Coronavirus Outbreak Updates: Film producers' association writes to Uddhav Thackeray requesting resumption of film and TV shoots

Coronavirus in Gujarat Latest Updates

Gujarat HC says state govt’s permission not required for COVID-19 tests

“The Gujarat High Court (HC) on Friday said there was no need to take the state government’s permission before conducting Covid-19 test at private laboratories before emergency procedures.

The court heard several issues related to the Covid-19 situation in the state, the order for which is reserved for Saturday,” The Indian Express reported.

Coronavirus in Telangana Latest Updates

100 new cases reported in Telangana

The Telanagana health department said that 100 new coronavirus positive cases were reported in the state on Friday, taking the total number of cases in the state to 2,008.

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Updates

Assam reports 144 new COVID-19 cases

On Friday, Assam reported 144 cases of coronavirus, resulting in the state’s number of cases increasing to 1,024. The new cases were reported from Kamrup, Tinsukia, Dhubri, Cachar, Dhemaji, Hojai, Golaghat, Lakhimpur, Hailakandi and Karbi Anglong districts

Coronavirus in Jharkhand Latest Updates

45 new COVID-19 cases reported in Jharkhand

45 new COVID-19 cases, 1 death reported in Jharkhand on Friday, the total number of positive cases in the state is now 521, said the state health department.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Delhi containment zones stand at 102

The number of containment zones over coronavirus in Delhi rose to 102, India Today reported. “As many as 50 containment areas in Delhi have been de-contained so far,” the report said.

Coronavirus in Mumbai Latest Updates

1,437 new COVID-19 cases reported in Mumbai today

Mumbai reported 1,437 new positive cases of COVID-19 and 38 deaths on Friday. The total number of positive cases in Mumbai is now 36,710, the Municipal Corporation Greater Mumbai (MCGM) said.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

Bengal govt staff to work at 70%, says Mamata

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said that with multiple crises in state, the government has decided to increase public workforce capacity from 50 percent to 70 percent.

“Continuation of restoration work is one of top priorities and workforce increase will ensure that public services are uninterrupted. In the private sector, I urge all to stay safe, work indoors as much as possible and to the best of their abilities. Prerogative lies with the respective managements of private entities to decide on workforce capacity and act accordingly.

“The lockdown will continue with minimal effects. Jute mills and tea gardens will operate with 100 percent workforce capacity. We are together in this. I am sure with all your cooperation and understanding Bengal will emerge victoriously,” she added.

Coronavirus in Rajasthan Latest Updates

Monuments, museums to open from 1 June in Rajasthan, says report

The Rajasthan government on Friday decided to let all monuments and museums open from 1 June, India Today reported.

Coronavirus in Madhya Pradesh Latest Updates

192 new cases reported in MP

“Madhya Pradesh reported 192 new COVID-19 cases, including 84 in worst-hit Indore district, which took the tally of patients in the state to 7,645, health officials said. Thirteen deaths due to coronavirus infection increased the number of victims in MP to 334, they said.” Ireported.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Pune reports 302 COVID-19 cases today

302 new COVID-19 positive cases and 11 deaths have been reported in last 24 hours in Pune district. Total positive cases stand at 7314 and death toll is at 321: Dr Bhagawan Pawar, District Health Officer

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

FIlm producers’ association asks for permission to resume shooting in stalled projects

The Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) has written a letter to Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray seeking permission to resume shooting on a number of stalled projects while keeping in mind the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to ensure safety in the time of coronavirus pandemic.

Coronavirus in Manipur Latest Updates

One new case reported in Manipur

One new positive case of COVID19 reported today, taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 59 including 52 active cases and 7 recovered: Manipur Health Department

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Awaiting Modi’s direction on 5th phase of lockdown, says Karnataka govt

Karnataka minister K Sudhakar said that the state government was awaiting instructions from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on how to proceed on the fifth phase of the lockdown.

“The Task Force Committee that we assembled had an elaborate discussion on going forward; post lockdown 4, we’ll get into lockdown 5 phase. We are also waiting for Mann Ki Baat by Modi and his directions and Centre’s guidelines to all states,” he said.

