Coronavirus Outbreak Updates: While pointing out that social distancing measures can help to reduce COVID19 transmission and enable health systems to cope, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesuscautioned that such measures aren't enough on their own and urged countires to take a comprehensive approach.

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"Fourth batch of 53 Indians – 52 students and a teacher – has arrived from Tehran and Shiraz, Iran. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. Thank the efforts of the team of Indian embassy in Iran and Iranian authorities," Jaishankar tweeted.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar on early Monday said that the fourth batch of 53 Indians has arrived in India from Tehran and Shiraz in Iran. Out of the 53 Indians, 52 are students and one is a teacher. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran.

Set up by Karnataka’s Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) on13 March, the ‘COVID-19 Karnataka – Sahaya Group’ had over 6,000 members as of Sunday evening. It’s handled by teams of five members — including doctors — in eight-hour shifts.

Telegram has been chosen for the initiative because it allows one group to have thousands of members.

In its effort to check proliferation of fake news and rumours about the coronavirus pandemic, the Karnataka government launched a 24X7 helpline on social media app Telegram to address residents’ queries and concerns.

The Las Vegas-based company operates the Bellagio, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, Luxor, New York-New York, Excalibur, and Park MGM. It also owns 50 percent of CityCenter, which includes Aria and Vdara.

"We will plan to reopen our resorts as soon as it (is) safe to do so and we will continue to support our employees, guests, and communities in every way that we can during this period of closure." Murren said.

A statement from Chairman and CEO Jim Murren said the temporary closures are for "the good of our employees, guests and communities."

Casino operations are set to close Monday, followed by hotel operations. The company will not be taking reservations prior to 1 May.

MGM Resorts International announced on Sunday that it is temporarily suspending operations at all Las Vegas properties "until further notice", effective from 17 March.

"During the call, the two top diplomats discussed ways in which India and the United States could cooperate to address this global challenge," State Department spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said on Sunday. The phone call between the two leaders occurred on 14 March, she said.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar have held a discussion on the coronavirus pandemic over the phone, the US State Department said in Washington.

He added that all restaurants, bars and cafes would be limited to "food take-out and delivery." The order will be effective from Tuesday at 9 am.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced the shutting down much of the city's famous nightlife. "In a bid to limit the spread of coronavirus in New York, all nightclubs, movie theaters and concert venues will be ordered shut," De Blasio said in a statement.

He said a decision has already been taken on this regard. "Orders will be issued either on Monday or Tuesday and the facility will be ready within 15-20 days," he added.

Tope said another laboratory will be set up at KEM hospital in Mumbai in the next two days. New laboratories will also come up at JJ Hospital, the Haffkine Institute – also in Mumbai, besides at a hospital in Pune in the next 15-20 days.

Maharashtra Health Minister Rajesh Tope announced on Sunday that the laboratory capacity to test samples of suspected novel coronavirus will be expanded to 350 per day from the present 100 per day at the civic-run Kasturba hospital in Mumbai.

“In order to prevent spread of COVID-19, blankets & curtains have been withdrawn from train service till further orders. Passengers are requested to bring their own blankets in their own interest.” a tweet by the Official Twitter handle of Divisional Railway Manager – Mumbai Division of Western Railway, read.

Passengers travelling in air conditioned coaches of Indian railways will now have to carry their own blankets and bed-sheets for a while now, as the railways has decided to withdraw facilities of blankets and curtains keeping in view the ongoing coronavirus threat.

"The way the threat is progressing in the city, places of collective gathering like library, mess, canteens etc. in Jamia are likely to be closed down as precautionary measures. Therefore, it is advised to all the students to understand the seriousness of the prevailing circumstances and for their own safety. They may consider proceeding to their homes for a secured environment and care," the university said in an advisory.

As a precautionary measure to contain the fast-spreading coronavirus, Jamia Millia Islamia has advised its students to consider returning to their homes.

The coordinated global actions were reminiscent of the sweeping steps taken just over a decade ago to fight a meltdown of the global financial system, but this time the target was an entirely unfamiliar foe - a fast-spreading health crisis with no certain end in sight that is forcing entire societies to effectively shut down.

The US Federal Reserve and global central banks moved aggressively on Sunday to buttress a world economy unraveling rapidly amid the coronavirus pandemic, with the Fed slashing interest rates to near zero, pledging hundreds of billions of dollars in asset purchases and backstopping foreign authorities with the offer of cheap dollar financing.

Prof. Debashis Chatterjee, Director, IIM Kozhikode, said "Considering that the World Health Organisation has recently declared COVID-19 as a pandemic and the advisories issued by the Health Ministries of Union of India and Government of Kerala advocate avoiding public gatherings, we have taken the decision to postpone Convocation 2020 scheduled for 3-4 April indefinitely."

In the wake of the coronavirus scare, the Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode (IIM-K) has indefinitely postponed its annual convocation, which was to be held on 4 April. The two-day ceremony was to begin from 3 April with a pre-convocation cultural night for students, their families and the IIMK community, followed by the Main ceremony, on the following day, an IIM-K press release said.

Despite the gain of around 4 percent each in S&P BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty 50 on Friday, in a dramatic recovery following an intra-day plunge of more than 10 percent that triggered a trading halt for the first time since 2009, the benchmark indices suffered their worst week since the same year.

