COVID-19: 21-Day Nationwide Lockdown, MHA Issues Guidelines
Catch all COVID-19 related news and live updates here.
Tamil Nadu reported its first death due to the novel coronavirus early on Wednesday, 25 March, taking the total death toll in the country to 11.
Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday, 24 March, announced a nationwide lockdown starting midnight on 25 March for 21 days to curb the spread of COVID-19.
However, fair price shops and those dealing with food, groceries, fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, fish, animal fodder will remain open, it said.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Tuesday announced that the total number of positive cases in India has risen to 536. However, the Health Ministry has reported only 519 cases.
- Kerala and Maharashtra reported 107 and 105 positive cases respectively, the highest in the country
- The Supreme Court on Monday said that it will not hold hearings in person till further orders
- The Lok Sabha was adjourned sine die due to coronavirus, two weeks ahead of schedule
- With 139 deaths in one day, the number of fatalities in the United States crossed 550 on Monday night
- The total number of coronavirus cases across the globe stands at at least 3,72,000, with over 16,000 deaths, according to WHO
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Italy Sees Second Successive Drop in Virus Deaths
Italy on Monday reported a second successive drop in daily deaths and infections from coronavirus that has nevertheless claimed more than 6,000 lives in a month, AFP reported.
The Mediterranean country has now seen its daily fatalities come down from a world record 793 on Saturday to 651 on Sunday and 601 on Monday.
The number of new declared infections fell from 6,557 on Saturday to 4,789 on Monday.
UK Goes Into Three-Week Lockdown to Tackle Coronavirus Spread
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has enforced the strictest curbs on movement of people for at least three weeks to try and control the spread of COVID-19 in the country, where the death toll has reached 335, PTI reported.
In a televised address to the nation on Monday evening, he said while no prime minister wants to make such demands on the population, the situation was such that he was forced to clamp down on people's movement and crackdown on any gatherings of more than two people.
Cuba to Quarantine Tourists, Close Borders for Month
Cuba will quarantine foreign tourists from Tuesday when it seals its borders to guard against the spread of the new coronavirus, the prime minister has said, in a move cutting one of the communist country's few revenue sources, AFP reported.
"All tourists still in hotels will be placed in quarantine... They cannot leave the hotel" until they find a flight home, Manuel Marrero said on state TV on Monday, adding that there were 32,500 holidaymakers from overseas on the Caribbean island on Monday.
96 FIRs Registered in Noida for Violating Lockdown
Noida Police has said that 96 FIRs were registered and 1995 vehicles were handed challans in Noida on Monday for violating the lockdown and section 144 in the district, according to ANI.
Shaheen Bagh Protest Cleared: Reports
Amid the COVID-19 outbreak across India, Delhi's Shaheen Bagh - heart of protests against CAA - has been cleared on Tuesday morning after 101 days, reports say.
US Records 139 COVID-19 Deaths in 1 Day
US president Donald Trump has signed an executive order to prevent hoarding of vital medical supplies and personal protective equipment as the country for the first time registered over 130 deaths in a day due to coronavirus, PTI reports.
Till Monday, more than 43,700 confirmed cases of coronavirus were reported in the United States. Of these, over 10,000 were added in one day, according to Worldometer, a website which compiles COVID-19 cases. With 139 deaths, the number of fatalities crossed 550 by Monday night.
Shaheen Bagh Protest Site Cleared, Action Taken Against Violators
Delhi DCP East on Tuesday said that people at the protest site in Shaheen Bagh were requested to clear the site as lockdown has been imposed. “But after they refused, action was taken against violators as the assembly was unlawful. Protest site has been cleared,” he said.
Some protestors have been detained, he added, according to ANI.
Pandemic "Accelerating", Health Officials Warn
World health officials warn the pandemic is "accelerating" as deaths worldwide pass 16,500, AFP reports.
MP Govt Imposes Curfew in Bhopal, Jabalpur
The Madhya Pradesh government has imposed curfew in Bhopal and Jabalpur cities, where coronavirus cases have been found.
Soon after assuming charge, state Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan held a meeting around Monday midnight and issued the directives, according to PTI.
