Coronavirus Outbreak Updates: MHA orders conditional exemption of shops outside limits of municipal corporations from lockdown restrictions

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

MHA orders conditional exemption of shops from lockdown restrictions

The MHA on Friday ordered the exemption of all shops under the Shops and Establishment Act of States/UTs, including shops in residential complexes and market complexes — except shops in multi-brand and single-brand malls — outside limits of municipal corporations, from revised consolidated lockdown restrictions.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

NIA sub inspector in Mumbai tests positive for COVID-19

ANI reported that one NIA assistant sub-inspector who was deployed in the Mumbai NIA office has tested positive for COVID-19. NIA has asked its staff who came in contact with the ASI, to self-quarantine. All prescribed protocols are being strictly followed.

Coronavirus in Telangana Latest Updates

983 COVID-19 cases in Telangana so far

“A total of 983 coronavirus cases have been reported in Telangana so far, of which 291 patients have been cured/discharged. 25 deaths reported till date in the state,” said Etela Rajender, Telangana Health Minister.

Coronavirus in US Latest Updates

US COVID-19 toll crosses 50,000

The confirmed number of COVID-19 deaths in the United States surpassed 50,000, according to a tally compiled by John Hopkins University from government figures. The actual death toll is believed to be far higher, AP reported.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Air India associations write to PMO about pay cuts

Reports said that all Air India associations on Friday wrote to the PMO and Ministry Of Civil Aviation on pay cuts during the COVID-19 lockdown. The letter cited how Indigo has reversed pay cuts following govt advisories

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

IAF aircraft airlift evacuees to Srinagar, Leh

The IAF on Friday said that the C130 and IL-76 aircraft airlifted 52 and 205 evacuees from Jaisalmer to Srinagar and Jodhpur to Leh, respectively. All these people tested negative for coronavirus after the quarantine period.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Maharashtra govt says 4.5 lakh metric tonnes of ration to be distributed to saffron card holders

The Maharashtra CMO said that the state government has started distributing 3 kilograms of wheat at Rs 8/kilogram and 2 kilograms of rice at Rs 12/kilogram to three crore saffron ration card holders (people above poverty level) for May and June. About 4.5 lakh metric tonnes will be distributed, the statement said.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Maharashtra govt says 4.5 lakh metric tonnes of ration to be distributed to saffron card holders

The Maharashtra CMO said that the state government has started distributing 3 kilograms of wheat at Rs 8/kilogram and 2 kilograms of rice at Rs 12/kilogram to three crore saffron ration card holders (people above poverty level) for May and June. About 4.5 lakh metric tonnes will be distributed, the statement said.

Coronavirus in US Latest Updates

Trump signs $500 billion COVID-19 relief bill into law

US president Donald Trump on Friday signed a $500 billon coronavirus relief bill into law in a bid to to expand loans for small businesses affected by the pandemic, after his government promised surveillance to stop bigger companies from accessing the funds, Reuters reported.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

Six new COVID-19 cases reported in Gautam Budh Nagar today

Six new positive COVID-19 cases were reported in the Gautam Budh Nagar district in Uttar Pradesh on Friday. The total number of cases in the district stand at 109 now, of which 56 have been cured.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Delhi zoo white tiger didn’t die of COVID-19

Kalpana, a white tigress who died of acute renal failure and other complications related to old age on Friday, was found to be negative for coronavirus.

“As such there were no symptoms or external conditions to suspect that her death is due to COVID-19. However, as per Central Zoo Authority advisory issued in this regard, samples was collected after ensuring all bio-security measures and were sent to Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly. Later, IVRI has confirmed that tigress Kalpana was found negative for COVID19,” said a statement by the Delhi Zoo.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

Kanpur reports 31 new COVID-19 cases today

The Kanpur chief medical officer said that 31 new COVID-19 cases were reported in the city on Friday, taking the total number of positive cases to 144.

A total of three people have died till date due to COVID-19 in the city.

Coronavirus in nJammu and Kashmir Latest Updates

J&K ADMO suspended for unauthorised absence

An Assistant District Medical Officer (ADMO) of Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district has been suspended for his unauthorized absence from his duties amid COVID-19 pandemic, ANI reported.

Coronavirus in Jharkhand Latest Updates

Two more COVID-19 cases reported in Ranchi

Two more people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Hindpiri, Ranchi, the Jharkhand health secretary said. The total number cases in Jharkhand stand at 59.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

138 cases, 3 deaths reported in Delhi today

The Delhi health department said that 138 new cases of COVID-19 and three deaths have been reported in the National Capital on Friday, taking the total number of cases to 2,514 and toll to 53. Out of the total positive cases, 1,604 are active. A total of 857 patients have been discharged till date.

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Updates

Book shops open in Guwahati

Book shops opened in Guwahati on Friday, after state government ordered that book shops dealing with curriculum books can operate in Kamrup Metro district every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 am to 1 pm.

Assam: Book shops opened in Guwahati today, after state govt ordered that book shops dealing with curriculum books can operate in Kamrup Metro district every Monday, Wednesday & Friday from 10 AM to 1 PM. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/HdvQH7chdy

— ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2020

Coronavirus in Goa Latest Updates

Goa NGO feeds stray dogs

Members of the Drishti Lifesaving, an agency appointed by the state government for lifeguard duties, are providing daily meals to stray animals across the beaches and in the state amid the COVID-19 lockdown.

