Coronavirus Outbreak Updates: 366 new COVID-19 infections reported in Gujarat today, total number of cases rises to 11,746 in state

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

UP govt issues fresh guidelines for 4th phase of lockdown

“Uttar Pradesh government has released fresh guidelines for lockdown 4.0. The lockdown has been extended in the state till May 31. Metro services, schools, colleges, coaching centres, hospitality services (except those used for healthcare workers) cinema halls, gyms, shopping malls, swimming pools, religious/public gatherings to remain banned till 31 May,” India Today reported.

Coronavirus Pandemic Latest Updates

SARS antibodies can block COVID-19 infection: study, reports AFP

“An antibody from a patient who recovered from SARS has been shown to block COVID-19 infection in a laboratory setting, researchers said Monday in another potential breakthrough in the search for coronavirus treatment.

Scientists based in Switzerland and the United States previously isolated the antibodies from the patient in 2003, following the SARS outbreak that killed 774 people.

They experimented with 25 different types of antibodies — which target specific protein spikes on viruses — to see if they could prevent cells becoming infected with COVID-19,” AFP reported.

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Updates

Seven new COVID-19 cases reported in Guwahati

Assam minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that seven new coronavirus cases were detected in Guwahati on Monday.

“One person had unfortunately died at GMCH prior to detection. Three patients are from Sarusajai quarantine center and rest are related to Aloo Godam case are from Fancy Bazaar containment zone,” he said.

Coronavirus in Gujarat Latest Updates

366 new COVID-19 cases reported in Gujarat today

Reports said that 366 new coronavirus cases were reported in Gujarat on Monday, taking the state’s tally to 11,746.

Coronavirus in Telangana Latest Updates

Telangana reports 41 new COVID-19 cases today

The Telangana health department said that 41 more coronavirus cases were reported in the state on Monday. Total number of cases in the state is now at 1,592, including 1,002 cured/discharged, 556 active cases and 34 deaths.

Coronavirus in Punjab Latest Updates

20 trains leave Punjab every day, says CM

Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh said that so far, more than two lakh migrants of the 11 lakh who had registered on the special portal created by the government have left the state.

A statement by the CMO said, “As many as 20 trains are leaving Punjab every day, with 15 scheduled for Uttar Pradesh and six for Bihar on Monday. Chief Minister said while more trains were needed for Bihar, the state was not willing to take in people at this stage as their quarantine facilities were full.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Harsh Vardhan says Modi ensured ‘proactive, graded’ response against COVID-19

Union health minister Harsh Vardhan on Monday said at 73rd World Health Assembly via video conference, “PM Modi personally monitored situation and ensured a preemptive, proactive and graded response, leaving no stones unturned to contain the deadly virus from spreading. India took all necessary steps well in time.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Health Minsitry issues guidelines for COVID-19 prevention in workplaces

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issues guidelines on preventive measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 in workplace settings.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Sharad Pawar writes to PM over Rs 20 lakh crore package

“The package announced will not bring any immediate relief to the distressed farmers. The standing crops have perished due to lockdown causing great losses to the farmers. In turn, they are facing a cash crunch & need immediate support to undertake ensuing Kharif season activities,” Sharad Pawar said in his letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Coronavirus in Telangana Latest Updates

Metro services won’t resume in Telangana, says CM

Telangana chief minister KCR announced the extension of the lockdown till 31 May and spoke about the revised guidelines to be applied in the fourth phase of the lockdown.

“E-commerce activities will be allowed in the state. Auto and cab aggregators will be allowed to ply in the state. Government and private offices are allowed to function with 100% workforce. Factories and manufacturing services can also start with 100 percent operations,

No Metro services will be allowed in Telangana. Gyms and religious institutions will also not be allowed to open,” News18 reported.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Connaught Place market to open from tomorrow, says report

“The Connaught Place market in Central Delhi will open on Tuesday after a closure of 55 days, the first such closure in its 109 years of existence. An odd-even policy with respect to shop numbers will be followed by the market,” India Today reported on Monday.

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Updates

Two new COVID-19 cases reported in Assam

Coronavirus in Goa Latest Updates

Goa CM says 414 passengers to arrive from Italy

Goa chief minister Pramod Sawant said that 414 passengers from Italy will arrive in the state on Saturday.

