Coronavirus Outbreak Updates: COVID-19 cases in India cross 600; Modi, Kejriwal say discrimination against medical staff won't be tolerated

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

24,254 people have been tested for COVID-19: ICMR

A total of 25,144 samples from 24,254 people have been tested for the novel coronavirus, the Indian Council of Medical Research said on Wednesday. Of which, 581 people have tested positive.

Coronavirus in Germany Latest Updates

Angela Merkel tests negative for COVID-19

German chancellor Angela Merkel has tested negative for the novel coronavirus in a second test, CNN reported on Wednesday.

“The Chancellor’s second coronavirus test was negative. She continues to work from home and there she will be tested again at the beginning of next week,’’ the spokesperson confirmed.

Coronavirus in Spain Latest Updates

Spain deputy PM tests positive for COVID-19

Spain deputy prime minister Carmen Calvo reportedly tested positive for coronavirus on Wednesday. “She had tested negative in previous tests, the statement said, but doctors didn’t think those provided conclusive data. Calvo is receiving medical treatment and progressing favorably, the statement said. She’s in quarantine at a hospital,” CNN reported.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

3-yr-old tests positive for COVID-19 in Telangana

Two coronavirus positive cases were reported in Telangana on Wednesday, taking total positive cases in the state to 41. The first case, a woman in Hyderabad, is the family/primary contact of a positive case. The second case, a 3-year-old boy, has a travel history to Saudi Arabia, the Telangana government said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Another COVID-19 patient dies in Gujarat, says report

India Today reported that an 85-year-old woman has passed away due to the coronavirus in Gujarat, and that she had a travel history abroad.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Three patients recover in Maharashtra

Repeat samples of three people, admitted at Pune’s Naidu Hospital, have tested negative for COVID-19. They will be discharged from the hospital following due process, ANI reported.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

J&K admin to pay Rs 1,000 to 3.5 lakh construction workers

Jammu and Kashmir lieutenant governor Girish Chandra Murmu on Wednesday directed the Labour and Employment department to release Rs 1,000 to each of 3.50 lakh workers registered with Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board for purchase of ration during the 21 days lockdown period.

Coronvirus in India Latest Updates

Grofers, Big Basket, Zomato allowed to function in Noida

Reports said that the Noida Police has been directed that the online delivery services Grofers, Milk Basket, Zomato, Big Basket, Harvest Gold, Easy Day, and Spencer will be allowed to operate their services in Uttar Pradesh’s Noida.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Omar Abdullah slams Centre on denial on restoration of 4G services

National Conference leader Omar Abdullah on Wednesday criticised the government over its denial of restoring 4G internet services in Jammu and Kashmir.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

MHA says 4G internet services not restored in Jammu and Kashmir

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday refuted reports of the restoration of 4G services in Jammu and Kashmir. The statement said, “Neither the Ministry of Home Affairs nor the Government of Jammu and Kashmir has issued any such orders. The news report is not true.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

No one will starve: Kerala CM

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday said, “Kerala has taken extensive measures to ensure that no one will starve during lockdown. Will be implemented through Local Self Governments, ward-level committees and volunteers.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Sachin Pilot shares recommendation to reduce spread of COVID-19

Rajasthan deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot on Wednesday shared a “valuable recommendation” as a measure to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

AIIMS to begin tele-consultation facility

Director of AIIMS in Delhi said that the institute is going to start a “tele-consultation facility”. “Our follow-up patients can consult doctors through telephone. Several patients had appointments which are now cancelled. Chronic patients can consult doctors through this facility.”

“This will be rolled out in a day or two. Every department will have some doctors who will resolve the health related issues of the follow-up patients. All health services personnel — doctors, nursing officers, OT technicians, administrative staff, have been working 24/7. Some are monitoring patients in Jhajjar, some are making preparations to look after COVID patients for which we’ve done several rehearsals,” he added.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

IndiGo offers aircraft to distribute relief material in country

The IndiGo airline on Wednesday offered the Centre its aircraft and crew to transport medicine, equipment, relief material across country, PTI reported.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

One more COVID-19 case reported in Rajkot

One more coronavirus positive case has been reported in Rajkot, the Gujarat government said. A total of 39 positive cases have been reported in Gujarat so far: ​

“Till now 147 FIRs has been registered for quarantine break,” the governemnt said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

MHA says helplines are available for inconvenience in receiving goods

Punya Salila Srivastava, joint secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday said, “Helplines have been set up to address the challenges being faced by people for transportation, so that goods can reach the destination. We’re also working with e-commerce companies and states/UTs, if people want to get supplies through e-commerce.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Centre working to produce protective gear locally: Health ministry

In its daily briefing, the health ministry said on Wednesday, “As far as personal protective equipment (PPE) and masks are concerned, most of these have some imported components. There had been disruption in import of certain components required for PPEs-masks. Govt has been aware of situation from the time cases started happening in other parts of world.

“We prohibited export of masks-PPEs as early as 31 Jan. We’ve also started analysing the technical guidelines with respect to what type of PPEs can be put to use based on the type of virus. We’ve started analysing the suppliers available in India.

“We’re taking their support to ensure that we can get production through these indigenous buyers also. We have even contacted DRDO & BEL and we are taking support of all such agencies to see that we have sufficient availability in India.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Two COVID-19 patients recover in Maharashtra

The first two COVID-19 cases in Maharashtra were discharged from hospital after their full recovery from the disease, as confirmed by 2 successive negative samples during follow-up period, the state public health department said.

Coronavirus in US Latest Updates

US citizens in India to be ‘safely’ taken back

The US Embassy in India said that the US government is working with the Indian government to take back its citizens who are still in India.