Domestic stock markets are likely to start Monday's session on a sharply lower note tracking global peers which fell even after the US central bank delivered another unscheduled rate cut. The Singapore Exchange (SGX) Nifty futures – an early indicator of the National Stock Exchange (NSE) Nifty index in India – dropped as much as 459.65 points to 9,524.30 before trimming some of those losses. At 8.08 am, the SGX Nifty futures were down 393.20 points – or 3.94 percent – at 9,590.75.

Domestic markets witnessed a roller-coaster session on Friday, with trading being halted for the first time in 12 years as benchmarks plunged over 10 percent in opening trade, before staging a record-shattering comeback.

While he was immediately admitted to Capital hospital, he initially tested negative of the pandemic on Sunday. But by midnight fresh reports suggested that he was infected by COVID-19.

As per reports, the 31-year-old man, who was studying in Italy reached Delhi on 6 March and was quarantined in the National Capital. However, he tested negative following which he returned to Odisha by a train on 12 March reportedly to avoid scrutiny. Later, on 13 March, he showcased symptoms of the disease including fever and cold.

Odisha on Monday reported its first coronavirus positive case in Bhubaneshwar. The man affected by COVID-19 is being treated at Capital hospital in Bhubaneswar.

Justice Chandrachud assured during the meeting that 'people-to-people' contact will be reduced in the top court by introducing court proceedings through video conferencing. Importantly, filing of cases will also go paperless by way e-filing. Once video conferencing is introduced, smart televisions will be installed in the press lounge for the convenience of journalists, justice Chandrachud said.

The meeting was chaired by Chief Justice of India SA Bobde and justices Arun Mishra, UU Lalit, DY Chandrachud and L Nageswara Rao.

Filing of cases and court proceedings in the Supreme Court of India will soon go digital, the chairperson of the Supreme Court e-committee, justice DY Chandrachud said during a meeting held on Sunday to address the functioning of the court in the light of coronavirus threat.

The COVID-19 outbreak and the resultant uncertainty has impacted schools and educational institutes across India. Edtech firm, Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL) through its subsidiary, Meritnation, has announced that it will provide special free live classes for students. The classes will be held for students from Class 1st to Class 12th and those appearing for special exams like JEE/ NEET etc. Meritnation will also be conducting Live Classes for students appearing for JEE/NEET, at no charge, according to a press release. JEE 2020 is scheduled between the 5-11 April and NEET 2020 is scheduled to be held on 3 May.

In the report, CAPA said that demand is drying up in ways that are completely unprecedented, forward bookings are far outweighed by cancellations, and cash reserves are running down quickly as fleets are grounded and the operating flights are less than half full.

After several countries implemented travel advisories and Visa restrictions to prevent coronavirus, demand for travel has fallen drastically

"By the end of May, 2020, most airlines in the world will be bankrupt. Coordinated government and industry action is needed if catastrophe is to be avoided," CAPA, Centre for Aviation, said in its latest note on the global situation.

Most airlines in the world will be bankrupt by the end of May 2020 and only coordinated action by government and industry can save them, global aviation consultancy firm CAPA has said.

"We recognize that travelers are faced with a great deal of uncertainty right now, and we are committed to helping them through this situation with the right options, adequate time and high levels of attention and consideration," said Scott Nisbet, President & CEO, Globus family of brands. "We are doing our best to cater to each and every traveler and help them feel confident in their decision to explore the world with us."

This Peace of Mind plan provides Globus family of brands' travelers booked on affected vacations from now through 30 April, 2020, the freedom to reschedule their vacation in 2020, 2021 or 2022, to any destination, on any brand, without incurring cancellation fees. In addition, it also offers travelers a credit of up to $200 per person when they reschedule their plans.

Cosmos Vacations, a part of the Globus family of brands – consisting of Globus, Cosmos, Monograms and Avalon Waterways, announced that it is voluntarily suspending travel, across all destinations, through 30 April, 2020. For travelers affected by the suspension, the company has also unveiled a new 'Peace of Mind' plan.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal to take review meetings via video conferencing of all district authorities on Monday on steps to contain the fast-spreading COVID-19. Deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia, Health Minister, Chief Secretary and Health Secretary will also join from Delhi Secretariat.

"The health and safety of our colleagues is of paramount importance to the Producers Guild of India. The industry's united decision to suspend shooting between the period 19 to 31 March is the need of the hour and we fully support it," Kulmeet Makkar, Chief Executive Officer, Producers Guild of India, said in a statement here.

The meeting of the film bodies was also attended by the representatives of Indian Motion Pictures Producers' Association (IMPPA), Western India Film Producers' Association (WIFPA) and Indian Film and TV Producers Council (IFTPC).

To contain the spread of novel coronavirus, film bodies in India including Federation of Western Indian Cine Employees (FWICE), Indian Film & Television Directors' Association (IFTDA) and Producers Guild of India on Sunday decided to put shootings of films, TV shows and web series on hold from 19 to 31 March.

"Individuals are requested to honestly declare your travel history at the points of entry," the ministry further said.

All travellers entering Bhutan will be quarantined for 14 days at the designated quarantine facility effective from Monday (16 March, 2020), the health ministry tweeted.