During the meeting, Chouhan reviewed the coronavirus situation in the state and directed for imposition of curfew in the capital city Bhopal and Jabalpur.
Lockdown has so far been ordered in 39 out of the total 51 districts of the state in view of the coronavirus pandemic, a public relations department official said.
Number of Positive Cases in India Rises to 492: Health Ministry
The total number of positive cases in India has risen to 492, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare stated on Tuesday.
Ensure Operational Continuity of Print and Electronic Media: Govt to States/UTs
The government had asks states/UTs to ensure operational continuity of Print and Electronic Media in view of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Positive Cases in Maharashtra Rises to 101
The total number of positive cases in Maharashtra rises to 101, with three new cases in Pune and one in Satara, the state Health Department said on Tuesday.
23-Year-Old Woman in Manipur Tests Positive
The Northeast has reported its first case as a 23-year-old woman, with recent travel history to the UK, tested positive for COVID-19.
Domestic Air Passenger Arrested in Kochi for Refusing to Follow Norms to Check Coronavirus Spread
A 54-year-old domestic passenger was arrested at the airport in Kochi for allegedly refusing to follow instructions given by doctors for prevention of the spread of novel coronavirus, police said on Tuesday, according to PTI.
Lami Arackal from Ernakulam, who landed from Chennai at the Cochin International Airport at Nedumbassery on Monday night, was arrested based on a complaint from health officials, they said.
He was, however, later released on bail.
Number of Cases in Gujarat Rises to 33
Gujarat Principal Secretary (Health) Jayanti Ravi on Tuesday that that there are two new positive cases of coronavirus in Gujarat. This takes the total number of cases in the state to 33.
China to Lift Travel Curbs on Hubei Province, Including Wuhan
China to lift travel curbs on Hubei province, including Wuhan, an official says, according to AFP.
PM Modi to Address Nation at 8 PM Today
PM Modi took to Twitter on Tuesday to announce that he will address the nation at 8 PM today, “on vital aspects relating to the menace of COVID-19.”
EC Defers Rajya Sabha Elections Over COVID-19 Outbreak
The Election Commission has deferred the Rajya Sabha Elections that were scheduled to be held on 26 March over the COVID-19 outbreak.
Odisha Govt Decides to Lockdown Entire State
The Odisha government has decided to lockdown the entire state (all 30 districts) from today midnight till 29 March, Subroto Bagchi, Spokesperson, Odisha government said on Tuesday, according to ANI.
No New Cases in Delhi in 24 Hours: Kejriwal
Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said that no new cases had been reported in Delhi in the last 24 hours but also warned people against being happy yet, saying that the biggest challenge right now is not to let the situation go out of control. “Your cooperation is needed in this,” he added.
32 States/UTs in Complete Lockdown
A total of 32 states and Union territories have declared complete lockdown so far covering 560 districts, in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, officials said on Tuesday, according to PTI.
Three other states and UTs have imposed lockdowns in certain areas in their territories, covering 58 districts, and one UT has imposed closure of some activities in its jurisdiction.
US Praises India's 'Janata Curfew'
The US has praised as "inspiring" India's 'Janata Curfew', which was called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to check the coronavirus spread in the country and laud the efforts of essential service providers during this period.
"Inspiring to see people across India coming together despite being physically apart to applaud workers on the frontlines combatting COVID-19," Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Alice G Wells said in a tweet on Monday.
Two Fresh Cases of Coronavirus Reported in West Bengal
Two more people with recent history of foreign travel tested positive for the coronavirus in West Bengal on Tuesday, a state health official said, according to PTI. This takes the state’s total number of cases to nine.
Of the two, one had returned from the UK and another man from Egypt.
They have been kept in the isolation ward of the Beliaghata Infectious Diseases hospital, he said.
J&K Govt to Convert 11 Hospitals Into COVID-19 Sanatoriums
Jammu and Kashmir government will convert 11 major hospitals into COVID-19 sanatoriums to treat suspected patients. The government will convert SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, CD Hospital Srinagar, JLNM Hospital, Srinagar and Police Hospital, Srinagar entirely for isolation purposes, ANI reports.