Goa: Members of the Drishti Lifesaving, an agency appointed by the state government for lifeguard duties, are providing daily meals to stray animals across the beaches and in the state amid the #COVID19 lockdown. pic.twitter.com/0QdZx7NTPS

— ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2020

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

394 new COVID-19 cases, 18 deaths reported in Maharashtra today

The Maharashtra health department said that 394 new COVID-19 cases and 18 deaths have been reported in the state on Friday, taking the total number of cases to 6,817 and the toll to 310 in the state.

A total of 957 patients have been discharged till date in Maharashtra, which is the worst-hit state by the coronavirus pandemic.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

111 new COVID-19 cases reported in Uttar Pradesh today

With 111 new COVID19 positive cases reported in Uttar Pradesh on Friday, the tally in the state rises to 1,621.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Plasma therapy to begin in Maharashtra

Maharashtra minister Amit Deshmukh said that plasma therapy is likely to begin in Maharashtra’s Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, and Solapur soon.

The #PlasmaTherapy on the Maharashtra Covid19 patients to soon begin at Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Solapur in the institutes run by #MinistryofMedicalEducation #GovtofMaharashtra @CMOMaharashtra @AjitPawarSpeaks @bb_thorat @AUThackeray @yadravkar @DrSanMukherjee @Maha_MEDD @MahaDGIPR

— Amit V. Deshmukh (@AmitV_Deshmukh) April 24, 2020

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Delhi LG says action to be taken against Delhi Police officials who disallowed recitation of Azaan

Delhi lieutenant governor Anil Baijal on Friday tweeted saying, “It has come to notice that video has been circulating in social media regarding instructions being given for not reciting Azaan by Police. Delhi Police already communicated that no such instructions have been given and have clarified the same in their advisory.

“Disciplinary action is being taken against the erring police officials. Appeal to observe the holy month of Ramzan as per the advisory given below to stay safe and follow lockdown in your and public interest.”

It has come to notice that a video has been circulating in social media regarding instructions being given for not reciting azaan by Police. @DelhiPolice has already communicated that no such instructions have been given and has clarified the same in their advisory. https://t.co/d0NvsK5k5s

— LG Delhi (@LtGovDelhi) April 24, 2020

Coronavirus in Gujarat Latest Updates

191 new COVID-19 cases, 15 deaths reported in Gujarat

The Gujarat health department on Friday said that 191 new COVID-19 cases and 15 deaths were reported in the state in last 24 hours, taking the total number of cases to 2,815 and deaths to 127 in the state.

Out of total cases, 29 patients are on ventilator, 2,394 are stable, 265 have been cured.

Coronavirus in Haryana Latest Updates

No COVID-19 case reported in Gurugram today

No new coronavirus case was reported in Haryana’s Gurugram district on Friday, India Today reported.

Coronavirus in Bihar Latest Updates

Bihar reports 17 new COVID-19 cases today

Bihar principal secretary (Health) Sanjay Kumar said that17 more people have tested positive for COVID-19 in the state on Friday, taking the total number of cases to 214.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Karnataka govt says migrants can be moved to different district using KSRTC buses

Karnataka chief secretary on Friday wrote to all the district collectors saying that migrant labourers can be moved to different districts using KSRTC buses. Masks will be compulsory, social distancing will have to be maintained and a bus will have 40 percent pax.

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates

Tamil Nadu CM informs Kejriwal of Tablighi attendees quarantined in Delhi

Tamil Nadu chief minister Edapaddi K Palaniswami on Friday wrote to Delhi chief minister saying,“there are 559 Tablighi Jamaat attendees from Tamil Nadu, who had attended Tablighi Jamaat in Delhi. They’ve been hospitalised/quarantined. State government has been receiving number of grievances with regard to conditions of their stay.”

Coronavirus in Chandigarh Latest Updates

No new COVID-19 case reported in Chandigarh

The Chandigarh health department said that no new coronavirus case was reported on Friday. The number of COVID-19 cases stands at 27 in Chandigarh, including 15 cured patients.

No death has been reported in the Union Territory due to the infection. 638 samples have been tested so far, the statement said.

Coronavirus in Uttarakhand Latest Updates

One new COVID-19 case reported in Uttarakhand

The Uttarakhand health department on Friday said that only one new coronavirus case was reported in the state as of 6 pm, taking the total number of cases in the state to 47.

Coronavirus in Odisha Latest Updates

Odisha health update today:

Total number of cases — 94
Total recovered patients — 33
Number of deaths — 01
Number of active cases — 60

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

In Bengal, 18 deaths due to COVID-19, 39 others due to comorbidity, says govt

West Bengal chief secretary on Friday said that the state government had requested the audit committee for a report on COVID-19-related deaths.

“Out of 57 deaths that have been audited by the committee, they have certified that 18 deaths were due to corona and 39 were due to severe comorbid conditions and COVID-19 was incidental finding,” he said.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

One Delhi area removed from list of containment zones

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday said that since no new case had been reported in the Mansara Apartment area in of Vasundhara Enclave in the National Capital, the containment zone is being de-contained.

“Operation Shield was successful because of cooperation from people living in this zone,” he said.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

IMCT visits quarantine facility in Bengal’s Howrah

An Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) team on Friday visited a quarantine facility at the Dumurjala Stadium in Howrah.

West Bengal: Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) team visited quarantine facility at Dumurjala Stadium in Howrah, earlier today. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/tFEF344szO

— ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2020

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Five new cases, one death reported in Dharavi today

Six new coronavirus cases were reported on Friday in Mumbai’s Dharavi, taking the total number of cases to 220 in the densely-populated area. Additionally, one death was also reported, taking the toll to 14.