The second-richest person in China pledged $14 million from his foundation to help develop a coronavirus vaccine and said he would donate 500,000 testing kits and one million face masks to the US. On Monday his foundation sent the first shipment of masks and coronavirus test kits to the US.

Amid the growing spread of the novel coronavirus, some of the world’s richest are donating to help countries hardest hit by the disease. One of them being Alibaba founder Jack Ma.

The rampant spread of the novel coronavirus has impacted many all around the world with the World Health Organisation (WHO) terming the disease a pandemic. The scare of infection has also lead to a number of tech, automotive and science-related events and conferences all over the world to be cancelled, postponed or moved to online platforms.

The 76-year-old man had returned from Saudi Arabia on 29 February after spending one month in the Arab nation.

A health department note said she is already admitted in the Kalaburagi District Hospital and her health condition is stable. Earlier, officials had confirmed that three out of the four persons (wife, son, daughter and daughter-in-law) were confirmed to be negative and the fourth person’s results were awaited.

Karnataka Health Minister B Sriramulu on Sunday said that one more positive case of coronavirus was reported in the state. The new case is the daughter of the 76-year-old Kalaburagi man who died last week due to COVID-19 infection.

Ukrainian-born actor-model Olga Kurylenko has revealed that she has tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The actor, best known for starring in 2008’s James Bond film Quantum of Solace and 2013’s sci-fi movie Oblivion, took to Instagram on Sunday to share her diagnosis.

"All gyms, night clubs, spas to be closed till 31 March. Any gathering with more than 50 persons excluding weddings will not be allowed. For weddings also, we request if they can be postponed then please do so, " Kejriwal said.

Addressing the media on the measures taken against the spread of coronavirus in the National Captial, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said that any social and cultural gatherings involving more than 50 people will not be allowed to take place.

Four new cases of COVID-19 infections have been reported in Maharashtra, taking the total number of confirmed cases in the state to 37. A state government health official confirmed the development to news agency PTI and added that the total number of cases have now gone up to 37.

The government will also examine the feasibility of thermal screening of the passengers in the Delhi Metro.

All auto-rickshaws and taxis will be disinfected for free to prevent the spread of the deadly disease, said Arvind Kejriwal as he spoke about the measures taken against the spread of coronavirus in the National Captial

"We have arranged sufficient beds if cases increase and hospitalisation is needed. Quarantine facilities have been set up at three hotels – Lemon Tree, Red Fox, IBIS," the chief minister said.

Quarantine facilities have been arranged at three Delhi hotels – Lemon Tree, Red Fox and IBIS, said Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday.

Forty one new cases of the novel coronavirus surfaced in Pakistan, bringing the total number of COVID-19 infections in the country to 94 on Monday, an official said. As of Sunday, the country reported 53 coronavirus cases.

India is witnessing a sharp surge in COVID-19 cases. With the latest case reported from Maharashtra, the total number of coronavirus patients in India now stands at 114. Maharashtra now accounts for the highest number of COVID-19 cases, 37 cases. Kerala accounted for the second-highest number of cases in India, at 24, followed by Uttar Pradesh at 12, and seven each in Delhi and Karnataka.

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Maharashtra rose to 38 on Monday. The infected person had recently travelled to Dubai.

"The government has directed us to distribute the raw material used in preparing mid-day meals in schools, to the students at their homes as classes have been suspended till 31 March 31 in Kerala due to the pandemic," said Baby Girija, an Anganwadi Teacher in Thiruvanathapuram.

The Kerala government has started measures to deliver ingredients for mid-day meals to over three lakh children studying in anganwadis, which have been shut due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The step was taken to make sure there is no undisrupted supply of meals to the students.

The dollar fell from a more than two-week high and stock markets plunged after the Fed cut rates for the second time this year to soften the economic blow from the economic shock.

The Fed’s rate cuts and restarting of quantitative easing are positives for gold, but “we’re in an unconventional time and theory might not apply in a time of high volatility and divergence", Yan said.

The Fed slashed rates back to near zero, restarted bond-buying and joined with other central banks to help put a floor under a rapidly disintegrating global economy amid the escalating coronavirus pandemic.

Prices rose initially due to the surprise Fed rate cut, said CMC Markets analyst Margaret Yang Yan, adding that: "The market is very indecisive and there are divergent opinions. Investors are now dumping everything. They just want cash."

Spot gold was up 0.9 percent at $1,543.60 per ounce by 02.48 GMT, having risen as much as 2.8% earlier. The metal fell 3 percent on Friday. US gold futures rose 1.8 percent to $1,544.20 per ounce.

Gold prices jumped in early trade on Monday after another emergency rate cut by the US Federal Reserve, before paring gains as some investors sold the metal for cash amid a sell-off in equities.

The first Test of the series was played in Rawalpindi from 7-10 February, which Pakistan won by an innings and 44 runs.

"The two boards will now work together to identify a future opportunity to complete the ICC World Test Championship commitment," the PCB said in a statement.

Bangladesh were due to arrive in Karachi on 29 March to play an ODI on 1 April and the second ICC World Test Championship Test from 9-5 April.

The Pakistan and Bangladesh cricket boards on Monday decided to postpone the upcoming One-Day International and Test in Karachi indefinitely amid the COVID-19 pandemic which has derailed sporting calendars globally.

Goods would continue to flow between the countries and commuters could also still cross the borders, it said.