Sikkim to go Under Lockdown From 6am on Wednesday
Sikkim will go under lockdown from 6 am on Wednesday till 31 March to check spread of coronavirus, PTI reports, quoting officials.
Police Seize 25 Lakh Masks in Maharashtra
Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh said on Tuesday that police have seized 25 lakh masks from godowns in Andheri and Bhiwandi, including three lakh N95 masks, worth Rs 15 crore. Four men have been arrested under the Essential Commodity Act, while two are absconding, he said, according to ANI.
Milk, Medicine and Vegetable Shops to Open From 6-9am From Tomorrow in Punjab
“Milk, medicine and vegetable shops to opened for public would between 4pm to 6pm today. From tomorrow onwards until further orders, the milk, medicine and vegetable shops to remain open from 6-9am,” Gagneet Singh Aujla, APRO Mohali, Punjab told ANI on Tuesday.
65-Year-Old COVID-19 Patient Passes Away in Mumbai
A 65-year-old COVID-19 patient, who was admitted at Mumbai’s Kasturba Hospital, passed away on Monday.
The man had recently returned from the United Arab Emirates to Ahmedabad. He later complained of fever, cough and difficulty in breathing, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said in a statement.
He also had pre-existing ailments, including high blood pressure and severe diabetes, it said. He died late Monday evening, the BMC said.
FM Sitharaman to Brief Media at 2PM Today
TN CM Announces Rs 1,000 to Ration Card Holders, Additional Dole to Workers
A Rs 3,280 crore special relief package was announced by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami on Tuesday to help people whose livlihood has taken a hit due to the curbs put in place for battling the coronavirus.
Under the assistance plan, people having 'rice' ration cards will get Rs 1,000 each cash assistance, and all card holders shall get essential commodities -rice, dhal, cooking oil and sugar- free of cost in April.
Also, auto drivers and construction workers will get a special assistance of Rs 1,000, he told the state assembly ahead of the state-wide lockdown coming into force from 6 PM on Tuesday.
Families of migrant labourers will get 15 kilo rice, one kilo each dhal and cooking oil for free.
Destitute people and elderly will get cooked food at their place of residence, he said.
Centre Advises States to Impose Curfew Wherever Necessary to Keep People Inside Homes
As people continue to venture out despite lockdown, the Centre has advised state governments and union territory administrations to impose curfew wherever necessary in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, officials said on Tuesday, according to PTI.
A top functionary of the central government has called up some of the chief ministers and apprised them of the necessity of imposing the curfew if people continue to venture out of their homes.
Kejriwal, Sisodia, Delhi Police Chief Meet LG Baijal
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia and Health Minister Satyendar Jain met Lt Governor Anil Baijal on Tuesday to discuss measures to contain the spread of coronavirus in the national capital.
Delhi Police Commissioner S N Srivastava also attended the high-level meeting at the LG office, an official said, according to PTI.
Woman Booked for Escaping Home Quarantine in Maha
A 35-year-old woman, who was asked to remain under home quarantine after her return from Sharjah, fled to her parent's house in Uttar Pradesh from Maharashtra's Nagpur city, police said on Tuesday, according to PTI.
The woman arrived at Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur on 15 March, and with no obvious symptoms of coronavirus, she was asked to remain under home quarantine for 14 days, an official from Sonepur police station said.
PM Modi Interacts With Print Media Heads
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is holding an interaction with print media heads through video conferencing, over COVID-19.
Curfew Imposed in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra
Curfew has been imposed in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district to fight the coronavirus outbreak, ANI reports.
Number of Positive Cases in Telangana Rises to 36
The total number of positive cases in Telangana has risen to 36 with three new cases, the Telangana Health Department said on Tuesday.
Complete Lockdown in Goa From Today Till 31 March
Goa will enter complete lockdown from midnight today till 31 March, Goa CM Pramod Sawant said on Tuesday, according to ANI.
“All shops in the state will remain shut. The government will make arrangements for the distribution of essential commodities. Goa dairy will supply milk and collector will take the decision regarding grocery distribution,” Sawant said.
