COVID-19 LIVE | Coronavirus pandemic is 10 times more deadly than swine flu, says WHO

CLICK HERE FOR APRIL 14th UPDATES ABOUT CORONAVIRUS

Claim: Money transferred to a/c under PMGKY will be taken back if not withdrawn#PIBFactCheck: This is a baseless rumour. Money will not be taken back from accounts.#PMGKY #PMGaribKalyanYojana pic.twitter.com/EcwoIad2BE

— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) April 13, 2020

France President Emmanuel Macron (Photo | AP)

G.O issued for extension of lockdown; the extension is upto 12.00 hours midnight of April 30 @xpresstn @NewIndianXpress pic.twitter.com/4Gzj1Davz7

— T Muruganandham (@muruga_TNIE) April 13, 2020

As many as 352 more people tested positive for COVID-19 in Maharashtra, taking the tally to 2,334 on Monday, while the death toll in the state increased to 160, said a state health official. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

Goa: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant launched an SBI Mobile ATM today in Panaji. He says, "People are facing a lot of trouble in travelling. Now the Mobile ATM has been brought here. People can use the ATM by practising social distancing. People need not travel much now." pic.twitter.com/ZF1gE0SnYD

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday ordered release of an additional Rs 50 crore from the Chief Ministers Relief Fund for providing assistance to natives stranded in other states due to the nationwide lockdown prompted by coronavirus.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar (Photo |PTI)

Follow @XpressBengaluru

Two deaths registered on Monday - 55 year old patient at Kalburgi and 65 year old patient at Bengaluru. With this Karnataka's total tally reached 8@NewIndianXpress @santwana99

— TNIE Karnataka (@XpressBengaluru) April 13, 2020

To minimize interaction with COVID-19 patients, an automated robotic device has been developed by the West Singhbum Deputy Development Officer Aditya Ranjan, an engineering graduate from BIT Mesra in Ranchi. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

The Meghalaya government on Monday decided to extend the ongoing lockdown till April 30, as part of its measures to deal with the coronavirus outbreak. The decision was taken by the state cabinet at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma.

The novel coronavirus is 10 times more deadly than swine flu, also called H1N1, which caused a global pandemic in 2009, the World Health Organization said Monday, calling for control measures to be lifted "slowly". (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

Emerging evidence suggests transmission of coronavirus from mother to baby before birth or during delivery is possible: Indian Council of Medical Research

Around 74 plus lakh bank accounts in Telangana will be credited tomorrow with the ₹1500 as promised by Hon’ble CM KCR Garu to support during these testing times

Total of ₹1,112 Crores has been transferred by Govt to the banks #TelanganaFightsCorona

— KTR (@KTRTRS) April 13, 2020

⚡️ Amid the #COVID19 chaos, here's some good news. India is in final stages for clinical trial of #PlasmaTherapy, which can help to treat #corona patients. All you need to know!@ICMRDELHI @MoHFW_INDIA @WHO @kiranshaw@gsvasu_TNIE https://t.co/03XpSLcJgG

— The New Indian Express (@NewIndianXpress) April 13, 2020

The Supreme Court Monday modified its April 8 order which asked private labs to conduct free COVID-19 tests and said the benefit will be available only to "economically weaker sections" who are covered under government schemes such as the Ayushman Bharat. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

#WATCH Jammu and Kashmir: Flower petals were showered on healthcare staff at a hospital in Kathua today, as a mark of gratitude for rendering services amid #CoronavirusLockdown. pic.twitter.com/oTeqoVYNjU

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

The death toll from the new coronavirus in New York state has passed 10,000, Governor Andrew Cuomo said Monday. Cuomo said 671 people had died in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of fatalities in the state to 10,056.

Germany is moving towards a progressive lifting of restrictions linked to the coronavirus outbreak as new infections fall and the number of deaths remains far below its European neighbours.

Indian Pharma industry producing enough stocks of essential medicines particularly Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) to meet both domestic demand and export obligations@dcpc2017 @MoHFW_INDIA #IndiaFightsCorona

Details: https://t.co/zG2o3jcLmD

— PIB India 🇮🇳 #StayHome #StaySafe (@PIB_India) April 13, 2020

According to data shared by the police, 201 cases were registered till 5 pm. A total of 3,358 people have been detained and 322 vehicles impounded, the Delhi police said. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

It is mandatory to wear masks if you step out of your homes. If found without masks, the violator's movement passes will be canceled and vehicles will be impounded for three months, says Corporation Commissioner G Prakash.

On account of extension of #lockdown, #TNHealth has facilitated delivery of selective medicines those with a prescription at doorsteps, supported by TNCDA,effective 14.04.20 as directed by Hon’ble CM. Call toll free 18001212172 to avail d services across the state. @MoHFW_INDIA pic.twitter.com/MdPYAYYYbv

— Dr C Vijayabaskar (@Vijayabaskarofl) April 13, 2020

The closure of borders with India, Iran & Afghanistan has been extended till 26th April, in view of #COVID19: Pakistan media

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga on Monday announced his government was extending the lockdown in the state till April 30 "with new guidelines" to consolidate the gains made over the past three weeks in the fight against coronavirus. 

Maharashtra Industries minister @Subhash_Desai has decided to give permissions to manufacturing and other firms to operate in Maharashtra except the Red zone of Mumbai Pune belt @NewIndianXpress

— Sudhir Suryawanshi (@ss_suryawanshi) April 13, 2020

The one-size-fit-all lockdown has brought untold misery & suffering to millions of farmers, migrant labourers, daily wagers & business owners.

It needs a “smart” upgrade, using mass testing to isolate virus hotspots & allowing businesses in other areas to gradually reopen.

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 13, 2020

The coronavirus outbreak may have spread to 25 districts of Rajasthan but 22 per cent of the total infected patients have been cured so far, state Health Minister Raghu Sharma said here on Monday.

For representational purpose. (Photo | A Sanesh, EPS)

Madhya Pradesh police personnel who have come in contact with jail inmates infected with the novel coronavirus have been sent to isolation centres for 14 days, a senior official said on Monday.

The Supreme Court Monday termed as "misconceived" a plea seeking direction to the Centre, states and Union Territories to nationalise all healthcare facilities and related entities till COVID-19 pandemic is contained in the country. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

For representational purpose. (Photo | EPS) 

Arunachal Pradesh government extended the lockdown imposed to contain the spread of novel coronavirus from April 14 to April 30, a senior official said. Only state-run buses will be allowed to ply on the roads.

A statistical analysis of active cases of COVID-19 has revealed a significant decline in reproductive numbers of SARS CoV 2 -- the virus behind the COVID 19 epidemic -- in India, possibly due to the nationwide lockdown and social distancing measures. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

Image used for represenatational purpose. (Photo | G Sathyanarayana/EPS)

After a dressing down from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for not acting against morning walkers, the Chandigarh cops swung into action on Monday. They arrested 188 morning walkers and registered 56 cases against them for disobeying curfew orders.