Without citing a source, Focus Online and newspaper Bild reported that German Chancellor Angela Merkel and her interior minister had agreed the closures with the state premiers involved and that they would take place from 8 am local time (07.00 GMT) on Monday.

Germany on Monday became the latest country in Europe to restrict movement across its borders with with Austria, France and Switzerland in a push to contain the fast-spreading coronavirus.

The number of confirmed COVID19 cases in Maharashtra has reached 39, The Mumbai Mirror quoted health minister Rajesh Tope as saying.While Pimpri Chinchwad has nine cases, seven are from Pune, six in Mumbai, Nagpur has four, Yavatmal has three, three each in Kalyan and Navi Mumbai, and one each in Raigad, Thane, Ahmednagar and Aurangabad.

The number of positive coronavirus cases in Pakistan has risen to 105, with 11 new cases recorded in Karachi, reports IndiaToday.

Earlier in the day, a case was registered against 75 unknown persons and 4 others who gathered at the Cochin International airport on Sunday night for welcoming a reality show contestant, reports ANI. The charges were invoked for violating the ban on gathering issued by the airport authority in the backdrop of coronavirus pandemic. Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) had banned gatherings at both terminals of the airport but hundreds of people gathered last night, around 9 pm to welcome Rajith, the reality show contestant. They also raised slogans.

"One positive case was confirmed today (Monday).The total number of cases in the state is eight, including one death...He had returned from the US via London on March 8 by the same flight as patient number-4 who tested positive," a statement said.

He was on home quarantine, and is now admitted to an isolation facility.

A 32-year-old man, who returned from the US via London earlier this month, has tested positive for coronavirus making it the eighth case in Karnataka, the health department said on Monday.

ANI quoted a statement by the Tamil Nadu government as saying, "All educational institutions, theatres, malls, gyms, amusement parks, swimming pools to remain closed till 31 March. No permission for rallies, public meetings, summer camps, conferences, exhibitions, cultural or sporting events till 31 March. Sports arenas, bars, clubs and other recreational facilities to remain closed till 31 March. Resorts shouldn't take booking till 31 March. People are advised to avoid travelling to other states for 15 days."

Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren said that the Assembly has taken a decision to ban visitors, but the House has not decided about adjournment in view of coronavirus outbreak in the country. If necessary, a decision would be taken on the adjournment of the Budget session, which is scheduled till 28 March, Soren told a press conference. In Maharshtra, too, restrictions have been imposed on entry of people into the Mantralaya, state secratariat building in Mumbai, said health minister Rajesh Tope. The Maharashtra Raj Bhavan tour for citizens has also been suspended till 31 March.

Germany’s Bundesliga and second division will pause at least until 2 April and possibly beyond due to the coronavirus, Reuters quoted DFL CEO Christian Seifert as saying. Germany’s top two divisions did not play this weekend after matches were suspended due to the outbreak of the virus and Seifert said any decision on the season would be taken in the week of 30 March.

He asked people to avoid mass gatherings, sporting events and public meetings, while directing all deputy commissioners and superintendents of police to ensure strict compliance of the order.

immediate effect till 5 April, reports PTI. Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar, in an order, however, clarified that board exams would be held as per schedule. Kumar also directed shopping malls to disinfect their stores and food courts from time to time.

The Arunachal Pradesh government on Monday announced the closure of all educational institutes, cinema halls and weekly markets in the state with

A circular issued by the Gujarat Chief Wildlife Warden Shyamal Tikadar said the state's national parks, sanctuaries, and conservation reserves will remain closed till 29 March, reports PTI. It said the sites under lockdown include Sakkarbaug​ Zoological Park in Junagadh, Devaliya Safari Park and Ambardi​ Safari Park, which attract large crowds eager to sight the Asiatic lion. The newly-built Sardar Patel Zoological Park at Kevadiya, close to the Statue of Unity, will also remain closed, it said. In Maharashtra, tiger projects, national parks, sanctuaries will remain closed till 31 March, reported PTI.

She said long-term residents in the European Union, frontier workers, family members of European Union nationals and diplomats would be exempted from the restrictions.“Essential staff such as doctors, nurses, care workers, researchers and experts that help address the coronavirus should continue to be allowed in the EU," von der Leyen added. “People transporting goods are exempted too. Why that? Because the flow of goods to the European Union must continue to secure the supply of goods, including essential items such as medicine, but also food and components that our factories need."

Speaking after an extraordinary video-conference meeting of the leaders of the G-7 countries, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said travel restrictions should be in place for an initial period that can be prolonged if necessary. “The less travel, the more we can contain the virus," von der Leyen said.

The European Union's top official proposed a 30-day ban on anyone entering the bloc unless their travel is essential, while insisting on the need to keep the internal borders between the 27 member states open as much as possible, reports AP.

The death toll from an outbreak of coronavirus in the northern Italian region of Lombardy, which has borne the brunt of a nationwide contagion, has risen over the past day to 1,420 from 1,218, two sources with access to the data said on Monday. The number of new cases in the region, which includes Italy’s financial capital Milan, had risen by 1,377 over the past 24 hours — a slower rate of increase than seen recently.The latest national death toll figures are due to be released later in the day. On Sunday, the country-wide tally stood at 1,809.

