Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 Virtual Summit held on Thursday, 26 March said at many levels globalisation has failed us, whether it is in combating terrorism or climate change, reported ANI, quoting sources.

The total number of positive COVID-19 cases in India has risen to 694, the Health and Family Welfare Ministry said on Thursday. 88 cases were reported in the past 24 hours, reported ANI.

Test results of a 75-year-old woman who died in Karnataka on Wednesday, have come out to be positive, Dr Sudhakar, Minister of Medical Education of the state said on Thursday, 26 March.

A 73-year-old man who tested positive for coronavirus died due to co-morbidity in Bhilwara in Rajasthan, officials stated.

Congress chief Sonia Gandhi has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying she supports the 21-day lockdown, and sought measures to protect doctors, paramedics and ease supply chain.

Three persons have tested positive for the novel coronavirus in Goa, PTI reported quoting the state health department.

A 25-year-old man with travel history to Spain, a 29-year-old man with travel history to Australia and a 55-year-old man with travel history to United States are the three cases, ANI reported.

In view of the coronavirus outbreak, the government has ordered to temporarily suspend the collection of toll at all toll plaza across India.

In view of Covid-19, it has been ordered to temporarily suspend the collection of toll at all toll plaza across India. This will not only reduce inconvenience to the supply of emergency services but also save critical time. #IndiaFightsCorona

In Jammu, circulation of print edition of several newspapers have come down amid the coronavirus lockdown, reported ANI.

A distributor said, “Many people have stopped buying newspapers, fewer vendors are coming to us. Also, we used to get 70,000-80,000 papers daily which has come down to 15,000.”

Indian American hoteliers have come forward to the rescue of Indian students stranded in the US following implementation of lockdown measures in the wake of coronavirus outbreak, by offering free accommodation and in some cases food.

With the students scrambling for a roof over their heads after being asked to vacate their hostels and India banning international flights for a week from 22 March due to the coronavirus pandemic, more than 6,000 rooms in nearly 700 hotels were offered to them by Wednesday following a call from the Indian Embassy, reported PTI.

Private vehicles being checked at the Delhi-Gurugram border, after a lockdown was imposed due to COVID-19.

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66-Yr-Old Man Tests Positive in WB; Tally Rises to 10

In West Bengal, a 66-year-old man in Nayabad has tested positive for coronavirus. Total number of positive cases in the state rise to 10, reported ANI.

Haryana Govt to Extend Services of Those Working in Essential Services & Awaiting Retirement

Haryana government will provide an extension in service to medical and para-medical staff and those engaged in essential services who are due for retirement this month.

A decision on this was taken in the meeting of the Crisis Coordination Committee, ANI reported.

Gautam Buddh Nagar Residents Practice Social Distancing at Mother Dairy Booth

In Gautam Buddh Nagar, people at a Mother Dairy booth in Sector 19 stand at a distance from each other as they practise social distancing.

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Fresh Cases in MP — 5 Test Positive in Indore

Madhya Pradesh COVID-19 tally has increased to 20 as five more test positive in Indore, reported PTI.

Coronavirus: More Than 1,000 Dead in US

The number of coronavirus cases in United States of America have neared near 70,000, with more than 1,000 dead, AFP reported, citing the Johns Hopkins coronavirus tracker.

'Lockdown Not Enough; Use This Time to Attack Coronavirus': WHO

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that lockdowns, being implemented by several countries to combat COVID-19, will not be enough to eradicate the virus from the world.

"To slow the spread of COVID-19, many countries introduced "lockdown" measures. But on their own, these measures will not extinguish epidemics. We call on all countries to use this time to attack the coronavirus. You have created a 2nd window of opportunity," Mr Ghebreyesus said in a daily briefing.

To slow the spread of #COVID19, many countries introduced "lockdown" measures. But on their own, these measures will not extinguish epidemics. We call on all countries to use this time to attack the #coronavirus.

You've created a 2nd window of opportunity. pic.twitter.com/jupcsdYnWm

— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) March 25, 2020

Kashmir Reports First Death — 65-Yr-Old Man Dies in Hyderpora

“A 65-year-old man from Hyderpora, Srinagar has passed away due to Coronavirus. Four of his contacts also tested positive yesterday,” said Jammu and Kashmir Principal Secretary (Planning Commission) Rohit Kansal, ANI reported.