According to sources, the 56-year-old ortho surgeon from Andhra Pradesh tested positive in Nellore. He was later shifted to Chennai for treatment. “He contracted the infection from a patient he was treating there. He was undergoing treatment at Apollo Hospital, Vanagaram. However, he died without responding to treatment,” a hospital source said. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

Party President Sonia Gandhi writes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggesting measures to ensure food security for people affected by the lockdown & impact of #COVID19: Congress pic.twitter.com/GZyP98AELC

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

His father Omvir Singh, resident of Vijay Vihar, said he had named his son 'Sanitizer' because it had the capacity to fight against the Coronavirus. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

Palaniswami said since the lockdown has been extended, rice card holders would get essential commodities for the month of May free of cost through the ration shops - rice, one kg sugar, one kg toor dal and one kg edible oil. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

Kerala-- 104 days of #COVID

3 new cases in Kerala

Kannur--2
Palakkad--1

Total cases--378
Active Cases-178
Deaths--3
Negative--19

112183 under observation
111468-home quarantine

One of the fresh cases is a foreigner, 2 infected via contacts@NewIndianXpress @xpresskerala

— Raam Das (@PRamdas_TNIE) April 13, 2020

Taking the lead, the prominent Sunni cleric of Lucknow Idgah and Chairman of Islamic Centre of India, Maulana Khalid Rasheed Farangi Mahali, has issued an advisory saying with the commencement of the holy month of Ramzan on April 24 with the sighting of moon and first Roza to be observed on April 25, all devotees should perform Taraweeh, the additional prayers during the holy month right after the evening Isha Namaz, at their homes. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

With the intent to contain the spread of COVID-19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi with effect from March 25 announced a nationwide complete lockdown that brought as much as 70 per cent of economic activity, investment, exports and discretionary consumption to a standstill. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

In a statement, the ministry said all those foreigners whose regular visa, e-visa or stay stipulation expired or would be expiring during February 1 (midnight) to April 30 (midnight), would be "extended till April 30 (midnight) on gratis basis, after making an online application by the foreigners". (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

98 more Corona positive cases in TN; total 1173 till today @xpresstn @NewIndianXpress

— T Muruganandham (@muruga_TNIE) April 13, 2020

Talk about 'purrfect' evening naps!
Express photo by @haisat2005. @xpresstn pic.twitter.com/trRzYnsCgT

— The New Indian Express (@NewIndianXpress) April 13, 2020

More than 1,853,300 declared cases have been registered in 193 countries and territories since the epidemic first emerged in China in December. Of these cases, at least 395,000 are now considered recovered. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

BBMP Marshals with the help of the defence move homeless people to shelters. They teach them how to sanitise, make a note of all their details before getting them to board the bus to take them to government hostels @XpressBengaluru @santwana99 @NewIndianXpress @WeAreBangalore pic.twitter.com/ncqAdYNvpI

— Meghana Sastry (@MeghanaSastry) April 13, 2020

Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao said that with an increase of 28 new COVID-19 cases on April 12, the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Telangana has reached 531. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

Ashok, hailing from Gola Dinanath locality of Varanasi, had gone to Mumbai in search of work four months ago. He got a job as a waiter at a restaurant in Nagpada in Central Mumbai. But after the coronavirus lockdown was announced, the hotel was shut, and Ashok, having tried his luck at other places, was forced to head home till normalcy returned. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

#Covid19India status
857 patients recovered/ discharged
9152 total cases
308 deaths reported

In the last 24 hours
796 confirmed cases & 35 new deaths have been reported#IndiaFightCorona pic.twitter.com/Bt9oqqxNep

— PIB India 🇮🇳 #StayHome #StaySafe (@PIB_India) April 13, 2020

A special flight evacuated 134 Bhutanese students while 271 British nationals were also flown back to the UK. Meanwhile, a Punjab Police officer has tested positive for the virus and villagers are demanding that the entry of migrants be stopped to prevent the spread of COVID-19. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

#Covid_19 alert: Another #Doctor in #India falls to the infection. This time it is Dr Laxminarayan Reddy,
Orthopedic Surgeon from #Nellore, #AP who had just opened a new hospital earlier this month. (Pic by @IMAIndiaOrg ) n/1#CoronaUpdate pic.twitter.com/YxPmszNiTK

— Sumi Dutta (@SumiSukanya) April 13, 2020

His father alleged that the neighbours got abusive at times and even chased away the vendors who came to sell vegetables and milk at the residence. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

• Over 2 lakh COVID-19 tests done till April 12
• ICMR says test kits well-stocked for next 6 weeks
• 146 hotspots have been identified in 15 districts
• Till yesterday, 2,06,212 tests have been conducted in India
• The first consignment of COVID-19 kits from China will arrive in India on 15th April

(Inputs from ANI)

(Photo | P Jawahar, EPS)

• Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi K. Palaniswami announced extension of lockdown till April 30 in state
• Rice cardholders will get rice, sugar, dal and cooking oil free of cost through ration shops: EPS
• All unorganised sector workers will get Rs 1,000 per family; migrant workers will get 15 kg of rice, one kg dal, one kg of cooking oil
• Bakeries will be allowed to be open between 6.00 am and 1.00 pm in Chennai
• Tele Medicine Society of India's doctors will clarify the doubts of the people about coronavirus
• The CM appealed to people to maintain social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and asked people to cooperate with the goverment

(Inputs from ENS)

Lockdown in Tamil Nadu extended upto April 30 @xpresstn @NewIndianXpress

— Omjasvin M D (@omjasvinMD) April 13, 2020

The development came after Justice Gulzar had expressed displeasure over the federal government's measures to curb the coronavirus spread. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

People are celebrating Rongali Bihu – the spring festival – at home. Some of the revellers streamed the celebrations live on Facebook. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

Vegetables to be sold from 6.00 am to 11.00 am, fruits 2.00 pm to 6.00 pm in all wholesale markets in Delhi: Development Minister Gopal Rai announces.