"In the past week, we have seen a rapid escalation of cases of #COVID19 . More cases and deaths have now been reported in the rest of the world than in #China "- @DrTedros #coronavirus

In its daily press briefing the World Health Organisation said that more cases and deaths have now been reported in the rest of the world than in China.

While pointing out that social distancing measures can help to reduce COVID19 transmission and enable health systems to cope, he cautioned that such measures arent enough on their own and urged countires to take a comprehensive approach.

"We have seen a rapid escalation in social distancing measures, like closing schools and cancelling sporting events and other gatherings. But we haven't seen an urgent enough escalation in testing, isolation and contact tracing, which is the backbone of the COVID19 response," said the WHO chief.

"As the #coronavirus moves to low-income countries, we're deeply concerned about the impact it could have among populations with high HIV prevalence or malnourished children. We’re calling on every country & individual to do everything they can to stop transmission"- @DrTedros

Pimpri Chinchwad police issued similar instructions and restrictions on tour and travel operators, hotel owners in their limit under sub-section 1 of Section 144 of CRPC.

"As per the provisions of the Act, tours and travel companies have been restricted to arrange trips in groups within India or outside the country. In any exceptional case, if such a trip is to be arranged, prior permission from the Commissioner of Police, Pune will be necessary," reads the order. The order further stated violators would be punished under section 188 of IPC.

Pune police on Monday invoked a section ofMaharashtra Police Act and imposed restrictions on tour operators to arrange trips within and outside India. Invoking Section 68 of Maharashtra Police Act, 1951, Joint Commissioner of Police Ravindra Shisve made it mandatory for tours and travel operators, hotel and lodge owners to maintain a separate register of their patrons including Indian citizens and foreign nationals who had foreign travel history and made it compulsory to inform the authorities if they found such passengers.

Rohit Kansal, Principal Secretary Planning, Jammu & Kashmir: One more case, with travel history to Saudi Arabia, confirmed positive. Had reported high viral load earlier. Total 3 positive cases now in the union territory. #Coronavirus (file pic) pic.twitter.com/y1tcFSBbjG

Coronavirus Outbreak Updates: While pointing out that social distancing measures can help to reduce COVID19 transmission and enable health systems to cope, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesuscautioned that such measures aren't enough on their own and urged countires to take a comprehensive approach.

The International Monetary Fund called for increased coordinated action to boost confidence and provide stability to the global economy, amidst fast spread of coronavirus that has killed over 6,500 people worldwide and resulted in lockdown-like situations in several countries.

A 32-year-old man, who returned from the US via London earlier this month, has tested positive for coronavirus making it the eighth case in Karnataka.

The Health ministry through an updated travel advisory tightened restrictions from high risk areas. It has banned the entry of passengers from member countries of the European Union, the European Free Trade Association, Turkey and United Kingdom into the country with effect from 18 March.

People undergoing home quarantine for suspected exposure to the novel coronavirus will be stamped on the left hand, the Maharashtra government has announced. As per protocol, people arriving from coronavirus- affected regions are being put under home quarantine as a precautionary measure while their samples are sent for tests.

The number of confirmed COVID19 cases in Maharashtra has reached 39, health minister Rajesh Tope said.While Pimpri Chinchwad has nine cases, seven are from Pune, six in Mumbai, Nagpur has four, Yavatmal has three, three each in Kalyan and Navi Mumbai, and one each in Raigad, Thane, Ahmednagar and Aurangabad.

Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray and health minister Rajesh Tope, along with state chief secretary of the state, held a review meeting at the chief minister's official residence. After the meeting, Tope announced that schools, colleges in rural Maharashtra will also remain closed till March end due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The number of coronavirus cases in India has risen to 114 with one new case each in Ladakh, Odisha, Jammu and Kashmir, and Kerala, Health Ministry officials said. The number includes 13 people who have been discharged after they recovered and two fatalities, they said.

The Reserve Bank of India governor Shaktikanta Das is holding a press conference at 4 pmas market mayhem continues due to concerns coronavirus pandemic. There are speculations that Das may announce a rate cut.

Germany on Monday became the latest country in Europe to restrict movement across its borders with with Austria, France and Switzerland in a push to contain the fast-spreading coronavirus.

Without citing a source, Focus Online and newspaper Bild reported that German Chancellor Angela Merkel and her interior minister had agreed the closures with the state premiers involved and that they would take place from 8 am local time (07.00 GMT) on Monday.

Goods would continue to flow between the countries and commuters could also still cross the borders, it said.

Addressing the media on the measures taken against the spread of coronavirus in the National Captial, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said that any social and cultural gatherings involving more than 50 people will not be allowed to take place.

"All gyms, night clubs, spas to be closed till 31 March. Any gathering with more than 50 persons excluding weddings will not be allowed. For weddings also, we request if they can be postponed then please do so, " Kejriwal said.

Karnataka Health Minister B Sriramulu on Sunday said that one more positive case of coronavirus was reported in the state. The new case is the daughter of the 76-year-old Kalaburagi man who died last week due to COVID-19 infection.

A health department note said she is already admitted in the Kalaburagi District Hospital and her health condition is stable. Earlier, officials had confirmed that three out of the four persons (wife, son, daughter and daughter-in-law) were confirmed to be negative and the fourth person’s results were awaited.

Odisha on Monday reported its first coronavirus positive case in Bhubaneshwar. The man affected by COVID-19 is being treated at Capital hospital in Bhubaneswar.

