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COVID-19 HIGHLIGHTS | Telangana becomes sixth state to extend lockdown till April 30; India death toll at 242

A total of 1,035 cases and 40 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the number of cases to 7,529 while the death toll stood at 242.
Attendees of patients in a hospital wait to collect packaged food during the nationwide lockdown. (Photo | PTI)
Attendees of patients in a hospital wait to collect packaged food during the nationwide lockdown. (Photo | PTI)
Online Desk

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao announced the extension of current lockdown till April 30, becoming the sixth state to do so. Other states that have announced a complete lockdown include Odisha, Punjab, West Bengal, Maharashtra and Karnataka.

A total of 1,035 cases and 40 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the number of cases to 7,529 while the death toll stood at 242 on Saturday.

Budget carrier IndiGo on Saturday said one of its staff passed away due to coronavirus infection in Chennai, making this the first aviation casualty due to COVID-19 in India.

Meanwhile, The United States overtook Italy on Saturday to become the country with the largest death toll in the coronavirus pandemic.

Italy's death toll from coronavirus close to 20,000

The coronavirus pandemic has claimed 19,468 lives in locked-down Italy, bringing the total number of infections, fatalities and recoveries so far to 152,271, according to the latest data released by the country's Civil Protection Department.

HD Devegowda makes contribution to Kerala CMDRF

Coronavirus cases in Delhi cross 1,000 mark; death toll mounts to 19

Government authorities had last month carried out measures to quarantine people who were related to the religious congregation that took place in Nizamuddin area in March. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

101 hotspots identified in Telangana

101 hotspots identified in Telangana

A look at global coronavirus updates

  • Global COVID-19 death toll crosses 100,000 mark

  • US tops Italy as worst-hit country in pandemic with 18,860 dead, according to tracker

  • New York City public schools will remain closed for the rest of the school year

  • Canada's reported death toll reaches 600

  • Italy's virus toll rises to 19,468, higher than US, say officials

  • France reports fall in daily coronavirus deaths, toll tops 13,800

  • Crime drops in much of the world as virus keeps people inside

    • IN PIC | Stray dogs fed during COVID-19 lockdown

    A team member from 'Fight For Life Foundation' serving food to stray dogs at South Beach in Kohzhikode during the lockdown. (Photo | EPS)

    COVID-19 updates from different states

  • Positive cases: 529

  • Active cases: 451

  • Death toll: 40

  • Recovered: 38

  • Total positive cases:452

  • Today's fresh cases: 19

  • Recovered: 45

  • Death toll: 05

  • Total positive cases: 224

  • Death toll: 4

  • Recovered: 6

  • Total positive cases: 700

  • Deaths Total: 8

    • Lockdown extended in Telangana till April 30

    Telangana CM Chandrasekhar Rao said that the state cabinet decided to continue the lockdown in the state till April 30.
    (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Kerala brings out circular on state-central services exempted from COVID-19 lockdown

    Seven central government departments/establishments and 12 state government establishments have been exempted from lockdown. In addition, officials working with 21 state departments/services including farming and drinking water supply have been exempted from lockdown. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    US tops Italy as worst-hit country in coronavirus pandemic: Tracker

    The outbreak has now claimed the lives of at least 18,860, people in the US, which also leads the world in the number of confirmed infections with 503,594. (READ FULL REPORT HERE) (Photo | AP)

    WATCH | CSI Rainy Hospital in Chennai cordoned off after woman doctor tests positive for COVID-19

    IndiGo employee dies of coronavirus infection

    The engineer was in his mid-50s and had been working with the carrier since 2006. He was posted in Chennai, the source said.
    (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Institutes go online mode to ensure uninterrupted support to special kids in Kerala

    Two major institutions for children with special needs in the state have kept the channel of communication open with the students and parents. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    If not a pencil to write happiness, this UP IAS officer wants to be an eraser to wipe out sorrow

    Plagued by multiple adversities like water scarcity, perennial drought and malnutrition, besides deforestation, Banda witnessed a makeover when Hira Lal helmed it from August 2018 to February 2020. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Delhi coronavirus update

    PM spoke about extending lockdown till April 30, West Bengal also on same page: CM Mamata Banerjee

    Banerjee said she requested the central government to ensure strict vigil in the border areas, so that no one is able to sneak in during this period. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Allow COVID-19 transmission in the young in a staggered manner: Former CMC Vellore Principal

    In an interview with The New Indian Express, Dr Muliyil shares his observations on how India has been dealing with the coronavirus pandemic and explains why India might have to look at protecting the elderly and allowing transmission in the younger population in a staggered manner. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    The Sourav Ganguly interview: 'In my 46 years, I never experienced anything like this'

    Stuck at home and taken aback by the magnitude by the COVID-19 pandemic, Sourav Ganguly thinks the situation demands patience. The BCCI president and former India skipper spoke to The New Indian Express from his Kolkata residence on various things including the future of the IPL.
    (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Keeping COVID-19 protocol in mind, Assam tea gardens resume ‘preliminary’ operation