“Their throat swab test will be done upon arrival. If any passenger tests positive, he/she ill be shifted to a COVID-19 hospital. On our request, the 2 Rajdhani trains to Goa have been cancelled. Only Nizamuddin Express train will continue to run, and those arriving in Goa will have to furnish their proof of residence,” he said.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Mumbai reports 1,185 new COVID-19 cases

1,185 more COVID-19 cases and 23 deaths were reported in Mumbai on Monday, the BMC said. Total number of cases in the city is now at 21,152, including 757 deaths.

Coronavirus in Jharkhand Latest Updates

Liquor shops to open in Jharkhand tomorrow

Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren said that liquor shops will open in the state from Monday.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

2,033 new COVID-19 cases reported in Maharashtra

The Maharashtra health department said that 2,033 more coronavirus cases and 51 deaths were reported in the state on Monday. Total number of cases in the state is now at 35,058, including 25,392 active cases and 1,249 deaths.

Coronavirus in Rajasthan Latest Updates

Rajasthan reports 305 new COVID-19 cases

The Rajasthan health department said that 305 coronavirus cases and seven deaths were reported in the state on Monday, as of 9 pm. Total number of cases in the state is now at 5,507, including 2,151 active cases and 138 deaths.

Coronavirus in Goa Latest Updates

35 new COVID-19 cases reported in Goa

Goa chief minister Pramod Sawant was quoted by ANI as saying that 35 new COVID-19 positive cases have been reported in the state. The total number of cases in the state is now 41.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Uddhav ‘welcomes’ new investors to state

Uddhav Thackeray on Monday said, “I welcome new investors in the state. Over 40,000 acre land has been kept aside for new businesses. We will provide the land to the new investor on a rental basis.”

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Uddhav Thackeray extends lockdown till 31 May, says move is necessary

Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray extended the COVID-19 lockdown in the state till 31 May.

He added, “People ask me why are you not lifting lockdown. Imagine if we lift the lockdown, see what happened in US, UK and Brazil. We won’t allow that to happen in Maharashtra. This is why no industries will be allowed to open in red zones. Just think, if we allow industries to function and if their workers are found positive, then again we will have to go into a forced lockdown. Why not continue this lockdown only.”

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Uddhav Thackeray says have to tackle COVID-19 before monsoon begins

The Maharashtra chief minister said that the coronavirus pandemic will have to be tackled before the monsoon season begins as “schools and colleges will be scheduled to start again in June”.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Have to ensure green zones remain green, says Uddhav

“We have to ensure the green zones remain green and are not infected. Also have to ensure red turns into green. We have set up a 1,000-bed hospital in BKC in just 10-12 days. It will be ready for use in 2-3 days,” said Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray on Monday.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Uddhav says 5 lakh migrants sent back to other states

Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray said that five lakh migrant workers have been sent back to their native states by trains and buses, however, he appealed to those walking on the roads to stop. He also said that the state government has undertaken the travel cost of the migrants who have been sent to other states.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Don’t take COVID-19 lightly, says Uddhav Thackeray

Uddhav Thackeray appealed to people to not take COVID-19 pandemic lightly and treat it as a “regular flu” and said that he will not allow the cases to increase steeply.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Uddhav asks people to help healthcare workers

Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray appealed to people to also join the COVID-19 healthcare workers if they are healthy and willing. “We are concentrating on the rising cases and deaths in the state, but we must also consider the recoveries,” he added.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Uddhav appeals for more people to join workforce

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Uddhav says some relaxations brought in green, orange zones

Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray said that 50,000 businesses have been allowed to function across the state and several labourers have been employed. These businesses have only been allowed to open outside containment/red zones, he said.

Coronavirus in Odisha Latest Updates

Odisha issues revised guidelines for 4th phase of lockdown: 

“-Odisha extends lockdown till May 31

-Inter-state busses, vehicular movements allowed

-All other activities allowed except those which are prohibited

-School, colleges, cinemas, malls, gyms, restaurants to remain closed

-Stadiums, sports complexes can open, but, without spectators

-Night curfew to continue,” India Today reported.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Uddhav Thackeray starts speaking on COVID-19 situation

Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray thanked the Assembly MLAs for his uncontested win for an MLC seat, so that he can retain the CM chair.

“Maharashtra has been worst affected. The numbers are rising everyday. After seeing the numbers, it raises questions as to what are we doing. If the precations we took since march, would not have been taken, the number would have gone high. We are continuing relaxations. Red Zones cannot be relaxed.”