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates

Tamil Nadu Police’s punishment for lockdown violators

Tamil Nadu Police on Friday put those who were violating the COVID-19 lockdown in an ambulance with a fake COVID-19 positive patient as punishment, in Tiruppur.

This is an enactment video, ‘violators’ were also part of the skit.

#WATCH: Tamil Nadu Police put lockdown violators in an ambulance with a fake #COVID19 positive patient as punishment, in Tiruppur. (Video Source: Tamil Nadu Police) pic.twitter.com/fj8xEJPTXh

— ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2020

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates

72 new cases, 2 deaths reported in Tamil Nadu today

The Tamil Nadu health department said that two deaths and 72 COVID-19 cases were reported in the state on Friday. The total number of cases in the state rose to 1,755.

Coronavirus in Punjab Latest Updates

Punjab reports 298 COVID-19 cases so far

The number of COVID-19 cases rose 298 in Punjab, including 70 cured and 17 deaths. 63 cases have been reported in SAS Nagar, 63 in Jalandhar and 55 in Patiala, the Punjab health department said on Friday.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

1,752 new COVID-19 cases, 37 deaths reported, says MoHFW’s 5 pm update

The Union health ministry, in its 5 pm update on Friday, said that 1,752 new COVID-19 cases and 37 deaths were reported across the country in the last 24 hours. Total number of cases rises to 23,452, including 17,915 active cases, 4813 cured and 724 deaths.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

29 new COVID-19 cases reported in Karnataka

The Karnataka health department said that 29 new cases of coronavirus have been reported in the state in the last 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 474 including 18 deaths and 152 discharges.

There are 304 active cases in the state, out of which five patients are in the Intensive Care Unit.

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates

7 police personnel test positive for COVID-19 in Coimbatore

Seven police personnel in Tamil Nadu’s Coimbatore, including four women, tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday, PTI quoted a police official as saying.

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Updates

Assam medical colleges open for general patients today

Assam minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that all medical colleges in the state on Friday opened for general patients.

“District hospitals, PHCs, CHCs have also been opened for patients. Only Mahendra Mohan Choudhury Hospital will remain shut for other patients as it is dedicated for COVID-19,” he said.

Coronavirus in Jharkhand Latest Updates

Jharkhand reports one more COVID-19 case

The Jharkhand government on Friday said that one more COVID-19 positive case has been reported in the state. The patient is from Deoghar and had recently returned from Surat in Gujarat. Total positive cases in the state rises to 57.

Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Updates

3 new COVID-19 cases reported in Kerala

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that three new COVID-19 cases have been reported in the Kasaragod district, taking total number of cases to 450 in Kerala out of which 116 are active cases.

A four-month-old baby with heart-related ailment has died due to COVID-19 in the state, he added.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

MHA says institutional quarantine needed in Mumbai’s Dharavi

MHA joint secretary PS Srivastava said that in Mumbai’s Dharavi, there is a need for institutional quarantine of close to 2,000 people.

Coronavirus in Rajasthan Latest Updates

Over 1,300 cases registered over lockdown violations in Rajasthan

“Around 1,350 cases have been registered and action has been taken against 3,200 people for violating the norms of COVID-19 lockdown in Rajasthan,” said Additional Director General of Police (Crime) BL Soni.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Centre says lockdown effective in slowing doubling rate

Dr VK Paul, Niti Aayog member and Chairman of Empowered Group 1 on Friday said, “Our analysis shows lockdown has been effective in slowing the doubling rate of COVID and saved lives. The lockdown decision was timely as the around 23,000 cases in India today could have been 73,000.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

491 COVID-19 patients recovered in last 24 hours, says Centre

The Union health ministry on Friday said that 491 coronavirus patients have been cured in the last 24 hours, taking the recovered tally to 4,748.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

Adityanath tells nodal officers to make list of UP natives stuck in other states

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday instructed nodal officers to prepare a list of migrant workers stranded in other states due to the COVID-19 lockdown, with an aim to bring them back.

Workers will be kept under quarantine for 14-days before being sent to their homes in respective villages in the state.

CM Yogi Adityanath has instructed nodal officers to prepare list of UP migrant workers stranded in other states due to #COVID19 lockdown to bring them back. Workers will be kept under quarantine for 14-days before being sent to their homes in respective villages in the state. pic.twitter.com/PHKZXi1kVs

— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) April 24, 2020

Coronavirus in Bihar Latest Updates

15 more COVID-19 cases reported in Bihar

The Bihar government on Friday said that 15 more COVID-19 cases have been reported in the state on Friday, taking the total number of cases to 197.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

NCDC says surveillance is ‘primary weapon’ against COVID-19

Dr Sujeet Singh, National Centre for Disease Control director on Friday said that surveillance is the “primary weapon” in the fight against coronavirus. About 9.45 lakh people are on surveillance system, he added.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

80 districts have become COVID-19 free since 14 days, says Centre

The Union health ministry on Friday said that in last 28 days, 15 districts have had no new case. Till date, there are 80 districts in the country that have reported no new cases in last 14 days.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Health ministry says 1,684 new COVID-19 cases reported countrywide

In the briefing of the Union health ministy at 4 pm on Friday, ministry joint secretary Lav Aggarwal was quoted as saying that in last 24 hours, 1,684 COVID-19 positive cases have been reported across the country, which takes the total number of cases to 23,077.