2 New Cases in Maharashtra as State's Tally Rises to 124

“Two new positive cases of Coronavirus in Mumbai and Thane. Till now, the total number of positive cases in the state is 124,” states Health Department, Maharashtra, reported ANI.

'If We Don't, We Will Die of Hunger': Daily Wage Workers Near Delhi-Ghazipur Border

In Delhi, daily wage workers walk near Delhi-Ghazipur border for their homes in different districts of Uttar Pradesh. A woman said, “We have no money left as we don't get any work here. What shall we eat? If we would not leave the city, we would die of hunger.”

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Delhi CM Kejriwal to Hold Meeting With Lt Guv Baijal Again

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal to hold a meeting over Coronavirus today. Following the meeting, Delhi CM and Delhi LG to address a joint press briefing, reported ANI.

COVID-19: New Cases in UP; 4 Test Positive

“A 21-year-old woman (whose parents tested positive), a 32-year-old man with travel history to Dubai, a 33 year-old woman and a 39 year-old man have been tested positive for Coronavirus,” Dr Sudhir Singh, Incharge, Isolation Ward, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, reported ANI.

Test Result of Woman Who Died in Navi Mumbai is Positive

The test report of a woman who died on 24 March turned out positive for coronavirus on Thursday, taking the COVID-19 death toll in Maharashtra to four, a health official said, reported PTI.

The woman, who hailed from Navi Mumbai, had symptoms similar to the coronavirus infection. Thus, as a precautionary measure, her samples were taken and sent for testing, he said.

COVID-19: 13 Dead, 649 Active Cases in India, Says Health Ministry

The total number of positive cases in India has risen to 649, the Health and Family Welfare Ministry said on Thursday, 26 March. While there are total 593 active cases, the number of discharged cases stands at 42, according to the ministry.

Meanwhile, 13 people have died due to the disease, the ministry added.

Sonia Gandhi Writes to PM Modi, Supports 21-Day Lockdown

Congress chief Sonia Gandhi writes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, says saying she supports the 21-day lockdown, and has sought measures to protect doctors, paramedics and ease supply chain.



“Centre might consider deferring all EMIs for 6 months; interest charged by banks for this period may consequently be waived,” Gandhi to PM Modi.





Cause of Death Behind Woman's Death in Mumbai Yet to Be Ascertained

“A 65-year-old woman from Mumbai who tested positive for Coronavirus, passes away; cause of death yet to be ascertained,” said Maharashtra Health Department.

Delhi Police Issues Notice to DCPs to Ensure Hassle-Free Movement of Vehicles With Essential Goods

Delhi Police has issued directions to all Deputy Commissioners of Police, asking them to ensure hassle free movement of personnel and vehicles of e-retailers delivering essential services and goods.

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'43 Positive Cases, 3 Deaths in Gujarat': Principal Secy Health & Family Welfare

Gujarat Principal Secretary, Health and Family Welfare Jayanti Ravi said, “Till now, 43 positive cases of Coronavirus have been detected in the state.”

“There have been three deaths including one 85-year-old woman who had a travel history to Saudi Arabia and had co-morbid conditions and a 70 year old man from Bhavnagar who also had co-morbid conditions, due to Coronavirus in the state,” she said.



However, the Health Ministry’s official numbers states that there are 37 positive cases and two deaths in Gujarat.





Centre, State Govts Must Provide Relief Package for Poor: Mayawati

BSP president Mayawati on Thursday asked the central and state governments to provide relief package for the poor and daily wage earners hit by the 21-day coronavirus lockdown.

In a tweet in Hindi, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said, “After effectively imposing the 21-day lockdown/curfew restrictions on 130 crore poor/working people of the country, the central and state government must provide a relief package for them so that they don't starve."



BSP president Mayawati on Thursday asked the central and state governments to provide relief package for the poor and daily wage earners hit by the 21-day coronavirus lockdown.





In another tweet, she said:, “Besides the various concessions given to the private sector during the lockdown, the people working there must get their monthly salary.” She also urged people to comply with the prohibitory orders imposed by the authorities.

COVID-19: Rajnath Singh Chairs Meeting With CDS, Chiefs of Army and Navy

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired a review meeting with the Chief of Defence Staff and Chiefs of Army and Navy on the Ministry's preparedness for tackling COVID-19.