Coronavirus in Jammu and Kashmir Latest Updates

106 new COVID-19 cases reported in Jammu and Kashmir today

106 new coronavirus cases were reported in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday, reports said. The total number of cases is now1,289.

Coronavirus in Telangana Latest Updates

Telangana govt extends lockdown to 31 May

Telangana chief minister KCR said that that “except containment zones, all areas in the state are “green zones”.

“There are 1,422 families in this containment zones and it will be a complete lockdown in these areas. However, the state has extended the lockdown till 31 May,” News18 reported.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Centre’s offices to work at 50% strength, says report

Reports said that all the central government offices have been asked to work at 50 percent of the strength and that “officers above the rank of deputy secretary to compulsorily attend office everyday.”

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates  

Gautam Gambhir says lockdown relaxations in Delhi could be ‘death warrant’

BJP MP Gautam Gambhir slammed Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal over some relaxations announced in the fourth phase of the COVID-19 lockdown on Monday. He said the relaxations are a “death warrant”.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Uddhav Thackeray to speak on COVID-19 situation at 8.30 pm

Coronavirus in Gujarat Latest Updates

Gujarat to have only ‘containment’ and ’non-containment’ zones

“Gujarat will have containment and non-containment zones. Only essential services to be allowed in containment zones,” said Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani on Monday.

“Schools, shopping malls, gyms, swimming pools will remain closed. Beauty parlours and salons allowed to operate in non-containment zones only.

“Restaurants can open but only for home delivery of food. The food delivery agents must have a health card. Restaurants on highways can be open but social distancing to be maintained,” he said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

28 Zee News employees test positive for COVID-19

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Karnataka govt allows barber shops, salons to open till 31 May

The Karnataka govt on Monday said that all shops, including barber shops, spa and salons will be allowed to function till 31 May, as per Standard Operating Procedure issued by state government.

Coronavirus in Uttarakhand Latest Updates

Three new COVID-19 cases reported in Uttarakhand

Three new positive cases reported in the state today, taking the total number of positive cases to 96: Uttarakhand Health Department

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Karnataka govt issues revised guidelines for fourth phase of lockdown

The Government of Karnataka has issued revised guidelines to be followed in the state during the extended lockdown till 31st May, 2020.

Coronavirus in Uttarakhand Latest Updates

Uttarakhand govt says migrants to be given 5 kgs of ration

The Uttarakhand government on Monday said that migrant workers in the state will be provided 5 kilograms of ration per person by the state government. There are no red zone districts in the state. Uttarakhand chief secretary Utpal Kumar Singh ssid.

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Updates

Assam govt revises lockdown guidelines to be effective till 31 May

The Government of Assam has issued revised guidelines to be followed in the state during the extended lockdown till 31 May, 2020.

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates

536 new COVID-19 cases reported in Tamil Nadu today

Tamil Nadu on Monday reported 536 new cases of coronavirus, of which 46 people have travel history to Maharashtra. The total number of cases in Tamil Nadu rose to 11,760.

“Meanwhile, 234 coronavirus patients have been discharged today, taking the total count of recoveries in the state to 4,406,” India Today reported.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

Migrants in Ghaziabad crowd to get registered for special trains, says report

Reports said that a large crowd of migrants had gathered in Ghaziabad to get registered for the special trains to take them back to their native states.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Uddhav Thackeray to speak at 8 pm

Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray is reportedly scheduled to address the state at 8 pm on Monday over the coronavirus situation.

Meanwhile, a dedicated COVID-19 health centre was transferred from the MMRDA to BMC on Monday, News18 reported. The facility has 1,000 beds and was transferred in the presence of Thackeray and Deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Recovery rate at 38.29% in India, says report

Reports said that there are currently 56,316 active cases of coronavirus in India.

“So far, a total of 36,824 people have been cured of COVID-19. In the 24 hours a total of 2,715 patients are reported cured and presently the recovery rate is pegged at 38.29 percent,” News18 reported.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Karnataka health bulletin today:

99 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours.