“Our recovery rate is 20.57 percent,” he said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

4 more IMCTs to be sent to Ahmedabad, Surat, Hyderabad, Chennai, says Centre

Punya Salila Srivastava, Union Home Ministry, on Friday said, “Apart from six Inter-Ministerial Central Teams (IMCT) constituted earlier, the Home Ministry today constituted four additional IMCTs, each headed by an Additional Secretary-level officer, to Ahmedabad, Surat, Hyderabad and Chennai.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Harsh Vardhan says will return faulty testing kits

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan was quoted by India Today as saying, “We have made testing kits available. Strategies were made and the usage was started in hotspots. Faulty antibody testing kits will be returned irrespective of the country they were procured from, including China. We have not paid a single penny yet to any country.”

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Over 4,000 cases registered for lockdown violations in Mumbai

The Mumbai Police on Friday said that 4,953 cases had been registered against 9,583 people for violating the lockdown restrictions in the city. 

“Most of these offences were registered under section 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) of the Indian Penal Code, since the prohibitory orders were imposed on 20 March, News18 reported.

Coronavirus in Uttarakhand Latest Updates

2,112 cases registered for lockdown violations in Uttarakhand

The Uttarakhand police said that 2,112 cases have been registered and 9,320 people arrested in connection with violation the norms of coronavirus lockdown in Uttarakhand so far.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

Prayagraj reports first 3 COVID-19 cases, says report

Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh, which was among the coronavirus-free districts of the state so far, on Friday reported three cases, India Today reported. “Two of them are from the Shankargarh area while the other one is from Shivkuti,” the report said.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

IMCT writes to Bengal chief secy over COVID-19 measures in state

An Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) on Friday wrote to the West Bengal chief secretary Rajiva Sinha to explain the methodology used by the ‘committee of doctors’ in the state to ascertain death due to COVID-19 and also if it is in line with ICMR guidelines.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

India may see second wave of COVID-19 outbreak in monsoon, claim scientists

The trajectory of COVID-19 cases could have plateaued and might even fall for some weeks after the lockdown is lifted but India is likely to see a second wave in late July or August with a surge in the number of cases during the monsoon, say scientists.

The timing of the peak will depend on how India is able to control physical distancing and on the level of infection spreads after restrictions are relaxed, they said.

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates

Only employees of IT companies can work from home: Palaniswami 

Announcing the total shutdown in five of its municipalities, Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami further said that employees of information technology companies in these areas can avail work from home option. 

“Other private companies will not work during this time in the affected areas,” said Palaniwami.

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates

E Palaniswami announces complete lockdown in five municipalities of Tamil Nadu 

Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami on Friday announced a complete lockdown in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai from 6 am on 26 April to 9 pm on 29 April. 

Other than these three municipalities, curfew in Salem and Tirupur will also be implemented from 6 am of 26 April to 9 pm of 28 April. 

“Existing restrictions/permits will continue to exist other than those mentioned above,” said Palaniswami. 

During this time, containment zones will be tightly controlled and disinfectants will be sprayed twice daily. 

சென்னை, கோவை, மதுரை ஆகிய 3 மாநகராட்சிகளிலும் ஊரடங்கு முழுமையாக 26.4.2020 காலை 6 மணி முதல் 29.4.2020 இரவு 9 மணி வரை அமல் படுத்தப்படும்.

சேலம், திருப்பூர் மாநகராட்சிகளில் ஊரடங்கு முழுமையாக 26.4.2020 காலை 6 மணி முதல் 28.4.2020 இரவு 9 மணி வரை அமல் படுத்தப்படும். #TNLockdown

— CMOTamilNadu (@CMOTamilnadu) April 24, 2020

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Healthcare worker at AIIMS Delhi tests positive for COVID-19 

A health worker in AIIMS, Delhi, has tested positive for the novel coronavirus on Friday, reported News18. He is a resident of a housing colony in Chhatarpur. An approx of 80 percent of AIIMS staffers stay in the same building.

The district administration has asked the hospital authorities to screen all the staff members in the particular apartment and advised home quarantine for all of them in order to stall further community transmission of COVID-19. 

As many as 100-225 health workers reside in the densely populated building.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Updates

Global COVID-19 toll crosses 1,90,000

The worldwide toll due to the coronavirus pandemic crossed 190,000 on Friday, with nearly two-thirds of the fatalities in Europe, according to John Hopkins University.    

A total of 190,896 people have succumbed to the infectious disease while 2,710,264 have been infected since the virus emerged in China in December. The hardest hit continent is Europe, with 116,221 deaths and 1,296,248 cases.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Three held in Maharashtra’s Beed dist for attacking cop on lockdown duty

Three men were arrested for allegedly attacking a policeman, who was on lockdown duty, at Ambejogai town of Maharashtra’s Beed district, an official said on Friday.

Govind Yelmate, who is attached to Amjogai police station, was beaten up by three men on Wednesday night, inspector Siddharth Gade said.

Yelmate was investigating an offence at Yashwantnagar, where he spotted Kishor Lomte, Vaibhav Akhate and Tushar Shingare chatting at the street corner and questioned them, the official said.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

UP constable quarantined on suspicion of contracting COVID-19

A constable involved in the distribution of food packets to the needy in Shahjahanpur amid the lockdown has been quarantined after being suspected of contracting COVID-19.