    (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Tamil Nadu CM seeks additional funding, essential commodities from Centre if lockdown is extended

    CM Palaniswami on Saturday requested the PM for additional funding as well as allotment of essential commodities to support workers from the unorganised sector, agricultural labourers and others if the lockdown period is extended. He said these workers could be provided Rs 2,000 per family.  (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Palakkad man found to be positive for COVID-19 after dying at Coimbatore hospital

    Public Health and Preventive Medicine Department officials claimed the deceased, who owned a hardware store in Palakkad, came to Coimbatore for treatment for abdominal pain a few days ago. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    COVID-19 hotspots declared no-go zones in Vellore region, people stepping out to be booked

    Places identified as COVID-19 hotspots in the Vellore region, comprising three districts, have turned into no-go zones, completely restricting the movement of people out on the streets and to markets. The leather industry hub of Ambur in Tirupathur district is one such no-go zone as it has reported 13 COVID-19 cases so far. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    CK Vineeth, PT Usha among sports stars doing their bit in COVID-19 fight

    The Jamshedpur FC player has been taking calls from people across the region and making arrangements for the items they need to be delivered to their homes. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    IN PIC | COVID-19 sample collection kisok

    Jagan wants lockdown to be confined to red zones, places of mass gathering in Andhra

    The CM has said the lockdown should be limited to red zones and places of mass gathering like religious institutions, cinemas, malls, public transport and educational institutions. During a video conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, he said at other places, the lockdown should be lifted with an emphasis on enforcement of social distancing. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Jagan wants lockdown to be confined to red zones, places of mass gathering in Andhra

    During a video conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, he said at other places, the lockdown should be lifted with an emphasis on enforcement of social distancing. There are 37 mandals out of 676 in the state under the red zone category. Another 44 mandals are in the orange category. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    COVID-19 hotspots declared no-go zones in Vellore region, people stepping out to be booked

    Officials said steps were taken to ensure that essential goods reach every doorstep to avoid inconvenience to the residents of the municipality from where the highest number of cases have been reported in Tirupathur district. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Corona infection suspected as monkeys with pneumonia-like symptoms die in UP

    While the instances of coronavirus infection in animals are coming out, death of 10 monkeys in the last four days in a village in Shamli district has sent the district administration into a tizzy.

    As per the sources, the monkeys had developed pneumonia-like symptoms. The samples of two dead monkeys have been sent to Bareilly’s Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) to ascertain the cause of their death. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    969 positive cases in Tamil Nadu, death toll rises to 10

    Kerala govt to stop usage of sanitisation tunnel, says it is unscientific

    Confirmed cases update from states

    Jammu & Kashmir
    17 new cases
    Total positive cases: 224
    Kerala
    10 new cases
    Total positive cases: 373
    Andhra Pradesh
    24 new cases 
    Total positive cases: 405
    Himachal Pradesh
    2 new cases
    Total positive cases: 32
    Punjab
    Total positive cases: 158

    TN to adhere to PM's decision on lockdown extension

     (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Total positive cases in India rises to 7447; death toll 242

    On page with PM for lockdown extension till April 30: West Bengal CM

    We are also on same page with PM, want lockdown extended till April 30, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said on Friday. The lockdown can be relaxed in some places and will be stricter in some other places, the CM said.

    Our mantra was 'jaan hai to jahaan hai' but now it is 'jaan bhi jahaan bhi': PM Modi

    The Prime Minister's thrust on 'jaan bhi and jahaan bhi' (life also, the world also), during his interaction with chief ministers through video conferencing, appears to be an indication of some relaxation in restrictions and a possibility of a wider economic stimulus package. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Schools in West Bengal to remain closed till June 10

    Lockdown in Maharashtra extended till April 30

    Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray has confirmed that lockdown in the state will be extended by two weeks and fresh guidelines will be issued.

     (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    West Bengal planning to allow bakeries to function

    Next 3-4 weeks critical, PM tells state CMs during video conference

    Next 3-4 weeks critical to determine impact of steps taken till now to curb spread of the virus: PM tells chief ministers on COVID-19 fight

    MHA says lockdown not followed effectively in West Bengal

  • 'Gradual dilution' of lockdown in West Bengal

  • West Bengal police allowing religious congregations during lockdown

  • Shops relating to non-essential items allowed to function during lockdown in West Bengal

    • There is no address to the nation by PM Modi today: Government of India Sources

    If we hadn't taken containment measures, we might have had 8.2 lakh cases by now: Health Ministry

    Lockdown to go for two more weeks, guidelines for next 15 days will b announced by Centre in 1-2 days: Karnataka CM

    52 of 102 people who stayed at 13 mosques in Delhi's COVID-19 hotspot Chandni Mahal test positive

    As many as 52 people out of the 102, who were found living in 13 mosques in Delhi's Chandni Mahal area, have tested positive for the novel coronavirus and many of them had last month attended a congregation in Nizamuddin, a COVID-19 hotspot, officials said on Saturday.