Total active cases: 678

Total discharges: 530

Total toll: 37

Total cases so far: 1246

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Carpooling not allowed for taxi aggregators, says Kejriwal

“Carpooling or car-sharing will not be allowed for aggregators. Auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws will be allowed but only with one passenger. For two-wheelers, pillion rider will not be allowed. There will be no activity allowed in containment zones,” Kejriwal said on Monday.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Kejriwal says buses to be allowed to function with 20 passengers

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said that that bus services with 20 passengers will be allowed in the National Capital in the fourth phase of the lockdown. “Individual movement in private vehicles with a maximum of four passengers has also been allowed in Delhi,” India Today reported.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

10,054 COVID-19 cases reported in Delhi so far, says govt

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said that 10,054 cases have been reported in the National Capital so far.

He said, “4,485 persons have been cured/discharged and 160 people have died due to COVID-19 till now.”

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Barber shops, saloons to remain shut in Delhi, says Kejriwal

“Barber shops, spas and saloons to remain closed for now. Stepping out of homes between 7 pm to 7 am, except for essential services, will be prohibited. Taxis and cabs will be allowed but only two passengers at a time in a car,” said Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Kejriwal says private offices can open at full strength 

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said that while private offices can open at full strength, they should try that most of the staff works from home.

“Markets can open but shops will open on odd-even basis. Sports complexes and stadiums can open but without spectators. Construction activities are allowed in the national capital now but only with labourers who are in Delhi right now,” he added.

Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Updates

Kerala govt’s guidelines for Lockdown 4:

“- Liquor shops can function for delivery as and when online registration is enabled.

– Clubs can also function with a limited number of members. 

– Government offices can work with 50 percent of staff and remaining staff can work from home. 

– Saturday shall be a holiday for government offices until further orders. 

-Those staff members who haven’t been able to report to their offices so far should reach the office in 2 days. And if they are unable to travel they should report before the district Collector,” News18 reported.

Coronavirus Pandemic Latest Updates

WHO says COVID-19 ‘has brought out the best and worst of humanity’

“Fortitude and fear; solidarity and suspicion; rapport and recrimination. This contagion exposes the fault lines, inequalities, injustices and contradictions of our modern world,” said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Updates

29 new COVID-19 cases reported in Kerala today

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that 29 new cases of coronavirus were reported in the state on Monday, of which 21 have arrived from abroad. ​

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Western Railway operates 536 shramik special trains since 2 May

The Western Railway said it has operated 536 shramik special trains from 2 to 17 May, “which have carried 7,58,481 passengers to their destinations.”

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

No night curfew to be imposed in Bengal

The West Bengal government won’t impose a ’night curfew’, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said on Monday. The Centre had advised a curfew prohibiting activity and movement from 7 pm to 7 am, during the fourth phase of the lockdown.

However, Mamata said, “We don’t want people to suffer in the name of night curfew.”

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

Bengal govt allows govt, private offices to open with 50% workforce

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday announced new measures of the fourth phase of the lockdown. Extending the lockdown till 31 May, she said that government and private offices can start operations with 50 percent workforce.

“-The containment zones to be divided into 3 zones:

A zone: Affected zone – Activities, except emergency, will not be permitted
B zone: Buffer zone – Selected activities to be permitted 
C zone: Clean zone – Maximum relaxation for activities,” News18 reported.

Coronavirus in Haryana Latest Updates

Haryana govt allows public schools to open admin offices 

The Haryana government has decided to allow government schools to open their administrative offices to carry out “urgent and unavoidable administrative functions” while ensuring strict compliance of norms issued by Health Ministry for the containment of coronavirus, an official statement said on Monday.

Coronavirus in Chandigarh Latest Updates

Chandigarh reports 5 new COVID-19 cases today

The total number of coronavirus cases in Chandigarh is now 196 including five new positive cases reported on Monday, the Chandigarh health department said.

Coronavirus in Meghalaya Latest Updates

Lone COVID-19 patient in Meghalaya recovers

Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma on Monday said that the second retest of the lone active coronavirus case was done again, and the test has come out negative. The patient can be declared as recovered, he said.

Coronavirus in Punjab Latest Updates

Migrants in Ludhiana search for work to meet finances

Migrant workers in Ludhiana are searching for work to meet their financial expenses amid the lockdown, ANI reported. A worker was quoted as saying,“We are living on rent, landlord asks for rent daily. We come here everyday with hope to get work but there is no work.If this continues, we will also leave”.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Kejriwal to address presser at 5.30 pm today

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal will address a press conference at 5.30 pm on Monday on the coronavirus situation

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

Bengal extends lockdown till 31 May

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday extended the COVID-19 lockdown in the state till 31 May.