Coronavirus in France Latest Updates

Over 3,000 COVID-19 cases in France today

“France has reported more than 3,000 new daily virus infections in the biggest such one-day rise in more than three weeks – and the first major increase since France started gradually reopening May 11. It comes as testing has become more easily available in France, though it is unclear whether that is part of the reason,” News18 reported.

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

UP COVID-19 cases rise to 7,445

275 new COVID-19 cases and four deaths (in last 24 hours) reported in Uttar Pradesh, taking the total number of cases in the state to 7445, the state health department.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Maharashtra Police registers case against SP MLA for violating lockdown norms

Maharashtra Police on Friday registered a case against SP MLA Abu Azmi and 45 others for violating COVID-19 lockdown rules during a protest in Mumbai, ANI reported.

Coronavirus in Rajasthan Latest Updates

Rajasthan reports 298 new COVID-19 cases today

The Rajasthan health department said that 298 COVID-19 cases have been reported in the state till 8.30pm on Friday, the total number of cases in the state is now 8,365, death toll 184.

Coronavirus in Jharkhand Latest Updates

60 migrant workers flown from Leh to Ranchi

60 migrant workers from Jharkhand stranded in Leh flown back to Ranchi by the Jharkhand government.

Ranchi: 60 migrant workers from Jharkhand stranded in Leh flown back to Ranchi by Jharkhand government pic.twitter.com/NEns7TYSQ1

— ANI (@ANI) May 29, 2020

Coronavirus in Haryana Latest Updates

217 COVID-19 cases reported in Haryana today

The Haryana health department said that 217 new COVID-19 cases were reported on Friday, taking the total number of positive cases to 1,721.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Railways issues guidelines for ticket-checking staff:

The Indian Express reported that the Railways on Friday issued fresh guidelines for ticket checking staff:

“*Staff to dispense with tie, coat

*To prevent physical handling of tickets, a magnifying glass to be provided so that TTEs can scrutinize details from a distance

*Staff to be provided with masks, face shield, hand gloves, head cover, sanitiser, and soap.

*Checks to ensure TTEs using protective gear,” the report said.

Coronavirus in Gujarat Latest Updates

372 new COVID-19 cases reported in Gujarat today

The Gujarat health ministry said that in the last 24 hours, 372 new cases of COVID-19, 20 deaths reported in the state. The total tally of positive cases rises to 15,944 including 8,609 cured/discharged, death toll 980 deaths.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates  

Maharashtra records 116 COVID-19 today

Maharashtra recorded 116 COVID-19 deaths on Friday, the highest number of deaths due to COVID-19 in a single day.

2,682 new COVID-19 positive cases have been reported on Friday, taking the total number of cases to 62,228. Toll stands at 2098.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Karnataka to charge for COVID-19 tests, says report

News18 reported that the Karnataka government on Friday said “that all those wishing to get tested for COVID-19 will have to incur the cost of the test, which is fixed at Rs 650.”

Coronavirus in Goa Latest Updates

69 COVID-19 cases reported in Goa so far

The total number of COVID19 positive cases in the state is 69 including 28 active cases and 41 recovered cases: Goa Health Department

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

No COVID-19 death in Dharavi today

The BMC said that no death due to coronavirus was reported in Dharavi area of Mumbai on Friday.

Meanwhile, 41 people tested positive, taking the total number of positive cases to 1,715. Toll stands at 70

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Delhi govt issues guidelines for people under home quarantine

The Delhi government on Friday issued guidelines for those prescribed home quarantine, India Today reported.

According to the report, the guidelines are:

“- Patient must download Aarogya Setu app
– Patient must wear 3-layer masks for 8 hours
– Patient must throw the mask only by spraying 1 per cent sodium hypochlorite
– Patient must stay in the room
– Patient must not touch the frequently touched spaces attached to the room
– Patient must not drink alcohol, cigarettes during recovery
– Patient must drink plenty of juice and water
– Patient must not eat meat”

Coronavirus in Gujarat Latest Updates

Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla succumbs to COVID-19

Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla on Friday succumbs to coronavirus in Ahmedabad, Air India Radio News reported.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Delhi govt adds two COVID-19 dedicated hospitals

The Delhi government on Friday said that the Deep Chand Bandhu Hospital and Satyavadi Raja Harish Chander Hospital were designated as dedicated COVID-19 hospitals.