Superintendent of Police (Rural), Aparna Gautam, said the constable was playing an active role in providing food packets and other necessary items to the needy.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Jindal group donates Rs 2 crore to PM-CARES COVID-19 relief fund

DP Jindal Group on Friday said its employees have contributed Rs 2 crore to PM-CARES relief fund to strengthen the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

All the employees of the Group have contributed a part of their salary to PM-CARES fund.

Besides, the Group companies are also engaged in providing free ration, masks, hand sanitizers and all other essentials to communities living in and around their plants in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, the Group said in a statement.

Coronavirus in Andhra Pradesh Latest Updates

Two COVID-19 deaths, 62 confirmed cases reported in Andhra in past 24 hrs

With two more COVID-19 deaths being reported in Andhra Pradesh in the past 24 hours, the toll in the state jumped to 29 on Friday, said State’s COVID-19 Nodal Officer. 

The total number of confirmed positive cases in the state was at 955 after 62 more individuals tested positive for the nove coronavirus.

While, as many as 145 COVID-19 patients have been discharged, said the nodal officer.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Vegetable hawker in Mehrauli tests positive for COVID-19 

A vegetable vendor in Delhi’s Mehrauli area has tested positive for COVID-19, officials said on Friday, adding that he didn’t set up his cart after developing symptoms.

According to official sources, the man living in Om Apartment in Ward No. 3, Mehrauli, didn’t set up his cart ever since he developed symptoms of the infectious disease.

“He developed the symptoms about 10 days ago. He went to the Madan Mohan Malviya Hospital twice and also to the Safdarjung Hospital. However, he was refused testing,” an officia

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

At least 5.5 lakh tests of COVID-19 samples conducted: Harsh Vardhan 

As many as 5.5 lakh tests of COVID-19 samples have been conducted across the nation so far, said Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Friday. He further said that the coronavirus growth rate in the country is “linear and not exponential”.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Mortality rate less than 3%: Harsh Vardhan 

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Friday said that the mortality rate with regard to the novel coronavirus was less than three percent. “Sent teams to states with maximum cases,” said the health minister.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

At least 96,000 COVID-19 samples tested in Maharashtra, says report 

A total of 96,000 COVID-19 samples have been tested in Maharashtra so far, News18 reported. Of the total number of tests, more than 6,400 cases have tested positive for the novel coronavirus in the state. 

On Thursday, the state witnessed the highest spike in daily-rise of COVID-19 cases which is 778. Of which, more than 500 have been reported in Mumbai. 

According to BMC officials, the number of tests conducted in Mumbai are more than 60,000.

Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Updates

‘Help bringing back bodies of NRIs who died due to reasons other than COVID-19’: Kerala CM to Modi 

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking his intervention in bringing back the mortal remains of NRIs whose death occurred due to reasons other than the novel coronavirus. 

“The Indian embassies may be directed to issue necessary clearances without seeking individual approvals from the Ministryof Home Affairs and avoid delay, so that the mortal remains reach their homes early enabling the family members to perform the last rites,” wrote Vijayan.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

18 fresh COVID-19 cases in Karnataka take overall count to 463

With 18 more people testing positive for the novel coronavirus in Karnataka, the total confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state reached 463 on Friday.

Of the new cases, 11 were reported in Bengaluru, two each in Belagavi and Bagalkote while one each in Tumkur, Chikkaballapura and Vijayapura as of 12 pm on Friday. 

#COVID19: Total in #Karnataka rises to 463 as 18 new cases confirmed. While 11 of these are from #Bengaluru, 2 are from #Belagavi, #Bagalkote, and one each from #Tumkur, #Chikkaballapura, and #Vijayapura. (12 noon, April 24). @IndianExpress pic.twitter.com/Vzo5gQmi6m

— Ralph Alex Arakal (@ralpharakal) April 24, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

US-Based Franklin Templeton shuts six India funds due to illiquidity 

Franklin Templeton Mutual Fund on Thursday announced it would wind up six yield-oriented, managed credit funds in India, effective April 23, citing severe market dislocation and illiquidity caused by the coronavirus.

“The decision has been taken in order to protect value for investors via a managed sale of the portfolio,” the Fund said in a statement.

The decision was limited to funds which have “material direct exposure to the higher yielding, lower-rated credit securities in India that have been most impacted by the ongoing liquidity crisis in the market,” the statement said.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Nagpur reports 100 COVID-19 cases

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Nagpur climbed to 100 after two more individuals tested positive for COVID-19 in the district on Friday, said Civil Surgeon, Nagpur, Maharashtra.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Plasma theory to be conducted on two-three COVID-19 patients in Delhi today 

We are happy with the positive results of plasma theory in four COVID-19 patients. Blood and plasma is ready for two-three other patients that we have at LNJP hospital, we may give them the plasma therapy on FFriday, said Dr SK Sarin, Director, Institute of Liver & Biliary Science.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Four COVID-19 patients shifted to private wards from ICU: Arvind Kejriwal 

The four COVID-19 patients who were earlier admitted in the ICU with serious conditions, have now been shifted to private wards after being treated with plasma therapy, said Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal during media briefing on Friday.

Their conditions are stable now, said Kejriwal.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Plasma theory conducted on four COVID-19 patients till now: Arvind Kejriwal 

The plasma therapy has been conducted on four COVID-19 patients in the last few days at Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital, said Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal during media briefing on Friday. 

“Till now the results are encouraging,” said Kejriwal.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Nine RPF personnel test COVID-19 positive in Bengal and Odisha

Nine Railway Protection Force (RPF) staff, part of a 26-member team that had been to New Delhi from Kharagpur division in West Bengal, have tested positive for for the noevl coronavirus.