“We will try to arrange for 115 more trains in a few days and the state government will pay the train fare,” she added.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

UP govt accepts Priyanka Gandhi’s proposal to deploy 1,000 buses for migrants

Awanish Awasthi, Uttar Pradesh additional chief secretary (Home) on Monday wrote to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, accepting her proposal to deploy 1,000 buses for migrants. He also sought the details of 1,000 buses and drivers.

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Updates

COVID-19 cases in Assam rise to 104

The total number of COVID-19 cases in Assam rose to 104 with two new positive cases reported on Monday, Assam minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Delhi govt decides not to test samples of suspected COVID-19 patients after death

The Delhi government reportedly decided not to test samples of deceased patients who were suspected of having coronavirus.

Delhi health secretary Padmini Singla issued the order saying, “No sample for COVID-19 test will be taken of dead body. However, if doctors are satisfied from clinical examination that the cause of death may be COVID-19 infection, the dead body may be released as suspect COVID-19 infected dead body.”

“However, even those suspected to have died of coronavirus have to be buried or cremated as ICMR protocols. As reported by The Indian Express, over the past two months, five cremation/burial grounds in the capital have carried out 410 funerals as per the standard operating procedure (SOP) for Covid patients, which is followed for confirmed as well as suspected cases,” The Indian Express reported.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Gulzar pens poem on migrant crisis due to COVID-19

Gulzar has written a poem on the crisis over the situation migrants find themselves in across the country.

The Centre unveiled some measures for migrant workers stranded in various states as part of its special economic package, last week.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Karnataka govt to hold state board exam on 25 June

Karnataka education minister S Suresh Kumar on Monday said that the SSLC examination, which is the state board exam, will begin on 25 June and end on 4 July. The Second PU English examination to be held on 18 June (this was the only pending paper for class 12 students), reports added,

Around 8.48 lakh students have registered for the examination.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Animal Husbandry office sealed after officer tests positive

ANI reported that the Animal Husbandry Dept office sealed for 48 hours after an officer was found to be coronavirus-positive. The officer had come to the office on 13 May. All those who came in contact with him have been directed to observe home quarantine, the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying said in a statement.

Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Updates

Kerala govt to allow bus services outside COVID-19 hotspots

The Kerala government on Monday decided to allow the resumption of bus services outside COVID-19 hotspots during the fourth phase of the lockdown. Interstate and inter-district bus services will remain suspended, the state transport minister AK Saseendran said.

Coronavirus in Jammu and Kashmir Latest Updates

Five doctors test positive for COVID-19 in Srinagar

Five doctors in Srinagar have tested positive for coronavirus on Monday, PTI reported. Four of the doctors were treating a single coronavirus patient, who passed away, the report quoted Dr Naveed Shah, Head of the Chest Disease Hospital, Srinagar as saying.

Coronavirus in Puducherry

Liquor sale to resume in Puducherry from tomorrow

The sale of liquor will resume from tomorrow in Puducherry, Chief Minister V Narayanaswamy. Liquor shops in the union territory will be open from 7 am till 7 pm.

Coronavirus in Madhya Pradesh

Trucker leaves migrant’s body, daughters on roadside in Shivpuri

A truck driver left the body of a migrant workers, along with his three minor daughters, on a roadside in Madhya Pradesh’s Shivpuri, ANI reported. The worker had died in the truck during his journey to Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

240 policemen, 38 healthcare workers attacked in Maharashtra

According to a Maharashtra Police action report, 240 cops and 38 health workers have faced assault. Moreoever, 85 policemen have also suffered injuries while performing their duty. Over 1.1 lakh offences have been registered under the Section 188 of the IPC and 1317 offences pertaining to illegal transport have been registered.

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Update

Cancer patient, returning from Mumbai, passes away in Guwahati due to COVID-19

Assam health minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that cancer and COVID-19 patient Gopindra Ch Malakar, who had returned from Mumbai, passed away owing to respiratory distress.

Malakar was undergoing treatment at GMCH, Guwahati. His wife and son have been admitted to Mahendra Mohan Choudhury Hospital, Guwahati to be kept under surveillance for COVID-19 symptoms.

