Coronavirus Outbreak Updates: Delhi govt imposes 70% tax on MRP of liquor starting tomorrow, to curb overcrowding in shops

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Delhi govt imposes 70% tax on MRP of liquor

The Delhi government on Monday imposed a ‘Special Corona Fees’ — a 70 percent tax on Maximum Retail Price (MRP) of the liquor. It will be applicable from Tuesday

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

771 new COVID-19 cases, 35 deaths reported in Maharashtra today

The Maharashtra health department said that 35 deaths and 771 new coronavirus cases have been recorded in the state on Monday, taking the total number of cases in the state to 14,541. The toll due to xoronavirus stands at 583 in the state.

Coronavirus Pandemic Latest Updates

UN says ‘dangerous outbreak’ of misinformation

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Monday said that in addition to the COVID-19 pandemic, “the world is today seeing a dangerous outbreak of misinformation about harmful health advice, hate speech and wild conspiracy theories, and antidote to this pandemic of misinformation is fact-based news and analysis.”

Coronavirus in Tripura Latest Updates

13 more people test positive for COVID-19 in Tripura

Tripura chief minister Biplab Kumar Deb said that 12 more people have tested positive for coronavirus in the state. This includes two children, he said.​

Alert!

More 13 persons including two kids of 138th-Bn #BSF Ambassa found #COVID19 positive.

Total #COVID19 positive cases in #Tripura stands at 29 (2 already discharged, so active cases : 27).

Don't panic, follow the Govt guidelines and Stay at Home.#TripuraCOVID19Count

— Biplab Kumar Deb (@BjpBiplab) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in Ladakh Latest Updates

Results of samples from Leh, Kargil test negative

Rigzin Samphel, Ladakh commissioner and secretary of health, son Monday said that the results of 205 samples, 201 from Leh and four from Kargil have been received. All are negative, he added.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Delhi health bulletin today:

349 new coronavirus cases on Monday
69 recoveries in last 24 hours
No deaths in last 24 hours
90 containment zones
Total active cases – 3,403
Total number of cases – 4,898
Toll – 69

(Credit: India Today)

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Bengaluru restaurants face 80% reduction in business due to lockdown

Restaurants are facing problems in Bengaluru amid continuing the coronavirus lockdown, ANI reported. Sayyed Jameel, owner of Deagh Restaurants, said, “Our business is down by about 80 percent. Customers are also not visiting our outlets as people do not have money to dine in restaurants”.

Karnataka: Restaurants face problems in Bengaluru amid continuing #lockdown. Sayyed Jameel, owner of Deagh Restaurants, says, "Our business is down by about 80 per cent. Customers are also not visiting our outlets as people do not have money to dine in restaurants". pic.twitter.com/8VetA3Mv8o

— ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in Madhya Pradesh Latest Updates

MP reports 106 new COVID-19 cases today

The Madhya Pradesh health department said that 106 more people have tested positive for coronavirus in the state on Monday, taking the total number of cases in the state to 2,942.

Coronavirus in Rajasthan Latest Updates

175 new cases, 6 deaths reported in Rajasthan today

The Rajasthan health department said that 175 new coronavirus and six deaths were reported in the state on Monday, taking the total number of cases in the state to 3,061.

77 deaths have been recorded in the state so far.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

Bengal govt allows opening of salons, private offices outside containment zones

The West Bengal government on Monday allowed the opening of salons in green zones, operation of private offices between 10 am and 6 pm with upto 25 percent strength outside containment zones and the resumption of intra-district bus services in green zones with 20 passengers or upto 50 percent seating capacity, whichever is less.

Coronavirus in Madhya Pradesh Latest Updates

FIR filed against 400 unidentified migrants for stone pelting in MP

ANI reported that an FIR has been lodged against over 400 unidentified migrant workers for stone pelting at police in Sendhwa area of Barwani, Madhya Pradesh on Sunday. At least 3 police personnel had received injuries in the incident, said Rajendra Solanki, Sub-Inspector at Sendhwa Rural Police Station.

Coronavirus in Punjab Latest Updates

Firozpur divisional railway manager appointed as nodal officer for migrants’ movement

The Punjab information and public relations department said that Divisional Railway Manager Firozpur, Rajesh Aggarwal has been designated as nodal officer for movement of migrant labourers, tourists, students and others back to their home states.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Doubling time of COVID-19 infections is not 12 days

The Indian Express reported that the doubling time of coronavirus infections in the country is now 12 days.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

IGNOU postpones June exams 

IGNOU VC said that the university has postponed the June, 2020 Term End Examinations,which were originally scheduled from 1 June 2020, in the wake of the lockdown due to COVID-19. The new revised set of dates for exams will be decided later, he added.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

India has ensured medical supplies to 123 partner countries, says Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said, “Despite our own needs, we have ensured medical supplies to our 123 partner countries including 59 members of Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). We are active in global efforts to develop remedies and vaccines.

“Even as the world fights COVID-19, some people are busy spreading some other deadly viruses such as terrorism, fake news and doctored videos to divide communities and countries.”

He added, “To counter COVID-19 we’ve promoted coordination in our immediate neighbourhood and we’re organising online training to share India’s medical expertise with many others.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Modi says NAM must ‘remain inclusive’ to fight COVID-19

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the ‘Non-Aligned movement’ on Monday said that the platform must “promote global solidarity”.

“Today, humanity faces its most serious crisis in many decades. At this time, NAM can help promote global solidarity. NAM has often been the world’s moral voice. To retain this role, NAM must remain inclusive.

“During this crisis we have shown how democracy, discipline and decisiveness can come together to create a genuine people’s movement. Indian civilization sees whole world as one family. As we care for our own citizens, we’re also extending help to other countries,” he said.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Karnataka govt says Rs 45 cr worth of liquor sales recorded

Liquor sales of Rs 45 crores recorded on the first day of opening of liquor shops, said the Karnataka Excise Department

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

IMCT says mortality rate is highest in West Bengal

The Inter-ministerial central team in-charge of inspecting the COVID-19 situation in West Bengal reportedly said that the mortality rate due to coronavirus in the state “is the highest in the country at 12.8 percent and reflects “low testing and weak surveillance” while tackling the pandemic”.

News18 reported that the IMCT also accused the state’s TMC government of being “antagonistic” to the panel.

Coronavirus in Jharkhand Latest Updates

No new COVID-19 case reported in Jharkhand today

No new coronavirus case was reported in Jharkhand for the second consecutive day on Monday, the state health department said. The total number of cases stands at 115, including 85 active cases and 27 discharged/cured.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Mumbai reports 510 new cases, 18 deaths today

The MCGM said that 510 new COVID-19 cases and 18 deaths were recorded in Mumbai on Monday, taking the total number of cases to 9,123 and the toll 361.

Coronavirus in Jammu and Kashmir Latest Updates

List of COVID-19 zones in Jammu and Kashmir:

Red zone

All 10 districts of Kashmir
Kathua
Samba
Jammu

Orange zone

Rajouri
Reasi
Udhampur
Ramban

Green zone

Poonch
Doda
Kishtwar

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh latest Updates

121 new COVID-19 cases reported in Uttar Pradesh

The Uttar Pradesh health department said that 121 new cases of coronavirus have been reported in the state on Monday, taking total number of cases to 2,766. 754 patients have recovered from the disease while 50 others lost their lives.