(Inputs from PTI, Photo by Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

Similarly, commercial vehicles sales last month saw a massive dip of 88.95 per cent at 13,027 units as against 1,09,022 units in March 2019. Two-wheeler sales saw a decline of 39.83 per cent at 8,66,849 units in March compared to 14,40,593 units in March 2019.
(READ FULL REPORT HERE)

The company has partnered with several national brands and retailers such as HUL, P&G, Godrej, Dabur, Marico, Vishal Mega Mart, Cipla and many other city specific stores to supply branded essential products and food items to the customers' doorstep, Swiggy said in a statement. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

Maharashtra chief secretary Ajoy Mehta issues the order of extending the lockdown still April 30. @CMOMaharashtra @NewIndianXpress pic.twitter.com/haSxqcr2it

— Sudhir Suryawanshi (@ss_suryawanshi) April 13, 2020

The Goa government last week decided not to allow the seafarers to enter the state in view of the coronavirus threat, after they requested for disembarkment from the ship. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

As the #lockdown has shut many business and industries, it forced people to choose a different livelihood. Muhammad Shafi, 39, a watch mechanic by profession, sells mask, which he made himself at his home, in Chennai#coronavirus #covid_19 #victimsoflockdown @NewIndianXpress pic.twitter.com/EhgLXw4kkz

— Debadatta Mallick (@ddmallick) April 13, 2020

Apart from deliveries, people suffering from BP, diabetes and other ailments come to the hospital regularly for treatment. But it is the foreign-returnees and patients with coronavirus symptoms who pose a challenge. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

Meanwhile, Indian Ambassador to the UAE Pavan Kapoor told the Gulf News on Saturday that the Indian missions in the UAE were awaiting instructions from their government on when the travel restrictions can be lifted. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

Delhi police women personnel cook food to distribute among the needy during nationwide coronavirus lockdown, which is in place till April 14. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

Speculations about the extension of lockdown have escalated the nervousness of many. Mental fatigue, anxiety and stress could see further spike in the upcoming days, say psychiatrists. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

There is a total shortage of 8091 personnel, 635 officers and 7456 other staff. The committee's report was placed before Parliament in the Budget Session. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

Prime Minister @narendramodi will address the nation at 10 AM on 14th April 2020.

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 13, 2020

A high-tech Japanese spray machine sprays disinfectant during Mukhyamantri Delhi sanitization drive to control the spread of coronavirus in New Rajendra Nagar in Delhi on Monday.
Express video | @anilpjournalist pic.twitter.com/nZCOYckjqU

— The New Indian Express (@NewIndianXpress) April 13, 2020

Earlier, Abu Dhabi resident Mitesh Udeshi was sacked for posting a cartoon mocking Islam on his Facebook page while a police complaint was filed against Sameer Bhandari of Future Vision Events & Weddings' in Dubai after he asked a Muslim job seeker from India to go back to Pakistan. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

There is no address to the nation by the Prime Minister today: Govt Sources

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

"Back to working in North Block office with a home-made mask this morning," Sitharaman tweeted. She also tweeted a photo in which she was seen wearing the mask. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

A doctor, a nurse and one staff in support duty have tested positive. However, the doctor has in all probability acquired the infection from outside the hospital (Max Hospital, Saket, Delhi): Max Hospital spokesperson.

"Ministry of External Affairs has been regularly issuing advisories for Embassies & its personnel to strictly follow lockdown guidelines. We've issued a very limited number of curfew passes for essential work. We will continue to advise the diplomatic community to adhere to the lockdown guidelines as it is in their interest and well being of each and everyone," government sources.

• Total count of positive cases till Monday : 538.
• Agra tops list with 138.
• Recovered : 45.
• Deaths : 05.

Rajasthan: CCTV cameras capture some women spitting in plastic bags &throwing them in some houses in Vallabhvadi area of Kota despite ban on spitting in public in view of #COVID19. "Area has been sanitised&search is on for accused," says Gumanpura Circle Inspector Manoj Sikarwar. pic.twitter.com/iCAvNCa0kk

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

The @arivalayam has moved the #Madras High Court challenging the 'press release' of the #TNGovt prohibiting political parties and charitable organisations from distributing food and groceries to the needy during the #Covid19Chennai lockdown. @xpresstn

— Harish Murali (@harismurali) April 13, 2020

Assam: A group of locals celebrated Rongali Bihu at Latasil grounds in Guwahati today as large gatherings remain prohibited in view of Coronavirus pandemic pic.twitter.com/2Lu98WxLcr

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

• In Karnataka, there are 247 positive cases till Monday. While 59 have been discharged, six died so far.
• Rajasthan has 815 positive cases. While 121 have been discharged, eleven have succumbed so far.
• In Bengal, 95 positive cases till Monday, while seven have died and 19 got discharged.

Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh is witnessing a surge of COVID-19 positive cases with eight more samples from the district testing positive on Monday and the total number of cases reaching 90. Two COVID-19 positive tested patients from the district have died till now. (READ FULL STORY NOW)

52-year-old Gazetted Officer of Punjab Police, posted in Ludhiana, tests positive. He had been unwell for the past week and has been put on a ventilator. SOP is being followed: KBS Sidhu, Special Chief Secretary, Punjab Disaster Management.

• At least 82 people tested positive for coronavirus in Maharashtra on Monday, taking the state tally to 2,064, a state health official said.
• Among the new cases, 59 were reported from Mumbai city and 12 from Malegaon tehsil in Nashik district.
• Besides, five cases were reported from Thane, three from Pune, twofrom Palghar, and one Vasai-Virar (township in Palghar district), the official said.

82 new COVID-19 cases including 59 cases in Mumbai reported in the state today; the total number of positive cases in the state is now 2064: Maharashtra Health Department.

Bengaluru: People being screened at a check-post in Padarayanapura area which has been declared a COVID19 hotspot by Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP). #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/rNASchvFP7

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

Muzaffarnagar Senior Superintendent of Police Abhishek Yadav said the FIRs were lodged and copies of it were delivered to the residences, and also put up outside the houses of the people, which included BJP member Vipul Tyagi.

• Kerala which was expected to take a decision on relaxing the lockdown restrictions in the state on Monday, will take a final call on this matter in the cabinet meeting to be held on Wednesday.
• The state cabinet meeting held on Monday decided to wait for Center’s decision on extending lockdown before taking a final decision on relaxing certain conditions in the state.
• The meeting also expressed satisfaction in the progress of COVID-19 situation in the state especially in Kasaragod which was severely hit by coronavirus cases in the state.

The move followed the instructions circulated two days ago so that a proper mechanism could be prepared before the 21-day nationwide lockdown end on April 14 midnight. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

#WATCH Union Minister Prakash Javadekar seen holding a meeting with officials of Information and Broadcasting Ministry, at Shastri Bhawan, Delhi pic.twitter.com/QYAClWinjT

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

A notice was put up outside Chairperson Anju Agarwal's residence on Sunday after a Tablighi Jamaat member tested positive at Kidwai Nagar locality where she had visited to oversee sanitising work. Agarwal, however, alleged that the move by the district authorities was political step as she had been watching the municipality work.