As per reports, the 31-year-old man, who was studying in Italy reached Delhi on 6 March and was quarantined in the National Capital. However, he tested negative following which he returned to Odisha by a train on 12 March reportedly to avoid scrutiny. Later, on 13 March, he showcased symptoms of the disease including fever and cold.

While he was immediately admitted to Capital hospital, he initially tested negative of the pandemic on Sunday. But by midnight fresh reports suggested that he was infected by COVID-19.

Domestic markets witnessed a roller-coaster session on Friday, with trading being halted for the first time in 12 years as benchmarks plunged over 10 percent in opening trade, before staging a record-shattering comeback.

Domestic stock markets are likely to start Monday's session on a sharply lower note tracking global peers which fell even after the US central bank delivered another unscheduled rate cut. The Singapore Exchange (SGX) Nifty futures – an early indicator of the National Stock Exchange (NSE) Nifty index in India – dropped as much as 459.65 points to 9,524.30 before trimming some of those losses. At 8.08 am, the SGX Nifty futures were down 393.20 points – or 3.94 percent – at 9,590.75.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar on early Monday said that the fourth batch of 53 Indians has arrived in India from Tehran and Shiraz in Iran. Out of the 53 Indians, 52 are students and one is a teacher. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran.

"Fourth batch of 53 Indians – 52 students and a teacher – has arrived from Tehran and Shiraz, Iran. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. Thank the efforts of the team of Indian embassy in Iran and Iranian authorities," Jaishankar tweeted.

In its effort to check proliferation of fake news and rumours about the coronavirus pandemic, the Karnataka government launched a 24X7 helpline on social media app Telegram to address residents’ queries and concerns.

Telegram has been chosen for the initiative because it allows one group to have thousands of members.

Set up by Karnataka’s Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) on13 March, the ‘COVID-19 Karnataka – Sahaya Group’ had over 6,000 members as of Sunday evening. It’s handled by teams of five members — including doctors — in eight-hour shifts.

The number of deaths of Britons with coronavirus jumped by 14 in the last 24 hours to 35, while the number of people diagnosed rose by 20 percent to 1,372, said health authorities.

Uttarakhand recorded its first confirmed case of coronavirus with a probationer at Forest Research Institute testing positive for the virus.

The district administration is mulling imposition of the Section 144 of CrPC in Pune to check the spread of novel coronavirus, a senior official said on Sunday.

ANI quoted Kerala health minister KK Shailaja as saying, "Two more COVID-19 cases have been reported in the state, one UK national, and a doctor - who returned from abroad and tested positive. The total positive cases in the state rise to 21."

Narendra Modi addressed a video conference of SAARC leaders, and proposed an emergency fund to deal with COVID-19.

Sanjeeva Kumar, Special Secretary in the Ministry of Health, said, "23 new cases have been detected since the last update - 17 from Maharashtra, 2 from Telangana, 1 from Rajasthan & 3 from Kerala. There are now 107 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country, including 9 discharged cases & 2 deaths."

Uncertainty looms over the upcoming civic polls in West Bengal as political parties and the State Election Commission are yet to decide whether to move ahead with the elections as per schedule or postpone it by a few weeks amid the coronavirus scare.

The number of confirmed cases worldwide has surged past the 1.5 lakh mark. Over 73,000 people have recovered, while more than 5,800 people have succumbed to COVID-19, according to John Hopkins University. The institution runs a live tracker of coronavirus cases.

There are more than 74,000 active cases, with over 68,000 cases to be mild, while nearly 6,000 people are in critical condition.

Till now, India has recorded two deaths from the fast-spreading virus.

Total number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in Maharashtra has risen to 32 after a 59-year-old woman tested positive for COVID-19, ANI reported. The woman had recently travelled to Russia and Kazakhstan.

The total number of confirmed cases in India surged to 107, according to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. On Saturday, five more patients tested positive in Maharashtra, taking the total confirmed cases of infection to 31.

The new cases were detected in Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur and Yavatmal. As of now, India has reported two deaths due to the fast-spreading virus - one in Karnataka and the other in Delhi.

Andhra Pradesh Election Commissioner N Ramesh Kumar ordered that the local body polls will be postponed for six weeks in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. All 289 passengers onboard a Dubai-bound Emirates flight deboarded at Kerala's Cochin airport after a UK citizen, who was tested positive, was identified among the passengers.

The Ministry of Home Affairs suspended the travel and registration along the Kartarpur corridor until further orders.

In India, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases across the country has climbed to 93, with two deaths reported till now. The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched a helpline number: +91-11-23978046 for coronavirus-related inquiry and support. There are also separate helpline numbers for the different states and union territories.

A total of 234 Indians stranded in Iran have arrived in India — 131 students and 103 pilgrims, tweeted External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday. He thanked the Indian ambassador to Iran and his team for their efforts.

Iran is the worst coronavirus affected countries with over 600 reported deaths and close to 13 thousand confirmed infections. The Indian government has said that it was working with the Iranian government to facilitate return of around 2000 citizens, mostly pilgrims, stuck there after suspension of commercial flights between the two countries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead India at a video conference of all SAARC nations at 5 pm on Sunday to chalk out a joint strategy to combat the novel coronavirus in the region, the Ministry of External Affairs said.