Coronavirus in Gujarat Latest Updates

Infections in Gujarat surge to 5,804

376 new infections have been reported in last 24 hours in Gujarat, taking the total number of cases in the state to 5,804, reports ANI quoting the state health department. 1,195 people have been cured/discharged and 319 deaths have been reported so far.

Coronavirus in Chhattisgarh Latest Updates

Confirmed cases in Chhattisgarh rise to 58

A 24-year-old man has tested coronavirus positive in Raipur, taking total number of cases in Chhattisgarh to 58, reports ANI quoting AIIMS Raipur. This figure  includes 22 active cases and 36 cured/discharged.

Coronavirus in Jammu and Kashmir Latest Updates

Jammu and Kashmir reports 25 new cases

Twenty-five more people tested positive for COVID-19 in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday, taking the number of cases in the Union territory to 726, PTI quotes officials as saying. Of the fresh cases, 24 are in Kashmir and one in Jammu region, they added.  Of the total number of cases reported so far in the Union territory, 664 are from Kashmir and 62 from Jammu. While 303 patients have recovered, eight people have died of the disease so far. There are 415 active cases at present, the officials said.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

42 new coronavirus cases reported in Dharavi today

The BMC on Monday said that 42 new coronavirus cases were reported in Mumbai’s Dharavi, taking the total number of cases in the densely-populated area to 632, including 20 deaths.

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates

Chennai’s Koyembedu market shut after rise in COVID-19 cases

India Today reported that the Koyembedu market in Chennai is likely to be shut temporarily from Tuesday due to the spike in coronavirus cases in the state on Monday. “Market operation have been shifted to Thirumailisai in Thiruvallur district from Thursday,” the report said.

Coronavirus in Haryana Latest Updates

75 new COVID-19 cases reported in Haryana today

The Haryana health department said that 75 more people have tested positive for coronavirus in the state on Monday, taking the total number of cases in the state to 517.

Coronavirus in Delhi latest Updates

Eight SSB jawans test positive for COVID-19

Eight jawans of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) have tested COVID-19 positive on Monday in Delhi, an SSB statement said.

“These jawans were deployed in security of different government installations. The total count of COVID-19 positive cases rises to 13 in SSB,” the statement added.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Kejriwal appeals for use of masks, sanitisers, maintaining social distancing

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, addressing a virtual press conference on Monday, said that people must ensure they follow three measures of protection against coronavirus, even as the lockdown restrictions were partially eased by the Centre from Monday.

#WATCH I appeal to people of Delhi to ensure three things- wear masks when you step outdoors, practice social distancing and sanitize/wash your hands frequently: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal pic.twitter.com/XbFSQ6xC0t

— ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

West Bengal COVID-19 cases rise to 1,259

The West Bengal government said that 61 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state on Monday, taking the total number of cases to 1,259.

The toll also rose by 11 on Monday, taking the total to 61 in the state.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Bombay HC to continue working limited hours

Reports said that the Bombay High Court will continue working limited hours as the coronavirus lockdown was extended for two weeks starting from Monday. The court is also likely to work with restricted benches “to hear only extremely urgent matters via video conference until further orders following extension of the lockdown due to the novel coronavirus outbreak,” News18 reported.

Coronavirus in Chhattisgarh Latest Updates

Chhattisgarh govt says admin at fault in areas with lockdown violations

Chhattisgarh health minister TS Singh Deo said that the administration “is at fault” where lockdown violations were recorded on Monday, after the Centre’s revised guidelines, with a few relaxations, came into effect.

“There must be some sort of action to ensure that it does not recur. A lot of people are against the opening of liquor shops in Chhattisgarh but they have been opened as there is a government order. Centre should not allow opening of the liquor shops in these times. The decision should be reconsidered,” he added.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates  

Centre to facilitate return of Indians stranded abroad

The Centre on Monday said that it will be “facilitating the return of Indian nationals stranded abroad on compelling grounds in a phased manner.” The proccess is set to begin from 7 May, a press release said.

“The travel would be arranged by aircraft and naval ships. The Standard Operating Protocol (SOP) has been prepared in this regard. Indian Embassies and High Commissions are preparing a list of distressed Indian citizens. This facility would be made available on payment-basis. Non-scheduled commercial flights would be arranged for air travel.

Medical screening of passengers would be done before taking the flight. Only asymptomatic passengers would be allowed to travel. During the journey, all these passengers would have to follow the protocols, such as the Health Protocols, issued by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Civil Aviation,” the statement said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

2,573 new COVID-19 cases, 83 deaths reported in last 24 hours, says Centre

In its 5 pm update, the Union health ministry said that 2,573 new coronavirus cases and 83 deaths were reported across the nation in last 24 hours.

The total number of COVID-19 cases in India rises to 42,836 including 29,685 active cases, 11,762 cured/discharged/migrated and 1,389 deaths.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

BJP responds to criticism over special trains’ fare

The BJP was quoted by PTI as saying that the railways has subsidised 85 percent of ticket fare for special trains being run to transport migrant workers and the state government has to pay the remaining 15 percent, soon after the Congress attacked the central government over the issue.

The state government concerned can also pay for the tickets, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said. He said the Madhya Pradesh government is doing so and asked Rahul Gandhi to tell the Congress-ruled states to follow suit. 

(PTI)

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Kejriwal says relaxations will be revoked in areas where social distancing being violated

“It was unfortunate that chaos was seen at some shops today in Delhi. If we come to know about violations of social distancing and other norms from any area, then we will have to seal the area and revoke the relaxations there,” said Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday.

“Shop owners will have to take the responsibility, if the norms of social distancing are violated outside a shop then the shop will be shut,” he added.

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates

Tamil Nadu sees highest single-day rise in COVID-19 cases

The Tamil Nadu health department on Monday said that 527 more people have tested positive for coronavirus in the state in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of cases in the state to 3,550.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

85% of railway fare to be borne by Centre, says health ministry

“We have only permitted special trains for those states that have raised requests for particular cases. We have never said that we want to charge from any workers. 85 per cent cost will be borne by Central government and 15 per cent to be borne by the state governments. Except one or two states, all are cooperating with us in this process,” the Union health ministry was quoted as saying by India Today during the routine coronavirus press briefing on Monday.

Coronavirus in Kerala latest Updates

Kerala reports highest single-day COVID-10 recoveries

Kerala on Monday reported the highest increase in recoveries in a day, The Indian Express reported. Additionally, no new coronavirus cases have been reported in the state.

“A total of 61 people tested negative in the last 24 hours, taking the number of active cases from 95 down to 34,” the report said.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

37 new COVID-19 cases reported in Karnataka

The Karnataka health department, in its 5 pm update, said that 37 new coronavirus cases have been confirmed in the state in the last 24 hours. The total number of cases in the state stands at 651.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

18 new COVID-19 cases reported in Firozabad today

Reports said that 18 new coronavirus cases were reported in Uttar Pradesh’s Firozabad on Monday, taking the total tally in the city to 157. Out of the 18 new cases, 12 are police personnel.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Nashik liquor shops shut due to overcrowding

Liquor shops in Maharashtra’s Nashik have been shut due to “heavy” overcrowding, India Today reported.