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Sanitisation Drive Conducted in Delhi's Lajpat Nagar Amid COVID-19 Lockdown

South Delhi Municipal Corporation has conducted sanitisation in Lajpat Nagar, in the wake of coronavirus outbreak. Local Councilor Abhishek Dutt has appealed to people to stay indoors.

#WATCH South Delhi Municipal Corporation conducts sanitisation in Lajpat Nagar, in wake of Coronavirus spread; Local Councilor Abhishek Dutt appeals to people to stay indoors . #Delhi pic.twitter.com/dUwCxRZaZY — ANI (@ANI) March 26, 2020

Penal Action Against Landlords Forcing Healthcare Personnel to Vacate Homes in Karnataka

Karnataka has authorised officials to take penal action again landlords who force healthcare personnel vacate homes.

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4 New Cases Reported in Last 24 Hrs in Gujarat

The number of COVID-19 patients in Gujarat rose to 43 with four more coronavirus cases reported in the state during the last 24 hours, a senior health official said on Thursday.

One new case each has been reported from Ahmedabad, Surat, Gandhinagar and Bhavnagar, state principal secretary (health) Jayanti Ravi said in Gandhinagar.

Hundreds of People Stranded at AP-Telangana Checkpoints

Hundreds of people were left stranded at various checkpoints on the Andhra Pradesh- Telangana borders since Wednesday night as authorities refused to let them into the state in view of the coronavirus lockdown, exposing the communication gap and lack of coordination between the authorities of the two States.



After frantic SOS calls by the stranded persons, including pregnant women and children, AP authorities finally agreed to let them in, on the condition that they be shifted to a quarantine facility, reported PTI.





Coronavirus Lockdown: Javadekar Asks Officials to 'Stay Happy', 'Engaged'

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Thursday held an audio conference with officials of the three ministries under him and told them to "stay happy" and "engaged" during the 21-day lockdown period.

'Food Delivery Allowed, ID Cards Will Be Sufficient': Kejriwal

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and Lieutenant Governor briefed the media after their meeting.

“Online service providers/e-retailers delivering essential services & goods to be allowed. All essential services shops can remain open 24 hours so that there is no rush of people,” said Anil Baijal.

Kejriwal stated, “Food home delivery services have been allowed, the delivery persons can show their ID cards that will be sufficient. Mohalla clinics will continue to function but with all precautions.”

AgustaWestland 'Middleman' Christian Michel Approaches Court For Interim Bail Over Coronavirus Fears

Alleged middleman Christian Michel in AgustaWestland case has approached Delhi HC for interim bail due to the spread of Coronavirus.

He has cited the grounds of his age and health condition especially with the risk of contacting COVID-19. He is currently lodged in Tihar jail, reported ANI.

Test Result for Woman Who Died in Karnataka Come Out Positive, Tweets Minister

Dr Sudhakar K, Minister of Medical Education in Karnataka stated, “I regret to inform that the COVID-19 test result has come out as positive for Mallika Bai, who had succumbed to death yesterday. The govt stands committed to curb the spread of Corona Virus in the state. Please stay home, stay safe.”

I regret to inform that the COVID-19 test result has come out as positive for Mallika Bai, who had succumbed to death yesterday. The govt stands committed to curb the spread of Corona Virus in the state. Please stay home, stay safe — Dr Sudhakar K (@mla_sudhakar) March 26, 2020

Pudducherry CM Reviews Preparedness Amid COVID-19 Lockdown

Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy today reviewed preparations for the prevention and treatment of Coronavirus.

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AIIMS Sets Up Task Force to Develop Management Protocols

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has constituted a task force to develop management protocols for the Coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic, reported ANI.

Delhi Metro Services to Remain Closed Till 14 April

Delhi Metro Rail Corporation stated, “It is hereby informed that, in light of the lockdown issued by the government, Metro services will remain closed till 14 April 2020.”

Public Service Announcement



We have received a few queries regarding the tenure of the closure of the Metro services. It is hereby informed that, in light of the lockdown issued by the government, Metro services will remain closed till 14 April 2020.



— Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (@OfficialDMRC) March 26, 2020

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Announces Rs 100 Crore Relief Package for Poor

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has announced a Rs 100 crore relief package for the poor in wake of coronavirus lockdown, reported ANI.