Manipur Declares Statewide Indefinite Curfew
Manipur declares statewide indefinite curfew after woman tests positive for COVID-19, PTI reports, quoting officials.
Govt Issues Advisory to States for Transferring Funds in Accounts of Construction Workers
Government has issued an advisory to all states directing them to transfer funds in the account of construction workers through DBT mode from Workers' Welfare Cess.
Three New Cases in Chennai
Chennai has reported three new cases of COVID-19, all three with travel history. One of them is a 74-year-old man who returned from USA, while the other two are a 52-year-old woman from USA and a 25-year-old woman from Switzerland respectively.
One More Case Reported in Karnataka
A 56-year-old woman who is a resident of Bengaluru and came into contact with patient number 13 had been reported positive. She is isolated at a hospital in the city.
FM Extends Last Date for IT Returns for FY 18-19
Addressing the media amid the COVID-19 outbreak, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that the last date for the income tax return for the financial year 18-19 is extended to 30 June 2020. For delayed payments, the interest rate has been reduced from 12 percent to 9 percent, she added.
The last date for March, April, May 2020 GST returns and Composition returns has also been extended to 30 June.
UAE-Based Indian Stranded at Dubai Airport After Missing Flight Back Home
Dozing off at the airport in Dubai left an Indian national stranded at its Terminal 3 as he missed his flight back home and now he cannot even go to his UAE resident as the country refused entry to residency visa holders as a precaution to limit the spread of the coronavirus, according to a media report.
Arun Singh, a UAE resident, missed the last flight to India on Sunday.
Delhi Police to Address Queries Regarding Lockdown Through Social Media
The Delhi Police on Tuesday said it will be replying to queries regarding the lockdown in the national capital through social media.
Calcutta HC Forms 3-Member Panel to Decide Bail, Parole for Jail Inmates
The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday formed a three-member panel to examine the situation in all correctional homes of West Bengal and prepare a report on the number of inmates who could be granted bail or parole to avoid crowding in jails, in view of the COVID-19 outbreak.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice TBN Radhakrishnan and Justice Arijit Banerjee formed the committee with Justice Dipankar Datta, the chairman of State Legal Services Authority, as its head, and sought a report on the correctional homes by 31 March, according to PTI..
PM Modi, Afghan Prez Discuss Situation in Region
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Tuesday discussed the evolving situation in the region arising out of the coronavirus outbreak.
In a telephonic conversation, the two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to boost cooperation, a statement from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said, according to PTI.
Both the leaders exchanged Navroz greetings, noting that the festival symbolises the shared heritage and cultural linkages between the two countries.
"The leaders discussed the evolving situation in the region, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and reaffirmed their commitment to boost cooperation," the statement said.
Media Should Act as Link Between Govt & People: PM Modi
PM Modi, while interacting with print media heads on Tuesday, said that media has played praise-worthy role in disseminating information to every nook and cranny of this nation. He said that the network of media is pan-India and spread across cities and villages and that they should act as a link between government and people, according to ANI.
Two Coronavirus Patients Cured in Ladakh, Cases in UT Stand at 11
Two persons who tested positive for coronavirus have recovered and were released from the hospital in the Union Territory of Ladakh, where no fresh case was reported during the past five days, a senior government official said on Tuesday, according to PTI.
Commissioner Secretary (Health) Rigzin Samphel, however, said both the cured patients have been moved to a quarantine facility and will remain under surveillance.
Two More Test Positive in Srinagar
Two more people test positive for coronavirus in Srinagar, taking total cases in Jammu and Kashmir to six, PTI reports, quoting officials.
One More Tests Positive for COVID-19 in MP
The number of COVID-19 cases in Madhya Pradesh went up to eight on Tuesday, after a man tested positive for the coronavirus in Gwalior, reported PTI, quoting an official.
A 36-year-old man tested positive for the coronavirus in Gwalior, the state health department's additional secretary Sapna Lowanshi told PTI.
“The man returned to his home in Gwalior last week from Khajuraho in Chhattarpur district, and possibly might have come in contact with some foreign tourists there,”sources said.
Iran Death Toll Rises to 1,934
Iran on Tuesday, reported 122 new deaths due to COVID-19, raising the national toll to 1,934, reported AFP.