Liquor shops were allowed to open on Monday under the partial roll backs in lockdown restrictions issued by the MHA. The Centre also extended the lockdown over the pandemic for two weeks starting on Monday.

Coronavirus in Andhra Pradesh Latest Updates

Social distancing norms flouted in Andhra Pradesh’s Chittoor

#CoronavirusLockdown: Social distancing rules were flouted after a crowd gathered in #AndhraPradesh's Chittoor today as liquor shops opened across the country.

Follow LIVE updates on #CoronavirusPandemic: https://t.co/5SLpM9YVRZ pic.twitter.com/BuN3cVDfHW

— Firstpost (@firstpost) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in Punjab Latest Updates

Amarinder Singh writes to Amit Shah over special trains to transport migrants

Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Monday wrote to Home Minister Amit Shah seeking his intervention to arrange special trains for the next 10-15 days, beginning 5 May, for transporting migrant labourers stranded in Punjab to their home states.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

Noida admin to charge fine for spitting in public places

The Noida administration on Monday said that spitting or spitting of tobacco products at public places is prohibited in the district. A fine of Rs 500 will be charged from 1st time offenders and Rs 1000 from 2nd time offenders.

Coronavirus in India latest Updates

610 COVID-19 cases in 112 aspirational districts, says Centre

Amitabh Kant, chairman of Empowered Group 6, on Monday said in the press briefing, “As of now, there are about 610 cases of COVID-19 in 112 aspirational districts, which is considered fairly low at less than 2 percent of the national level of infections. Of these, six districts have reported first case after 21 April.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Centre says is social distancing isn’t followed, transmission can increase ‘rapidly’

Health ministry joint secretary Lav Aggarwal said that it social distancing is not followed despite the relaxations in lockdown restrictions, “chances of disease transmission increase rapidly”.

He said, “In pandemics such as COVID-19, historically it has been noted that if social distancing is not respected when social mobility is allowed, chances of disease transmission increase rapidly once restrictions are eased.”

Coronavirus in Chandigarh Latest Updates

80 active COVID-19 cases in Chandigarh so far

The Chandigarh administration on Monday said that there are 80 active cases of coronavirus in the union territory and 21 patients have cured/discharged.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Recovery rate rises to 27.52%, says Centre

The Union health ministry, in the 4 pm press briefing said that so far, 11,706 people have been cured.

“In the last 24 hours, 1,074 people have been cured.This is the highest number in terms of cured patients noted till date. Our recovery rate is now 27.52 percent. Total number of COVID-19 cases is now 42,533,” said Lav Agrawal, Joint Secy, Health Ministry.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

MHA asks states to ensure smooth travel for cargo

“MHA has asked states to ensure that there are no issues in inter state cargo movement. MHA control room number: 1930 and NHAI helpline number: 1033 may be used by drivers/transporters to lodge any complaint pertaining to lockdown,” said MHA Joint Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Over 3,000 migrants reach UP from Maharashtra

More than 3,000 migrant labourers reached Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh from Maharashtra on Monday morning, News18 reported. The labourers travelled on the three special trains after the MHA allowed people stranded in other states to travel back to their native places.

“According to officials, two trains with 2,127 labourers reached Gorakhpur from Maharashtra’s Bhiwandi and the Vasai Road railway stations in the early hours.  In Lucknow, over 1,021 stranded labourers arrived from Nagpur at 8.30 am,” the report said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

UPSC says preliminary civil services exam deferred

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on Monday said that the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2020, scheduled to be held on 31 May, has been deferred in light of the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown measure. New dates will be announced after a review of the situation on 20 May, the statement said.

Coronavirus in Tripura Latest Updates

Tripura govt to send 33,000 migrants back to native places by train

Tripura chief minister Biplab Kumar Deb on Monday said that the state government will be sending back 33,000 migrant workers to their respective states by train, with the help of the Centre.

Govt of Tripura along with the help of Central Govt have decided to sent back 33,000 migrant workers to their respective states from Tripura largely by train: Chief Minister of Tripura Biplab Kumar Deb. #CoronavirusLockdown pic.twitter.com/mEKhWYciN2

— ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in Gujarat Latest Updates

Migrant workers, police clash in Surat 

ANI reported that a clash erupted between migrant workers and the police in Gujarat’s Surat. The workers are demanding that they be sent back to their native places.

#WATCH Gujarat: A clash erupts between migrant workers & police in Surat. The workers are demanding that they be sent back to their native places. pic.twitter.com/aiMvjHGukY

— ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Barring Maharashtra, all other states paying for travel of migrants, claims report

Amidst criticism that the railways was charging stranded migrant workers for ferrying them home, sources said payments for 34 Shramik Special trains that have been run so far have been made by the state governments, barring Maharashtra, reports PTI.

A controversy erupted on Monday after several opposition parties demanded that migrant workers should not be charged for the train tickets. While the Congress offered to pay for them, the BJP said the railways was already providing subsidised tickets bearing 85 percent of the travel costs.

The railways is yet to issue an official statement on the issue, which it, unofficially, said was a “political battle”, but officials have been maintaining that it was charging only standard fare for these special trains from the state governments which is just 15 percent of the total cost incurred.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Update

West Bengal has highest COVID-19 mortality rate, central team tells chief secy

West Bengal has the highest mortality rate in the country at 12.8 percent, Inter Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) leader Apoorva Chandra wrote in his final observations to state Chief Secretary Rajiva Sinha, before leaving for Delhi on Monday.

“This extremely high mortality rate is a clear indication of low testing, weak surveillance and tracking,” Chandra said in the letter. A discrepancy has been brought to the fore in the number of COVID-19 cases reported by the state in its medical bulletins and its communication with the Union government, Chandra noted in the letter.

The team, led by Chandra, returned to the national capital after having completed two weeks of stay in the city.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Cases in Thane district stand at 1,183; Palghar with 177 patients

While the number of cases in Thane and Navi Mumbai municipal corporation limits has crossed 300 each, Kalyan Dombivali area, the district’s third major civic body, is close to 200 coronavirus positive cases, health officials said on Monday. As of late Sunday night, the total number of cases in Thane district is 1,183.

The number of cases in KDMC is 195, while it is 389 in Thane city, 314 in Navi Mumbai, and 171 in Mira Bhayander. In Navi Mumbai, over 4,000 people have been tested for the virus in the APMC market in Vashi, the premier supplier of grains, vegetables, fruits, and spices to Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

In neighbouring Palghar district, the total number of COVID-19 cases stands at 177, which includes 10 deaths so far.

Coronavirus in Japan Latest Update

Japan set to extend emergency until 31 May

Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura told reporters that experts supported the government’s plan to extend a state of emergency through the end of May, reports The Associated Press.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is set to formally announce an extension after the plan gets parliamentary approval later Monday. Japan has more than 15,000 cases and 510 deaths, according to the health ministry.