“We are in contact with the Indian government to emphasize the need for hotels to continue to lodge US citizens. US Mission to India continues to work with the US Department of State and airline companies to arrange flights from India to US, for our citizens. Once these flights are arranged, we will work with the Indian government to arrange to the greatest extent possible safe passage to airports for US citizens,” the statement said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

 Third COVID-19 death reported in Maharashtra

IndiaSpend reported , “Another death due to COVID-19 has been reported in Maharashtra, increasing the state’s tally to three and country’s to ten. Total COVID19 cases in India have reached 606 as of 25 March​.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Health ministry reiterates hydroxychloroquine is only for healthcare workers 

“There’s a medicine, Hydroxychloroquine. It can only be given to 2 particular cases for use as prophylaxis, healthcare workers, dealing with suspected/confirmed cases, and the first contacts of confirmed cases. No one else should use this,” Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Health Ministry said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Delhi authorities tell those in Maujpur mohalla clinic to self-isolate

The Shahdara sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) said, “All those who visited or were present at the Mohalla Clinic in the Mohanpuri area of Maujpur in Delhi between 12 March to 18 March are directed to home quarantine for 15 days, after a confirmed coronavirus positive case was reported from the clinic.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Health ministry says no community transmission in India

Health ministry joint secretary Lav Agarwal told CNN-News18 that no community transmission of the novel coronavirus has been reported in India yet. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a nationwide 21-day complete lockdown on Tuesday.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

606 COVID-19 cases reported in India, 42 cured

The total number of coronavirus positive cases have risen to 606 in India (including 553 active cases, 42 cured/discharged people and 10 deaths), the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Wednesday.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Karnataka COVID-19 cases rise to 51

The Karnataka government said that fifty-one coronavirus cases have been confirmed in the state till Wednesday, including 10 new cases in the last 24 hours, ANI reported. Out of these cases, three people have been cured/discharged, while one has died due to the virus.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Kejriwal says discrimination against medical staff won’t be tolerated

Arvind Kejriwal said, “Some landlords are threatening to evict doctors/nurses from their houses. They’re saying they’ll (medical perosnnel) spread the coronavirus. It won’t be tolerated. God forbid, if someone gets infected from your house then they, and no one else, will come to your rescue..”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Delhi govt to provide e-passes for those in essential services

Arvind Kejriwal said that in the duration of the 21-day complete lockdown to tackle the coronavirus, people involved in essential services will be issued an e-pass “You can reach out to us at 1031 to avail the e-pass,” he said.

“People who buy from their local grocery shops — located in their neighborhood or colonies, don’t need curfew passes. People don’t need any pass for walking up to their local grocery shops. You can buy vegetables, medicines, milk&other things from your local grocery shops,” he said.

He added, “It is government’s responsibility that essential services are provided to all. For people who are working during the lockdown, and have government IDs, they will be allowed to move in the city if they show their IDs. Private hospital and media IDs will also work.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Kejriwal says 5 new COVID-19 cases reported in Delhi

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said that in the last 24 hours, five new coronavirus cases have been reported in Delhi. “One of them has foreign travel history. Now, the total number of cases rises to 35 in Delhi,” he said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Harsh Vardhan chairs high-level meeting on COVID-19

A high-level meeting of the Group of Ministers (GoM) on coronavirus was held at Nirman Bhawan on Wednesday under the leadership of Health Minister Harsh Vardhan. The GoM detailed the deliberation on the prevention and management of COVID-19 in the meeting, ANI reported.

Coronavirus in Switzerland Latest Updates

Roger Federer donates £8,57,000 for COVID-19-affected families 

Tennis player Roger Federer on Wednesday donated £8,57,000 to ‘most vulnerable’ Swiss families amid coronavirus crisis.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Medanta MD says complete lockdown is necessary

Dr Naresh Trehan, Chairman and MD of Medanta, said that the 21-day nationwide lockdown is necessary because “Indians are not disciplined”.

Coronavirus in US Latest Updates

Chef Floyd Cardoz passes away due to COVID-19

Chef Floyd Cardoz of the Bombay Canteen and O Pedro restaurants passed away after testing positive for the coronavirus, reports said on Wednesday. Reportedly, the 59-year-old had flown from New York City to Bombay for a Bombay Canteen celebratory dinner and all guests were informed after he tested positive for the infection.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Madhya Pradesh reports first COVID-19 death

Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday reported its first coronavirus death, a woman who succumbed to viral infection, an official was quoted by PTI as saying.

Meanwhile, the total number of cases in India rose to 603.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Don’t attempt to treat COVID-19 on your own: Modi

In an address to the people Varanasi on Wednesday, Modi said, “You should not attempt to treat Coronavirus infection on your own. Stay at your home, do things only after consulting a doctor. Call them up, ask them, tell them your ailments. We will have to note that no vaccine has been developed for it so far, anywhere in the world.”

“Scientists in India and across the world are working on a cure, work is going on rapidly. If someone recommends you a medicine then kindly talk to your doctor first. Take medicine only after consulting a doctor.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Modi says report bad behaviour towards medical staff

“I appeal to all the citizens, if you notice any incident where professionals, such as doctors and nurses, are ill-treated then you should take an initiative to make such people (those who are ill-treating healthcare professionals) understand that they are wrong. I have told Home Ministry and DGPs to take strict action against those who are not supporting or not co-operating with doctors, nurses & other professionals who are serving us in this critical time,” Narendra Modi said in his address to the citizens of Varanasi on Wednesday.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

People in white coats are like God right now, says Modi, warns against discrimination

Narendra Modi, noting reports of doctors facing discrimination because of treating coronavirus patients in several parts of the country, said that he is very pained with discriminatory behaviour against the staff of essential services. Warning against discrimination, he said that “people in white coats and doctors are like God right now, they are protecting us”.

He also appealed for help towards the underprivileged. “Everyone must strive to help at least nine people during nine days of Navratri.”

Coronavirus in US Latest Updates

US says those ‘intentionally’ spreading COVID-19 could be charged as terrorists

The US Justice Department was quoted by Politico as saying that the people who are “intentionally spreading” the novel coronavirus could face charges under the US’ federal terrorism laws.