Rs 1.7 Lakh Crore for Migrant Workers, Poor: Sitharaman Announces Financial Package

“A package is ready for the poor who need immediate help like migrant workers and urban and rural poor. No one will go hungry. The package is worth Rs 1.7 lakh crore,” Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated while addressing the media.

She added,”There will be Rs 50 lakh insurance per health care worker as a medical insurance cover for them for three months. Hopefully, we would be able to contain the virus in this period.”

Kamal Nath Urges MP CM Shvraj Singh Chouhan to Provide Relief Package to Farmers

Madhya Pradesh Congress leader Kamal Nath has written to Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, urging him to immediately provide farmers with Rs 7,500 each for two months as relief to them in wake of coronavirus lockdown, reported ANI.

3 More Test Positive in Telangana; Total Tally at 43

“Three more persons have been tested positive for coronavirus, taking the total number of cases to 43 in Telangana. One person has been cured/discharged,” said the state Health Department, reported ANI.

Coronavirus: Delhi Police Distributes Food Packets to Slum-Dwellers Amid Lockdown

The Delhi Police today distributed food packets to slum-dwellers in West Delhi amid the lockdown and educated them about the precautions to be taken in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, officials said.

Approximately 1,000 food packets were distributed with the help of an NGO in slum clusters of West Delhi's Raghubir Nagar and Ghondewala Mandir, they said, reported PTI.

With the help of NGO "Ek Noor" and peace committee members, the police officials of West district initiated a campaign for distribution of food, water and sanitisation in the slum area, a senior police official said.

Maha Labourer Walks 135 KM to Reach His Village Amid Lockdown

Amid travel restrictions due to the lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus, a 26- year-old daily wager walked over 135 km without food from Nagpur in Maharashtra to reach his home in Chandrapur.

As panic built up over the lockdown and poor people started returning to their homes, Narendra Shelke, who worked as a labourer in Pune, also decided to go back to his native Jambh village in Saoli tehsil of Chandrapur district.

He managed to catch the last train from Pune to Nagpur, but as the government later enforced restrictions on all sorts of travel, he got stranded in Nagpur, reported PTI.

75-Yr-Old Dies in Rajasthan; State's Tally at 40

“Seventy-three-year-old man who tested positive for coronavirus dies due to co-morbidity in Bhilwara in Rajasthan,” said Officials.

Two more people test positive in the state, a 45-year-old man in Jaipur and a 35-year-old man from Jhunjhunu. Both have a foreign travel history. Contact tracing underway. The total number of cases in the state rises to 40, reported ANI.

Steps Being Taken Under PM Modi's Firm Leadership Will Be Effective in Combating Virus: Dalai Lama

The steps being taken by the government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's firm leadership will be effective in containing the spread of coronavirus, the Dalai Lama said on Thursday.

“Since Himachal Pradesh has been my home for almost 60 years, I naturally feel an affinity for its people. Therefore, as a token of respect and sympathy, I am making a donation from the Gaden Phodrang Trust of the Dalai Lama to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund in order to contribute to providing essential supplies like food and medicine for the poor and needy members of the community,” the Dalai Lama wrote.

Indian Army Issues Instructions to Combat Coronavirus

Indian Army has issued fresh instructions reiterating enhanced measures to fight COVID-19, reported ANI.

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Coronavirus Deaths in Australia Increases to 12; Infected Cases Nearly 2,800

Australian health authorities on Thursday said the deaths due to the coronavirus outbreak in the country has touched 12 with the demise of three elderly persons while the total number of infections has risen to nearly 2,800, PTI reported.

'Surviving on Water, No Food': Daily Wage Labourers in Delhi

In Delhi, daily wagers at Fatehpur Beri facing trouble in wake of corconavirus lockdown. Samima, native of Bihar, said, “Our children have been surviving on water for the past two days. Landlords are demanding the monthly rent. I urge the government to either help or send us to our villages.”

Rajwati, a daily wage labourer said, “ We are surviving without food and water here. We request the government to help us. It is better to die of this disease (#COVID19) rather than dying of hunger.”

#WATCH Rajwati, a daily wage labourer, at Delhi's Fatehpur Beri: We are surviving without food & water here. We request the government to help us. It is better to die of this disease (#COVID19) rather than dying of hunger. #CoronavirusLockdown pic.twitter.com/qa19hI7wVC — ANI (@ANI) March 26, 2020

Odisha to Set Up 1,000 Bed Hospital Exclusively for COVID-19 Patients

Odisha will be the first state in the country to set up a large scale hospital exclusively to treat COVID-19, reported ANI.