Assam: People line up outside a liquor shop in Dibrugarh as government permits sale of liquor between 10 AM & 5 PM during #CoronavirusLockdown. pic.twitter.com/d8HhAYJa5G

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

Maharashtra housing minister @Awhadspeaks has been asked for self quarantine for 14 days. The police officer who was with him was detected as #Covid_19 positive..@CMOMaharashtra @rajeshtope11 @NewIndianXpress

— Sudhir Suryawanshi (@ss_suryawanshi) April 13, 2020

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman being checked at the Finance Ministry entrance during the 20th day of Lockdown in New Delhi.
Express Photo | @parveennegi1 pic.twitter.com/Yd2uUd3T2U

— The New Indian Express (@NewIndianXpress) April 13, 2020

Bihar: 'Sewadars' & their family members offer prayers as entry of general public has been closed into Takhat Shri Harimandir Ji Gurudwara in Patna, on the occasion of #Baisakhi amid #CoronavirusLockdown. pic.twitter.com/v67x0gJZiK

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

There are 43 containment zones in Delhi today. If there are three or more positive cases in an area then we are declaring it a hotspot. 180 random samples were collected from Dilshad Garden yesterday. Rapid testing kits are awaited: Satyendra Jain.

Punjab: Few people offer prayers at Gurudwara Shahid Baba Deep Singh in Model Town Extension of Ludhiana on the occasion of Baisakhi amid continuing lockdown which has been imposed to contain the spread of #COVID19. pic.twitter.com/Jdb3MiLc0M

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

22 more COVID-19 cases and two more deaths (Ahmedabad & Vadodara) related to the virus reported in Gujarat. Total coronavirus positive cases in the state at 538, including 26 deaths & 47 discharged: Gujarat Health Department.

Delhi: Sanitisation being done in Rajinder Nagar area for the prevention of spread of Coronavirus. AAP's Rajinder Nagar MLA, Raghav Chadha says, "These Japanese hi-tech machines will be used for sanitization in red & orange zones in the city". pic.twitter.com/fMbqDPI3a3

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

COVID-19 cases have been found in Sataranjipura in large numbers. This area should be handed over to the military, I've discussed this with the Municipal Commissioner: Krishna Khopde, BJP MLA from Nagpur (East) Maharashtra.

Madhya Pradesh: Entry points of Harshwardhan Nagar in Bhopal have been blocked after the area was declared as #COVID19 containment zone. At least 134 cases & two deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported in the state capital. pic.twitter.com/kwGZ9D9YjD

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

The man with coronavirus-like symptoms was admitted to a hospital in Assam's Guwahati, where he tested positive for COVID-19, an official said. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

Delhi: COVID19 hotspot, Chandni Mahal has been declared a 'containment zone' by the Delhi Government, to prevent the spread of the disease. pic.twitter.com/MFBmhwRp8g

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

Three new coronavirus cases were reported from Madina Nagar, Janata Cooperative Housing Society and Gulmohar Chawl of Dharavi. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

Thiruvananthapuram: Identity cards of people being checked by Police amid the movement of vehicles during #CoronavirusLockdown.#Kerala pic.twitter.com/EDY4yTtnub

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

• Total positive cases in Northeast: 37
• Assam: 30
• Manipur: 2
• Tripura: 2
• Arunachal: 1
• Mizoram: 1
• Nagaland: 1
• Death: 1 (Assam)
• (Two new cases. One in Assam. Tablighi returnee. Another in Nagaland. This is Nagaland's first case)

Delhi: Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju who is joining office from today arrives at the Sports Authority of India. He says,"Only senior officials&minimum required staff will be coming to the office today onwards. We'll follow all guidelines regarding COVID19". pic.twitter.com/QPwbKUgWaH

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

134 Bhutanese students, who had been stranded in the hostels of Lovely Professional University, Phagwara–Jalandhar, were allowed them to leave for Bhutan through a special flight arranged by Bhutanese Government: KBS Sidhu, Special Chief Secretary, Punjab Disaster Management.

44 Indian evacuees from Iran who were quarantined at the Indian Navy's facility at Ghatkopar, Mumbai have returned to their homes in J&K's Srinagar after completing 30 days at the facility and testing negative for COVID19. They were quarantined at the facility on March 13. pic.twitter.com/WQwqzWHxl8

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

Eleven new COVID-19 positive cases (10 from Bharatpur & 1 from Banswara) reported today; the total number of positive cases in the state rises to 815: Rajasthan Health Department.

Andhra Pradesh: Visuals from Vijayawada's Rani Gari Thota area which has been declared #COVID19 red zone. 401 active cases & seven deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported in the state. pic.twitter.com/CqSS6wFUnd

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

Four new COVID-19 positive cases and one death reported in Dharavi today. Till now, the total number of positive cases in Dharavi is 47, five deaths.

Moradabad: Growers of marigold & rose say their flowers are drying up in the field as markets are shut due to #CoronavirusLockdown. "Flowers are drying up in the field as we are unable to sell them, leading us to huge losses," a farmer says. pic.twitter.com/ANEBKeTgTQ

— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 13, 2020

As health officials around the world push to get more ventilators to treat coronavirus patients, some doctors are moving away from using them whenever they can. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

Number of COVID-19 cases rise to 134 in Agra, with 30 new cases being reported in the district. Number of active cases stands at 120: District Magistrate Prabhu N Singh.

G Srijana, Commissioner of GVMC: It is like a call of duty for me. As a human being, it is my response to be of some help to the administration. I felt that this is the time we should all stand together and be of strength to each other. #COVID19 https://t.co/3Ofttx7KDb

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

Uttarakhand: 10 foreign nationals who were caught strolling along the bank of river Ganga in Rishikesh were made to write "I didn't follow lockdown rules, I am sorry', for 500 times as a punishment for violating #CoronavirusLockdown. (12-4-2020) pic.twitter.com/vd3BJeoHm0

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

One COVID-19 positive case of Kalahandi district, presently at Ashwini Covid hospital, Cuttack, has recovered and tested negative for COVID-19: Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Odisha.