West Bengal to Be Under Lockdown From 5 PM on 24 March to 31 March
The entire state of West Bengal will be put under lockdown from 5 pm on Tuesday till 31 March, reported ANI, quoting West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Positive Cases in Maharashtra Rises to 106
The total number of positive cases in Maharashtra rises to 106, with three deaths reported in the state so far, reported ANI, quoting Rajesh Tope, State Health Minister.
One More Tests Positive in Noida
A 47-year-old woman with no recent history of foreign travel tested positive for COVID-19 in Noida on Tuesday, reported PTI, quoting officials.
Three More Test Positive in Punjab
Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh Sidhu on Tuesday reported three new positive cases of COVID-19 in Phillaur city of Jalandhar district, reported ANI.
Railways Explores Feasibility of Producing Essential Items
The Railway Board on Tuesday issued instructions to all its production units to access feasibility of manufacturing items like simple hospital beds, medical trolleys for hospitals and quarantine facilities, and IV stands to contribute to the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, reported PTI.
Myanmar Confirms First Coronavirus Cases
Myanmar on Tuesday confirmed its first two cases of COVId-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus after weeks of increasing scepticism over the under-developed southeast Asian nation's claims to be free of the disease, reported AFP.
Myanmar's health ministry late Monday confirmed a 36-year-old Myanmar man travelling back from the United States and a 26-year-old Myanmar man returning from Britain had both tested positive.
Himachal CM Imposes Statewide Curfew
The Himachal Pradesh government on Tuesday announced the imposition of a statewide curfew from 5 pm today till further orders, in wake of the outbreak of COVID-19, reported ANI, quoting Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister's Office.
Centre Asks States to Release Funds to Set up New Hospitals, Isolation Wards
Union Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba on Tuesday wrote to Chief Secretaries of States, requesting all states to immediately identify and earmark hospitals dedicated for management of COVID-19 cases and ensure they are fully ready in the event of a further spike in the number of confirmed cases.
Positive Cases in Maharashtra Rises to 107
The total number of positive cases in Maharashtra rises to 107, with three deaths reported in the state so far, reported PTI, quoting officials.
Spain Death Toll Rises to 2,696
514 people died in Spain over the past 24 hours due to COVID-19, raising the death toll to 2,696, as the number of infections surged towards 40,000, reported AFP.
Students in Gujarat Schools to Be Promoted Without Exams
The Gujarat government has decided to keep all schools closed and promote students of Classes 1 to 9 and class 11 of the state board, as annual exams this year could not be conducted due to the coronavirus crisis, reported PTI, quoting officials.
The decision to promote the students to higher standards was taken by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, said Ashwani Kumar, secretary in the Chief Minister's Office.
West Bengal CM Conducts Surprise Raids at Hospitals
Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister of West Bengal on Tuesday conducted surprise raids at five government hospitals to take stock of the COVID-19 outbreak in the state.
She also handed out masks and sanitisers to healthworkers.
UP to Extend Lockdown to All Districts, Curfew May Be Clamped in Some Areas: CM
All 75 districts in Uttar Pradesh will be under a three-day lockdown from Wednesday to fight the coronavirus outbreak, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced while warning that a curfew may also be imposed in some areas, reported PTI.
A lockdown was already in place in 18 of these districts.
Sonia Urges PM, Cong to Take Measures for Wage Support to Construction Workers
Expressing concern over the plight of construction workers after the country-wide lockdown over coronavirus, Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to announce emergency measures, including wage support to those in distress.
In a letter to the prime minister, Gandhi said over 44 million construction workers are now faced with a "precarious" future as many of them are stranded in cities and are deprived of livelihood due to the lockdown.
Regular Visa, E-Visa Extended Till Midnight of 15 April: MHA
Regular visa, e-visa or stay stipulation of all foreign nationals, which expired or would be expiring during 13 March (midnight) to 15 April (midnight),would be extended till midnight of 15 April 2020 on 'GRATIS' basis after making online application by the foreigner, reported ANI, quoting the Ministry of Home Affairs.