Coronavirus in Jammu and Kashmir Latest Updates

Jammu and Kashmir reports 128 new COVID-19 cases

The Jammu and Kashmir government on Friday said that 128 new cases of coronavirus were reported. Of these, 36 are from Jammu, 92 from Kashmir.

Additionally, one death was also reported. The total number of cases in the union territory is now 2,164.

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates

874 new COVID-19 cases reported in Tamil Nadu today

The Tamil Nadu health department said that 874 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state on Friday, taking the total patients in the state to 20,246.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Maharashtra govt raises honorarium for doctors:

The increased honorarium announced by the Maharashtra government is:

Rs 75,000 instead of 60,000 for doctors in tribal areas, Rs 85,000 instead of 70,000 for specialist doctors in tribal areas.

Rs 70,000 instead of 55,000 for MBBS doctors in other areas and Rs 80,000 for specialist doctors in other areas instead of Rs 65,000.

Coronavirus in Goa Latest Updates

Goa govt says people arriving in state are straining testing facilities

Goa health minister Vishwajit Rane was on Friday quoted by News18 as saying that people arriving in the state “had increased and this was straining coronavirus testing facilities”.

“Several people were seen outside the district hospital in Mapusa on Thursday evening to get themselves tested after entering the state, even as the testing infrastructure there got exhausted,” the report said.

Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Updates

62 new COVID-19 cases reported in Kerala today

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that 62 new coronavirus cases, and one death were reported in the state on Friday. The total number of cases in the state is 1,150.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

4,000 ex-bureaucrats, researchers write to Modi over migrant crisis

Around 4,000 former bureaucrats, research scholars, former members of the judiciary on Friday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to “fulfil its constitutional obligations” and “facilitate the safe and dignified movement of millions of migrants through the deployment of central forces and resources,” The Indian Express quoted the letter as saying.

Coronavirus in Punjab Latest Updates

Punjab govt raises fine for spitting

The Punjab government on Friday raised the fine for spitting, News18 reported.

“Punjab announced stricter penalties for those not adhering to restrictions put in place to contain the COVID-19 outbreak, increasing significantly the fine for spitting and not wearing masks in public to Rs 500. The state government also increased the fine for violating the home quarantine to Rs 2,000,” the report said.

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

11 AIIMS heatlhcare workers test COVID-19 positive 

Reports said that 11 healthcare workers, including two resident doctors, have tested positive for coronavirus at the AIIMS on Friday, taking the total number of hospital staff infected so far to 206.

Since 1 February, 206 healthcare workers including two faculty, ten resident doctors, 26 nurses, nine technicians, five mess workers, 49 hospital attendants, 34 sanitation workers and 69 security guards have been infected by the novel coronavirus, an AIIMS official was quoted by PTI as saying.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Over 170 Indians brought back from Sri Lanka

Over 170 Indians stranded in Sri Lanka due to the global travel restrictions left for their homes on Friday aboard a special Air India flight. The Indian High Commission said the flight AI 0276, carrying 176 Indians under the ‘Vande Bharat Mission’, took off from Colombo for Mumbai, Bhubaneswar and Kolkata. Apart from the flight, Indian Naval Ship Jalashwa will make a voyage to Tuticorin from Colombo Port on Monday to repatriate nearly 700 Indians stranded in the country amidst the coronavirus pandemic.

(PTI)

Coronavirus in Meghalaya Latest Updates

Six people test COVID-19 positive in Meghalaya

Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma said that six more residents, who returned to state the state from outside, have tested positive for coronavirus on Friday.

Of these, three are from South West Garo Hills, one from West Garo Hills, one from East Khasi Hills and one from West Khasi Hills. They had come from Maharashtra, Bengaluru, West Bengal and Chennai, Sangma said.

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

248 new COVID-19 cases reported in Karnataka today

The Karnataka health department said that 248 people have tested positive for coronavirus in the state on Friday, taking the total number of cases in the state to 2,781, toll stands at 48.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

Mamata Banerjee accuses Railways of running ‘corona express trains’

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee was quoted by India Today as saying that the Railways was running “corona express trains in the name of Shramik Special trains”. “Why are migrants being packed in trains without social distancing,” she said.

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Maharashtra govt to enhance doctors’ pay

“For doctors on contract and on bond, the Maharashtra state governement has decided to not just enhance pay, but bring at par. They are our COVID-19 warriors and this was due,” Maharashtra minister Aaditya Thackeray said.