Hubli: Use of temperature guns by authorities to screen people at the entry of Ashoknagar which is a COVID19 'containment zone'; Till now there are 232 positive cases in Karnataka pic.twitter.com/6j2q1goxXI

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

Total number of deaths rise to 308, 35 deaths in last 24 hours; India's total number of coronavirus positive cases rises to 9152 (including 7987 active cases, 856 cured/discharged/migrated and 308 deaths): Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Delhi: Bengali Market/ Babar Road adjoining area of Todarmal Road, have been declared COVID19 'containment zones' by Delhi Government; Police says, "doctors, NDMC sanitation workers, persons delivering essential commodities are allowed in the area". pic.twitter.com/gMbral7Ilc

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

In a clear indication of the government considering rolling the economic wheel again even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to extend the lockdown, the Union commerce ministry has urged the Union home ministry to reopen at least 15 industries and allow movement of “all transport vehicles”. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

Mumbai: Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has declared Ganesh Gully in Lalbaug area as a 'containment area'; the total number of COVID19 cases in the Maharashtra stands at 1982 pic.twitter.com/MGiONhE8Ml

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

Nagpur: Barricades have been put up in Mominpura, Chinteshwar ward, Masurkar Square & Satranjipura areas which have been designated as #COVID19 hotspots. #Maharashtra pic.twitter.com/Z9XBrrZ51k

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

Tamil Nadu: Thabaal Thanthi Nagar in Madurai has been declared a COVID19 'containment zone'; the movement of people in the area is restricted to avoid COVID19 transmission. The total number of positive cases in the state is 1075. pic.twitter.com/wT69VnHFLS

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

With Kerala running out of stock of PCR kits, RNA extraction kits and personal protective equipment (PPE), it is looking at South Korea, Germany and Dubai to procure the same. The state is also wary of the fact that international procurement of the essentials is not as easy as it seems because there is an overwhelming global demand for the essentials. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

Irula tribals living in various settlements near Palamalai, Kodiyur and Velliankadu are braving the current situation with little food they have.Though they were provided with rice, oil and dhal at fair price shops, due to them living in remote settlements, the tribals state that they do not have many essential items such as vegetables and salt. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

Many of those who attended the Delhi religious event travelled by trains between March 14 and 20. Most of the attendees travelled by 13 trains from Delhi to Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Now that many of these attendees have tested positive for COVID-19, the Southern Railway has warned that ticket examiners and RPF personnel could also have been affected.

In what could be another indication of the state flattening the curve of Coronavirus infection, only two people tested positive for Covid-19 on Sunday. Moreover, 36 patients recovered, taking the total number of Covid survivors to 179. Also, two districts, Kottayam and Idukki, have no active cases.

With the increase in the number of Indians being affected by Covid-19 in Kuwait, the expats, including Malayalis, stranded in the West Asian country are pleading for help from the Central and state governments to bring them home. Of the total 1,234 Covid-19 cases reported in Kuwait till Sunday, more than 600 people are Indians. (READ THE FULL REPORT HERE)

With only a day left for the 21-day nationwide lockdown to end, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to make an announcement extending it any time now. During his video-conference meeting with chief ministers on Saturday, most states had demanded that the restrictions continue till the end of the month to stifle the pandemic. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

The Union government on Sunday said that guidelines on exemptions during lockdown were not being followed properly in some parts of the country and vehicles carrying essential and non-essential items were being detained by police that could lead to potential shortage of commodities.

Rajasthan reported two more coronavirus-related deaths on Sunday, taking the number to 11, as over 100 new COVID-19 cases surfaced in the state, officials said here. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

The Information and Broadcasting ministry has asked television broadcasters, DTH and cable TV operators to ensure uninterrupted supply of their services in the interest of viewers in the "difficult times" of the COVID-19 pandemic. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

For representational purpose. 

#UPDATE All 159 samples tested today have come out negative: Health Department, Himachal Pradesh pic.twitter.com/y7Ql1F4S5I

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

Italy on Sunday reported its lowest coronavirus death toll in more than three weeks, confirming trends showing that the COVID-19 outbreak in Europe's worst-hit nation had peaked.The 431 new deaths reported by the civil protection service were the lowest since March 19.

For representational purpose. (Photo | AP)

A 56-year-old Assistant Sub-Inspector of Delhi Police tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday. He last came on duty on 8th April. He is the third personnel of Delhi Police who has fallenprey to the virus, say Delhi Police.

Goa will set up state-of-the-art sample collection kiosks as per Indian Council for Medical Research guidelines to increase the number of people being tested for coronavirus, state health minister Vishwajit Rane said on Sunday.

Health workers take nasal swabs from a person through a Covid-19 sample collection kiosk in Chennai. (Photo | Debdatta Mallick, EPS)

The notification states that all liquor shops shall remain open from 10 am to 5:00 pm on the certain days. The government has also advised the buyers to follow social distancing.

The Ministry of Home Affairs directs States to implement lockdown guidelines to ensure smooth movement of inter & intrastate cargo, trucks, workers & functioning of warehouse/cold storages.#CCoronaviruslockdown pic.twitter.com/1Po7LJjYyh

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

A total of 1,95,748 samples from 1,81,028 individuals have been tested as on 12 April 2020, 9 PM: Indian Council of Medical Research

A total of 1,95,748 samples from 1,81,028 individuals have been tested as on 12 April 2020, 9 PM: Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) pic.twitter.com/rkQzLahxE3

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

The West Bengal government on Sunday made wearing masks mandatory for people visiting public places, a senior official said. An order to this effect was issued by Chief Secretary Rajiva Sinha Sunday evening.

For representational purpose. (Photo | P Ravindra Babu)

#COVID19 cases rise to 480 in Uttar Pradesh. Out of this, 45 people have completely recovered and discharged. 41 districts are affected till now: State Principal Health Secretary Amit Mohan Prasad pic.twitter.com/8WyqK4lhet

— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 12, 2020

Number of new cases reported: 221

Number of people dischared: 217

Number of deaths today: 22

Total number of positive cases: 1982

Total number of deaths:149

Four days after a massive political furore, scam-accused businessmen Kapil Wadhawan and his brother Dheeraj Wadhawan on Sunday gave their side of the story about their Thursday (April 9) trip from Khandala to Mahabaleshwar allegedly flouting lockdown norms.

The cornavirus toll increased to seven with the death of a 52-year old man while the total positive cases to 420 in Andhra Pradesh, the state government said on Sunday. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami today instructed collectors & police to take legal action against NGO's & politicians distributing food, essential supplies amid lockdown, in order to contain the spread of #COVID19. (File pic) pic.twitter.com/wW3FXlOtjC

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

India's oldest National Park Jim Corbett, situated in Uttarakhand's Paurhi Garhwal region, has built isolation wards for animals. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

For representational purpose. (Photo | EPS)

The Assam government on Sunday decided to go with any decision to be taken by the Centre on extension of the 21-day lockdown, imposed to curb the spread of coronavirus in the country. (READ FULL REPORT HERE)

I am happy to share that a 7 1/2 hour long surgery has been successfully completed in PGI to repair the severed wrist of ASI Harjeet Singh. I thank the entire team of doctors and support staff for their painstaking effort. Wishing ASI Harjeet Singh a speedy recovery.

— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) April 12, 2020

17 new cases of #COVID19 reported in Karnataka since Saturday evening.
State's tally at 232
Number includes 54 recoveries
Deaths- 6@XpressBengaluru@NewIndianXpress @santwana99 pic.twitter.com/aRxVl7d6EV

— Anusha Ravi Sood (@anusharavi10) April 12, 2020

Of the seven deaths from the infectious disease so far in the island nation, three were Muslims. The bodies were cremated by authorities despite protests from relatives. "The corpse of a person who has died or is suspected to have died, of... COVID-19 shall be cremated," Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi said Sunday. 