“In a memo to top Justice Department leaders, law enforcement agency chiefs and US Attorneys across the country, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen said prosecutors and investigators could come across cases of “purposeful exposure and infection of others with COVID-19,” the report said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Modi shares Whatsapp helpline number

The Centre has formed a help desk in collaboration with WhatsApp to seek correct information about the novel coronavirus, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a video conference with the citizens of Varanasi on Wednesday. “If you have access to WhatsApp, you can use the number 9013151515 for the purpose. If you write ‘Namaste’ on this WhatsApp number, either in English or in Hindi, then you will get an immediate response,” he said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Modi interacts with Varanasi citizens over video

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday spoke to citizens of Varanasi via video conferencing, a day after he announced the Centre’s plan of a complete lockdown to tackle the coronavirus spread. He is the representative of the Varanasi constituency in the Parliament.

“Today is the first day of Navratri, you all must be busy in performing rituals and offering prayers, but still you took out time for this interaction, I’m grateful to all of you. I pray to Goddess Shailputri to give us the strength to fight country’s battle against coronavirus. As the MP of Varanasi, I should have been among you in times like these. But you know the things which are going on in Delhi. Despite being busy here, I’ve been taking regular updates about Varanasi from my colleagues,” he was quoted as saying.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Four more COVID-19 cases in Kashmir

Reports on Wednesday said that four more people have tested positive for the novel coronavirus in the Kashmir Valley. Reportedly, all the patients are from the Bandipora district.

“Preliminary findings suggest they were close contacts of Srinagar patient who tested positive yesterday. All 5 reported to have participated together in religious event. Total 8 Positive cases in Kashmir now,” a report by News18 Urdu said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Journalist at Kamal Nath’s presser tests positive for COVID-19

The Madhya Pradesh government said that a journalist who attended former chief minister Kamal Nath’s press conference on 20 March has tested positive for coronavirus and advised all other attendees to “immediately” self-quarantine and stay away from their family members.

“If anybody wants to know more can call 0755-2704201 for further details,” the statement said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

IndiGo, SpiceJet suspend operations till 14 April

Commercial airlines IndiGo and SpiceJet on Wednesday issued statements saying that all their operations were cancelled till 14 April, in view of the 21-day complete lockdown ordered by the Centre to tackle the spread of coronavirus.

While IndiGo said that the reimbursement for the cancelled flights will be kept in the form of a ‘credit shell’ and can be used for booking flights before 30 September 2020, SpiceJet said that the credit amount must be exhausted before 28 February.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

People practice social distancing across India

People on Wednesday practiced social distancing in various parts of India, including Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address to the nation on Tuesday had appealed to people to maintain social distancing to combat COVID-19.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Centre issues notification regulating price of surgical masks

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution on Wednesday issued a notification regulating the price of surgical masks, which is a crucial protective gear against the coronavirus infection. The price is to be not more than Rs 16, the notification said.

Spain surpasses China toll, records second highest number of deaths after Italy

Spain has now the world’s second highest tally of coronavirus deaths after a 738 spike was recorded Wednesday, the highest so far in one day. With 3,434, Spain surpassed China’s 3,285 and has more than half of Italy’s 6,820.Official figures show that 2,696 people have now died in the country and close to 40,000 are infected.

Harvard president, wife test positive for coronavirus

Harvard President Lawrence S. Bacow said he and his wife have tested positive for coronavirus. “We started experiencing symptoms on Sunday—first coughs then fevers, chills, and muscle aches—and contacted our doctors on Monday,” he said in a statement to the Harvard community Tuesday. “We were tested yesterday and just received the results a few minutes ago.”

Bacow said he’s not sure how he and his wife contracted the virus, but said “far fewer people crossed our paths recently than is usually the case” as they both began working from home on 14 March."

Prince Charles test positive for COVID-19

The Prince of Wales, Charles has tested positive for coronavirus Wednesday,  BBC  reported. 

The Duchess of Cornwall, 72, has also been tested but does not have the virus. Clarence House said Charles and Camilla were now self-isolating at Balmoral, adding the prince “has been working at home throughout the last few days”.  

Charles is next in line of succession. The Queen of England, however, has not tested positive for the virus.

No newspaper delivery in Mumbai till March 31

The newspaper vendors’ association decided that newspaper delivery will remain suspended till 31 March. The move comes amid efforts to implement the lockdown orders.

Pakistan suspends domestic flight after cases soar past 1,000

Pakistan has suspended all domestic flight operations until 2 April to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus after the country reported over 1,000 cases and seven deaths from the COVID-19 infection, authorities said on Wednesday.

The nationwide tally of COVID-19 patients touched 1,037 with 413 cases in Sindh; 115 in Balochistan; 296 in Punjab; 117 in K-P; 80 in Gilgit-Baltistan; 15 in Islamabad; and one in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, The Express Tribune reported.

 Govt suspends NPR, Census 2021 data collection

The Government of India has suspended data collection for updation of the National Population Register and the first phase of Census 2021. The exercise will remain suspended until further orders, ANI reported.

Assam Police enforces social distancing at tea estate 

Indian Railways extends suspension of passenger trains till 14 April

The Indian Railways has extended the cancellation of all passenger trains and suburban trains till 2400 hours of 14 April, 2020.

Vivo donates over 1 lakh masks to Maharashtra healthcare workers

Smartphone maker Vivo India on Wednesday donated over one lakh masks to healthcare workers in Maharashtra.

Maharashtra reported five new coronavirus cases since Tuesday evening, taking the number of cases in the state to 116, the highest in the country so far.

“In response to the current COVID-19 outbreak, Vivo, the global smartphone brand today donated one lakh medical masks to Government of Maharashtra. The company also donated 5,000 N-95 masks that are designed to filter airborne particles,” Vivo said in a statement.