The nine included a 32-year-old constable posted at Balasore in Odisha. He is undergoing treatment at Ashwini COVID Hospital at Cuttack.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

13 madrasa students, contacts of infected Tablighi Jamaat members, test positive in Kanpur

As many as 13 madrasa students, who had come in contact with Tablighi Jamaat members suffering from coronavirus, have tested positive for COVID-19 in Kanpur, a senior health official said on Friday.

So far, the city in Uttar Pradesh has reported 107 confirmed cases. 

Chief Medical Officer Dr Ashok Shukla said, “50 samples were tested on Thursday of which results of 13 have come positive. They are the students of a madrasa in Coolie Bazaar, a hotspot zone, from where about 30 people have already tested positive.”

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Maharashtra confirms 293 COVID-19 deaths, 6,427 confirmed cases

With 778 more people testing positive for the novel coronavirus in Maharashtra, the total number of confirmed cases in the state rose to 6,427 on Friday. The state health department said that 14 more deaths were reported, bringing the toll to 283.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Centre should come out with health insurance scheme for scribes, says Union minister

Expressing concern over a large number of journalists in Mumbai testing positive for COVID-19, Union minister Pratap Sarangi on Friday urged the Centre to introduce a health insurance scheme for scribes covering the pandemic, in line with the one for frontline health workers.

In the last few weeks, several journalists in Chennai, Bhopal and other places have also tested positive, Sarangi said in a letter to Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar.

“This unfortunate development has adversely affected the spirit of our fearless journalists for whom this is the worst and most dangerous kind of occupational hazard,” said Sarangi, the Union minister of state for micro, small and medium enterprises.

Coronavirus in Pakistan Latest Update

Pakistan’s cases rise to 11,155; 79% cases locally transmitted

About 79 percent of the total coronavirus cases in Pakistan are now locally transmitted, health authorities said on Friday as the number of people affected by the deadly virus rose to over 11,000.

According to the Ministry of National Health Services, 13 more patients died due to the novel coronavirus, taking the toll to 237, and another 2,527 recovered.

In the last 24 hours, 642 new cases were reported, taking the tally to 11,155 in the country, health officials said on Friday.

Punjab reported 4,767 patients, Sindh 3,671, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 1,541, Balochistan 607, Gilgit-Baltistan 300, Islamabad 214, and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 55 patients.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Saumitra Yojana will help property issues

Prime Minister Narendra on Friday while launching the new app said that now there is no need for varied applications as the E-Gram Swaraj app will help people get the latest information on various issues at one platform, which will ensure transparency and will help record-keeping. Completion of projects will be faster, he says.

Through the Saumitra Yojana, drone mapping of each property in a village will be done and property papers will also be made available to the residents, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. This will help solve disputes and aid loan-taking, he added.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Pandemic calls for self-dependency, says PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday while interacting with sarpanches said that the coronavirus pandemic has given the world a new message — “Coronavirus’s biggest message is making people learn the path of self-dependency. We cannot fight such epidemics without being self-reliant. Villages should at their level become self-reliant, so should zillas.”

The Coronavirus pandemic has taught that we have to become self-dependent: Prime Minister Narendra Modi during interaction with Sarpanchs from across the nation via video conferencing. #PanchayatiRajDiwas pic.twitter.com/ydWhD9vyGh

— ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Ensure non-COVID-19 patients get proper medical care, says Bombay HC

The Bombay High Court has said it is imperative that the Union government and the authorities in Maharashtra find an “effective solution” to ensure ’non-COVID- 19’ patients are not denied medical treatment at a time when the focus is on fighting the coronavirus outbreak.

Justice KR Sriram made the observation on Thursday while hearing three different petitions highlighting the plight of people suffering from several chronic or serious ailments, who the pleas said, are being turned away from clinics and hospitals.

The petitions also highlight issues such as lack of adequate facilities and medical infrastructure in the state, municipal-run, and private hospitals in current times.

The judge said the authorities must take a serious note of the issues and directed the Maharashtra government and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to file a reply to the pleas by 29 April.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Narendra Modi inaugurates e-GramSwaraj portal 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates e-GramSwaraj portal and a mobile application, on the occasion of “Panchayati Raj Diwas'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates e-GramSwaraj portal and a mobile application, on the occasion of #PanchayatiRajDiwas pic.twitter.com/ADgj15Adum

— ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

JUST IN: Narendra Modi begins meeting with sarpanchs on coronavirus 

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Update

Mumbai estimated to have 70,000 cases by 15 May, warns BMC

After the Union Health Ministry’s projections that Mumbai would have 6.50 lakh, COVID-19 patients, by 15 May, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) own estimates say that positive cases could reach 60,000 to 70,000 by mid-May, reports Mid-day.

Keeping in mind these projections, BMC is on an overdrive to set up at least 3,000 COVID-care beds for patients with moderate to severe symptoms of the viral infection, which is about 5 percent of the projected caseload, reports Times of India.

Coronavirus in Gujarat Latest Update

Surat hospital shuts down after 14 staffers test positive

After 14 staff members including a resident medical officer, 12 nurses, and a computer operator tested positive for COVID-19 in the last few days, the 550-bed Kiran Super Multispeciality Hospital in Surat has been temporarily shut down till 1 May, reports Indian Express .

 Surat is the second worst-hit city in Gujarat by COVID-19 after Ahmedabad. Vadodara follows Surat in the list of highly-affected COVID-19 cities in the state.