    There are 30 COVID-19 hotspots in the national capital and Chandni Mahal was declared one on Friday. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Centre considering requests of most states to extend lockdown: Govt Sources

    Most states requested PM Modi to extend the lockdown for two more weeks. The Central Government is considering this request: Govt of India Sources

     (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Permit economic activities but continue ban on inter-state travel: Chhattisgarh CM during video-conference with PM

    PM has taken correct decision to extend lockdown, tweets Delhi CM after interaction with Modi

     (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Discussed on 'vital strategies' during PM's COVID-19 video conference: Karnataka CM

    Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa who attended video conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi about COVID-19 situation and lockdown to control it, on Saturday said the discussion was regarding "vital strategies" and "actions" to be implemented in the state. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Dharavi confirms 4th coronavirus death; Screening of residents begins today

    An 80-year-old man died from Dharavi dies at Kasturba Hospital: Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation.

    21 fresh cases in Andhra Pradesh

    Police inspector from Maharashtra's Thane tests positive for coronavirus

    A senior police officer from Thane city of Maharashtra has tested positive for coronavirus and is undergoing treatment in Nashik, an official said on Saturday. The patient is attached to the Thane Police Commissionerate and works as a senior police inspector.

    Global coronavirus updates

  • Coronavirus particles can be found in air upto 13 feet from patients: Study

  • Coronavirus cases in US cross 500,000 mark, first country to record over 2,000 fatalities in a day

  • Donald Trump to impose visa sanctions on countries who deny repatriation of their nationals from US

  • Italy extends national lockdown to May 3 as cases surge to 1,47,577

  • Pakistan to receive more medical supplies from China as coronavirus cases near 5,000

  • At least 20 Afghan Presidential palace employees test positive for coronavirus

    • Karnataka reports seven fresh cases

    Amma Canteens serving 11 lakh people each day

    Anti-coronavirus art spreads

    Punjab CM suggests extension of lockdown to PM Modi

    Participating in PM’s video conference with all the Chief Ministers, Amarinder Singh pointed out that there was huge uncertainty about the likely incidence of disease and the nation was in for a long fight. Given the trend in China and several European countries, it was necessary to continue the lockdown, he said, adding that though the restrictions were causing a lot of hardship to the people, India could not afford to take any chances.

    WATCH | KSRTC bus becomes disinfectant tunnel in Bengaluru

    Puducherry CM inspects Reddiarpalayam

    With 6 new hotspots, Delhi now has 30 containment zones

    The new areas include -- Nabi Karim, E pocket GTB enclave, Street no 18 to 22 of Zakir Nagar and nearby area of Abu Bakar Masjid, Zakir Nagar. All these areas have been earmarked as containment and sealed.

    Jaipur tops chart with 221 corona cases in Rajasthan

    On Saturday, 18 new cases were reported in the state out of which 14 were from Kota while four are from Bikaner.

    Blood collection centre at Hyderabad IPM

    The Telangana government has decided to collect blood at the Institute of Preventive Medicine (IPM) in Hyderabad to address the shortage of blood in view of COVID-19 induced lockdown and avoid cross infections among voluntary donors at other blood centres.

    Maharashtra update

    Maharashtra update

    WATCH | Lockdown rules broken at Bihar market

    PM Modi holds video conference with Chief Ministers

    Cases in Gujarat rises to 432

    As many as 31 new cases were reported from Ahmedabad, 18 from Vadodara, three from Anand, and one each from Surat and Bhavnagar districts, Principal Secretary (Health) Jayanti Ravi said.
    (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Bengal to impose total lockdown in 10 COVID-19 hotspots

    Though the chief secretary did not name the areas, he said local markets and all roads in those localities will be shut down, and nobody will be allowed to enter or step out of their homes.
    (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Unlike PM Cares, contributions made to CMDRF won't qualify as CSR expenditure

    Borders of four towns in Thane sealed

    The district administration in Maharashtra's Thane district has sealed the borders of Ambernath, Kulgaon-Badlapur, Murbad and Shahapur towns in light of the coronavirus outbreak, an official said on Saturday. As per the order, movement of people and vehicles, except those engaged in essential services, to and from these towns will be restricted.

    10 patients recover in Odisha

    Five of them are from Bhubaneswar, two from Bhadrak and one each of Cuttack, Jajpur and Puri, the Health department said in its official Twitter post.

    Coronavirus claims 3 more lives, Indore's death toll 30

    The three men died during treatment at different hospitals in the city over the last three days.

    Kolkata Police Commissioner asks people not to leave home unnecessarily

    Madhya Pradesh update

  • Postive: 473

  • Active: 411

  • Deaths: 37

    • Social distancing norms broken in Delhi's Okhla Mandi

    In complete violation of the social distancing norms amid the coronavirus lockdown, people at Delhi's Okhla mandi were seen rushing inside the vegetable market, here on Saturday. The vendors were seen in large numbers at the entry points and 'panic-buying' vegetables and fruits in large quantities.