The hospital will be equipped with 1,000 beds and will be functional in a fortnight. The

The Odisha government has also opened a 24x7 Control Room to monitor issues with regard to lockdown and to address issues pertaining to the state.

Also Read: Odisha to Have a 1,000-Bed Hospital Exclusive to COVID-19 Patients

One More Tests Positive in Maharashtra

A 42-year-old man in Nagpur tested positive for COVID-19, reported ANI, quoting Dr VD Paturkar, Civil Surgeon, Nagpur.

The patient has a travel history to Nagpur. This case raises the state case total to 126.

Doctor Couple Among Three to Test Positive for COVID-19 in Telangana

A doctor couple are among the three persons who tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday raising the total number of cases in the state to 44, reported PTI.

The three cases includes a 49-year old man, a resident of Qutbullapur in Medchal district. He had travelled to Delhi and the patient is stable and admitted at the designated hospital.

The two other confirmed cases are of a doctor couple from Hyderabad city pertaining to a 36-year-old doctor and her 41-year-old husband, also a doctor. Both are contact cases.

Srinagar Orders Closure of Places of Worship as Cases Rise

In an effort to contain the spread of infection in Srinagar, the District Magistrate has ordered the closure of all places of worship. The number of cases in the city has risen to 3.

Iran Death Toll Rises to 2,234

Iran on Thursday reported 157 new deaths due to COVID-19, raising the death toll to 2,234, reported AFP.

Centre Authorises Doorstep Delivery of Medicines

The Cenre on Thursday announced that doorstep delivery of medicines/drugs to people will be allowed in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. A notification will soon be published in the Gazette of India, reported ANI.

Army to Set up Quarantine Centres in Each Station for Personnel

The Indian Army on Thursday announced that it has started the process of identifying additional infrastructure for setting up quarantine centres in each station for its personnel to deal with the COVID-19 outbreak.

#COVID19#IndianArmy taking following additional measures



•Additional infrastructure for #Quarantine/ Isolation under process to extend medical network.

•Augmenting of #Hospitals and #Laboratories to render assistance to civil administration at #COVID-19 hotspots. pic.twitter.com/5D2aEKhGRY





— ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) March 26, 2020

China Cancels UN Security Council Meeting

China has cancelled a UN Security Council meeting scheduled for Thursday in COVID-19-stricken New York as it seeks to encourage "votes by writing" while the pandemic rages on, reported AFP, diplomatic sources.

The Security Council, currently chaired by China, has not met since 12 March and is holding "virtual" meetings to vote on resolutions.

Thursday's meeting was due to renew the mandate of UN experts responsible for sanctions imposed on North Korea and extend the peace mission in Somalia.

IAF Bangalore Command Hospital Approved for COVID-19 Testing

The Command Hospital Air Force Bangalore (CHAFB) has been designated as the 1st laboratory in the Indian Air Force to undertake COVID-19 testing, reported ANI.

IAF on Thursday announced that it has created 9 quarantine facilities of 200-300 personnel capacity each, at nodal IAF bases across the country.

IAF aircrafts are continuing to fly in medical supplies and doctors to Leh and fly out blood samples for COVID-19 testing to Chandigarh and Delhi.

Spain Death Toll Crosses 4,000

The COVID-19 death toll in Spain surged to 4,089 after 655 people died within 24 hours, reported AFP, quoting the health ministry.

The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 rose to 56,188 in Spain, which has the world's second highest death toll from the disease after Italy.

4 More Test Positive for COVID-19 in UP

Four more persons have tested positive for coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh, taking the number of COVID-19 cases in the state to 42, reported PTI, quoting an official.

"Four fresh cases were found positive for coronavirus on Thursday. The total number of cases have now reached 42, including eight in Agra, three in Ghaziabad, 14 in Noida, eight in Lucknow, two in Pilibhit and one each in Baghpat, Lakhimpur-Kheri, Moradabad, Varanasi, Kanpur, Jaunpur and Shamli," said Awanish Awasthi, Additional Chief Secretary Information.