Calling on the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) nations to set an example for the world, Modi had reached out to the eight-member regional grouping on Friday and pitched for a video conference among its leaders to chalk out a 'strong strategy' to curtail the outbreak.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the country rose to 84 on Saturday, as per the Union health ministry, prompting the Centre to declare the outbreak a "notified disaster" and issue directives to states specifying list of items and norms of assistance for containment of COVID-19 under their disaster funds.

Under the directives, the Centre made provisions for the costs of measures for quarantine, sample collection and screening as well as for the procurement of labs and equipment to contain the disease.

The Centre also said that it has begun working on framing guidelines for handling the bodies of those who die of the disease amid a controversy over the cremation of the 68-year-old woman who died in Delhi after being infected with novel coronavirus.

Two persons — a 76-year-old man from Karnataka and a 68-year-old woman in Delhi — have died from coronavirus, which has been declared a global pandemic by WHO and has claimed over 5,000 lives across the world.

Highest number of reported cases in Maharashtra

According to the Union health ministry, Kerala has reported 19 positive cases, Maharashtra 14, Uttar Pradesh 11, Delhi seven, Karnataka six, Ladakh three, Jammu and Kashmir two, and Rajasthan, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Punjab one case each. The total number of 84 confirmed cases also includes 17 foreigners — 16 Italian tourists and a Canadian, it said. Of them, seven persons who tested positive including five from Uttar Pradesh and one each from Rajasthan and Delhi have been discharged after treatment, a senior health ministry official said.

However, Maharashtra health minister Rajesh Tope on Saturday pegged the number of positive cases in the state at 26, with four new cases reported in Mumbai and its adjoining areas and two in Yavatmal district.

A 71-year-old man, who had returned from Saudi Arabia and was suspected to have coronavirus infection, died during treatment in Buldhana district on Saturday afternoon. He was suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure. Minister Tope said it was not yet confirmed if the deceased was infected by the coronavirus.

Of the new patients confirmed in Mumbai, one is a resident of the city while others are from Kamothe, Vashi and Kalyan, all peripheral towns. All are admitted to Kasturba Hospital in Mumbai and their condition is stable, PTI quoted Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) deputy director, health, Daksha Shah as saying.

Earlier in the day, two persons who had recently returned from Dubai were confirmed to have contracted the coronavirus in Maharashtra's Yavatmal city.

Thus, so far across the state, ten coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Pune, eight in Mumbai, four in Nagpur, two in Yavatmal and one each in Thane and Ahmednagar, taking the total to 26 — the highest number of confirmed cases reported from any state. Sixteen of the confirmed Covid-19 patients had returned from Dubai, four from USA, one each from France and the Phillipines while four had no foreign travel history but had come in contact with other infected persons, the health minister said.

In Rajasthan, a 24-year-old man who had recently returned from Spain tested positive for coronavirus in Jaipur, taking the number of confirmed cases in the western state to four, including an Italian couple.

"The 24-year-old male who returned from Spain on 14 March has tested positive today. He flew to Delhi from Madrid and then from Delhi to Jaipur in an Air India flight," PTI quoted Additional Chief Secretary, Medical and Health, Rohit Kumar Singh as saying.

"We are getting the manifest of both the flights and have started extensive local contact tracing," he added.

Meanwhile, Delhi recorded its seventh case, with the son of the woman who passed away on Friday, testing positive for the novel coronavirus, the health department of the city government said. The 46-year-old man, a resident of Rajasthan, tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday and was kept in isolation at the Safdarjung hospital after being quarantined at an Army camp in Manesar, it said, adding that he was an evacuee from Italy.

Some states close schools, colleges, ban public gatherings

In light of the spread of the disease, several states ordered closure of schools, colleges, public institutions and cinema halls. The Jammu and Kashmir administration issued prohibitory orders in Kishtwar and Ramban districts, restricting assembly of more than five persons at any public place. The Goa government also announced closure of casinos, swimming pools and pubs from Sunday midnight. The Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) suspended all classes, including sessional tests, till 22 March as a precautionary measure. All conferences, workshops, educational tours and sports programmes have also been postponed till 31 March, though examinations of the university and schools will be held according to schedule.

The Punjab government ordered a shutdown of cinema halls and banned public gatherings including cultural events till further notice to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

The Maharashtra government ordered all educational institutions in urban areas to remain close till 31 March. The state health minister also said that examinations of classes one to nine will be postponed if they are being held currently, only the Class 10 and Class 12 board exams will take place as per the schedule. In the evening, Tope also announced closure of shopping malls across the state till month-end. Grocery stores which sell commodities of daily need will remain open, he said.

West Bengal sealed its border with Bhutan, restricting movement of goods and travellers. The move came after Bhutan issued a notification to the administration of neighbouring Alipurduar district informing it about a halt in tourist and business activities in the wake of coronavirus outbreak.

Four journalists of two news channels have been home quarantined in Kalaburagi, Karnataka, after they came in contact with relatives of the recently deceased coronavirus victim, Karnataka medical education minister Dr K Sudhakar said.

Centre declares notified disaster, makes provisions for SDRF funds

The Centre, too, initiated a host of measures aimed at fighting the virus. Special Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Sanjeeva Kumar, said more than 4,000 people who had come in contact with those testing positive have been identified through contact tracing and are under surveillance. He further said that there have been cases of people not willing to be quarantined despite coming in contact with people testing positive.