    J&K police employ drones for assistance

    Tamil Nadu CM to decide on lockdown extension today

    Addressing the media on Friday, Chief Secretary K Shanmugam said the CM has been considering the views of all experts on the matter. The CM held a meeting with the expert panel on Friday, which suggested withdrawing the lockdown only after bringing the cases under control.
    (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    16-year-old COVID-19 patient recovers in Chhattisgarh

    "A 16-year-old boy in Chhattisgarh who had tested positive for the coronavirus earlier has recovered and will be discharged. We hope that all other patients recover soon," State Health Minister TS Singh said. Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel had on Thursday said that a total of 3,000 tests have been done so far in the State and his government is trying all possible ways to increase the number of tests. The COVID-19 tally in the State is 18 as on Friday.

    Five people test positive in Andhra's Kurnool

    WATCH | Gujarat police use drones for surveillance

    23 of 60 coronavirus cases in Bihar belongs to same family

    The chain of infection in the family began after a male member returned from Oman.
    (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Number of containment zones increased in Delhi

    US becomes first country to record over 2,000 deaths in a day

    The United States tally also crossed crossed half a million cases with 500,399 confirmed ones, 18,693 deaths and 28,837 recoveries so far. 
    (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Bengaluru police to go after fake coronavirus messengers

    "There is no point sending, forwarding and creating hateful messages. I am noticing a lot of them. We are going to trace and hunt these people," said Bengaluru Police Commissioner Bhaskar Rao at a press conference. Rao said the police department will scientifically monitor the fake messages or news and zero in on the perpetrators even if takes long after the COVID-19 lockdown.

    Hiding Tablighis could incur murder charge in Chhattisgarh

    Persons associated with the Tabilighi Jamaat, who are hiding information about their movements, or not coming forward for medical investigations, will face action under sections like murder, attempt to murder, Rajnandgaon district collector Jaiprakash Maurya said.

    Turkey reports 4,747 new cases

    Turkey's total confirmed cases of COVID-19 climbed to 47,029, with 4,747 new patients reported in the last 24 hours, Turkish Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said. The death toll reached 1,006 after 98 more lost their lives, Koca said at a press conference on Friday, reported Xinhua news agency.

    Lifting restrictions too quickly could lead to 'deadly resurgence' of COVID-19, warns WHO

    As the world battles coronavirus pandemic, World Health Organisation (WHO) on Friday (local time) warned countries against hastily lifting restrictions which have been put in place to curb the spread of the virus.

    (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Chennai airport facilitates smooth customs clearance for two relief, evacuation flights

    Chennai International Airport on Friday facilitated smooth customs clearance for two relief/evacuation flights. Domestic and international flights were suspended last month in the country in the wake of coronavirus outbreak.

    INTERVIEW | 'COVID-19 is the Disease X we experts worried about'

    Dr Rajeev Fernanado, a top infectious diseases specialist in the US, says a vaccine is a must to stop COVID-19 now, but warns it might not be very successful in the coming seasons (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Global coronavirus updates

  • Global death toll due to coronavirus crosses 100,000 mark

  • France reports 987 more coronavirus deaths, toll tops 13,000: Officials

  • Italy to extend coronavirus lockdown until May 3: Prime Minister

  • UK COVID-19 daily death toll climbs by record 980: Health minister

  • Lifting virus lockdowns too quickly could spark deadly resurgence: WHO

  • UK PM Boris Jhonson moved out of ICU, condition 'stable'

    • WATCH | Indian doctor in New York's COVID-19 epicentre: 'We are forced to decide who gets to live'

    Global death toll due to coronavirus hit 100,000 mark

    Deaths in the U.S. reached about 18,000, putting it on track to overtake Italy as the country with the highest death toll, and about a half-million Americans were confirmed infected. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    BREAKING | Global coronavirus death toll tops 100,000

    Uttarakhand to extend lockdown till April 30, makes masks compulsory in public

    Madan Kaushik, state cabinet minister and spokesperson for the government said, 'The decisions are being taken to battle the deadly coronavirus. I hope people will understand and cooperate.' (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Latest coronavirus updates across states

  • Total positive cases: 903

  • Recovered: 26

  • Death toll: 14

  • Total positive cases:520

  • Cases reported today: 57

  • Deaths in state: 8

  • Total positive cases: 433

  • Cases reported today: 23

  • Recovered: 32

  • Deaths in state: 4

  • Total positive cases: 89

  • Deaths in state: 5

  • Recovered: 19

    • Number of coronavirus cases in Maharashtra reaches 1,574

    Of 210 new patients, 132 were detected in Mumbai, the state health department said. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    WATCH | Mohanlal's musical salute for COVID-19 warriors

    Sense of loneliness engulfs, but resilience brings back normal life: COVID-19 survivor shares his story

    'Loneliness is grueling. It is very hard to pass every day within the four walls of the isolation wards,' he notes.
    (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    List of 30 containment zones in New Delhi