An older order had proposed a reduction in pay, and I had requested the government to reverse this. I wholeheartedly thank @CMOMaharashtra @OfficeofUT ji, Dy CM @AjitPawarSpeaks ji, Health Minister @rajeshtope11 ji and Minister @AmitV_Deshmukh ji to have reversed that.
(2/2)

— Aaditya Thackeray (@AUThackeray) May 29, 2020

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

Mamata Banerjee asks people not to hide COVID-19-like symptoms

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday asked people not to hide symptoms similar to those of cooronavirus. She also “urged private doctors to start seeing patients with full protection,” India Today reported.

The report also said that “public, private companies to resume work with 100 percent capacity from 8 June” in the statement.

Coronavirus in Odisha Latest Updates

Norms for 5th phase of lockdown to be announced soon, says Odisha Police

Dr S Sarangi, Commissioner of Police, Bhubaneswar said that norms for the fifth phase of the lockdown will be announced in the next few days.

“As we open up the economy, we’ve to ensure that we see how COVID-19 shapes up. Once we open, we can still keep epidemic under control if people behave responsibly,” he added.

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

Bengal govt says all places of worship to be opened from 1 June

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said that all places of worship — “mandir, masjid, gurudwara” — will open, “but not more than 10 people will be allowed”.

She added, “No assembly at religious places will be allowed. This will be implemented from 1 June.”

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

UP govt says 218 new COVID-19 cases reported in 24 hours

The Uttar Pradesh government said that in the last 24 hours, 218 new coronavirus cases have been reported in the state. There are 2,842 active cases in the state, 4244 people have been cured/discharged till date.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Railways says report of train reaching destination in 9 days is fake news

“We are are trying our best in resolving issues and supplying food&water to all passengers, despite the difficulties due to the COVID19 pandemic,” said Vinod Kumar Yadav, Chairman, Railway Board in a press conference on Friday.

“A media report stated that a train reached Siwan (from Surat) in nine days, this is fake news. The train reached its destination in two days. Only four trains out of 3,840 total trains have taken over 72 hrs to reach their destination,” he added.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Railways issues travel advisory for vulnerable groups

Persons with co-morbidities, pregnant women, children below age of 10 years and people above 65 years of age may avoid travel by rail, except when it is essential, said Vinod Kumar Yadav, Chairman, Railway Board on Friday.

Persons with co-morbidities, pregnant women, children below age of 10 years & persons above 65 years of age may avoid travel by rail, except when it is essential: Vinod Kumar Yadav, Chairman, Railway Board pic.twitter.com/N8KZuuIJqC

— ANI (@ANI) May 29, 2020

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates  

Only 4 of 3,840 trains took 72 hours to reach, says Railways

Vinod Kumar Yadav, Railway Board chairperson on Friday said that “only four trains out of 3,840 total trains have taken over 72 hours to reach their destination”, after a row this week over rerouted trains taking over two days to reach their destination.

“90 percent trains have been run with an average speed higher than normal mail express trains,” he added.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Railway Board says nearly 3 lakh migrant workers being ferried every day

The Railway Board chairman said that 279 ‘shramik pecial’ trains have been run till 20 May; all requests from states have been accommodated by the Railways. Almost 3 lakh migrants  being ferried by the railways on a daily basis, he added.

Coronavirus in Andhra Pradesh Latest Updates

33 new COVID-19 cases reported in Andhra Pradesh

The number of coronavirus cases rose to 2,874 in Andhra Pradesh, with 33 fresh cases being recorded in the last 24 hours. Active cases and deaths stand at 777 and 60, respectively.

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

List of additional flights under Vande Bharat Mission:

Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that additional flights had been announced by Air India under the Centre’s repatriation exercise called ‘Vande Bharat Mission’. Bookings start from 1100hrs on 30 May.

The flights are:

Delhi to Auckland on 4 June,

Delhi to Chicago and Stockholm on 5 June

Delhi to New York, Frankfurt and Seoul on 6 June

Mumbai to London and Newark on 6 June

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Centre refuses to answer RTI plea on amount spent on equipment purchase

The Union Health Ministry has refused to share the amount of money spent on equipment purchase to handle the COVID-19 pandemic in the country, stating that such data does not come under the definition of “information” to be provided under the Right to Information Act.