Reports say Bhopal scribe who attended Kamal Nath presser tests positive for COVID-19

A journalist from Bhopal, who had also attended Kamal Nath’s last press conference as chief minister of Madhya Pradesh, has tested positive for coronavirus, say reports. Following this, almost all Journalists in the city have been asked to stay in quarantine now.

Vaishno Devi temple shut for public on Chaitra Navratri 

Adhering to the 21-day nationwide shutdown, the Mata Vaishni Devi Trust has decided to keep the temple closed for pilgrims to beat coronavirus, despite the start of auspicious period of Chaitra Navratri.

Mumbai police confiscates 1 crore fake face masks from Ville Parle 

EC allows use of indelible ink to mark quarantined COVID-19 suspected and confirmed cases

The Election Commission has allowed the use of indelible ink to stamp people, who have been advised to stay under quarantine.

Kiran Mazumdar Shaw expresses concern over police high handedness in imposing curfew

Karnataka Police enforces social distancing 

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

RIL overtakes TCS to become most valued firm again as shares jump 10%
 

Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) on Wednesday surpassed Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) to become the most valued domestic firm by market capitalisation during morning trade following a spike in its share price.

The company’s scrip zoomed 9.74 percent to Rs 1,035 on the BSE. On the NSE, it climbed 9.61 percent to Rs 1,034.10.

Tracking gains in the share price, the company’s market valuation also rose to Rs 6,49,838.31 crore. With this, the company surpassed TCS to become the most valued domestic firm by market capitalisation.

Home Ministry says warehouses, cold storages associated with essential supplies allowed to function

Home Secretary Amitabh Kant told CNN-News18 that the Home Ministry guildelines are absolutely clear, with resoect to allowing essential services.  I have spoken personally to chief secretaries to make sure supply chain of essentials is not broken. I have no doubt in mind that the situation will improve and day to day essentials will be provided to citizens

We will keep speaking to district administrations to ensure essentials like milk, food are provided to citizens, Initial there was lack of clarity. But guidelines are very clear on e-commerce and kirana stores. We will make sure the supply chain is not broken. Warehouses and cold storages will be allowed to function so that supply chain is not broken

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Maharashtra count shoots up to 116 as 5 more test positive in Sangli

In Maharashtra, the total number of COVID-19 patients shot up to 116 on Wednesday after five of a family tested positive for coronavirus in Sangli. The family had come in contact with a coronavirus carrier unknowingly. Furthermore, four people from Mumbai tested positive for the virus due to a direct travel history or contacts, Maharashtra health minister Rajesh Tope said.

Qatar Airways says trying to add more planes to international fleet on need basis

“As at 24 March, we are operating services to over 70 cities worldwide. We are constantly reviewing our operations to see where there is more demand and requests, and wherever possible we will add more flights or bigger aircraft. This is a challenging time for the aviation industry, and we are thankful to airports and authorities and their staff around the world for their incredible efforts to help us get passengers home.”

Celebrate Gudi Padwa after crisis is resolved: Uddhav Thackeray’s message to Maharashtra

Uddhav Thackeray addressed the people of Maharshtra via social media on the occassion of Gudi Padwa. “We have sufficient stock of essential commodities like vegetables, rice & other items of daily use, so there is no need to worry. All shops selling essential goods are open too. We will celebrate Gudi Padwa once we tackle this crisis,” he said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Union Cabinet meeting at 3 pm to review coronavirus threat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair a meeting of the Union Cabinet at 3 pm today to analyse COVID-19 threat in India as the count crossed 500 today. The prime minister will also review the response of the first day of an unprecedented nationwide lockdown. The government is also expected to finalise a economic package to cushion the blow the pandemic has dealt to the economy,

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Uttarakhand announces free medical insurance for essential service providers

Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat announces in assembl today that health officials, Police personnel, mediapersons, doctors and medical staff working at government hospitals will be provided with free medical insurance,

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Experts peg India’s cost of COVID-19 lockdown at Rs 9.11  lakh cr

Pegging the cost of the COVID-19 lockdown at $120 billion (approximately Rs 9.11 lakh crore) or 4 per cent of the GDP, analysts on Wednesday sharply cut their growth estimates and stressed on the need to announce an economic package.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), which is scheduled to announce its first bi-monthly policy review on April 3, is set to deliver a deep rate cuts and it should also be assumed that the fiscal deficit targets will be breached, analysts said.

Coronavirus in Rajasthan Latest Updates

Rajasthan’s total count rises to 36 after two medical staffers, two others test positive

Four new Coronavirus positive cases have been reported in the state today. Two of the four positive persons are members of the medical staff in Bhilwara. Total number of cases in the state rise to 36.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Maharashtra’s first COVID-19 patient recovers

A Pune-based couple, who were the first coronavirus patients in Maharashtra, have now twice tested negative for the deadly coronavirus and are set to be discharged from hospital on Wednesday, Livemint reported. 

“Their first samples after 14 days of isolation period tested negative on Monday. The repeat samples were sent in next 24 hours on Tuesday and in that also, the couple tested negative,” an official from the Pune civic body’s health department said. 

The couple and their daughter were part of a 40-member tourist group that returned to Mumbai from Dubai on March 1.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

No shortage of essential commodities during lockdown, says Kejriwal

In a press briefing, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal urged the people not to panic about the availability of essential commodities during the 21-day nationwide lockdown. “We will issues E-passes for those providing essential services, so that they can open their shops and factories for these services,” he said.

“We have to ensure that we don’t step out of our houses. It is our (the government’s) responsibility to ensure that shops open and commodities like vegetables, milk, medicines and other products reach you,” Kejriwal added.

Further, a helpline number 011-23469536 to reach the police commissioner’s office has been announced for use by those facing any non-cooperation or lack of help from the cops.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

UP govt grants Rs 50 crore to mitigate COVID-19 pandemic

The Uttar Pradesh government announced an additional Rs 50 crore for state health department in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

A unique punishment for those flouting lockdown in J&K

People in Jammu, who were flouting restrictions that have been imposed amid the 21-day-long nationwide lockdown, were made to sit in circles drawn to maintain social distance

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Gujarat store enforces social distancing

As people queued outside stores to stock up essentials after a 21-day nationwide lockdown was imposed from Wednesday onwards, a shop in Mundra, Gujarat drew boxes for waiting customers to stand in as they waited their turns.