Coronavirus in Jharkhand Latest Update

Jharkhand govt not to implement lockdown relaxations for now

The Jharkhand government will not implement any of the relaxations granted by the Centre from Monday and has decided to extend “total” lockdown in the state for two more weeks till 17 May. The Ministry of Home Affairs has given considerable relaxations for the third phase of the lockdown beginning Monday.

At a meeting on Sunday, the Jharkhand government decided that the relaxation norms would not apply to the state to protect residents in the aftermath of the arrival of a large number of stranded people from states “severely” affected by COVID-19.

Coronavirus in Madhya Pradesh Latest Update

Shops open in 43 MP districts in Green, Orange Zones

Shops and other commercial establishments opened on Monday in 43 out of the total 52 Madhya Pradesh districts, barring COVID-19 red zones, with some curbs in accordance with the Centre’s guidelines, officials told PTI. However, liquor outlets remained closed across the state, they said.

“Shops opened in 43 districts coming under green and orange zones with some curbs and stipulated timings. There were also some minor relaxations outside containment areas in the red zones,” a government official said.

Coronavirus in Bihar Latest Update

Students not to pay train fare, migrant workers to get full reimbursement, says Nitish Kumar

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday made it clear that no fare will be charged from students returning to the state by special trains while migrant workers will be reimbursed the expenses incurred, besides getting additional assistance, after they complete the mandatory 21-day quarantine.

In a video message, Kumar said these measures were already in place but blamed bayaanbaazi (political statements by the opposition) for the confusion which he felt was imperative to dispel.

No fare is being charged from the students. The migrant labourers are being taken from railway stations to their respective block headquarters where they have to stay in quarantine for 21 days. Once they come out, they will be reimbursed for the full expenses and get an additional aid of Rs 500 each. Thus, each worker will be getting a minimum of Rs 1000, he added.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Update

2 Shramik special trains depart from Bengaluru; free inter- district bus facility extended till Thursday

Two trains will depart from Bengaluru on Monday to take workers and people stranded in Karnataka due to the COVID-19 lockdown, while Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa said free bus services for labourers stuck within the state to reach their native places will be extended for two days.

The trains will depart on Monday to Jaipur in Rajasthan and Patna in Bihar, the government said in a statement, adding food and water arrangements have been made for passengers before they travel.

Also sharing details about the labourers and people traveling to other states, the statement said, on Sunday two trains left for Patna in Bihar, and one each to Ranchi in Jharkhand and Bhubaneswar in Odisha. Four trains carrying 4,800 people have left for their destination on Sunday, it said.

Coronavirus in Iceland Latest Update

With testing, Iceland claims major success against COVID-19

Winter storms isolated the northern village of Hvammstangi from the rest of Iceland. Then spring brought the coronavirus, isolating villagers from each other. Now, as summer approaches, residents hope life is getting back to some kind of normal.

High schools, hair salons, dentists, and other businesses across Iceland are reopening Monday after six weeks of lockdown after this North Atlantic nation managed to tame its coronavirus outbreak.

Iceland has confirmed 1,799 cases of the virus, but just 10 people have died. The number of new COVID-19 cases each day has fallen from 106 at the peak of the outbreak to single digits even, on some days, zero.

“I didn’t expect the recovery to be this fast,”  said Iceland’s chief epidemiologist, Thorolfur Gudnason. Iceland’s success is partly a testament to its tiny population just 360,000 people.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Update

UP MLA held for violating lockdown curbs, let off on bail

Uttar Pradesh MLA Amanmani Tripathi and 12 of his associates were arrested in Rishikesh for allegedly violating lockdown restrictions and let off subsequently on bail, officials said on Monday.

The action was taken late on Sunday night when the MLA and his friends were returning after being stopped by authorities in Chamoli district from proceeding to Badrinath.

A convoy of three cars carrying the MLA and his associates was first intercepted by policemen at a barrier in Gauchar on way to Badrinath but the Nautanwa MLA produced a letter of permission purportedly issued by authorities in Dehradun and moved on.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Over 2,000 migrants return to UP from Maharashtra in two special trains

Two special trains carrying over 2,000 migrant workers stranded in Maharashtra due to the coronavirus lockdown reached here on Monday, officials told PTI.

“The first train 01901 from Bhiwandi carrying 1,145 passengers reached Gorakhpur railway station at 1.20 am. The other train 00975 from Vasai Road railway station with 982 passengers arrived at the station at around 5.30 am,” Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Sadar (Gorakhpur), Gaurav Singh Sogarwal said.

He said most of the workers were from Khajni, Bansgaon and Gola tehsil of Gorakhpur district.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Update

‘Don’t playdown spread of virus’, IMCT advises West Bengal govt

On its final day in West Bengal, the Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) said that there needs to be transparency in the figures reported during the coronavirus pandemic. IMCT leader Apurva Chandra lamented the Mamata Banerjee- led government’s “antagonistic view” to the team.

The letter noted that West Bengal has reported the highest mortality rate of 12.8 percent, which is a “clear indication of low testing and weak surveillance and tracking”.

The team has advised the government to report COVID-19 figures transparently and consistenly, rather than downplaying the spread of the virus. The letter, according to  ANI , also mentioned the “limited field visits” and interactions with health and other officials arranged by the state government.

Coronavirus in Andhra Pradesh Latest Update

67 new cases reported in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh reported 67 new coronavirus cases, taking the total positive cases to 1,650. The state has 1,093 active cases currently.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Update

Traffic seen on Delhi roads after easing of restrictions

As the lockdown restrictions, that had been imposed to stem the spread of coronavirus, were eased by the Delhi government, traffic was witnessed in many parts of the National Capital.

Under the new lockdown guidelines, public transport will remain shut, but private vehicles can ply. Four wheelers can carry two people and a driver and only one person is allowed on two wheelers.

Delhi: More number of vehicles seen on roads in the national capital today, after Delhi govt announces several relaxations amid #CoronavirusLockdown; Visuals from Moolchand. pic.twitter.com/5orSQBBP4F

— ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Update

Two floors of BSF headquarters sealed

After a staff member of Border Security Force (BSF) working in the headquarters at eight-storeyed CGO Complex in Delhi tested positive for COVID-19, the building’s first and second floors were been closed for sanitisation.

This comes a day after the CRPF headquarters in Delhi, housed in the same building, were sealed after the personal secretary of a senior staffer had tested positive for coronavirus.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra​​ Latest Update

Bombay HC seeks response on plea against ‘detention’ of 1,408 people at quarantine centres

The Bombay High Court has sought response from the Maharashtra government and the Nagpur Municipal Corporation on a plea alleging that the civic authorities “illegally detained” 1,408 people from two coronavirus hotspots and put them in quarantine facilities.

Justice AS Kilor of the Nagpur bench on Sunday took up for urgent hearing the petition filed by local resident Mohammad Nishat, alleging that the city civic authorities illegally detained 1,408 people from Satranjipura and Mominpura areas on the ground that they were high-risk contacts of those who tested positive for COVID-19.