One person each from Jorhat and Nagaon have tested positive, taking the total cases in Assam to 102.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

States cannot dilute lockdown restrictions: MHA

Ministry of Home Affairs said in a statement that states and union territories cannot dilute restrictions imposed as per lockdown guidelines. The ministry, howeverm allows states to make guidelines stricter based on “local level assessment and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare guidelines”.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

Economic package ‘inadequate given gravity of crisis’: P Chidambaram

Criticising the financial package announced by the Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre, Congress leader and former finance minister P Chidambaram said that the stimulus is “inadequate given the gravity of economic crisis” and has left several sections “high and dry”. Fiscal stimulus is of Rs 1,86,650 cr, amounting to 0.91 percent of GDP, he said.

Addressing a series of press conferences, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announces the five tranches of the Rs 20 lakh crore package to combat the economic impact of the coronavirus outbreak. Chidambaram said that the government should announce a revised and comprehensive fiscal stimulus of not less than Rs 10 lakh crore of real additional expenditure equivalent to 10 percent of GDP. He further advised that borrowings should be increase in order to increase spending on the stimulus.

Chidambaram also claimed that the government is pushing “opportunistic reforms” and “deliberately sideling the Parliament”.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Update

People from Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala, Tamil Nadu not allowed in Karnataka till 31 May

Karnataka CM BS Yediyurappa announced that people from Gujarat, Maharashtra, Kerala and Tamil Nadu will not be allowed to enter the state till 31 May.

On the first day of the fourth phase of the lockdown, Yediyurappa said that trains and state corporation buses will run within Karnataka and shops will be allowed to open. “Strict lockdown measures will be followed in containment zones and economic activities will be permitted in other areas. Sundays will be total lockdown across the state,” he said.

Karnataka reported 84 new infections since 5 pm on Sunday, taking the number of cases in teh state  to 1,231.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Update

Migrants gather at Ghaziabad ground to register for Shramik train

Thousands of migrant workers gathered at the Ramlila Ground in Ghaziabad for registering themselves for the three Shramik special trains, which will leave for different parts of Uttar Pradesh on Monday.

Migrants, belonging to Uttar Pradesh, also gathered in the Kundali Industrial Area in Haryana’s Sonipat, in order to return to their villages.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

Taiwan to not be a part of WHO virtual assembly, says foreign minister

Despite strong efforts Taiwan did not get invited to this week’s meeting of a key World Health Organization (WHO) body due to Chinese pressure, its foreign minister Joseph Wu said on Monday, adding they had agreed to put the issue off until later this year, Reuters reported.

Coronavirus in Gujarat Latest Update

Migrant workers, police clash in Ahmedabad

Migrants workers pelted stones at the police and vandalised two of their vehicles in Ahmedabad allegedly over their demand to go back to home states. A clash then ensured, in which two police personnel were injured.

Pravil Mal, DCP (Zone-1) Ahmedabad, said that when police stopped the migrant workers, they pelted stones, went to Vastrapur and vandalised two police vehicles. “They also vandalized the office at a construction site. 250 people have been rounded up and action will be taken against culprits,” Mal said.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

1,273 Maharashtra Police personnel contract COVID-19

1,273 personnel of Maharashtra Police including 131 officers, have contracted COVID-19 so far. Out of the total cases, 291 police personnel have recovered while 11 others succumbed to the infection, according to ANI.

Maharashtra is currently worst affected by coronavirus, with 33,053 cases and 1,198 deaths so far. It was also among the earliest states to extended the lockdown, scheduled to end on 18 May, till 31 May.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Update

Six OPPO factory employees test positive for COVID-19

Six employees of OPPO mobile company’s factory in Greater Noida have tested positive for COVID-19, ANI reported. The factory, which had resumed operations on 9 May has been completely shut down.

OPPO India said in a statement, “As an organisation that places the safety of all our employees and citizens at the forefront, we have suspended all operations at our manufacturing facility in Greater Noida and initiated COVID-19 testing for over 3000 employees, for which results are awaited.”

Coronavirus in Rajasthan Latest Update

140 new cases reported in Rajasthan

Rajasthan records two COVID-19 deaths and 140 cases within a day. The total number of cases in state stands at 5,342 and deaths at 133.

