in a note on Monday, news agency PTI reported.
"As the impact of the coronavirus and multiple government travel reactions sweep through our world, many airlines have probably already been driven into technical bankruptcy, or are at least substantially in breach of debt covenants," it stated.
Coronavirus: Trump Urges Against Hoarding
US President Donald Trump has advised his countrymen against hoarding of essential items as reports of grocery stores being swept by panic buying due to the coronavirus crisis emerged, saying supply chains in the country are the most powerful in the world and there is no shortage of daily goods, news agency Reuters reported.
Saudi Arabia closed public spaces on Sunday and announced a pause in most government operations while Qatar and Oman imposed entry restrictions as Gulf Arab states broadened efforts to contain the spread of coronavirus and support their economies.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in the US has recommended to postpone or cancel events having a gathering of 50 people or more for the next eight weeks amid stepped up efforts to contain the rapid spread of the coronavirus that has claimed 69 lives in the country.
According to the World Health Organisation data, the COVID-19 pandemic has infected 3,777 people, including 69 deaths, in the US as the authorities placed travel restrictions, closed schools, restaurants and bars and cancelled entertainment events across the country to contain the deadly virus.
Apple has offered its Card holders to skip March payment without incurring interest charges in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic.
Launched with Goldman Sachs and Mastercard last year, Apple Card is both a digital and physical credit card that requires no number, CVV security code, expiration date or signature on the card.
In an email to customers that was posted online by a Reddit user, Apple and Goldman Sachs said the move is to offer financial relief during the challenging time as US reels under the novel coronavirus spread.
In the backdrop of coronavirus pandemic, the Patna High Court has decided to hear only the urgent and regular bail matters till March 31. Further, all matters to be listed in between March 17 to March 31, shall now be listed on April 4.
"In the temporary supersession of all the previous notices regarding mentioning of urgent matters, the competent authority has been pleased to direct that till March 31, all urgent matters shall be orally mentioned before the Bench," read the notice.
A fresh batch of 53 evacuees from Iran have arrived at an Army Wellness Centre in Jaisalmer on Monday, following the COVID-19 outbreak in the Middle East country, where there has been over 700 deaths so far.
This is after the first batch of 236 evacuees that arrived at Jaisalmer on Sunday.
Bars, restaurants, theatres and movie houses in New York and Los Angeles were ordered to shut down and several nations in South and Central America closed their borders in the latest moves around the world to combat the spread of the coronavirus, news agency Reuters reported.
The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) suspended all cricketing activities in the UAE for all age groups till March 31, in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
"Cessation of all Cricket Activities at Councils/Clubs/Academies/Teams for all age groups with immediate effect until 31st March 20220," the ECB said in a statement.
The coronavirus death toll in China rose to 3,213 with 14 new fatalities, while the imported cases climbed to 123 after 12 new infections were reported, prompting Beijing to make 14-day quarantine in special facilities compulsory for foreigners returning to the country.
As of Sunday, 14 new deaths were reported, taking the death toll due to the deadly virus to 3,213, China''s National Health Commission (NHC) said on Monday.
With three patients from Rajasthan cured, the total number of patients freed from the Coronavirus has reached 13 in India.
The Union Health Ministry said till Sunday night, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases across India were 110, including the foreign nationals.
"A total of 12,76,046 passengers were screened at the airports as on 11.30 p.m. on March 15," the Ministry said in a statement.
Coronavirus A Reality In India, Tweets Hema Malini
Seasoned actor Hema Malini on Monday urged everyone to follow the instructions issued by the government to help prevent the spread of coronavirus, news agency ANI reported.
The 71-year-old actor shared her concern over the COVID-19 pandemic with more than 100 cases having been tested positive in India.
"COVID-19 has become a reality in India with more than 100 cases testing positive prevent the spread of the dreaded disease that has no vaccine & no cure as yet, we shd resolve to fully cooperate with the govt & strictly follow instructions in order to beat the disease," she tweeted.
According to the World Health Organization, 143 countries are affected by coronavirus outbreak.
Coronavirus Updates: Congress Leader P Chidambaram's Advice To Centre On Coronavirus
In a series of tweets, Congress leader P Chidamabaram this morning said that the central government must consider "partial to total lockdown" in various towns and cities over coronavirus.
In a series of tweets, Congress leader P Chidamabaram this morning said that the central government must consider "partial to total lockdown" in various towns and cities over coronavirus.
If the central government is slow to act, state governments must show bolder leadership and announce firmer steps appropriate to the state concerned. @uddhavthackeray @ArvindKejriwal @EPSTamilNadu
- P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) March 16, 2020
Coronavirus Updates: Congress Leader P Chidambaram's Advice To Centre On Coronavirus
In a series of tweets, Congress leader P Chidamabaram this morning said that the central government must consider "partial to total lockdown" in various towns and cities over coronavirus.
In a series of tweets, Congress leader P Chidamabaram this morning said that the central government must consider "partial to total lockdown" in various towns and cities over coronavirus.
If the central government is slow to act, state governments must show bolder leadership and announce firmer steps appropriate to the state concerned. @uddhavthackeray @ArvindKejriwal @EPSTamilNadu
- P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) March 16, 2020
Coronavirus Updates: Congress Leader P Chidambaram's Advice To Centre On Coronavirus
In a series of tweets, Congress leader P Chidamabaram this morning said that the central government must consider "partial to total lockdown" in various towns and cities over coronavirus.
In a series of tweets, Congress leader P Chidamabaram this morning said that the central government must consider "partial to total lockdown" in various towns and cities over coronavirus.
If the central government is slow to act, state governments must show bolder leadership and announce firmer steps appropriate to the state concerned. @uddhavthackeray @ArvindKejriwal @EPSTamilNadu
- P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) March 16, 2020