According to the petitioners advocate Tushar Mandlekar, the authorities randomly picked 1,408 people and thus, violated the prescribed protocols and guidelines issued by the Union government and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

Coronavirus in Jammu and Kashmir​​ Latest Update

JK govt declares entire Kashmir valley, 2 district of Jammu as red zone

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has declared the entire Kashmir valley and three district of Jammu region as “red zone” based on the overall assessment of the coronavirus situation and expected movement of stranded persons to the union territory.

The classification of districts was given in an order issued by Chief Secretary BVR Subrahmanyam on Sunday night. The Union Health Ministry had classified four districts of Jammu and Kashmir – Srinagar, Bandipora, Anantnag and Shopian — in the red zone.

The Centre has allowed the administration of States and Union Territories (UTs) to classify additional districts as red or orange zones. However, States and UTs are not allowed to lower the zone classification of a district.

Coronavirus in West Bengal​​ Latest Update

West Bengal yet to decide on lockdown relaxations in green, orange

Despite the Centre allowing the functioning of certain shops and services to give some respite during the third phase of the lockdown that began on Monday, large parts of West Bengal wore a deserted look as the state government is yet to decide on the relaxations in the green and orange zones.

Shops, barring those selling essential commodities, remained closed and vehicles were off the roads in most parts of the state in the morning.

In the afternoon, a task force led by Chief Secretary Rajiva Sinha will decide on the relaxations, including which shops and establishments will be allowed to reopen in the two zones, an official said.

Coronavirus in India​​ Latest Update

SEBI says capital, debt market service providers to remain operational during lockdown

Market regulator SEBI has said that entities providing capital and debt market services will continue to remain operational during the nationwide lockdown which has been extended for another two weeks contain the spread of COVID-19.

The government on Friday announced that a “limited” lockdown, including suspension of inter-state travel, air and train services, will continue to remain in force for another two weeks throughout the country from 4 May, but some activities would be allowed after classifying areas into red, orange and green zones.

The Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines permit the continuation of certain services including Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) operations, capital, and debt market services (as notified by the regulator), it said.

Coronavirus in Delhi​​ Latest Update

Police resort to lathi-charge outside Delhi liquor shop

The police on Monday resorted to a mild lathi-charge outside a liquor shop in Delhi’s Kashmere Gate after social distancing norms were allegedly flouted by people outside, ANI reported.

#WATCH: Police resorts to mild lathicharge outside a liquor shop in Kashmere Gate after social distancing norms were flouted by people outside the shop. #Delhi pic.twitter.com/XZKxrr5ThC

— ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in Uttarakhand​​ Latest Update

UP MLA booked for violating lockdown in Uttarakhand

Independent MLA Aman Mani Tripathi was detained by the Uttarakhand police for allegedly violating lockdown rules. The incident occurred at Gauchar of Chamoli district where the entourage was stopped for screening by officials on Sunday night.

Tripathi, along with ten others, was on a trip to Badrinath and Kedarnath with the requisite permission of Uttarakhand Additional Chief Secretary Om Prakash.

The MLA and his entourage was travelling in three vehicles and was stopped at Gauchar barrier by officials. However, they refused to stop and carried on towards Karnaprayag.

Coronavirus in India​  Latest Update

Hero MotoCorp resumes manufacturing operations at three plants

The country’s largest two-wheeler maker Hero MotoCorp on Monday said it has resumed operations across three of its manufacturing plants with actual product roll-out expected to begin from Wednesday.

The company is commencing operations in a graded manner at three of its manufacturing plants Gurugram, Dharuhera (both in Haryana) and Haridwar (Uttarakhand), Hero MotoCorp said in a statement. Additionally, the company’s Global Parts Center (GPC) at Neemrana in Rajasthan has also resumed operations.

Coronavirus in Singapore​  Latest Update

Nearly 4,800 Indians are positive but with mild conditions in Singapore, says envoy

Nearly 4,800 Indian nationals, most of whom are living in dormitories for foreign workers, have been tested positive with the novel coronavirus in Singapore till the end of April, the Indian High Commissioner here said on Monday.

The total number of coronavirus cases in Singapore are 18,205 with 18 deaths, according to the figures released by Singapore Health Ministry on Sunday. “Almost all of the infection among Indian workers is mild and their conditions are improving, Jawed Ashraf, Indian High Commissioner to Singapore, told PTI.

Over 3,500 Indian nationals, including students, have also registered with the High Commission to return home or to seek assistance for accommodation and food due to their unexpectedly long stay here, he said.

**Coronavirus in Chhattisgarh**​  Latest Update

Army, paramilitary staff to be quarantined after returning to Chhattisgarh

The Chhattisgarh health department has asked personnel of the paramilitary forces and Army to remain quarantined for 14 days after their return to the state on completion of training or duties in other parts of the country.

State health secretary Niharika Barik Singh wrote letters on Sunday to senior officials of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), the Indian Army and Service Selection Board (SSB), to ensure compliance of the quarantine protocols.

In the letter, Singh said it has come to the notice of the health department that security personnel of the units concerned are out of the state for various reasons like training, leave, duty, and others.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

State units will work out modalities with Railways, chief secys to pay train fare of migrants: Congress

The Congress on Monday termed historic party president Sonia Gandhi’s decision asking PCCs to bear the cost of the train fare of migrant workers returning home, and said its state units will work out the modalities of paying the Railways after coordinating with chief secretaries.

Congress general secretary (organisation) KC Venugopal said he has already talked to state Congress chiefs and they are working out the modalities to ensure that every worker and migrant stranded reaches home safely. He said the state PCC in Karnataka has already made a beginning by depositing Rs 1 crore with the state chief secretary and would provide more in case required.

Congress leader Randeep Surjewala added that this was not the time to play politics. The government should wake up from its slumber and come to the aid of migrant workers, he said.

जनसेवा कांग्रेस के खून में है।

हम जनमानुष को साथ जोड़ मज़दूरों की घर वापसी को जन आंदोलन बनाएँगे।

करोड़ों श्रमिक भाईयों के रेल किराए का भुगतान करके कांग्रेस उन्हें सुरक्षित ससम्मान उनके घर पहुँचाएगी।

आभार सोनिया जी, संवेदनशील नेत्रत्व के लिए। pic.twitter.com/JV5nAZJQW9

— Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) May 4, 2020

As directed by Congress President,in my capacity as Treasuer(AICC) I request Pradesh Congress Committees to mobilise all possible local resources to help migrants purchase tickets to get back home

Let us make this into a ppl’s movement,pls contact AICC if you require assistance

— Ahmed Patel Memorial (@ahmedpatel) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Update

State-run liquor shops in Delhi to operate from 9 am to 6.30 pm

The Delhi government has issued an order allowing state-run liquor shops to operate from 9 am to 6.30 pm in the city, and directed deployment of marshals at these outlets to maintain social distancing.

According to a government official, about 150 liquor shops have been allowed to open in accordance with the latest lockdown relaxations given by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). There are around 850 liquor shops in the city including those run by government agencies and private individuals.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

India’s manufacturing sector activity hits record low in April amid lockdown

The country’s manufacturing sector activity witnessed an unprecedented contraction in April amid national lockdown restrictions, following which new business orders collapsed at a record pace, and firms sharply reduced their staff numbers, a monthly survey said on Monday.