READ FULL REPORT HERE

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was discharged from hospital on Sunday, a Downing Street spokesman said, a week after being admitted for treatment for coronavirus and spending three days in intensive care. 

21 new cases of COVID19 reported in J&K today. 17 from Kashmir Division and 4 from Jammu Division. Total number of positive cases now 245: Rohit Kansal, Principal Secretary-Planning, Jammu and Kashmir

Two government doctors, two railway hospital doctors, four private hospital doctors and five nurses have tested positive for COVID19: Beela Rajesh, Tamil Nadu Health Secretary 

Say namaste with the mask! A youth wears a unique mask that he designed to create awareness on #COVID19 and #CoronaLockdown.
Express photo | Udayshankar S.@XpressBengaluru pic.twitter.com/2e0GaeKj6e

— The New Indian Express (@NewIndianXpress) April 12, 2020

High-risk zones will be declared as orange zones. Containment zones have already been declared as red zones. We will start a massive sanitation drives in these zones from tomorrow. Wherever we are finding COVID19 cases in Delhi, we are declaring those areas as containment zones and conducting 'Operation Shield' there. Total 33-35 containment zones have been already identified till now. The number of containment zones will be increased in Delhi in next 2-3 days. Also, we are starting a sanitisation drive on a large-scale in the red zones or containment zones: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal 

Travel history of Patient No. 51, 52, 53 & 54 tested #COVID19 positive on April 11 in #Odisha.#coronavirus#OdishaFightsCorona#IndiaFightsCorona@NewIndianXpress pic.twitter.com/qTNMhCjnet

— Hemant Kumar Rout #StayHomeStaySafe (@TheHemantRout) April 12, 2020

Situation regarding essential commodities is under control. In the MHA control room, officials of Ministries of Civil Aviation, Consumer Affairs and Railways have been working in coordination with states to resolve logistics problems: MHA 

Increase of 918 new COVID19 cases and 31 deaths in last 24 hours; India's total number of Coronavirus positive cases rises to 8447 (including 7409 active cases, 765 cured/discharged/migrated and 273 deaths): Ministry of Health and Family Welfare 

Till now, around 90 doctors, nurses and paramedics staff have tested positive for COVID19 across the country: Sources 

Number Corona positive patients in Tamil Nadu crossed 1,000 today; with 106 more persons tested positive for this virus today, the total number of Corona positive persons in the State has gone up to 1075 @xpresstn @NewIndianXpress

— T Muruganandham (@muruga_TNIE) April 12, 2020

Currently there are 219 testing facilities in country; till 2:30 PM today 1.86 lakh samples have been tested of which 7,953 were found positive: ICMR 

#COVID__19 awareness without mask? Folk artists performing cultural program on the importance of #SocialDistancing at Madura college ground in Madurai.
Express Photo | @KKSundar123 @xpresstn pic.twitter.com/jqkxEdycLH

— The New Indian Express (@NewIndianXpress) April 12, 2020

• Over 15000 tests taking place every day. 4.3% of all cases tested positive
• 34 deaths in the last 24 hours
• Only 20% of cases need hospitalisation with critical care and oxygen support
• 1671 patients need beds, and the government is equipped with 1.05 lakh
• Orientation of health staff underway
• Additional ventilators being provided to states 
• Multiple dedicated COVID-19 hospitals being set up
   
• Public sectors like HAL providing additional beds 
• Enough supply of HCQ in the country

Tripura government has decided to conduct tests for all 769 persons, who are now in quarantine, within a week. As of now, 337 samples have been tested including the two positive cases 

Nine persons have been arrested till now in connection with the attack in which a Punjab ASI's hand was chopped off in Patiala earlier on Sunday. Weapons including guns and petrol bombs have been recovered: Mandeep Singh, SSP Patiala 

We also do not support the lifting of lockdown on April 14. It is true that the economy is affected, but the lives of people are more important: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan  

MLA Karunakar Reddy eating food along with municipal workers in Tirupati.
Express photos | Madhav K.@xpressandhra #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/cT4jEGDNqX

— The New Indian Express (@NewIndianXpress) April 12, 2020

With 60-year-old female testing positive for COVID-19, Vijayapura becomes the 19th district in Karnataka to be infected by the deadly virus. Karnataka on Sunday recorded 11 new cases of coronavirus taking the tally in the state to 226. Among them, one of the cases were reported in the Vijayapura city. The health bulletin revealed that a 60-year-old female has been suffering from Severe Acute Respiratory Infections.

A press statement from the TN Health Department said the patient was admitted to Government Medical College Hospital in Omandurar Estate on April 5. "She developed breathlessness on Saturday and died at 7.30 pm without responding to the treatment," the statement read.  

The Ahmedabad civic body has made it compulsory for people to wear masks in public places from Monday, failing which offenders will be fined Rs 5,000 or sentenced to three-year imprisonment, an official said. 

#WATCH Delhi AIIMS' Randeep Guleria explains how plasma therapy works in treatment of #COVID19 patients - Plasma from blood of a person who recovered from COVID-19 is taken & then plasma's anti-bodies are transfused into another patient's blood which boosts their immune system. pic.twitter.com/FMcuVxEvvB

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy held a review meeting with Chief Secretary Neelam Sawhney, Director General of Police Gautam Sawang and other senior officials to take stock of the situation arising out of the spread of coronavirus in the state. The COVID-19 positive cases crossing the 400-mark on Saturday. 

Former India captain-turned-administrator Mohammed Azharuddin feels that all cricket boards should come together to redraw the international calendar as the COVID-19 pandemic has ensured that the current schedule is irredeemable. Azharuddin feels that tweaking of the Futures Tours and Programmes (FTP) is also necessary to accommodate the Indian Premier League, which is important for both domestic and foreign players. 

Kerala govt closely monitoring situation; will have district-specific strategies to tackle coronavirus outbreak. Not just lockdown, intense testing and contact tracing are equally important to fight coronavirus. Allow states to directly borrow from the Reserve Bank: Kerala FM Thomas Isaac 

The new cases are largely contacts of those who attended Tablighi Jamaat event in Delhi along with contacts of those who worked in the pharma company in Nanjangud, which has created cluster transmission in Mysuru.

READ FULL REPORT HERE 

Loco pilot B Ravi and S Somashekhar have been cooking and distributing an average of 120 food packets to the needy for the last five days and plan to continue doing so as long as they can sustain it.  Ravi, with 20 years of experience as an express driver, was choked with emotion when narrating his experience to The New Indian Express. 

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that he owed his life to the country's National health service (NHS) for helping him beat the novel coronavirus. The Prime Minister, 55, issued a short statement on Saturday hailing the medics as he prepared to spend his seventh night at St Thomas' Hospital in central London, reports the Metro newspaper. "I can't thank them enough. I owe them my life," he said. 