Coronavirus in India Latest Update

Sensex tumbles over 500 pts in early trade; Nifty slips below 9,200

Equity benchmark Sensex tumbled over 500 points in early trade on Friday dragged by losses in banking and IT stocks amid weak cues from global markets. After hitting a low of 31,278.27, the 30-share index was trading 534.23 points or 1.68 percent down at 31,328.85.

Similarly, the NSE Nifty declined 129.35 points, or 1.39 percent, to 9,184.55.

Bajaj Finance was the top laggard in the Sensex pack, shedding up to 5 per cent, followed by ICICI Bank, IndusInd Bank, Axis Bank, HDFC twins, SBI, Infosys and TCS. On the other hand, Hero MotoCorp, Sun Pharma, L&T, ONGC and HCL Tech were among the gainers.

Coronavirus in US Latest Update

COVID-19 has pushed US unemployment toward highest since Depression

Unemployment in the US is swelling to levels last seen during the Great Depression of the 1930s, with 1 in 6 American workers thrown out of a job by the coronavirus, according to new data released Thursday.

In response to the deepening economic crisis, the House passed a nearly USD 500 billion spending package to help buckled businesses and hospitals.

More than 4.4 million laid-off Americans applied for unemployment benefits last week, the government reported. In all, roughly 26 million people the population of the 10 biggest US cities combined have now filed for jobless aid in five weeks, an epic collapse that has raised the stakes in the debate over how and when to ease the shutdowns of factories and other businesses.

In the hardest-hit corner of the US, evidence emerged that perhaps 2.7 million New York state residents have been infected by the virus 10 times the number confirmed by lab tests.

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Updates

Assam govt sends officials to evacuate 350 stranded students in Kota

The Assam government has sent a team of officials and police personnel to evacuate over 350 students stranded in Kota after requests from families in the state and the government of Rajasthan, NDTV reported.

They will be brought back by road to Guwahati from Kota via Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Kejriwal to address media on results of plasma therapy used in Delhi at 12 pm 

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal will address media at 12 pm regarding the initial positive results of the use of plasma therapy to treat coronavirus patients, ANI reported.

Plasma therapy has been applied in the treatment of a COVID-19 positive patient, admitted to a Delhi hospital on Tuesday for the first time in India.

The patient, who underwent convalescent plasma therapy at Max Hospital in Delhi’s Saket, has responded well to the treatment, the hospital had said in a statement.

Coronavirus in Bihar Latest Updates

Bihar reports 176 COVID-19 cases, two deaths

Six new coronavirus cases were reported in Bihar, according to data released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Friday. This brings the total reported cases of coronavirus in Bihar to 176, said Sanjay Kumar, State Health Principal Secretary. 

Among the total people infected, 46 have recovered while two lives were claimed by the infectious disease.

Coronavirus in Rajasthan Latest Updates

36 new COVID-19 cases emerge in Rajasthan taking confirmed cases to 2,000

Rajasthan reported 36 fresh coronavirus cases taking the total number confirmed cases in the state to 2,000, ANI reported. Of the new cases, 18 were reported in Kota, 13 in Jaipur, four in Jhalawar and one in Bharatpur, said the Rajasthan Health Department.

Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Updates

Recovery rate of COVID-19 patients in Kerala at 70.48%

With an additional 10 COVID-19 cases reported on Thursday, the total positive cases in Kerala stood at 447, said chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The state reported three coronavirus-related deaths so far. 

While the recovery rate in the state was at 70.48% with 324 COVID-19 patients being cured.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Two of 121 held for attack against health workers contract COVID-19 in Padrayanpura 

Of the 121 people arrested for violence against health workers in Bengaluru, two have contracted the novel coronavirus in Padrayanpura ward in the city on Friday. Both of them who were lodged at Ramanagara jail have now been shifted to Victoria hospital in Bengaluru.

The remaining 119 accused have been shifted to the city, ANI reported.

Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Updates

Four-month-old dies of COVID-19 in Malappuram 

A four-month-old died of the novel coronavirus in Kerala’s Malappuram city after he tested positive for the infectious disease on Thursday. The infant succumbed to the virus on Friday morning at Kozhikode medical college.

“The child was undergoing treatment for heart-related problems for past three months and had pneumonia,” said the Malappuram District Medical Officer.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Modi to interact with sarpanchs at 11 am 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with sarpanchs from across the nation via video conferencing at 11 am on Friday. All of them will be able to join this interaction through Doordarshan, from their respective homes adhering to social distancing norms.

Those sarpanchs who will be sharing their views with Modi will be doing so by joining the interaction at a Common Service Centre close to them.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

India confirms 23,077 COVID-19 cases with 718 deaths, recovery rate at 20.58%

India’s coronavirus cases rose to 23,077 with 1,684 fresh cases, and the overall toll reached 718 with 37 new deaths on Thursday, according to the recent Union Health Ministry data. 

The number of active COVID-19 cases stood at 17,610  as 4,749 people were cured and discharged, and one patient migrated, the ministry said. Thus, about 20.58 percent of the cases have recovered so far.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Bengaluru lakes appear clearer as dumping of industrial wastage stops

Staying indoors and decreased industrial activities have led to the visible difference in the amount of garbage thrown in the lakes of Bengaluru. Bellandur lake, known for frothing and foaming, showed a slight change in terms of garbage dumping and the water looked clearer. 

However, the lake marshalls contradicted because the damage to the water bodies has been done over several years.