After the lockdown was announced, long queues were seen outsides stores, raising concerns about the lack of social distancing leading to the spread of COVID-19.

Coronavirus in Japan Latest Updates

Tokyo Olympics 2020 postponed until 2021; to be branded ‘Tokyo 2020’

Japan and the Olympics movement decided on Tuesday to delay this year’s Tokyo Games into 2021 as the coronavirus crisis obliterated the world’s last major imminent sporting event.

It was the first time in the Olympics’ 124-year history that they had been postponed, though they were cancelled outright several times during the two 20th century World Wars.

After a call with International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach, Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said the 24 July 24-9 August event would be rescheduled for the summer of 2021 at the latest as proof of victory over the coronavirus.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Samples of 2 patients hospitalised in Noida test negative

The latest samples of two coronavirus patients, taken after 14 days in isolation at a hospital in Nodia, were negative for COVID-19 and they could be discharged if the same result is seen in the final test to be done in two days, officials said on Wednesday.

Gautam Buddh Nagar in Uttar Pradesh has so far recorded 11 positive cases of coronavirus, of which one person has already been discharged after treatment, district health officials said.

Two men were hospitalised at Government Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS) in Greater Noida when they tested positive for coronavirus. They underwent another test after 14 days and the result of that is negative. Now one more test will be done on them in 48 hours and if they again test negative for it then they will be discharged,î Chief Medical Officer Anurag Bhargava told PTI.

By Tuesday evening, 362 samples were sent for coronavirus test from Gautam Buddh Nagar, of which 11 have resulted positive and 259 negative. Results for 93 samples were awaited, according to health department data.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Curfew relaxed in Punjab

The curfew clamped in Punjab to check the spread of coronavirus was relaxed on Wednesday to let people buy essential commodities, officials said.

In many parts of the state, the curfew was relaxed from 6 am to 9 am for buying milk, vegetables and fruits and then from 8 am to 11 am for purchasing groceries and medicines, they said.

Though milk was delivered at people’s doorstep in most parts of the state, they were allowed to visit neighbourhood shops for buying vegetables and other items of daily needs, as per initial reports.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

49 test report results awaited in Chhattisgarh

The coronavirus test results of 49 people in Chhattisgarh are awaited and strict surveillance is being maintained all over the state to check the spread of the viral infection, a health official said on Wednesday.

Only one COVID-19 case has been reported in the state so far. The 24-year-old woman, who tested positive for the deadly virus on 18 March, is recovering well while undergoing treatment at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Raipur, the official said.

The government has strengthened the surveillance and control measures against the virus, he said. “Out of 183 samples in Chhattisgarh examined till Monday, only one was found positive,” he said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

3 new cases in Gujarat; total rises to 38

The number of COVID-19 cases in Gujarat has gone up to 38 as three more people tested positive for the coronavirus on Wednesday, a health department official said.

On Wednesday morning, one new case each was reported from Ahmedabad, Surat and Vadodara, principal secretary (health) Jayanti Ravi told reporters. Out of the three new cases, one patient has history of travel to Dubai, while the two others are cases of local transmission of the viral infection, she said.

With this, total number of cases in Ahmedabad is 14, Surat and Vadodara-seven each, Gandhinagar-six, Rajkot-three and Kutch-one, she said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Maharashtra tally at 112 after five more test positive

Maharashtra reported five new coronavirus cases since Tuesday night, taking the number of cases in the state to 112, the highest in the country so far, officials said.

The latest cases are from Sangli district, where five members of a family in Islampur tested coronavirus positive, the officials said on Wednesday.“We are checking if the five have a recent travel history within India or outside,” an official said.

Ten more cases were detected in the state on Tuesday, and eight were confirmed late on Monday night.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

NPR, first phase of Census deferred due to countrywide lockdown

The exercise to update the National Population Register (NPR) and the first phase of the Census-2021 have been deferred indefinitely due to the 21-day lockdown announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, officials said on Tuesday. The two exercises were supposed to be carried out from 1 April to 30 September.

Due to the prevailing situation, the NPR and Census exercises have been deferred till further orders, a senior home ministry official said.

The home ministry had recently said the preparation for the Census 2021 and updation of the NPR were at its peak and will begin from 1 April. The ministry said this after a conference of the Directors of the Census Operations on status of preparatory work around Census 2021 and NPR updation.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

UN expresses solidarity with India, WHO terms lockdown ‘comprehensive and robust’

The UN has expressed solidarity with India in its fight against coronavirus, with a top official at the world body’s health agency praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 21-day nationwide lockdown as a “comprehensive and robust” response to the raging COVID-19 pandemic.

Globally, the death toll from the coronavirus has risen to 18,915 with more than 422,900 cases reported in over 165 countries and territories, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

The number of coronavirus cases in India stood at 562 on Wednesday with nine COVID-19 deaths reported so far, according to Health Ministry data.

In an attempt to stem the spread of coronavirus in India, Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday announced a nationwide lockdown for three weeks.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

MHA tells private security agencies not to lay off guards or cut salaries

The Union Home Ministry has asked private security agencies not to lay off guards or deduct their salaries during the 21-day lockdown period announced to combat the coronavirus pandemic.

In a letter to the Central Association of Private Security Industry, CII, FICCI and ASSOCHAM and others, the Home Ministry said India was facing an unprecedented situation arising out of the COVID-19 outbreak.

This has also affected economic activity and it is possible that private security agencies may be impacted due to closure of shops, malls and other establishments. “This is the time for the private security industry to adopt a humane approach and protect its workers and staff members from lay-offs and consequent decrease in earnings.