Mangaluru's Wenlock Hospital Assigned as COVID-19 Facility

The district Wenlock hospital in Mangaluru will be turned into a dedicated hospital for the treatment of COVID-19 patients, reported PTI, quotingDakshina Kannada district-in- charge Minister Kota Srinivas Poojary.

“The 250-bed super speciality wing at Wenlock would be converted to a dedicated hospital to treat coronavirus patients in view of the prevailing situation,” the Minister said.

Germany Ramps up COVD-19 Testing to 500,000 a Week

Germany has boosted its coronavirus test rate to 500,000 a week, with the early detection helping in part to keep the country's death toll relatively low, reported AFP, quoting Christian Drosten, who heads the Institute of Virology at Berlin's Charite University Hospital.

"“The reason why Germany has so few deaths compared to the number of infected people can be explained by the fact that we carry out an extremely large number of laboratory diagnostic tests,” " - Christian Drosten, Head of Institute of Virology at Berlin’s Charite University Hospital.

More Than 250,000 Declared COVID-19 Cases in Europe

The number of declared coronavirus cases in Europe topped 250,000, according to an AFP tally Thursday, more than half of which are in hard-hit Italy and Spain.

Europe is the worst-affected region in the world with 258,068 cases, including 14,640 deaths, ahead of Asia's 100,937 infections and 3,636 fatalities, according to a tally compiled from national health data and World Health Organization figures.

Social Distancing at Vegetable Markets in Tirupathi of Andhra

Social distancing is the most important measure that is being taken across the world to cut down the transmission of coronavirus.

It simply means keeping a physical distance of at least 1.5 metres from each other, and some stores and shops in India have come up with ingenious ways to ensure that this is practiced – even when you’re standing in queue.

Here are some images clicked by The Quint on social distancing being practiced in the vegetable markets of Tirupathi.

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Also Read: Circles, Lines, Boxes: How to Practice Social Distancing in Queues

Karnataka Govt Releases List of Online Services Exempted During Lockdown

The Karnataka government on Thursday release a list of online services, retailers who will be allowed to ate during the nationwide lockdown.

Zomato, Flipkart, Amazon, Swiggy, Grofers, Bigbasket, Milkbasket are some of the companies allowed to operate.

View photos Exemption of online delivery services. More

WB CM Seen Directing Officials, Vendors on Social Distancing

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday took to the streets of Kolkata and was seen directing officials and vendors to practice social distancing.

#WATCH West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee seen directing officials and vendors to practice social distancing, in a market in Kolkata. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/dwkDbvcraR — ANI (@ANI) March 26, 2020

CRPF Personnel Donate One Day Salary to Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund

Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) announced that all personnel have decided to make a contribution of their one day salary to the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund, reported ANI.

The total amount donated to the fund is Rs 33,81,00,000

"“We are dutifully committed to stand firmly with our nation in this challenging time of COVID-19 spread.”" - Central Reserve Police Force

Romania Health Minister Resigns as Country Struggles to Stem Virus

Romania's Health Minister Victor Costache resigned on Thursday following criticism of the government over its handling of the novel coronavirus pandemic, reported AFP.

Romania has confirmed 1,029 cases of the new coronavirus so far, with almost 16,000 tests carried out.

Seventeen people have been killed by the virus, eight of them at a hospital in the northeastern city of Suceava, a facility that has become the centre of the country's coronavirus outbreak.

19 Tests Positive in Kerala

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday announced that 19 new positive cases of COVID-19, raising the total number of cases in the state to 126.

One More Tests Positive in TN

Tamil Nadu government on Thursday reported one new positive case of COVID-19 in Trichy. The patient is a 24-year-old male with a travel history to Dubai.

Interim Court Orders in Maha to Continue till 30 April: HC

The Bombay High Court on Thursday said all interim orders passed by courts across Maharashtra shall continue till 30 April in view of the 21-day nationwide lockdown announced by the Centre to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus, reported PTI.

The bench also took cognisance of a letter written to it by a group of senior lawyers requesting for court hearings to be held via video conferencing to ensure safe access to justice given the extended lockdown.

Nagpur's 1st COVID-19 Patient Discharged

Nagpur's first COVID-19 patient was discharged from today after his second sample tested negative, reported ANI, quoting Dr. Ajay Keoliya, Dean of Indira Gandhi Medical College & Hospital (IGMC) Nagpur.