The headline seasonally adjusted IHS Markit India Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell to 27.4 in April, from 51.8 in March, reflecting the sharpest deterioration in business conditions across the sector since data collection began over 15 years ago.

The index slipped into contraction mode, after remaining in the growth territory for 32 consecutive months. In PMI parlance, a print above 50 means expansion, while a score below that denotes contraction.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Railways charging only standard fare from state govt, say sources

The Railways is charging only the standard fare from the state government, which is just 15 percent of the total cost incurred by them, Railway ministry sources were quoted by ANI as saying on Monday, amid a row over migrant workers having to pay to get back to their homes during the lockdown.

“Indian Railways is running ‘shramik’ special trains keeping berths empty in each coach to maintain social distancing. The trains are returning empty from destinations under lock and key. Free food and bottled water is being given to migrants by railways,” sources said.

It is not selling any tickets to migrants and is only boarding passengers based on lists provided by states, the sources added.

The sources further said that railways are “fulfilling its social responsibility of providing safe and convenient travel especially to the poorest of the poor in a time of crisis.”

Coronavirus in Madhya Pradesh Latest Update

Sanitation staff don kin’s role, perform last rites of victims

Amid the coronavirus crisis, sanitation workers in Madhya Pradesh’s Indore district are not only doing their cleaning job in hospitals but have also come forward to perform the last rites of COVID-19 victims whose family members are unable to bid them a final adieu.

In the wake of guidelines to check the spread of coronavirus, only a few family members of the victims are being allowed to attend their last rites. At such a difficult time, the sanitation workers are helping these families by performing the last rites of the deceased.

Indore, which is one of the worst-hit by COVID-19, till Sunday reported 1,568 cases and 76 deaths, as per official figures.

“Irrespective of whether a Hindu, Muslim, or person of some other religion dies of coronavirus, we are helping their families in bidding a final goodbye to the deceased. We don’t have blood relations with them, but this is a case of humanity,” Sohanlal Khatwa (50), head of a four-member team of sanitation workers at the morgue of Sri Aurobindo Institute of Medical Sciences told PTI.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Five districts not permitted liquor sale in Maharashtra

A day after the Maharashtra government said shops selling non-essential commodities, including liquor, will be allowed to open from Monday in the COVID-19 non-containment zones, five districts in the state have decided not to permit liquor sale.

Administrations of Solapur, Aurangabad, Jalna, Buldhana and Amravati districts have issued instructions that liquor shops will not be allowed to open.

“The decision is taken in adherence to the Disaster Management Act, and to prevent any further spread of the coronavirus infection,” a collector from one of these districts told PTI on Monday.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Railway has subsidised 85 percent fare for migrant workers: BJP

The BJP said on Monday the railways has subsidised 85 per cent of ticket fare for special trains being run to transport migrant workers and the state government has to pay the remaining 15 percent, soon after the Congress attacked the central government over the issue.

The state government concerned can also pay for the tickets, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said. He said the Madhya Pradesh government is doing so and asked Rahul Gandhi to tell the Congress-ruled states to follow suit.

He was responding to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s attack on the railways for charging poor migrant labourers ticket fare, even as it donated over Rs 151 crore to the PM-CARES Fund.

Some have posted tickets & asked clarification that if tickets are not sold then what’s this!
For each Shramik Express about 1200 tickets to the destination are handed by the Railways to State Govt.
State govts are supposed to clear the ticket price & hand over tickets to workers https://t.co/Axtmen5nY9 pic.twitter.com/kTUWThmeP3

— Sambit Patra (@sambitswaraj) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Rupee plunges 71 paise to 75.80 against US dollar in early trade

The rupee depreciated 71 paise to 75.80 against the US dollar in opening trade on Monday tracking selloff in domestic equities and strengthening American currency overseas.

The rupee opened weak at 75.70 at the interbank forex market and then fell further to 75.80, down 71 paise over its last close. It had settled at 75.09 against the US dollar on Thursday. The forex market was closed on Friday on account of Maharashtra Day.

Coronavirus in Japan Latest Update

Japan expected to extend state of emergency until May-end

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is set to extend the country’s state of emergency today until the end of May, Reuters has reported citing public broadcaster NHK.

The government is also expected to determine new prevention measures. The novel coronavirus outbreak has infected around 15,000 people and killed more than 500 in the country so far.

Abe is expected to explain the reasoning behind the extension of the state of emergency, which is now due to expire on 6 May.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Maharashtra govt allows standalone liquor shops to open in Mumbai, Pune districts

Maharashtra government has said that it is allowing standalone shops, including liquor shops, to open in Red Zones from May 4, though they cannot be opened in containment zones. Only five non-essential shops can be opened in each lane, but the number is not restricted for essential shops, the state government has said.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Maharashtra registers highest number of deaths in India

Out of the total 1,373 fatalities in India so far, Maharashtra has recorded the highest number of deaths at 548, followed by Gujarat at 290. Madhya Pradesh has reported 156 deaths, Rajasthan – 71, Delhi – 64, Uttar Pradesh – 43, West Bengal – 35 and Andhra Pradesh – 33.

Coronavirus in Odisha Latest Update

Odisha reports fresh case taking state count to 163

A person from Odisha’s Sundergarh district tested positive for novel coronavirus on Monday, taking the total number of cases in the state to 163, a health official said. The fresh case has taken Sundergarh’s count to 11, of which six are active cases and five persons have recovered.

The tribal-dominated district is in the ‘orange’ zone, he said. A total of 2,470 samples were tested for COVID-19 on Sunday, the Health and Family Welfare Department official said.

First Health Update, 4th May

One positive case in Sundargarh
29 yr Female, Nala road, Rourkela

(In containment zone. Neighbour of earlier positive cases)

Contact tracing and follow-up action is being done.

Total Positive Case: 163

— I & PR Department, Odisha (@IPR_Odisha) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Update

IMAGES: People line up outside liquor shops in Delhi

People line up outside a liquor shop in Laxmi Nagar after Delhi govt allowed sale of liquor in standalone shops, neighbourhood (colony)shops or shops in residential complexes. pic.twitter.com/ADyPE8ZUYQ

— ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in Rajasthan Latest Update

Rajasthan reports 123 new cases, 4 deaths 

Four deaths and 123 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in Rajasthan on Monday. The total positive cases stand at 3,009 and toll is at 75, said Rajasthan Health Department,

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Uddhav Thackeray asks Centre not to charge train fare from migrant workers

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav​ Thackeray has requested the Centre not to charge any amount from migrant labourers for travelling by train to their native places during the coronavirus-enforced lockdown.

Nearly five lakh migrant labourers have been given food and shelter for 40 days in various state facilities, and now they have expressed the desire to go back home in view of the current situation, Thackeray said in a communication to the Centre late Sunday night.