“I would, therefore, urge the industry for empathy with its workforce, vital to its functioning, and ensure that these workers continue to be treated on duty and paid accordingly,” the ministry said in its letter.

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Five in Indore test positive; MP cases rise to 14

Five persons admitted in different hospitals of Indore have tested positive for the coronavirus, taking the number of COVID-19 cases in Madhya​ Pradesh to 14, health officials said on Wednesday. None of the patients in Indore have a history of travel to abroad.

The five COVID-19 patients in Indore include a woman from neighbouring Ujjain while others are residents of Indore,Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr Anusuya Gawli said.

Earlier, six positive coronavirus cases were reported from Jabalpur and one each from Bhopal, Gwalior and Shivpuri. Meanwhile, curfew has also been imposed in Ujjain city of Madhya Pradesh in view of the coronavirus crisis.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

BigBasket services impacted 

Alibaba-backed online grocer BigBasket said its services had been impacted. “We are working with the local authorities for the passes and permits that allow movement of personnel and vehicles involved,” BigBasket said in a statement. The company also said it was booked for the next seven days in almost all the cities it operated in, highlighting stockpiling by customers.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Second COVID-19 death from Delhi negative, says Home Ministry; revised toll at 9 in India

The Home Ministry on Wednesday clarified that the second death reported in Delhi  was COVID-19 negative. Ten deaths so far have been reported from Maharashtra (two), Bihar, Karnataka, Gujarat, Punjab, Delhi, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Himachal Pradesh. According to the data, the number of active COVID-19 cases stood at 512 while 41 people have been cured/discharged or migrated. The figure includes 43 foreign nationals, the Health Ministry said.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Sensex falls 200 points; Nifty below 7,800

The Sensex fell 191.60 points to 0.72 percent to 26,482.43 and the Nifty was down 49.40 points or 0.63 percent to 7,751.65 at 10 AM. About 435 shares have advanced, 699 shares declined, and 63 shares are unchanged.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

277 people evacuated from Iran reach Army facility in Jodhpur

A batch of 277 people evacuated from the coronavirus-hit Iran arrived at the Jodhpur airport in Rajasthan on Wednesday early morning, a defence spokesperson said. He said preliminary screening of the evacuees, mostly pilgrims, was conducted at the airport upon arrival and thereafter they were taken to the Army Wellness Facility set up at the Jodhpur Military Station.

They were flown in from Iran, which has been severely affected by the deadly infection. The Army, in coordination with the Rajasthan state medical authorities and civil administration, has made adequate medical and administrative arrangements to ensure a comfortable stay for the evacuees and provide prophylactic medical support, he said.

Additional Chief Secretary (Health) Rohit Kumar Singh said that 273 of the evacuees are pilgrims.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

VISUALS: People practising social-distancing across India while grocery shopping

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

33 year old in Lucknow becomes first case of contact transmission

A 33-year-old resident of Pilibhit has been tested positive for coronavirus on Wednesday. “He doesn’t have any travel history, it is a confirmed case of contact transmission,” Dr Sudhir Singh, King George’s Medical University, Lucknow told ANI.

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MHA asks states to check rumours about shortage of food, essential commodities

In the wake of the 21-day lockdown period, the Union Home Ministry has asked state governments to check the spread of rumours about the shortage of food and other essential commodities.

In a communication to chief secretaries and DGPs of all states, the ministry asked them to take action to allay apprehensions and maintain peace and tranquillity, and inform people about the availability of food, medicine and other essential commodities.

The ministry said that in the wake of the orders issued under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 (for lockdown), there were possibilities of rumour-mongering, including those about a shortage of food and other essential services and commodities.

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US newspapers urge China not to expel their journalists

The publishers of three major American newspapers have written an open letter asking China to reverse its recent decision to expel many of their correspondents working in the country.

The letter posted online on Tuesday referred to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, saying the expulsions threaten access to information at a time when it is needed most. It was signed by the publishers of The New York Times, The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal.

“This move ó made in retaliation for recent expulsions by the United States government ó is one that we would protest under any circumstances,” they wrote.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Cases in India climb to 562 

The number of coronavirus cases reached 562 in India, with active cases stand at 512, the Health Ministry said on Wednesday. This includes 40 cured/discharged patients and 9 deaths.

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New Zealand reports 50 new cases; says cases to rise

New Zealand on Wednesday reported 47 new confirmed cases of coronavirus and three probable cases, ahead of the country heading into a complete lockdown at midnight.

New Zealand’s Director-General of Health, Dr Ashley Bloomfield, said at a news conference that the number of cases will continue to rise for at least 10 days before a turnaround.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Sensex up 500 pts, Nifty above 7,900; except Nifty PSU Bank all other sectoral indices in the green

Sensex is up 353.09 points or 1.32 percent at 27027.12, and the Nifty up 97.55 points or 1.25% at 7898.60 as markets opened on Wednesday. About 243 shares have advanced, 348 shares declined, and 35 shares are unchanged.

RIL, Cipla, Tech Mahindra, Bajaj Finance, Hindalco, Gail and Wipro are among major gainers, while losers are IndusInd Bank, Axis Bank, L&T and Maruti Suzuki in the initial trade.

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COVID-19 epicentre Wuhan resumes bus services, China reports 47 new imported cases

Wuhan, the epicentre of the novel coronavirus pandemic, on Wednesday resumed bus services within the city for the first time since the nine-week lockdown even as 47 new imported cases were reported from the country, threatening the second wave of infections.

China on Tuesday decided to lift the three-month lockdown on more than 56 million people in the central Hubei province. However, the prolonged lockdown of Hubei’s capital Wuhan will end on April 8, lifting the mass quarantine over the city with a population of over 11 million.

While Hubei and Wuhan have not reported any new COVID-19 case, four people died in the city taking the death toll in China to 3,281, the National Health Commission (NHC) said.