He informed that a Mahan Air flight bringing back Indian passengers from Iran will land in Mumbai on Saturday midnight. A special Air India flight is also being sent to Milan in Italy on Saturday to bring back Indian students, he added.

Kumar said all essential facilities like community surveillance, quarantine, isolation wards, trained manpower, rapid response teams are being strengthened further in all states and Union Territories.

The government informed that 12,29,363 passengers have been screened from 11,406 flights at the 30 designated airports. In addition, instructions to enforce quarantine for all incoming passengers as per the guidelines are being implemented, Kumar stated.

The home ministry declared the outbreak as a "notified disaster" and said funds earmarked under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) can be utilised for procurement of essential equipment and measures taken to quarantine people. It issued a two-page directive to all states specifying "list of items and norms of assistance for containment of COVID-19 virus in India, eligible from SDRF".

According to the directive, SDRF funds will also be used to pay for additional testing centres and the cost of protective equipment for police, healthcare and municipal authorities, as well as that of thermal scanners and other necessary equipment for government hospitals, reported NDTV.

India suspended most land border crossing points with Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar from 15 March midnight and with Pakistan indefinitely from 16 March midnight, the Ministry of Home Affairs said.

The government also postponed the Padma Award ceremonies scheduled for 26 March and 3 April, a Home Ministry official said.

The last rites of the woman who died in New Delhi were performed at the CNG crematorium at Nigambodh ghat under supervision of medical authorities. Doctors from the Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) hospital in Delhi and from MCD oversaw the funeral after the crematorium staff reached out to the authorities seeking directives on ensuring that the infection didn't spread from the body. The health ministry said it has begun working on framing guidelines for handling the bodies of those who die of the disease.

Though it is unlikely that coronavirus infection could spread from handling of a body, the guidelines are being drafted to dispel any misconception and raise awareness regarding spread of the disease from a deceased, a health ministry official said.

Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri at an event in Hyderabad said domestic passenger traffic was down by 10 to 15 percent owing to the novel coronavirus.

The US Embassy and Consulates in India cancelled all visa appointments from 16 March in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.

The RSS suspended a three-day annual meeting of its highest decision-making body scheduled to begin on Saturday in Bengaluru. Infosys evacuated one of its satellite office buildings in Bengaluru after the Karnataka government advised IT and other professionals working in air-conditioned places to work from home for time being, for about a week, to prevent the spread of the virus.

Modi bats for joint SAARC strategy to combat virus

The External Affairs Ministry announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead India at a video conference of all SAARC nations on Sunday at 5 pm to chalk out a joint strategy to fight coronavirus in the region. The prime minister said the coming together of SAARC leaders will lead to effective outcomes and benefit citizens in the fight against coronavirus.

Timely action for a healthier planet. Tomorrow at 5 PM, leaders of SAARC nations will discuss, via conferencing, a roadmap to fight the challenge of COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus. I am confident that our coming together will lead to effective outcomes and benefit our citizens. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 14, 2020

Earlier in the day Modi took to Twitter to share guidelines on home quarantine issued by the health ministry. "Some important information here. Do read," he said while sharing the guidelines. The health ministry said home quarantine is meant "to protect you and your loved ones".

Some important information here. Do read👇🏼. https://t.co/sZrLgHFTH8 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 14, 2020

Suspected patients flea hospitals

In Kerala, an American couple who allegedly gave the slip to police after being admitted to a coronavirus isolation ward following complaints of fever and cough, was traced to Kochi airport and placed under observation.

They had come to Kochi from London via Doha on 9 March, attended a Kathakali show in the port city, went for a houseboat ride the next day at Alapzuha, stayed at a Fort Kochi resort, before going to Varkala near Thiruvananthapuram and returned to Alapuzha, police said.

In Maharashtra, four persons, who were kept in an isolation ward at a government-run hospital in Nagpur for suspected coronavirus infection, returned home even as the hospital staff requested them against doing so as their test results were awaited. They, however, returned later and the tests were also negative for coronavirus.

After Italy, Spain to initiate lockdown

According to news agency AFP, the number of novel coronavirus cases across the world crossed 1,50,0 00on Saturday, with over 5,700 deaths.

Health authorities in Spain said that coronavirus infections have reached 5,753 people, half of them in capital Madrid, representing a national increase of over 1,500 in 24 hours. AP reported that the Spain government had decided to impose a lockdown similar to that of Italy's. The report said the government is set to announce that it is placing tight restrictions on movements and closing restaurants and other establishments.

According to a draft of the government order, people will only be allowed to leave their homes to buy food and medicine, commute to work, go to medical centers and banks, or take trips related to the care for the young and the elderly. Those limitations will take hold at Monday at 8:00 a.m.

Meanwhile in the US, President Donald Trump announced that the United States will broaden its European travel ban, adding the United Kingdom and Ireland to its list, and was considering imposing restrictions on travel within the US to areas hit hard by the coronavirus spread.

The move came hours after the House approved legislation to provide direct relief to Americans suffering physically, financially and emotionally from the coronavirus pandemic. That followed Trump's declaration of a national emergency, freeing up money and resources to fight it, and threw his support behind the congressional aid package.

With inputs from agencies