#IndiaFightsCOVID19 – Bengaluru’s frothing lake appears a bit clean due to the lockdown.

CNN-News18’s @RevathiRajeevan brings a ground report from Bellandur Lake, Bengaluru.#StayHome pic.twitter.com/zPIr228XlF

— News18 (@CNNnews18) April 24, 2020

Coronavirus in United States Latest Updates

US registers over 3,000 deaths in past 24 hrs

The novel coronavirus has killed nearly 50,000 people in the United States, after one of the deadliest days of the pandemic on Thursday which saw 3,176 deaths in 24 hours, according to Johns Hopkins University.

The deaths were recorded in the 24 hours up to 8.30 pm on Thursday, bringing the overall coronavirus toll in the US to 49,759, according to the Baltimore-based university.

The US, the worst-hit country in the world, now has 866,646 confirmed cases of coronavirus.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Kamakhya temple to call off Ambubachi Mela in view of COVID-19 

The management committee of Maa Kamakhya Devalaya has, in view of the COVID-19 pandemic, decided not to hold the annual Ambubachi Mela in June this year.

“Only traditional rituals associated with the festival will be performed. Pilgrims will not be allowed to visit the Kamakhya temple or stay on the temple premises,” a statement by the temple management committee issued in Guwahati on Thursday, said.

The committee has also notified residents of the areas near the temple atop Nilachal Hills not to let out their houses for the festival to visitors and pilgrims.

Coronavirus in United States Latest Updates

Donald Trump calls for phased reopening of US economy 

US President Donald Trump has favoured safe and phased reopening of the American economy, which has been devastated by the coronavirus pandemic that has killed more than 50,000 people and infected over eight lakh in a matter of few months.

More than 95 percent of the country’s 330 million people are under stay-at-home order as a result of the social mitigation measures including social distancing being enforced till 1 May.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Maharashtra cabinet minister Jitendra Awhad tests positive for COVID-19 

Maharashtra Housing Minister Jitendra Awhad tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The senior NCP leader and prominent Maharashtra cabinet minister had admitted himself to a private hospital in Thane for a precautionary check-up.

The minister had recently gone into self-isolation after some aides and security personnel were found to be COVID-19 positive. He had quarantined himself from 13 April, after 16 people close to him came positive including bodyguards and cook.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

In Photos: People at Byculla vegtable market buy supplies 

Maharashtra: People make purchases at Byculla vegetable market in Mumbai, amid #CoronavirusLockdown. pic.twitter.com/ctxw4dOEhL

— ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2020

Coronavirus in Tripura Latest Updates

Tripura becomes COVID-19 free after second patient tests negative: CM

Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb on Thursday said the state has become coronavirus- free after its second COVID-19 patient tested negative for the virus.

“UPDATE! The second coronavirus patient of Tripura has been found negative after consecutive tests. Hence our state has become COVID-free. I request everyone to maintain social distancing and follow government guidelines. Stay home stay safe,” the chief minister tweeted.

Tripura now has 111 coronavirus suspected cases under surveillance and 227 others have been placed under home quarantine.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Customers gather at Okhla vegetable market to buy supplies for Ramzan 

In view of Ramzan, which begins on Saturday, many gather at Okhla vegetable market in Delhi on Friday to buy supplies to avoid venturing out during Islam’s holiest month without further spreading the coronavirus outbreak.

A customer at the market said, “I’ve come here to buy one week’s supply of vegetables as Ramzan begins from Saturday. It’s advised not to venture out to the markets many times due to coronavirus.”

Delhi: Few customers at Okhla vegetable market during the extended lockdown period. A customer at the market says, "I've come here to buy one week's supply of vegetables as Ramzan begins from tomorrow. It's advised not to venture out to the markets many times due to coronavirus". pic.twitter.com/DFYb6XT1zV

— ANI (@ANI) April 24, 2020

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Updates

Sunlight, temp above 35 degrees can kill COVID-19 in 30 seconds: US Official

Sun light, heat and humidity can create conditions that are less favourable for the spread of coronavirus, a public health official of the Trump Administration has said.

The results of a just concluded scientific study conducted by the Science and Technology Directorate of the US Department of Homeland Security, announced during a White House news conference on coronavirus, could be good news for India in its fight against COVID-19.

“Coronavirus dies at a much more rapid pace when exposed to sunlight and humidity. The virus dies the quickest in direct sunlight. Isopropyl alcohol will kill the virus in 30 seconds,” Bill Bryan, the Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Science and Technology told White House reporters in the presence of President Donald Trump.

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Updates  

ICJ to function during COVID-19 pandemic, will hold meets via video conference

The  International Court of Justice (ICJ), the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, on Thursday released a press release saying that it would continue to function despite the containment measures put in place around the world to curb the fast-spreading coronavirus. 

With the help of modern technologies, the world court has made the necessary arrangements to hold virtual meetings via video conference during the pandemic. On Wednesday, it held the first virtual plenary meeting in its history.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

India registers 21,700 COVID-19 cases, toll nears 700

India’s coronavirus cases rose to 21,700 with 1,229 fresh cases, and the overall toll neared 700 with 34 new deaths on Thursday. The Union health ministry, meanwhile, said that it has been able to “cut coronavirus transmission”, minimise its spread and increase the doubling time of cases in the duration of the nationwide lockdown.

The number of active COVID-19 cases stood at 16,689 as 4,324 people were cured and discharged, and one patient migrated, the ministry said. Thus, about 19.93 percent of the cases have recovered so far. The total number of cases include 77 foreign nationals.