China on Wednesday said that no new domestically transmitted case was reported on the Chinese mainland on Tuesday.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Liquor majors Diageo, Radico to make hand sanitisers

Led by market leader Diageo, the liquor industry is joining hands with state governments to fight the coronavirus pandemic by manufacturing and supplying hand sanitisers.

The coronavirus pandemic has led to a high demand for sanitisers as hand washing is an effective way to keep the infection away. Liquor companies like Diageo and Radico Khaitan have decided to stop bottling alcohol at some of their plants and instead make hand sanitisers following an appeal by the government and a promise to give them the needed permits.

“We will support the government and the hospitality sector during this pandemic by manufacturing 3 lakh litres of bulk hand sanitisers from our 15 units across the country,” Anand Kripalu, managing director and chief executive officer of Diageo India, said.

As part of the initiative, the company will also donate 5 lakh litres of ENA (Extra Neutral Alcohol), which is a key ingredient in making sanitisers, to the sanitiser industry, he said in a statement. This amount of ENA can produce more than 2 million units (250 ml each) of hand sanitisers, he added.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

West Bengal converts state-run hospital into COVID-19 isolation unit

The West Bengal government has started discharging patients from a state-run hospital and stopped admitting new ones to the institute to convert the entire facility into an isolation and treatment centre for people suspected to be infected with coronavirus, a senior health official said on Wednesday.

“From Tuesday, we have started discharging patients who are in better condition from Medical College Hospital, Kolkata. We have also stopped admitting new patients, especially those who are pregnant and are referring them to other hospitals.

“This is as per the state government’s plan to convert the entire hospital, which has 2,200 beds, into an isolation and treatment centre for persons suspected to be infected with the coronavirus,” he said.

Coronavirus in US Latest Updates

Warner Bros postpones summer releases Wonder Woman 1984, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s In the Heights

Warner Bros on Tuesday delayed the summer release of Wonder Woman 1984 and removed the adaptation of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s In the Heights from its schedule due to the coronavirus pandemic.

With much of Hollywood’s spring release calendar already vacated due to the virus, major summer movies are also increasingly reshuffling. Wonder Woman 1984, the sequel to 2017′s Wonder Woman, will now hit theaters on 14 August instead of 5 June.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

29-year-old tests positive in Patna

Another person test positive for coronavirus in Patna’s Nalanda Medical College and Hospital, taking the total number of cases to 4 in Bihar. The 29-year-old man had returned to Patna from Gujarat’s Bhavnagar. His travel history would be thoroughly checked by the administration, Ajay Sinha, Nodal Officer, Nalanda Medical College and Hospital told ANI.

Coronavirus in US Latest Updates

Ivanka Trump lauds hotel chain OYO for offering free stays to doctors in US

Ivanka Trump, the senior advisor to President Donald Trump, has lauded an initiative by Ritesh Agarwal-founded Indian start-up OYO Hotels to offer free stays to doctors, nurses in the US helping in the fight against the novel coronavirus, describing the gesture as “impactful acts of benevolence”.

She made her comment as she retweeted a press release by the OYO, which said that the start-up is “opening the doors to its hotels” and offering free stays to doctors, nurses and other medical first responders who are helping in the fight against Coronavirus (COVID-19). 

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Shashi Tharoor asks Maharashtra govt to help stranded truck drivers in Thane

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday called for Maharashtra Chief Minister’s Office to help Kerala truck drivers stranded in Bhiwandi without food, water or toilet facilities who were returning from Gujarat after delivering fruits and vegetable. “Could Maharashtra government kindly instruct police to allow them to go to Kerala?” he tweeted. 

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First 2 positive cases of Maharashtra recover, to be discharged today

Two persons, who were tested positive for COVID-19 two weeks ago, have now tested negative for the deadly infection, an official said on Wednesday.  Both the patients, who were the first two positive cases of Maharashtra, will be discharged on Wednesday.

As per the Maharashtra Health Department on Tuesday, six more people have tested positive for coronavirus in the state, taking the total count in the state on Tuesday to 107.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

BSE, NSE to conduct normal operations despite lockdown 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a 21-day nationwide lockdown as part of efforts to curb spreading of coronavirus infections. An NSE spokesperson said operations would be normal at the exchange on Wednesday.

“BSE day to operations @BSEIndia will continue,” the bourse’s MD and CEO Ashishkumar Chauhan said in a tweet. All capital and debt market services notified by markets regulator Sebi would be exempted from the lockdown, as per the government notification

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Narendra Modi says New Year celebrations ‘might not be same this year’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended this wishes on Wednesday which marked New Year celebrations in various states across India. He noted in view of the current situation in the country which is fighting against the coronavirus outbreak, the celebrations “might not be the same this year.”

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Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

MLA says he will set up vegetable markets in housing societies to prevent panic buying

Despite the complete lockdown announced by the government, long queues of vehicles and crowds was seen at all across Mumbai and Thane as people scramble to stock up supplies due to panic buying on late Tuesday night. To prevent panic buying, Mulund MLA Mihir Kotecha has told people he will set up vegetable Stalls in societies with 100 or more flats so that people don’t have to go out in the market. 

He said, “In case your society wants a vendor to come to the society, please send an email on vegetables.mulund@gmail.com  or WhatsApp the letter on 9223450050 from the society addressing it to MLA Mihir Kotecha, with a name and number of the contact person in the building. Also mention the time slot convenient to the society.”

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Centre directs all states/UT’s to ensure movement of essential services 

The Centre has asked the state governments to ensure unhindered operation of essential services and their seamless availability for the general public during the 21-day lockdown period announced to deal with the coronavirus outbreak.

In a communication to chief secretaries and DGPs of all states, the Union Home Ministry said all states and UTs should actively enforce social distancing and isolation for COVID-19 through lockdown and prohibitory measures with exemptions for supply chain and transportation of essential goods and services in and out of the state.