Coronavirus in Chhattisgarh Latest Update

Section 144 imposed in Chhattisgarh for 3 months

Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, prohibiting the assembly of five or more people, will remain in effect in all districts of Chhattisgarh for the next three months, PTI reported.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Update

Nawazuddin Siddiqui, family placed under quarantine

Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui and his family members have been placed under 14-day home quarantine after they reach Budhana town in Uttar Pradesh for Eid.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Update

Delhi reports 299 cases in a day

Over the last 24 hours, 299 coronavirus cases were reported in Delhi, taking the total in the state to 10,054. The toll stood at 160, with no death being reported in the 24-hour period.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Task force to formulate AYUSH treatment to increase immunity against COVID-19

The Maharashtra government has approved the formation of a task force which will give recommendations to the government to incorporate AYUSH treatment modalities specifically for increasing immunity against COVID-19.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

169 Indians flown to Kolkata from Dhaka

Under the Vande Bharat Mission, 169 Indians stranded in Bangladesh, were ferried by an Air India flight from Dhaka to Kolkata.

The second phase of the mission began on 16 May and will continue till 22 May. It will bring back Indians from 31 countries aboard 149 flights.

Coronavirus in Rajasthan Latest Update

Rajasthan reports 140 new cases, two deaths

140 new coronavirus cases and two deaths have been reported in Rajasthan in a day. The total number of positive cases in the state have risen to 5,342, including 133 deaths and 2,666 discharged patients.

Coronavirus in Bihar Latest Update

Six more COVID-19 cases in Bihar

Six more COVID-19 positive cases were reported in Bihar, ANI reported. The total number of cases in Bihar has risen to 1,326, as per ANI.

Coronavirus in Goa Latest Update

Nine Mumbai-Goa train passengers test positive

A total of nine passengers who had travelled on board a Mumbai-Goa train have been tested positive for coronavirus through TrueNat testing so far, according to ANI. The esrtwhile green zone Goa now has a total of 31 confirmed cases, including seven recoveries and no deaths.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

India reports highest ever spike in infections; total cases now at 96,169

India reported the highest every daily spike in coronavirus cases since the beginning of the outbreak. 5,242 new cases and 157 deaths were recorded in the last 24 hours. The total number of positive cases is 96,160, which includes 56,316 active cases, 3,029 deaths and 36,824 cured cases.

Coronavirus in Madhya Pradesh Latest Update

Inform railways about need for Indore-Kolkata Shramik train: MP CM tells Mamata

In a letter written to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Chouhan asked her to inform the Ministry of Railways about the need for a Shramik special train to ferry migrant workers in Indore to their native villages.

Indore witnessed 95 new coronavirus cases on Sunday, taking the total in the district to 2,565.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

India among 62 nations seeking probe into WHO’s COVID-19 response

A total of 62 countries, including India, backed a joint effort by Australia and European Union, calling for an independent inquiry into the World Health Organisation’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a draft resolution proposed for 73rd World Health Assembly (WHA) meeting beginning from Monday.

The draft calls for “impartial, independent and comprehensive” probe into the coronavirus crisis. Besides, an inquiry into the actions of the World Health Organization (WHO) and “their timelines pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic”. Other major countries named in the EU-backed draft include Japan, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, South Korea, Brazil and Canada.

Coronavirus in Punjab Latest Update

Devotees flout MHA guidelines to visit Amritsar temple

Devotees paid a visit at the Mata Bhadrakali Mandir in Amritsar to mark beginning of a fair. The temple’s priest said that people were asked to stay home, but they requested for darshan to offer prayers.

According to home ministry’s lockdown guidelines, religious places are to remain shut for the public and religious congregations are not allowed.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Update

Migrant workers await buses at Delhi-UP border

A large number of migrant labourers have been reaching the Delhi-Ghazipur (Uttar Pradesh) border since Sunday in a bid to reach their native villages by buses being arranged by the government or walking the distance. A labourer told ANI, “I’ve to go to Hardoi (UP). We’ve been sitting here since 6 am. If there are not enough buses, then let us walk home.”

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Update

Centre’s lockdown 4.0 order will be followed strictly: West Bengal government

The West Bengal government said the central government order on extending the lockdown till 31 May will be followed strictly and no violations of the order would be tolerated. An official said that a notification will be released on Monday in line with the Centre’s lockdown guidelines..