    Coronavirus updates from the Northeast

  • Assam: 29

  • Manipur: 2

  • Tripura: 2

  • Arunachal: 1

  • Mizoram: 1

    • Coronavirus updates from the Northeast

  • Assam: 29

  • Manipur: 2

  • Tripura: 2

  • Arunachal: 1

  • Mizoram: 1

    • Airlines come together on Twitter to put on a show amid COVID-19 gloom

    Flying would not be the smart choice, what say GoAir? These are words from full service carrier Vistara, which was soon joined by AirAsia India, SpiceJet and Delhi airport on Twitter. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Americans are howling at night amid COVID-19 pandemic. Read on to find out why

    They howl to thank the nation’s health care workers and first responders for their selfless sacrifices, much like the balcony applause and singing in Italy and Spain. Others do it to reduce their pain, isolation and frustration. Some have other reasons, such as to show support for the homeless. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    64 foreign Tablighi Jamaat members booked for spreading coronavirus in Bhopal

    The Tablighi event attendees are from Indonesia, Myanmar and Ivory Coast. The foreign nationals along with their 10 Indian aides and 13 local resident have been booked at five police stations of Bhopal. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    IN PIC | Practice social distancing, fight COVID-19

    Two boys busy with their mobile phones outside closed shops while maintaining social distancing in Bengaluru. (Photo | Meghana Sastry, EPS)

    24-year-old recovers from COVID-19 in Tiruchy, doctors laud him as 'ideal patient'

    The 24-year-old man who was the first COVID-19 patient in Tiruchy has been discharged from the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital (MGMGH). Flanked by the entire team of medical staff who treated him, it was a triumphant moment for all as they clapped for him. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Guwahati mosque turns out to be Assam’s COVID-19 hotspot

    Around 100 people, including eight Tablighi Markaz-returnees, had attended a congregation at the mosque on March 12. Two of these Tablighi Markaz-returnees tested positive. Another person, who is not among the Markaz participants but attended the Guwahati mosque congregation, also tested positive. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Centre decides to export surplus hydroxychloroquine, says there is buffer stock for India

    Amid concerns over the export of hydroxychloroquine, which is being seen as a drug that may counter coronavirus, the government on Friday said India has received requests from several nations for the medicine and a decision has been taken to export the surplus drug, while keeping a sufficient buffer of stocks for the country. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    District wise distribution of coronavirus cases in Tamil Nadu

    24-year-old recovers from COVID-19 in Tiruchy, doctors laud him as 'ideal patient'

    He has been advised 28 days home quarantine and would be checked regularly by the authorities.The patient wore a protective suit and gave a big thumbs up and thanked everyone who helped him as he left for Erode in a 108 ambulance. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    India's COVID-19 death rate lower than many developed nations like US, UK: Medical experts

    Suggesting that a relatively young Indian population may be one of the reasons for the low mortality rate due to the pandemic, experts have attributed the high number of fatalities in countries like Italy and Spain to their elderly population which are more susceptible to developing complications after contracting the infection. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Mumbai city cases rise to 993 as 218 test positive on Friday

    218 coronavirus positive cases and 10 deaths reported in Mumbai today; total positive cases in the city rises to 993, death toll 64: Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)

    TN death toll rises to 9

    77 new cases in TN takes state tally to 911

    364 confirmed coronavirus cases in Kerala

    Singing away their blues: Cops, artistes and a village head combat corona through crooning in UP

    In many pockets of Uttar Pradesh, villagers, professional crooners or even cops, all have found novel ways to fight novel coronavirus and music is one of them. While Bhojpuri jingles are doing rounds in far eastern pockets of the state with singers trying their skills in evoking awareness about the pandemic, an young and educated woman village head of Maal Malihabad on the outskirts of Lucknow has created her own band to sensitize people during the lockdown.

    (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Total confirmed cases in India rises to 6761, death toll 206

     According to the Health Ministry's figures at 5 PM on Friday, 

    Coronavirus confirmed cases in India: 6761

    Deaths: 206

    Cured cases: 516

    WATCH | Mumbai's NSCI dome made into quarantine facility with 400 beds

    Two localities in Bengaluru to be sealed completely after detection of COVID-19 cases

    BBMP has decided to completely seal Bapuji Nagar (Ward 134) and Padranyapura (Ward 135) after five COVID-19 cases were detected here. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Decision to bring Indians from abroad will be taken after reviewing COVID-19 situation: MEA

    Over 20,400 nationals have been evacuated from India and a decision on bringing Indian nationals from abroad will be taken at a later stage after reviewing the COVID-19 situation, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday.

     (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Don't allow religious gatherings, processions during COVID-19 lockdown: Centre to states ahead of festivals

    Ahead of many festivals, the Ministry of Home Affairs has asked states and UTs to adhere to the the ongoing 21 day lockdown and not allow any social or religious gathering and procession.