The ministry said while it was imperative to successfully implement the notified lockdown/restrictions, it was also necessary to ensure the unhindered operations of manufacturing, processing, transportation, distribution, storage, trade/commerce and logistics related to all services/establishments and commodities required for the delivery of essential services, which have been exempted under the various prohibitory orders.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

West Bengal Imams’ body restricts entry of people into mosques

With the coronavirus outbreak triggering lockdown across the country, an organisation of Imams of West Bengal on Tuesday asked authorities of mosques to restrict the entry of people to prevent large gatherings and conducting prayers with very few devotees.

While regular namaz and other religious practices should continue with 4-5 people, entry of others into mosques will have to be restricted, Chairman of Bengal Imams Association Mohammed Yahia said in a statement.

“Others will conduct their namaz prayers at their houses,” he said adding that it is only an emergency measure in view of the present situation. As of now, arrangements will be in force to hold the Shab e Barat festival on 9 April and the decision will be reviewed afterwards, Yahia said.

Coronavirus in Libya Latest Updates

Libya records first confirmed case

Libya has recorded its first confirmed case of the coronavirus, the UN-backed government announced on Tuesday, stoking concern that an outbreak could overwhelm the war-torn country’s already weakened health care system.

As the coronavirus pandemic sweeps across the Middle East, countries have sought to slow the increase of cases by limiting the movements of hundreds of millions of people.

The Arab world’s most populous country, Egypt, as well as Syria, a country ravaged by nine years of war, became the latest countries to impose nightly curfews starting this week.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

E-commerce website Flipkart suspends services

Walmart Inc’s Flipkart has suspended services, a notice on the Indian e-commerce firm’s website said on Wednesday, as India began a 21-day lockdown to fight the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, reports Reuters.

Flipkart’s move came after rival Amazon India said on Tuesday it will halt orders for non-essential products in India to prioritize customers’ critical needs, and focus on supplying essentials.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Govt gives power to zonal DCs to take strict action against landlords evicting doctors, paramedics

The government on Wednesday gave power to zonal Deputy Commissioners to take “strict penal action” against landlords who have been forcing doctors and paramedical staff, engaged in fighting the novel coronavirus, to vacate their rented premises.

According to a government notification, such behaviour “not only strikes at the root of the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic but also tantamount to obstruction of duty of essential services”.

Invoking the Delhi Epidemics Diseases, COVID-19 Regulations, it said the district magistrates, zonal deputy commissioners of municipal corporations and the deputy commissioner of police are “directed to take strict penal action against such landlords and house owners under the relevant provisions of law”.

These officials have also been asked to submit their Action Taken Report on a daily basis.

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Govt bans export of anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine

Amid the novel coronavirus outbreak, the government on Wednesday banned export of anti-malarial drug hydroxycloroquine, with immediate effect to ensure sufficient availability of the medicine in the domestic market.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Director General Balram Bhargava had on Monday recommended the use of hydroxychloroquine for treating healthcare workers handling suspected or confirmed coronavirus cases and also the asymptomatic household contacts of the lab-confirmed cases.

The treatment protocol recommended by the ICMR-constituted National Task Force for Covid-19 has been approved by the Drug Controller General of India (DGCI) for restricted use in emergency situations.

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Assam prepared to deal with any eventuality, says CM Sarbananda Sonowal

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Tuesday said the state’s health department is fully prepared to deal with any eventuality in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

He also urged personnel associated with essential services like civil and police administration,  banks, and fire brigade to carry out their duties responsibly in this hour of crisis.

The chief minister appealed to people of the state to remain indoors as social distancing and avoidance of mass gathering are the significant precautionary measures in the absence of any standard treatment for COVID-19.

He added that no positive case of coronavirus has so far been reported in Assam.

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Donald Trump hopes to reopen economy by Easter as US registers 10,000 new cases

The number of coronavirus cases in the United States jumped by nearly 10,000 while about 150 Americans died in a day even as President Donald Trump hoped to reopen the country’s economy by Easter, 12 April.

With millions of Americans under lockdown, the National Guard, as well as the armed forces, were pressed into service in several states such as New York which saw at least 53 deaths and about 5,000 new cases on Tuesday. New York has so far reported more than 25,000 COVID-19 cases and 210 fatalities.

According to Worldometer, a website that compiles COVID-19 cases, nearly 10,000 new coronavirus cases were reported across the country on Tuesday alone taking the total to around 54,000 while the number of fatalities surged by 150 in a day bringing its total to about 700.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

GMC Jammu declared dedicated COVID hospital in UT

The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Tuesday declared the Government Medical College (GMC), Jammu, as dedicated COVID-19 hospital and approved the hiring of retired doctors for emergency services in underserved areas.

The decision was taken by the Administrative Council, headed by Lt Governor GC Murmu, at a meeting convened to review the steps being taken to contain the spread of the coronavirus in the Union Territory, an official spokesman said. 

He said the meeting decided to declare the GMC Jammu as a dedicated COVID-19 hospital for Jammu province and asked the Administrative Secretary Health Department and the Principal of the GMC to ensure that the hospital is readied for the purpose by Wednesday evening.

The Council also noted that there were a number of underserved areas facing acute shortage of doctors.  In order to mitigate the problem, it approved the hiring of retired doctors against available vacancies for one year for emergency services in underserved areas, the spokesman said.

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Tamil Nadu records first death in state

A 54-year-old man infected with coronavirus died at a hospital here in the early hours of Wednesday, the first death recorded in Tamil Nadu due to the contagion, state Health Minister C Vijayabaskar said.

He also said the man had a medical history of prolonged illness with “uncontrolled diabetes”. On Tuesday, the total number of COVID-19 cases in the state rose to 18 after six more people, including three woman, tested positive for coronavirus.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Total lockdown in India for 21 days 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a total lockdown in the country for three weeks from midnight in a bid to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. A lockdown in most of the country was already in place till 31 March, and Modi’s announcement extended it everywhere and for two more weeks after this month.