The exit of such foreign nationals, if so requested by them during this period, will be granted without levy of overstay penalty: Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
Srinagar First COVID-19 Patient Recovers
Shahid Choudhary, District Magistrate of Srinagar. Kashmir on Tuesday announced on Twitter that the first patient of COVID-19 reported in the city has been successfully treated, quoting the Director of Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS).
Delhi Govt to Give Rs 5,000 to Construction Workers: Kejriwal
"The Delhi government will give Rs 5,000 to construction workers as their livelihood has been affected due to the coronavirus outbreak, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced on Tuesday."
Addressing a press conference in the evening, he said no new case of coronavirus has been reported in Delhi in the past 40 hours, and the earlier number of virus-infected patients has also gone down from 30 to 23.
Japan PM to Propose 1-Year Postponement for Olympics
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will propose a one-year postponement for the Tokyo Olympics during talks with IOC President Thomas Bach, Japan's NHK public television reported Tuesday.
Abe said a postponement is unavoidable if the 2020 Games cannot be held in a complete manner amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Over 94,000 NRIs, Foreign Returnees Entered Punjab: CM
Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh's Office on Tuesday said that over 94,000 NRIs and foreign returnees entered into Punjab in recent days, reported AN
“Most of them have been tracked and around 30,000 people have been placed under isolation. All-out efforts are being made to trace the remaining,” he added.
LS Speaker to Give 1 Month's Salary to PM's Relief Fund for COVID-19
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday said he will contribute his one month's salary to the Prime Minister Relief Fund, setup to contain COVID-19, which has infected over 500 people in the country and killed 10, reported PTI.
Pune Collector Imposes Restrictions on Petrol, Diesel
Pune District Collector has instructed all petrol/diesel pumps of the district to stop providing petrol/diesel to vehicles in the district. Only those involved in emergency/essential services should be allowed to fill fuel at petrol pumps, reported ANI.
Don't Cancel Train Tickets, You Will Get Refund Automatically: IRCTC to Passengers
IRCTC has asked people not to cancel the tickets they have booked online for those trains that have been cancelled and assured them that they will get full refund automatically.
No cancellation required on the part of user. If user cancels his ticket, there are chances he may get less refund. Hence, passengers are advised not to cancel e-tickets on their own for those trains which have been cancelled by railways,” read a statement.
The Railways has cancelled all trains till 31 March in view of coronavirus outbreak.
Global Death Toll From COVID-19 Nears 17,000
The number of deaths around the world from the novel coronavirus cases stood at 16,961, according to a tally compiled by AFP on Tuesday from official sources.
More than 386,350 declared cases have been registered in 175 countries and territories since the epidemic first emerged in China in December.
The tallies, using data collected by AFP offices from national authorities and information from the World Health Organization (WHO), likely reflect only a fraction of the actual number of infections.
Indigo Offers Free Cancellation and Ticket Amount If Booking Is of Before April 30
IndiGo CEO Ronojoy Dutta said on Tuesday that the airline would not be charging any fee for cancelling tickets that are up to 30 April, and it would store the ticket price as credit on that PNR, which can be used for alternative booking up to 30 Septmeber.
Moreover, he stated that those passengers who are booked to travel till September 30, can change their itinerary at zero change fee, for travel up till September 30.
The fare difference would have to be paid by the passenger during the time of alternative booking.
Japan, Olympics Chief Agree to Postpone Tokyo Games Over Virus
Japan's prime minister and the head of the International Olympic Committee agreed to postpone the Tokyo 2020 Games by a year Tuesday in an extraordinary move, unprecedented in peacetime, as the world battles the coronavirus pandemic.
"I proposed to postpone for about a year and president Bach responded with 100 percent agreement," Shinzo Abe told reporters referring to Thomas Bach, head of the IOC.
J&K Launches Free Ambulance Service
At a time when Jammu and Kashmir is under lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus, Lt Governor G C Murmu on Tuesday dedicated a free ambulance service to the people of the Union Territory, reported PTI.
"The operationalisation of 102/108 ambulance service will ensure the delivery of public healthcare services to the patients at their doorsteps," an official spokesman said.