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Update

Assam allows offices to function with full strength in lockdown 4.0

The Assam government allowed offices to function with full strength and opening of standalone shops on all days in the fourth phase of the coronavirus lockdown.  Assam Chief Secretary Kumar Sanjay Krishna said the night curfew will be in place from 7 pm to 7 am, instead of earlier 6 pm to 6 am.  “We had earlier allowed 50 percent presence in government and private offices. We will now allow all offices to operate with 100 percent capacity,” he added.

People will have to maintain social distancing norms and wear masks, otherwise action will be taken, the official said.

Coronavirus in Goa Latest Update

Seven Mumbai-Goa train passengers tested positive

Three more passengers – a total of seven people – who travelled in Mumbai-Goa train on Sunday tested positive for COVID-19 during TrueNat testing. The total number of active cases in Goa has reached 29.

Coronavirus in Madhya Pradesh Latest Update

95 new cases in Madhya Pradesh’s Indore

Indore reported 95 new coronavirus cases on Sunday, taking the total number of positive cases in the district to 2,565.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

Dont’ criticise, hold talks with Opposition: Ashok Gehlot to Centre

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot responded to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s statement urging the Congress to work with the Centre and in a humane manner towards solving the migrant issue. “Instead of criticising Rahul Gandhi, Centre should have held talks with opposition on what help they need for arranging facilities for migrant workers. It’ll take six to eight months for them to reach home if migrants travel by train. We should arrange vehicles for them,” Gehlot said.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

9 deaths, 223 new cases in Pune district

Nine new deaths and 223 confirmed coronavirus cases were reported in Pune district over 24 hours, as of Sunday night. The total positive cases in the district are 4,018, including 206 deaths and 2,014 cured patients.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

Lockdown 4.0 begins today: Activities that are allowed

• Hospitality services meant for housing health/police/government officials/healthcare workers/stranded persons shall be operational.
• Canteens at the bus depots, railway stations and airports will also be operational.
• Restaurants will be permitted to operate kitchens for home delivery of food items.
• Sports complexes and stadia will be permitted to open; however, spectators will not be allowed.
• Online distance learning shall continue to be permitted and shall be encouraged.
• Inter-state movement of passenger vehicles and buses, with mutual consent of State(s) and UT(s) involved, except in containment zones.
• All States/UTs shall allow inter-state and intra-state movement of medical professionals, nurses and para-medical staff, sanitation personnel and ambulances.
• All States/UTs shall allow inter-state movement of all types of goods/cargos, including empty trucks.
• All shop owners must also ensure that customers maintain ‘do gaz doori’ (minimum six feet distance) and that not more than five people are allowed inside at any given time.
• Persons below 10 years and above 65 years of age, those with co-morbidities, and pregnant women shall stay at home except for essential and health purposes.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

Lockdown 4.0 begins today: Prohibited activities

• All domestic and international air travel of passengers.
• The movement of individuals will remain strictly prohibited between 7 pm and 7 am, except for essential activities.
• All metro rail services will remain suspended.
• School, colleges, educational/training/coaching institutions etc, will continue to remain shut.
• Hotels, restaurants and other hospitality services shall remain suspended.
• All cinema halls, shopping malls, gymnasiums, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres, bars and auditoriums, assembly halls will remain closed.
• All social/political/sports/entertainment/academic/cultural/religious functions/other gatherings and large congregations will not be allowed.
• All religious places/places of worship shall be closed for public, and religious congregations are strictly prohibited.

Coronavirus in Goa Latest Update

4 test positive in Goa, taking state’s total to 26

Declared a green zone last week after it reported no new coronavirus cases and all patients were discharged, Goa now is witnessing a resurgence of infections. The state reported 19 new infections, taking the state’s total to 26.

The new cases including four persons who had travelled in the Mumbai-Goa train on Sunday and TrueNat tests had given a positive result for them. The samples have been sent for confirmatory tests and 100 passengers who had travelled in the train were tested. On the same day, another train passenger had tested positive for coronavirus.

At the time that Goa was declared a green zone, seven patients undergoing treatment were discharged. Ever since then, 19 new cases have been reported.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

Confirmed cases climb to 90,927

According to figures released by the health ministry, the number of coronavirus cases in India stood at 90,927, including 2,872 deaths as of Monday morning.

India had seen the highest spike in cases between Saturday and Sunday over 24 hours, even as the nationwide lockdown was extended till 31 May.