    (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    After Odisha, Punjab now extends lockdown till May 1

    Amid apprehensions of community spread of COVID-19, the Punjab Government on Friday extended the lockdown in the state till May 1 as the state is moving towards "community transmission". It also issued an ordinance bringing the state’s private hospitals under the umbrella of the pandemic battle. The decision was taken at a cabinet meeting. Amarinder said he would convey the decision to Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Saturday’s conference with the chief ministers. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Stock of 3.28 crore hydroxychloroquine tablets available

    No community transmission yet, says Health ministry, cautions to remain aware and alert

    Coronavirus status update from Uttar Pradesh

    Total confirmed cases: 431

    Recovered: 32

    Deaths : 04

    Districts in grip: 40

    24 coronavirus patients test negative in Sangli

    Maharashtra Medical Education Minister Amit Deshmukh on Friday claimed that 24 of the 26 COVID-19 patients in Sangli district were cured of the infection and hailed the medical team treating them. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Expert medical committee recommends extension of lockdown in TN for another 14 days

    In this 14 days lockdown period the committee has suggested more testing on contacts of the COVID-19 positive cases, and data collected from these two weeks should be used to take informed decision.

     (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    PM Modi holds discussions with Nepal counterpart over the phone

    Seriously thinking on extending lockdown: Punjab CM Amarinder Singh

    Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Friday said the ongoing lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus should continue, while noting that predictions by health experts about the spread of the pandemic are "horrendous and frightening".(READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    PM holds discussions with Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe

    The two leaders discussed global health&economic challenges emerging out of COVID-19 .Both leaders expressed appreciation for the support and facilitation provided during the present crisis to each other’s citizens present in their respective territories. (ANI)

    ICMR validates TrueNat for coronavirus screening

    57 new cases in Rajasthan

    Uttarakhand govt to give Rs 10 lakh to kin of COVID-19 warriors dying in the line of duty

    Uttarakhand government on Thursday announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the next of kin of government officials, government employees and all COVID-19 warriors who lose their lives while carrying out their duties during the epidemic. "The compensation will also be given to the next of kin of media persons in Uttarakhand, if they get infected while carrying out their duties during this period," said Amit Negi, state finance secretary. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    6000 beds, 600 ventilators in Bengaluru private hospitals, says COVID-19 committee

    A government committee headed by Ajay Seth, managing director of Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited, is looking at enhancing Karnataka's medical infrastructure and human resources in case the COVID-19 outbreak expands further in the state. They have estimated that Bengaluru's private hospitals have 6000 beds including 4000 with oxygen supply and 600 ventilators. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    Armed with sticks, women guard hamlet against coronavirus in Jammu

    Armed with sticks, women at a hamlet in Jammu stand guard at entry points, which have been blocked by barbed wires, as they have taken it upon themselves to ensure a complete lockdown and prevent outsiders' entry into their hamlet to keep the residents safe from coronavirus. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    BMC asks private hospital to quarantine its nurses

    The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Friday directed a private hospital to quarantine all its nurses and stop new admissions after two of its nurses tested positive for coronavirus.(READ FULL REPORT HERE)

    No evidence of pets transmiting COVID-19. Stop spreading rumours

    COVID19 enters third stage of transmission in Punjab

    News from Tamil Nadu

    UK announces 12 additional flights to evacuate stranded nationals from India

    The additional flights planned from different parts of India, including from Punjab, Gujarat, West Bengal and South India, follows the seven charter flights announced last week from Goa, Mumbai and New Delhi, taking the total number of people to be brought back on 19 flights to around 5,000. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

    Three Bihar districts sealed off

    Karnataka coronavirus numbers on Friday

    207 positive cases reported till today. While ten new cases got reported on Friday, six have died so far and 30 have been discharged.

    Sanitation drive underway at Dharavi

    Lockdown scenes from Delhi

    Important announcement from Odisha government

    In view of lockdown and associated economic stress for COVID-19, Odisha Government advises private educational institutes to be sympathetic to consider reduction/deferment of fees from April to June. It will help parents whose income is adversely affected: Chief Minister's Office, Odisha.

    Mumbai Police comes down hard on fake news

    Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) Mumbai has promulgated an order under Section 144 of CrPC, in the areas under the control of CP Greater Mumbai, prohibiting dissemination of incorrect information through various messaging and social media platforms.

    Good news from Nagaland

    In Nagaland, no COVID-19 positive case has been reported till now. 65 samples out of 69 have tested negative. Result of 4 samples is awaited. 23 persons are lodged in quarantine facilities and 658 are under home quarantine.

    Union Health Minister, his deputy meet their state counterparts

    Telangana to discuss possible extension of COVID-19 lockdown in cabinet meet today

    According to official sources, the Special Cabinet meeting will also discuss at length the situation arising out of spread of coronavirus. (READ FLL STORY HERE)

    Two Tablighi Jamaat attendees test COVID-19 positive in Puducherry

    A native of Moolakkulam and another from Thiruvandarkoil tested positive today, Director of Health and Family Welfare Service Dr Mohan Kumar told the media. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

    Plea in SC for apex court's direction on mass COVID-19 tests

    46 new coronavirus cases surface in Gujarat; total tops 300

    Of the 46 new cases reported during the last 12 hours, 17 were from a single locality in Vadodara city, followed by Ahmedabad (11), Rajkot (5), Bharuch (4), Bhavnagar (4), two each from Patan and Kuch, while one case was reported from Gandhinagar, said Principal Secretary, Health, Jayanti Ravi. Those who tested positive included a doctor from Ahmedabad who was engaged in collection of samples for coronavirus testing, she told reporters in Gandhinagar.