DGCA Extends Ban on International Passenger Flights till 14 April

All international commercial passenger flights will remain suspended till 14 April, aviation regulator DGCA announced on Thursday, amid a nationwide lockdown to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.

"In continuation of circular-II dated 19.3.2020 issued on the subject cited-above, it has been decided that all scheduled international commercial passenger services shall remain closed till 18:30 hrs GMT (0000 hrs of Indian Standard Time) of 14 April 2020," the aviation regulator said.

Need of the Hour is 'Unity' Against This Invisible Enemy: AP CM

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy while addressing the people of the state on Thursday reiterated that every single guideline issued by the PM should be followed and strict action will be taken against those who do not.

A designated helpline number, 1902, haas been launched for all possible problems raised by citizens.

The CM also announced that 4 critical care hospitals have been setup in the state to ensure that we are prepared to face all eventualities.

Delhi Police Withdraws Order Allowing Online Retail Firms to Re-start Services

Hours after allowing several online retail firms to re-start their delivery services, the Delhi police on Thursday withdrew its previous order with "immediate effect", officials said.

The police had issued a statement directing its personnel to allow persons and vehicles engaged in essential services to operate in Delhi and listed names of retailers and online delivery services that should be allowed to function.

The police did not cite any reason for withdrawing its previous order, but a senior police official said essential supplies would continue and a uniform order across states would be issued soon.

Shops Selling Essential Items Can Remain Open 24 Hours: Maha CM

Shops selling essential commoditieswill be allowed to stay open 24 hours of the day in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray announced on Thursday evening.

The decision was taken to prevent crowding at shops and marketplaces amid the lockdown to contain the coronavirus pandemic, said a statement from his office.

However, shop-keepers must ensure that social distancing is maintained and rules about hygiene and sanitizing are followed, the CMO statement said.

All shops selling essential commodities, groceries and medicines are allowed to operate 24hours.



It is mandatory for them to fully adhere to social distancing measures, enforce gaps with marking & ensure sanitation & cleanliness.



— CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) March 26, 2020

Two More Tests Positive in TN

Tamil Nadu government on Thursday reported two new positive case of COVID-19 and Kilpauk Medical College Hospital.

The two patients include a 24-year-old male who had returned from London and a 65-year-old female from Chennai, with contact history.

One More tests Positive in Bihar

One more person tested positive for COVID-19 in Bihar, raising the total number of cases in the state to 7.

The patient is a 20-year-old male from Patna with no travel history, reported ANI, quoting Nalanda Medical College and Hospital (NMCH).

One More Tests Positive in Haryana

One more person from Haryana's Panipat district tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday, raising the total number of cases in the state to 18, reported PTI, quoting officials.

The patient, a 21-year-old nurse, works in a private hospital in Gurugram and had travelled to her hometown Panipat.

COVID-19 Patient Man Escapes from Quarantine in Rajasthan

A 21-year-old COVID-19 positive patient triggered a scare after he escaped from a quarantine facility in Rajashtan’s Jhunjhunu district only to be brought back by authorities after he was found at his home, reported PTI.

“Health department officials have taken the samples of 10 family members of the patient and kept all of them in an isolation ward in the facility,”said Chhote Lal Jhunjhunu Chief Medical and Health Officer.

Services to Remain Suspended till 14 April: GoAir

Budget carrier GoAir on Thursday said its all services, including international flights, will remain suspended till 14 April due to the 21-day nationwide lockdown amid the novel coronavirus pandemic.

“The airline fully respects the decisive steps being taken by our PM followed by various state and local governments to arrest the spread of COVID-19,” the airline statement read.

"Although these steps will stop air travel until 14 April and impact the very purpose of GoAir's existence, they are essential for the health of our customers, our employees and our nation,” the statement read.

G20 Nations Pledge USD 5 Trillion to Counter Impact of COVID-19

G20 nations on Thursday pledged a "united front" in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, and said they were injecting USD 5 trillion into the global economy to counter the impact of the crisis, reported AFP.

"“We are injecting over USD 5 trillion into the global economy, as part of targeted fiscal policy, economic measures, and guarantee schemes to counteract the social, economic and financial impacts of the pandemic.” " - G20 Statement

They also pledged to work swiftly with multilateral bodies such as the International Monetary Fund, the World Health Organization and regional banks to deploy a "robust" financial package to support developing nations.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands Report First Positive Case

A man tested positive for COVID-19 in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, reported PTI, quoting, official.