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal chairs an all-party meeting over #COVID19 situation in the state, in Guwahati. 29 cases of coronavirus including one death have been reported in the state. pic.twitter.com/90h5mKQ7Yb

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

Madhya Pradesh is the only State where there is no minister for home & health. Lockdown was imposed 40 days after Rahul Gandhi expressed concerns over COVID19. The Centre's engagement in toppling MP govt led to delay in taking steps to tackle COVID-19. Madhya Pradesh Cabinet is yet to be formed. On March 12, I ordered closing of malls and other places but no action has been taken after my resignation: Congress leader Kamal Nath 

Salaries of Uttarakhand MLAs and their constituency & secretarial allowances reduced by 30%, after the state cabinet's decision, in view of COVID19 pandemic: State Assembly Secretary Jagdish Chand 

49 more Coronavirus positive cases had come yesterday so the total number of positive cases in Indore district rises to 298. The death toll has gone up to 32 after test results of 2 people, who had died earlier, came yesterday: Dr Praveen Jadiya, Chief Medical Health Officer Indore
 

West Bengal: Workers of Kolkata Municipal Corporation spray disinfectant in different areas of the city in view of #CoronavirusPandemic. 134 cases of #COVID19 including five deaths have been reported in the state, according to the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. pic.twitter.com/ZNdVm4ZoF6

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

Two more deaths reported in Pune today. Both of them had tested positive for COVID-19 and also had co-morbidity. A total of 31 deaths reported in Pune till now, including two residents of Thane and Ahmednagar who died here: : Health officials, Pune.

226 positive cases identified so far in the state till Sunday. Six have died so far, while 47 discharged.

134 new Coronavirus positive cases reported in Maharashtra today - Mumbai 113, Raigad, Amravati, Bhiwandi, Pimpri-Chinchwad 1 each, Pune 4, Mira Bhayandar 7 and Navi Mumbai, Thane & Vasai Virar 2 each. The total positive cases in the state rise to 1895: State Health Department.

Roads become artists canvas amid #CoronaLockdown! Artist spreads #COVID19 awareness in Chennai's Alwarpet.
Express photos @ddmallick.@xpresstn pic.twitter.com/sGI3qxRFe9

— The New Indian Express (@NewIndianXpress) April 12, 2020

• A police team on patrol duty found that a group of people was performing religious activities at Gurdwara Sisgang at around 2. 15 am, they said. After seeing police, the people there tried to flee but they were apprehended, a senior police official said.
• A case under sections 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 269 (negligent act likely to spread infection of disease) and 270 (malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) of the Indian Penal Code was registered against them at Kotwali police station, he said.
• The eight apprehended were not wearing masks and had gathered at a religious place in violation of the lockdown orders, the officer said.

Total coronavirus positive cases in the state till 9 am Sunday: 751. While 112 more found to be negative in subsequent tests, 52 have been discharged so far

In our COVID control room, we use technology to reach out to large number of people to provide them medical advice & assistance. Even in the case of community transmission of #COVID19, this cell can operate from remote areas: Alappuzha District Collector M Anjana. https://t.co/qlmiD5gtpn pic.twitter.com/VTIBbOND90

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

It's the same. Markaz operation wasn't only one but several others too. They have been clubbed together. It doesn't make a difference: Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on 'Markaz' category in Delhi medical bulletin changed to 'Under Special Operations' category #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/XjsVqMUb0s

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

#UPDATE 7 fugitives, donning the robes of Nihangs, have been arrested from Gurdwara in village Balbera. One of these was injured in police firing & has been rushed to hospital. Operation was supervised by IG Patiala Zone,Jatinder Singh Aulakh: KBS Sidhu,Spl Chief Secretary,Punjab https://t.co/y2DGargb34 pic.twitter.com/Lg4uRn9U2K

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

The lockdown has severely disrupted India’s agricultural sector, starving it of buyers and migrant labourers as the restrictions halt people’s movements. With a sharp decline in takers for vegetables, fruits and flowers, farmers are looking to the government for help. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

Special attention is being paid to the 33 areas which are sealed. Most importantly every individual in all houses is being screened. If someone is even a little symptomatic, they're being tested to see that they don't spread the infection: Satyendar Jain.

Karnataka: Workers of State Fire & Emergency Services Department spray disinfectant in the areas in Hubli where cases of #COVID19 have been reported. 214 COVID-19 cases including six deaths have been reported in the state. pic.twitter.com/sLa79B4XlI

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

Taj Mahal Palace and Tower does not have any guests at the current time and only very minimal staff in areas like housekeeping, security, maintenance and staff dining are present to ensure the upkeep & maintenance of the hotel. Approx 500 of our employees in our Mumbai hotels have been tested to date. Those who tested positive mostly were asymptomatic. However, staff testing positive & symptomatic were hospitalized & those in contact with them were immediately quarantined.

The man succumbed to the disease at LG Hospital in Ahmedabad late Saturday night, state principal secretary (health) Jayanti Ravi said. He was also suffering from hypertension, she said. With this, there have been 11 deaths of coronavirus patients in Ahmedabad.

A woman from Uruguay was stopped by Police yesterday at Paschimi Marg in Vasant Vihar as she was cycling without wearing a pair of gloves or mask. She started arguing with Police and noted down the name of Police officer who asked her to wear gloves and mask. During this incident, officials of Resident Welfare Association (RWA) also reached the spot and informed us that they are also trying to convince the foreign nationals of Vasant Vihar, but they are not listening to them: Delhi Police

Tamil Nadu: Daily wage labourers at MGR Street in Yagappa Nagar area in Madurai protest alleging they don't have money to buy essential commodities amid #CoronavirusLockdown. MGR Street has been declared as #COVID19 containment zone & sealed. pic.twitter.com/vyDfRzWHsv

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

25 more COVID-19 cases reported in Gujarat (23 in Ahmedabad & 2 in Anand), taking the total number of positive coronavirus cases in the state to 493. One more COVID-19 related death also reported in Ahmedabad: Gujarat Health Department.