    Maharashtra conformed cases near 1400

    16 new COVID-19 positive cases have been reported in the state today, taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 1380.

    Update from Andaman and Nicobar

    All ten earlier positive COVID-19 cases are now negative after treatment. They will be shifted from hospital to institutional quarantine for two weeks: Chetan Sanghi, Chief Secretary, Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

    Madhya Pradesh and J&K coronavirus numbers

  • Madhya Pradesh has 453 positive cases so far. While 395 out of them are active, 25 have already cured. Death toll stands at 33.

  • In J&K, four more test positive as cases rise to 188. while six have recovered, four have died so far.

    • Santisation drives at full swing in national capital

    COVID-19: Italy death toll reaches 18,279; confirmed cases at 1,43,626

    On Thursday, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte held a teleconference with business and labour leaders to discuss when Italy can begin to relax the restrictions imposed to contain the disease, Efe news reported. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

    COVID-19 lockdown scenes from J&K

    WATCH | What is hydroxychloroquine and why is India giving it to the US?

    40 booked in MP for gathering at mosque amid COVID-19 lockdown

  • A case was registered against 40 men for allegedly violating the COVID-19 lockdown, by gathering at a mosque in Madhya Pradesh's Chhindwara district, police said on Friday.

  • At least 40 people, including the sarpanch of Khairikhurd village, were found offering namaz at a mosque at the village in Chourai tehsil, 38 km from the district headquarters, on Thursday night, inspector Mukesh Dwivedi said. A police patrol party got an alert about a gathering at the mosque amid section 144 (banning assembly of five persons or above) of Criminal Procedure Code imposed in the area, he said.

  • The men were charged under sections 188 (disobedience to order promulgated by a public servant) and 269 (unlawful or negligent act likely to spread infection of a dangerous disease) of Indian Penal Code, the official said.

  • They were also booked under the Disaster Management Act, Madhya Pradesh Epidemic Diseases Act, Madhya Pradesh Public Health Act 1949 and Epidemic Act 1897, the official said, adding that the men were subsequently granted bail.

    • UP advocate 'enjoying' his isolation

    People pray during Good Friday amid lockdown

    News from Mohali

    A 78-year-old woman with co-morbid conditions, from Mundi Kharar who was brought to Emergency Ward of Kharar Civil Hospital and later died on 7 April, has posthumously tested positive for COVID-19. Body already cremated as per protocol. Primary contacts traced and to be sampled: DC Mohali.

    Lockdown situation from Gurugram

    Update from Andhra Pradesh

    Update from Andhra Pradesh

    UP Government declares assistance for construction workers affected by the lockdown

    Government had decided to extend help to those people whose livelihood has been affected due to COVID-19. In this context, in the first phase, more than 11 lakh construction workers in the state have been provided Rs 1,000 each in their accounts: Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath.

    Revised Rajasthan figures

    Today's positive cases: 26. Total cumulative positive : 489. Recovered: 70. Deaths: 8.

    Modi, Netanyahu exchange pleasantries

    Good news from Maharashtra

    22 out of the total 26 COVID-19 positive patients in Islampur, Sangli have tested negative in repeat tests. We hope that rest of the positive patients will also recover soon: Jayant Patil, Guardian Minister of Sangli district.

    Delhi Church closed as COVID-19 fear grips the city

    Latest Uttar Pradesh Numbers

    Total count of the positive cases from state stands at 425 as of Friday. 230 of them are Tablighi Jamat attendees. 31 have recovered, while four have died so far. 41 districts of the state are under the grip of the pandemic.

    More on the new positive cases in Dharavi today

    Rajasthan coronavirus numbers as of Friday

    Total positive cases till today in the state is 489. While 70 have recovered, seven have died so far.

    More positive cases emerge in Mumbai

    Three new COVID-19 cases have been reported from Mumbai's Dadar area today; two nurses of Shushrusha Hospital and one man from Kelkar Road. The total number of cases in Dadar stands at six now. Five more COVID-19 cases reported in Dharavi, Mumbai taking the total number of coronavirus positive cases in the area to 22.

    INTERVIEW | This India-developed, low-cost COVID-19 test is what will work: Shashi Tharoor

    Thiruvananthapuram-based Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute of Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) is working on such a testing method that could give conclusive results for COVID-19 in just 15 minutes, at Rs 200 per person. This was disclosed by Shashi Tharoor, MP, a member of the SCTIMST Institute Body, in an interview with TNIE Chief Reporter Sovi Vidyadharan. (READ FULL INTERVIEW HERE)

    Update from J&K

    Latest Northeast coronavirus case tally:

    Out of total 34 positive cases, 29 reported from Assam, while Manipur recorded two. Tripura, Arunachal and Mizoram recorded one case each. Assam also reported the only COVID-19 death from northeast.