He said it would provide round-the-clock transportation to the patients requiring immediate medical care, especially those critical, accident victims, pregnant women and sick children.
Coca-Cola, Other Beverage Makers Suspend Manufacturing Operations
Beverage maker Coca-Cola on Tuesday said it has temporarily suspended production at its manufacturing facilities following the lockdown imposed by the government to prevent spread of COVID-19, reported PTI.
But it will continue to produce essential beverages like water, juices, tea and coffee in a limited manner as per government guidelines.
G7 Pledges to 'Do Whatever Is Necessary' to Restore Growth
G7 finance ministers and central bank chiefs on Tuesday vowed to "do whatever is necessary" to safeguard jobs and the economy from disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic, reported AFP.
The officials said they are working cooperatively with "substantial and complementary packages" to help companies weather the impact.
"We will do whatever is necessary to restore confidence and economic growth and to protect jobs, businesses, and the resilience of the financial system," the group said in a statement.
Eight More Tests Positive in Karnataka
Karnataka on Tuesday reported eight more positive cases, raising the state total to 41, reported PTI.
PM Modi's Address on Tuesday, 24 March
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a 21-day nationwide lockdown to fight the coronavirus pandemic. Here are the top statements he made in his address:
“Cornavirus has made many powerful countries helpless; challenges are increasing despite all efforts.”
“Experts are saying that ‘social distancing’ is the only way to tackle coranavirus.”
“If we will be negligent towards observing social distance India will have to pay heavy price.”
“This lockdown is in a way curfew and would be more stringent than Janta curfew.”
“One step outside can make way for coronavirus into your house.”
“With folded hands, I appeal to people not to go out of their homes.”
“If we won’t follow the nationwide lockdown for 21-days, we will be pushed back by 21-years.”
“This is time for patience and discipline; I appeal to you with folded hands to remember people putting their lives at risk for our safety.”
“All steps being taken by central and state government to ensure supply of essential items.”
“Rs 15,000 crore allotted for coronavirus testing facilities, PPEs, ICUs, Ventilators and training medical workers.”
“I have full faith that we will emerge victorious from this challenge.”
US Could Overtake Europe as Coronavirus Epicentre: WHO
The COVID-19 outbreak in the United States has the potential to exceed that in Europe, the World Health Organization (WHO) said Tuesday as the number of reported US cases surges, reported AFP.
WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris told reporters during a virtual press conference that 85 percent of the new cases reported to the global body overnight had come from Europe and the United States, now the two "main drivers of the outbreak".
22 Private Lab Chains Registered With ICMR for COVID-19 Tests
At least 22 private laboratory chains with 15,500 collection centres all over the country have been registered with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) till Tuesday for conducting COVID-19 tests, reported PTI, quoting health ministry officials.
“The network has a capacity to test 12,000 samples daily. In the last five days, on an average, 1,338 samples have been tested by the government labs each day,” an ICMR official said.
MHA to Issue Guidelines for Lockdown, 24-Hour Helpline to Be Launched
The Ministry of Home Affairs will issue guidelines of effective measures and exceptions to the essential services during the 21-day nationwide lockdown, announced by PM Modi during his address on Tuesday.
There will also be a MHA 24-hour hotline to assist states during this period.
PM Announces 21-Day Nationwide Lockdown
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a complete lockdown across the country for 21 days from Tuesday midnight, asserting that social distancing is the only way out for the country in its decisive battle against the coronavirus.
In his second address to the nation on the pandemic raging across much of the world with the number of infections rising in India, Modi made a fervent appeal to the countrymen not to cross the 'lakshman rekha' of their homes in the next three weeks.
Any negligence in these 21 days will "push the country and your families by 21 years", he said underlining the massive danger the coronavirus poses.
Singapore Reports 49 New COVID-19 Cases, Total Infections Reach 558
Singapore on Tuesday reported 49 new cases of COVID-19, taking the total number of infections in the country to 558 as the government announced stricter measures, including closure of entertainment places, to contain the spread of the disease.
The city-state government also limited gatherings outside schools and at work places to 10 people.