No Discussion on Origin of COVID-19 at G20 Summit

There was no discussion on the origins of COVID-19 during the G20 Virtual Summit held on Thursday, reported ANI, quoting sources.

The spirit was collaborative & discussions were held on how to deal with the current crisis. There were no efforts to ascribe blame to anyone for the outbreak of the virus.

At Many Levels Globalization Has Failed Us: PM Modi

PM Modi made a point that the forum has become a platform to address financial & economic issues. PM said at many levels globalization has failed us, whether it is in combating terrorism or climate change, reported ANI, quoting sources.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said COVID-19has offered an opportunity to look at a new concept of globalization. One that also focuses on humanity, climate change, and terrorism other than economic & financial aspects.

Globalisation Has Failed Us: PM Modi at G20 Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 Virtual Summit held on Thursday said at many levels globalisation has failed us, whether it is in combating terrorism or climate change, reported ANI, quoting sources.

"“COVID-19 has offered an opportunity to look at a new concept of globalization. One that also focuses on humanity, climate change, and terrorism other than economic and financial aspects.”" - Prime Minister Narendra Modi

PM Modi urged the G20 leaders to come out with a plan putting the focus on human lives. He urged for a plan to reduce the hardships faced by economically weaker sections of society, strengthening WHO and mitigating economic hardships.

Maharashtra Reports 5th COVID-19 Death

A 65-year-old woman from Mumbai who tested positive for COVID-19, passed away on Thursday, raising the death toll in the state to 5. The woman had diabetes, hypertension and was admitted to the hospital on 23 March after complaining of breathlessness.

One More Tests Positive in Assam

A 60-year-old man tested positive for COVID-19 in Bhubaneswar, raising the total cases in the state to 3.

Five More Tests Positive in Rajasthan

Five more people tested positive for COVID-19 in Rajasthan on Thursday, raising the total positive cases in the state to 43. reported ANI, quoting the Rajasthan Health Department.

South Africa COVID-19 Cases Climb to 927

South Africa' confirmed COVID-19 cases rose sharply on Thursday to 927 from 709 the previous day, on the eve of a three-week lockdown, reported AFP, quoting the government.

"As of today, the confirmed cases of COVID-19 in South Africa have risen by 218. This brings the total number of confirmed cases to 927," the health ministry said in a statement.

5 More Test Positive in Maharashtra

5 more people tested positive for COVID-19 in Maharashtra on Thursday, raising the number of cases in the state to 130, reported ANI, quoting the state health department.

Three of the cases were reported from Sangli and 1 each from Kolhapur and Pune.

COVID-19: One More Person Tests Positive in Andhra Pradesh

One more person tested positive for coronavirus in Andhra Pradesh, taking the total number of cases in the state to 11, ANI reported.

"The latest person to have tested positive has a history of travel to Stockholm, Sweden. He is currently admitted at the Government General Hospital in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh Health Department said.

COVID-19 Death Toll Jumps by More Than 100 in a Day in UK

The death toll due to coronavirus in the United Kingdom jumps by more than 100 in a day for the first time, ANI reports quoting UK media.

France Reports 365 More Coronavirus Deaths, Including 16-Year-Old

France on Thursday, 26 March, reported that 365 people, including a 16-year-old girl, had died from the coronavirus over the last 24 hours, the country's highest daily toll, AFP reported.

Top French health official Jerome Salomon told reporters that a total of 1,696 people had died in hospital in France from the virus, emphasising that the toll does not include those who died at home or at retirement homes.

COVID-19: Italy Reports 6,153 New Infections, Taking Global Total Over 500,000

Italy has reported 6,153 new coronavirus infections, pushing the global total over half a million, based on a count kept by Johns Hopkins University, AFP reported.

Italy now has 80,539 cases, almost as many as China.

COVID-19 Positive Patient Dies in Rajasthan's Bhilwara

A person tested positive for coronavirus has died in Rajasthan's Bhilwara, ANI reported.

"“He had co-morbid conditions, including diseases relating to kidney and blood pressure.”" - Rajan Nanda, Principal, Mahatma Gandhi Hospital

US Now Leads the World in Confirmed Coronavirus Cases

The United States now leads the world in the number of confirmed coronavirus cases with more than 82,000, according to Johns Hopkins University.

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