“These people have no source of income for the last some weeks. Hence, on humanitarian ground, the Centre should not charge them for travelling,” the chief minister said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

India has conducted 11 lakh COVID-19 tests so far

A total of 11,07,233 samples for Covid-19 have been tested as on 4 May, 9 am, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) stated on Monday.

Markets open with Nifty below 9,450 mark; Sensex down by 1,335

Indian indices opened lower today with the Nifty below 9,500 on the back of weak global cues. At 9.16 am IST, the Sensex was down 1,335.15 points or 3.96 percent at 32,382.47. The Nifty was down 384.95 points or 3.90 percent at 9,474.95.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Subramanian Swamy slams Centre over migrants’ train fare, calls it ‘moronic’

“How moronic of the Government of India to charge steep rail fares from the half-starved migrant labourers! Indians stranded abroad were brought back free by Air India. If Railways refuse to budge then why not make PM CARES pay instead?” BJP leader Subramanian Swamy took to Twitter to lash out at the Centre for charging migrant labourers for their ride back home.

How moronic of the Government of India to charge steep rail fares from the half starved migrant labourers! Indians stranded abroad were brought back free by Air India. If Railways refuse to budge then why not make PM CARES pay instead?

— Subramanian Swamy (@Swamy39) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in Goa Latest Update

Goa Police uses drones to monitor lockdown violators

Goa Police used drones to keep an eye on lockdown violators in some densely populated and slum areas of the coastal state.

This was done after the police got to know that people were gathering at a volleyball ground and some open areas in South Goa district, but running away when the security personnel reached there, Superintendent of Police (South) Arvind Gawas said on Sunday.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Update

Migrant workers in Karnataka  arrive at bus stands 

Migrant workers from different parts of Karnataka arrive in buses at Central Bus Stand in Kalaburagi and are now being taken to their home towns amid lockdown on Monday. “We’ve made arrangements for registration. Thermal screening is being done for all,” says Commissioner, City Corporation, reports ANI.

“Food packets and water bottles are being provided to all. Buses carrying migrant workers started arriving since 5 am today. We are expecting around 70 buses. This process will continue for the next 3 days,” Rahul Pandve, Commissioner City Corporation, Kalaburagi, told ANI.

Karnataka: Migrant workers from different parts of the country who are stranded in Bengaluru amid #CoronavirusLockdown gather at Palace Grounds for registration to return to their native places. pic.twitter.com/g8ytmHclYL

— ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2020

Karnataka: Migrant workers from different parts of state arrive in buses at Central Bus Stand in Kalaburagi & are now being taken to their home towns. "We've made arrangements for registration. Thermal screening is being done for all," says Commissioner,City Corporation. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/K8RdiMyFUM

— ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

Top Chinese health official warns of COVID-19 rebound

China still faced the risk of a rebound in COVID-19 cases as 10 provincial-level regions have reported new locally-transmitted coronavirus cases over the last two weeks, a top health official warned on Monday.

The National Health Commission (NHC) said that three new confirmed COVID-19 cases were reported on Sunday. All three were Chinese arriving from abroad. Also, 13 new asymptomatic cases, including two imported ones, were reported.

As of Sunday, 962 asymptomatic cases, including 98 from abroad, were still under medical observation, the NHC said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Maharashtra, Gujarat remain worst-affected states in India

With 12,974 confirmed cases of COVID-19 so far, Maharashtra remains worst-affected, followed by Gujarat (5,428) and Delhi (4,549).

Maharashtra remains the worst-affected state in the country. According to the latest data from the Union Health Ministry, the state has reported 548 COVID-19 deaths so far. As many as 2,115 patients have recovered.

Gujarat remains the second-most affected state in the country. According to the latest data from the Union Health Ministry, the state has reported 290 COVID-19 deaths so far. As many as 1,042 patients have recovered.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Rahul Gandhi slams Centre for charging ticket fare from stranded migrants

Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter to slam the Centre for charging migrant labourers for rail travel. “On the one hand, the Railways is charging ticket fares from the trapped laborers in other states, while on the other hand the Ministry of Railways is giving Rs 151 crore to the PM Care Fund. Someone explain this trick” his tweet read. 

एक तरफ रेलवे दूसरे राज्यों में फँसे मजदूरों से टिकट का भाड़ा वसूल रही है वहीं दूसरी तरफ रेल मंत्रालय पीएम केयर फंड में 151 करोड़ रुपए का चंदा दे रहा है।

जरा ये गुत्थी सुलझाइए! pic.twitter.com/qaN0k5NwpG

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Update

 Alcohol shops open in Karnataka ​

People were seen today standing in a queue outside a liquor shop in Hubli as state government permitted the sale of liquor between 9 am to 7 pm from Monday.

Karnataka: People seen standing in a queue outside a liquor shop in Hubli as state government permits sale of liquor between 9 am to 7 pm from today. pic.twitter.com/fYSHV3WZzv

— ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

India registers 42,533 cases and 1,373 deaths

Total confirmed COVID-19 cases in India have risen to 42,533, according to the latest update from the Union Health Ministry on Monday. This number includes cases involving foreign nationals, patients who have recovered, and the toll.

The toll in India due to the novel coronavirus pandemic has risen to 1,373. The reported active COVID-19 cases in India now stand at 29,453 and as many as 11,707 COVID-19 patients have been cured and discharged so far according to the Union Health Ministry.

Coronavirus in US Latest Update

COVID-19 vaccine will be available by year’s end, claims Donald Trump

President Donald Trump says he believes a vaccine for COVID-19 will be available by the end of the year. Trump also says the US government is putting its full power and might behind remdesivir, a drug that has shown early promise as a treatment for the disease caused by the new coronavirus.

Trump commented Sunday night during a televised town hall sponsored by Fox News Channel. Trump sat inside the Lincoln Memorial and fielded questions from two Fox hosts, as well as from people who submitted questions over Fox’s social media platforms.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Sonia Gandhi slams Centre over migrants’ train fare

Sonia Gandhi today attacked the government over migrants stranded by the nationwide coronavirus lockdown being asked to pay for their train ride home and declared that the Congress would pay the train fare for them.

She said, “The Indian National Congress has been raising this issue from the outset of the lockdown. There need to be provisions for the safe and free rail travel of migrant workers and labourers to their home-towns. However, despite our repeated demands, the Central Government and the Rail Ministry have chosen to completely ignore the same.”

Statement Of Congress President Smt. Sonia Gandhi

The Indian National Congress has
taken a decision that every Pradesh
Congress Committee shall bear the cost for the rail travel of every needy worker and migrant labourer and shall take necessary steps in this regard pic.twitter.com/kxruKa0xgI

— Congress (@INCIndia) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Govt can arrange free air travel for citizens stranded abroad but will charge migrants, questions Sonia Gandhi

Congress leader Sonia Gandhi said that when the government can recognise its responsibility by arranging free air travel for our citizens stranded abroad, why can’t it do the same for stranded citizens? She further said, “When it can spend nearly Rs 100 crore on transport and food etc for just one public programme in Gujarat, even when the Rail Ministry donates Rs 151 Crores to the PM’s Corona fund, then why can’t these essential members of our nation’s fabric be given a fraction of the same courtesy, especially free rail travel, at this hour of acute distress?”