Philippine Congress Approves National Emergency Declaration
The Philippine Congress on Tuesday approved a bill declaring a national emergency and authorizing the president to launch a massive aid program for 18 million families and tap private hospitals and ships in fighting the coronavirus outbreak, reported AFP.
No Need for Panic Buying; Essential Commodities, Medicines Will Remain Available: PM
Allaying apprehensions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said people need not panic about availability of essential commodities and medicines during the 21-day nationwide lockdown as the Centre and various state governments will work together to ensure this.
Amid reports of panic buying at various places following his announcement of the 21-day complete lockdown across the country, Modi requested people to refrain from "panic buying." "My fellow citizens, there is absolutely no need to panic," Modi tweeted soon after his address to the nation in which he announced the lockdown.
Suspension of Railway Services to Be Extended Till 14 April
After Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement of a 21-day lockdown across the country, the Indian Railways on Tuesday announced that its suspension of all passenger services will continue till 14 April in the wake of coronavirus outbreak.
However, freight movement will continue to carry essential commodities across the country, officials said.
MHA Issues Guidelines of Essential Services During 21-Day Lockdown
The Union Home Ministry has issued strict guidelines for the enforcement of 21-day complete nationwide lockdown in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, invoking the National Disaster Management Act which may result in imprisonment of up to two years for any violation.
All government offices, the offices of state and union territory governments, autonomous institutions, public corporations, commercial, private, industrial establishments shall remain closed, the guidelines issued by the ministry said.
However, fair price shops and those dealing with food, groceries, fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, fish, animal fodder will remain open, it said.
Banks, insurance offices, print and electronic media will also remain open, according to the guidelines.
Greta Thunberg Reveals She Self-Isolated After Showing COVID-19 Symptoms
Greta Thunberg, the teenage climate change activist, revealed on Instagram that she self-isolated after she showed COVID-19 symptoms.
“I was feeling tired, had shivers, a sore throat and coughed. My dad experienced the same symptoms, but much more intense and with a fever,” she said in her post.
“In Sweden you can not test yourself for COVID-19 unless you’re in need of emergent medical treatment. Everyone feeling ill are told to stay at home and isolate themselves.
I have therefore not been tested for COVID-19, but it’s extremely likely that I’ve had it, given the combined symptoms and circumstances,” she added.
NPR, First Phase of Census Deferred In View of Lockdown
The exercise to update the National Population Register (NPR) and the first phase of the Census 2021 will not be held as scheduled due to the 21-day lockdown announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, officials said on Tuesday.
Both the exercise is supposed to be carried out from 1 April to 30 September.
Three Mores Test Positive in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu on Tuesday on three more positive cases of COVID-19, raising the total number of positive cases in the state to 18.
One of the patients has a travel history to New Zealand. All patients are in isolation and under treatment.
Captain Amarinder Singh Sets Up Punjab CM COVID Relief Fund
Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has set up Punjab CM COVID Relief Fund, as a separate entity, for donations to fight the crisis in the state, ANI reported.
COVID-19: Eight Person Tests Positive in Andhra Pradesh
Another person has tested positive for coronavirus in Andhra Pradesh, ANI reported quoting state health department. The person had returned to Chennai from London on 18 March. This is the eight case in the state.
France Death Toll Jumps 240 to 1100
France death toll jumps 240 to 1100, reports AFP news agency quoting official.
India Bans Export of Hydroxychloroquine With Immediate Effect
India has banned the export of Hydroxychloroquine, the drug recommended for the treatment of COVID-19, with immediate effect, ANI reported.
However, exports from SEZs/EOU, shipments where Irrevocable Letter of Credit has been issued and on humanitarian grounds on case-to-case basis as recommended by External Affairs Ministry will be allowed, ANI reported quoting the government.
All Poor Families in Chhattisgarh to Get Free Rice Public Distribution System
Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel has decided that all poor families in the state will be provided free rice under Public Distribution System for the months of April and May, ANI reported.
COVID-19 Positive Patient Passes Away in Tamil Nadu's Madurai
A COVID-19 positive patient who was admitted at Rajaji Hospital in Tamil Nadu's Madurai, has passed away, ANI reported.