Assam: Security personnel keep vigil outside Athagaon Kabarsthan & Spanish Garden complex in Guwahati that have been declared as containment zones after #COVID19 cases emerged there. pic.twitter.com/alaH5TQ2X8

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

Human error can lead to adverse health issues, including itching, irritation in eye and breathing difficulty. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

Tamil Nadu: Rev Charles led the prayers at All Souls' Church in Coimbatore, on #Easter today, without the presence of any devotee here. Mass gatherings have been suspended at the Church in view of #Coronavirus. Prayers were live-streamed live on Facebook for members of the church pic.twitter.com/Ha0Un9VcUm

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

Don’t touch your eyes. For, the coronavirus can spread through eyes too. While facial masks and sanitisers are mandatory as a preventive measure, ophthalmologists in the city point out the need for wearing glasses to reduce the risk of the virus entering into the eyes. Dr Bhujang Shetty, Chairman, Narayana Nethralaya, told The New Sunday Express. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

• Maharashtra Police have registered over 35,000 offences across the state against those violating prohibitory orders and quarantine guidelines during the lockdown imposed since last month, a senior official said. In an effort to contain the spread of coronavirus and strictly enforce the lockdown, the police started taking stern action since March 22 by registering cases against offenders under Indian Penal Code Section 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), he said.
• So far, the police have arrested at least 2,525 people across the state under IPC Section 188. Besides, there been 70 cases of assault on police personnel for which 161 people have been arrested, he said. Also, nearly 475 people have been found violating the quarantine orders, the official said.
• Police have so far handled more than 61,000 calls at their various control rooms in connection with coronavirus and related issues, he said.
• Till Saturday, police registered 803 offences for illegal transportation, he said, adding that 19,675 vehicles were seized and Rs 1. 23 crore fine was collected from their owners.
• So far, three police personnel on duty have tested positive for coronavirus in the state, he said.

Tripura: People throng a vegetable market in Agartala amid #CoronavirusLockdown. Two cases of #COVID19 have been reported in the state, according to the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. pic.twitter.com/s7fWiRTXY6

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

As religious places have been kept out of bounds from people in the COVID-19 lockdown, the Sacred Heart Cathedral Church, Bishop’s House in Dibrugarh had put up pictures of its members on the pews to mark their symbolic attendance. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

Karnataka: People flout norms of social distancing at a vegetable shop in Madhura Estate area in Hubli. 214 #COVID19 cases including six deaths have been reported in the state. pic.twitter.com/qgYHhxxxy7

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

In its twice-a-year regional update, the bank said that South Asian governments must ramp up action to curb the health emergency, protect their people, especially the poorest and most vulnerable, and set the stage for fast economic recovery. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

I have spoken to Director of PGI who has deputed top plastic surgeons of PGI for surgery, which just started. The Nihang group will be arrested and further action will be taken soon: Dinkar Gupta, Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab https://t.co/y2DGaqYAbw

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

Jammu & Kashmir: Streets in Srinagar continue to remain deserted, shops closed as nationwide #CoronavirusLockdown remains imposed. pic.twitter.com/2tytx4dnwa

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

All bookings stopped with immediate effect for an indefinite period. All tickets have been cancelled and refund process has been initiated. Till further orders, we have cancelled further bookings: Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) PRO Latha TS.

#WATCH Delhi: Mehrauli Sabzi Mandi has been temporarily relocated around Mehrauli DTC bus terminal to ensure #SocialDistancing amid #CoronavirusPandemic pic.twitter.com/GKCoshCFRu

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

15 new coronavirus positive cases have been reported in Dharavi area of Mumbai. A total of 43 cases and four deaths have been reported here so far.

Andhra Pradesh: Streets in Mogalrajapuram of Vijayawada district wear a deserted look amid #CoronavirusLockdown. The area has been identified as one of the hotspots in the state. pic.twitter.com/Bn9PcGsEmU

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

Three Indian nationals, who were placed under quarantine in Birgunj of Nepal’s Parsa district, have tested positive for COVID-19. Total number of positive cases in Nepal rises to 12: Nepal Health Ministry official

A 72-year-old woman, possibly infected with coronavirus, has managed to escape from Patna Medical College & Hospital (PMCH). PMCH admn has given written info to Police & investigation has begun. Test results of the woman, a resident of Siwan, is awaited: PMCH official.

• In Chhattisgarh, seven new positive cases were reported on Sunday. While the total case count in the state stands at 25, 10 have been recovered so far.
• In UP, 464 positive cases got identified so far. Agra registered 12 fresh cases at Saturday night. While 45 have recovered so far, the state witnessed five deaths.

While at first, nearly 25,000 samples were tested leading to 581 confirmed cases till March 25, an additional same number of samples resulted into sharp jump of 1,637 cases till April 1. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

Earlier this week, India at the request of President Donald Trump cleared the export of 35.82 lakh tablets of hydroxychloroquine to the US along with nine metric tons of active pharmaceutical ingredient or API required in the manufacturing of the drug. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

When rainfall in Maharashtra continued till January this year, Shivdas Patil, a chilli farmer in state’s Jalgaon district, thought that by the end of May when harvesting would end, he would laugh all the way to the bank. In normal years rainfall rarely crosses December and the yield of chilli is 15-20 quintals per acre. This year with bountiful rain he expects a bumper crop, with more than 25 quintals of yield per acre. Yet, Patil does not know whether to laugh or cry. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

Out of the 582 samples tested yesterday, 12 tested positive. Three of them are admitted at District Hospital Agra and the other nine at Sarojini Naidu Medical College, Agra: In-charge of isolation ward, King George's Medical University (KGMU) Dr Sudhir Singh.

Number of COVID-19 cases climbs to 54 in Odisha including 12 cured and one death. 3862 samples have been tested so far: State Health Department.

Mumbai: Police barricading done in Dharavi area and police personnel deployed there. Dharavi has recorded a total of 28 #Corornavirus positive cases and 4 deaths so far. pic.twitter.com/y0RbS1BxMf

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended Easter greetings and prayed that the day gives added strength to successfully overcome COVID-19. "Best wishes to everyone on the special occasion of Easter. We remember the noble thoughts of Lord Christ, especially his unwavering commitment to empowering the poor and needy," the prime minister wrote on Twitter "May this Easter give us added strength to successfully overcome COVID-19 and create a healthier planet," he said.

34 deaths and 909 new cases reported in last 24 hours; India's total number of coronavirus positive cases rises to 8356 (including 7367 active cases, 716 cured/discharged/migrated and 273 deaths): Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Jharkhand: Police barricading done at Hindpiri, Ranchi & Police personnel deployed here after it was sealed & declared a containment zone as 8 #Coronavirus positive cases found here so far (including the 1st positive case of state). Total 17 positive cases in the state till date. pic.twitter.com/xmewDYehsq

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

In a letter addressed to all chief secretaries and principal secretaries (health), the ministry underlined that the country is in the midst of an unprecedented outbreak of COVID-19 and one of the key components of the government's strategy to combat it is contact tracing and collection of throat and swab samples of potentially infected persons. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

Mumbai: 'Basilica Of Our Lady of The Mount' in Bandra remains closed on #Easter today. Mass gatherings have been suspended here in view of #CoronavirusPandemic. pic.twitter.com/1OKp0r4YWo

— ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020

United States records 1,920 deaths related to the coronavirus over the past 24 hours, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University: AFP news agency.