    65-year-old woman dies of COVID-19 in Rajasthan

    The woman was undergoing treatment at SMS Hospital for COVID-19, he said, adding she breathed her last Thursday evening. "The woman from Ramganj in Jaipur was admitted to SMS Hospital on Wednesday with complaint of respiratory distress pneumonia with co-morbidity hypertension. She had tested positive for COVID-19 and was on a ventilator," the official said. This is first death of a coronavirus patient in Ramganj and second in Jaipur. On Sunday, a man from Ghat Gate in the capital city had died of COVID-19.

    INTERVIEW | Lockdown, border closure helped Karnataka to fight COVID-19: Yediyurappa

    As healthcare professionals are on the frontline battling the coronavirus pandemic, Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa has been supplementing their efforts by closely monitoring the situation and ensuring proper coordination among various agencies. (READ THE FULL INTERVIEW HERE)

    More information on the Assam death

  • The patient, hailing from Hailakandi district, died early today at Silchar Medical College Hospital, state minister Himanta Biswa Sarma tweeted. The condition of the 65-year-old retired BSF personnel turned 'alarming' on Thursday and he was shifted to SMCH during the day.

  • The minister had said his other parameters were stable but "his oxygen saturation is decreasing and he has been shifted to the ICU for better monitoring".

  • The person was confirmed coronavirus-positive on Tuesday night and had attended the Tablighi Jamaat meet at Nizamuddin in New Delhi, He also had travelled to Saudi Arabia before that. Minister Sarma expressed his deepest condolences and prayers for the bereaved family.

  • Silchar MP Rajdeep Roy said the funeral of the deceased will be held according to the COVID-19 protocol and the details will be announced later. The number of positive cases now is 28 with more case confirmed from Dhubri last night.

    • Maharashtra IPS officer sent on compulsory leave for allowing Wadhawans to travel despite lockdown: Home Minister Anil Deshmukh

    Coronavirus fears: Kerala church closed amid Good Friday

    Latest government data on coronavirus situation in India

    Increase of 547 new COVID-19 cases 30 deaths in last 12 hours; India's total number of coronavirus positive cases rises to 6412 (including 5709 active cases, 504 cured/discharged/migrated and 199 deaths): Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

    Twom more tested positive in Bihar

    Two members of a family in Siwan have tested positive for COVID-19; they have contact history with a positive patient who had returned from Oman. The total number of positive cases in the state rises to 60.

    Gujarat tally increases

    21 more persons have tested positive for COVID-19 in Vadodara, of which 20 people are from Nagarvada area. Total number of positive coronavirus cases in Vadodara stands at 39 now.

    WATCH | Indian doctor in New York's COVID-19 epicentre: 'We are forced to decide who gets to live'

    Sealed Sadar Bazar area in Delhi

    Uddhav government orders complete lockdown of five prisons

    Maharashtra Home Department has issued orders for a complete lockdown of five prisons in Mumbai and Pune region - Mumbai Central Prison, Thane Prison, Yerawada Prison, Byculla Prison & Kalyan Prison, till further orders.

    Ambala residents do their bit to cheer up the COVID warriors

    More on the Assam death

    The condition of the 65-year-old retired BSF personnel turned 'alarming' on Thursday and he was shifted to SMCH during the day. The minister had said his other parameters were stable but "his oxygen saturation is decreasing and he has been shifted to the ICU for better monitoring".
  • The person was confirmed coronavirus-positive on Tuesday night and had attended the Tablighi Jamaat meet at Nizamuddin in New Delhi, He also had travelled to Saudi Arabia before that.
  • Minister Sarma expressed his deepest condolences and prayers for the bereaved family.
  • Silchar MP Rajdeep Roy said the funeral of the deceased will be held according to the COVID-19 protocol and the details will be announced later.
  • The number of positive cases now is 28 with more case confirmed from Dhubri last night

    • WATCH | Bird's eye view of the national capital

    UN chief's message to UNSC on coronavirus

    "While COVID-19 is first and foremost a health crisis, its implications are much more far-reaching.Terrorist groups may see window of opportunity to strike while the attention of most Governments is turned towards pandemic. Every country is now grappling with or poised to suffer devastating consequences of the COVID19-Pandemic; tens of thousands of lost lives; broken families; overwhelmed hospitals and overworked essential workers. Weaknesses and lack of preparedness exposed by COVID-19 provide window onto how bioterrorist attack might unfold and may increase its risks. Non-state groups could gain access to virulent strains that could pose similar devastation to societies around globe. The engagement of the Security Council will be critical to mitigate the peace & security implications of COVID-19. Indeed, a signal of unity and resolve from the Council would count for a lot at this anxious time," said Antonio Guterres.

    One more tested positive in Jharkhand

    One more person has tested positive for coronavirus in Jharkhand's Bokaro, taking the total number of cases in the state to 14: State Health Secretary Nitin Madan Kulkarni.

    Nine areas in Haryana declared containment zones

    Update from US

    United States records 1,783 coronavirus deaths in past 24 hours: AFP news agency quoting Johns Hopkins.

    Latest visuals from Delhi's sealed Bengali Market area

    Assam registers its first death

    First COVID-19 death in Assam at Silchar Medical College Hospital: Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma

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