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Congress party to bear cost of migrant labourers’ rail ticket, says Sonia Gandhi 

The Indian National Congress has taken a decision that every Pradesh Congress Committee shall bear the cost for the rail travel of every needy worker and migrant labourer and shall take necessary steps in this regard. “This will be Congress’ humble contribution in service of our compatriots and to stand shoulder to shoulder in solidarity with them,” said Sonia Gandhi. 

Indian National Congress has taken a decision that every Pradesh Congress Committee shall bear the cost for the rail travel of every needy worker & migrant labourer and shall take necessary steps in this regard: Sonia Gandhi, Congress President (File pic) pic.twitter.com/rmQ4ovsHhE

— ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Railways SOP for Shramik Special trains asking states to collect fares draws flak

The Indian Railways has issued a set of guidelines for Shramik Special trains being run to ferry the migrants stranded across the country, saying the trains will ply only if they have 90 percent occupancy and the “states should collect the ticket fare”, inviting fierce criticism for charging for their services.

A provision in the SOP, which drew a good deal of flak, said the “local state government shall handover the tickets for these passengers cleared by them and collect the ticket fare and hand over the total amount to Railways.”

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

Global count of COVID-19 cases cross 3.5 million

According to the John Hopkins University tracker/worldometer, the number of cases of the novel coronavirus disease has crossed 3.5 million, with deaths crossing over 2.4 lakh.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Update

Around 150 liquor shops likely to open in Delhi from today

Around 150 liquor shops located outside COVID-19 containment zones in the national capital are likely to open from today as the Delhi government has announced the implementation of the latest lockdown relaxations.

According to an official, four government-run agencies, which are responsible for sale of liquor in Delhi, have submitted the list of the liquor shops which can be allowed to open following coronavirus guidelines.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

India to ease restrictions as lockdown 3.0 begins today

The first day of India’s third lockdown extension begin from today, with eased restrictions to facilitate the economy. Around 150 liquor shops located outside containment zones in Delhi are likely to open from Monday as the Delhi government.

Today is the fortieth day of India’s nationwide lockdown, which has been extended till 17 May. Restrictions have been eased in non-hotspot areas.

Coronavirus in US Latest Update

In televised town hall, Donald Trump pushes for economic reopening

 Anxious for an economic recovery, President Donald Trump fielded Americans’ questions about decisions by some states to allow nonessential businesses to reopen while other states are on virtual lockdown due to the coronavirus.

After more than a month of being cooped up at the White House, Trump returned from a weekend at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland and participated in a virtual town hall, hosted Sunday night by Fox News Channel, from inside the Lincoln Memorial.

He pushed for an economic reopening, one his advisers believe will be essential for his reelection chances this November. “We have to get it back open safely but as quickly as possible,” Trump said.

Coronavirus in Rajasthan Latest Update

Retail liquor shops to open in Rajasthan from today

Retail liquor shops are all set to open from Monday in Rajasthan, in all the zones except curfew and containment zones following some restrictions, said State Excise Department. The shops will open in green, orange and red zones from 10 am to 6 pm, which will be followed strictly.

All the shop sellers will have to wear masks and gloves, they will also have to keep sanitiser and hand wash at their shops. Social distancing should be maintained outside the liquor shops. The phone numbers of all the customers will be noted so that the data can be used in the future if required, the Excise Department directed.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Govt plans to step up testing with 1 lakh tests a day by May-end

As the third phase of the national lockdown begins on Monday with relaxations, the government plans to step up its COVID-19 testing capacity to conduct one lakh tests per day each for rapid antibody (blood-based tests) and the more definitive RT-PCR by May-end, reports Times of India.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Maharashtra count nears 13,000

678 new COVID-19 cases were reported on Sunday in Maharashtra, taking the state tally to 12,974. 27 people died of the disease, taking the death count to 548, according to a bulletin issued by the state health department. 115 persons were discharged following their recovery, taking the total number of recovered persons in the state to 2,115. Mumbai has reported the highest number of cases (8,800) and 343 deaths.

Coronavirus in Mizoram Latest Update

Mizoram BJP asks Centre for special trains to bring back northeast migrants

The Mizoram unit of the BJP on Sunday urged the Centre to facilitate the return of the people of the northeast, who are stranded in a different part of the country due to the ongoing nationwide lockdown.

We have requested Union Railway Minister Piyush Goyal to arrange for special trains for the stranded people of the northeast, as the government has done for other states…," state BJP president Vanlalhmuaka said.

Earlier this week, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) allowed states to ferry migrant labourers, students and tourists back home in buses or special trains. Vanlalhmuaka said three leaders of the state BJP have been assigned the task to monitor the arrangement of special trains for the northeast.

Coronavirus in Haryana Latest Update

Haryana to impose 12-hr curfew between 7 pm and 7 am from today

Curfew will be imposed in Haryana from 7 pm to 7 am with effect from May 4, state Chief Secretary Keshni Anand Arora said on Sunday.Chief Secretary Keshni Anand Arora gave directions regarding lockdown 3.0 to all the deputy commissioners, superintendents of police and other senior officers during a meeting, a release said.

She made it clear to the officers concerned that their districts will be reviewed every week by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.

“And if it is found that guidelines are not being followed in an area and is declared as the red zone, all supplies except the supply of essential goods will be restricted and all permissions (pertaining to relaxations) will cease with immediate effect,” she added.

Arora also directed the officers concerned to ensure that the guidelines of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs are followed at all times while starting the industrial units. Haryana has a total of 442 coronavirus cases with five COVID19-related deaths.

Coronavirus in Jammu and Kashmir Latest Update

Pregnant COVID-19 patient dies at J&K hospital; family alleges negligence

A pregnant woman died at a hospital in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Sunday, with her family alleging negligence by doctors and medical authorities. The family carried the body from the hospital in a stretcher trolley, a video of which went viral, triggering outrage.

This incident happened a week after another pregnant woman died along with her unborn twins at the MCCH in Anantnag. The woman, who eventually was declared COVID-19 positive, came from a Red Zone area and had been allegedly denied swift treatment.

Shakeela Akhtar, a resident of Salai Panzmulla area of the south Kashmir district, was admitted at sub-district hospital Seer Hamdan on Saturday night, but was referred to the Maternity and Child Care Hospital (MCCH) on Sunday morning where she died, officials said.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Update

8 more test positive in Ghaziabad, taking total cases to 82

Eight more people tested positive for coronavirus in Ghaziabad on Sunday, taking the total number of cases to 82 in the satellite town, officials said. Of the total 127 samples tested in the last 24 hours, eight tested positive and 119 negative, Ajay Shankar Pandey said.

With 50 people cured of the disease, the number of active cases in the district now stands at 32.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Record jump of 2,487 cases takes total number to 40,263 in India

India registered a record jump of 83 deaths and 2,487 cases in 24 hours as the number of COVID-19 fatalities rose to 1,306 and total cases climbed to 40,263 on Sunday, according to the Union health ministry.

The number of active COVID-19 cases stood at 28,070, while 10,886 people have recovered, even as the country prepares for the third phase of the lockdown.