Mumbai-based RTI activist Anil Galgali had filed an online application on the central government’s portal seeking to know steps taken by it to control the spread of COVID-19, name of equipment and material purchased for the purpose and the amount spent on them.

(PTI)

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Amit Shah speaks to Modi about CMs’ views on lockdown

During the meeting on Friday, Home Minister Amit Shah briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the suggestions and the feedback he received from the chief ministers during his telephonic conversations on Thursday, reports said.

“It is understood that majority of the chief ministers wanted the lockdown to continue in some form but also favoured opening up of the economic activities and gradual return of the normal life”, an official was quoted as saying by PTI.

Coronavirus Outbreak in West Bengal Latest Update

Locals protest against converting school into quarantine centre

Locals in Narsamuda area of Asansol district of West Bengal protest against the state government’s decision of converting a school there into a quarantine centre, as they fear the spread of COVID-19 infection, ANI reports

West Bengal: Locals of Narsamuda in Asansol today staged protest against converting Narsamuda High School in the area into a quarantine centre, fearing spread of infection. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/szwaozNVm6

— ANI (@ANI) May 29, 2020

Coronavirus Outbreak in Kerala Latest Update

People queue outside Kerala bar

Kerala: People queue outside a bar in Pathadipalam in Kochi to purchase liquor, as the State Beverages Corporation resumed commercial sale of liquor, amid #CoronavirusLockdown. pic.twitter.com/eflbzsXOwP

— ANI (@ANI) May 29, 2020

Coronavirus Outbreak in India Latest Update

Decision on lockdown extension likely tomorrow, say reports

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had met Home Minister Amit Shah and senior officials to discuss the way forward on Friday, as the fourth phase of the lockdown comes to an end on Sunday, according to several media reports state. A key decision is likely tomorrow on whether to extend the restrictions amid the steady rise in virus cases, reports  NDTV .

Coronavirus Outbreak in Andhra Pradesh Latest Update

ICMR writes to WHO disagreeing with HCQ assessment

The Indian Council of Medical Research writes to the World Health Organization, expressing its disagreement with the world health body’s advisory against the use of hydroxychloroquine in treating coronavirus patients, ANI reports. The ICMR cities the difference in dosage administered to patients and says international dosages are four times higher than Indian trials.

Coronavirus Outbreak in India Latest Update

Rupee settles 14 paise higher at 75.62 against US dollar

The rupee appreciated 14 paise to provisionally close at 75.62 against the US dollar on Friday as foreign fund inflows and weak American currency boosted investor confidence.

Forex traders said investors are awaiting the country’s gross domestic product data for the January-March quarter, due later in the day, for further cues.

The rupee opened at 75.71 at the interbank forex market, gained further ground, and finally settled at 75.62, up 14 paise over its last close. It had settled at 75.76 against the US dollar on Thursday.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Maharashtra Latest Update

Mumbai’s public transport BEST not to charge fares from migrants

The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) on Friday announced that no ticket fares will be charged from migrant labourers when buses are made available for dropping them at the city railway stations for their journey to their home states.

A BEST spokesperson said that the decision was taken as per the directives of the Supreme Court.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Goa Latest Update

Goa CM bats for lockdown extension; wants malls, gyms to open

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant​ on Friday said the current phase of lockdown, slated to end on May 31, should be extended till June 15 considering the overall COVID-19 scenario in the country, where the case count has crossed the 1.6 lakh-mark.

Sawant, who spoke to Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the phone on Thursday, said during the conversation he suggested lockdown extension for another 15 days, but sought relaxations for Goa during the period.

The chief minister said Goa will pitch for relaxations like allowing reopening of malls, restaurants and gyms in the state during the lockdown period. He said all these sectors (gym, mall and restaurant) can open with 50 per cent of their staff capacity and by strictly adhering to social distancing norms and other protocols related to curbing the coronavirus spread.

Coronavirus Outbreak in India Latest Update

Use of public transport likely to reduce for 6 months post-lockdown: CSE survey

The use of public transport is expected to reduce for six months post-lockdown and ‘health safety’ will be the top priority for people while choosing the most suitable mode of travel, a recent analysis by the Centre for Science and Environment claimed.

The CSE’s perception survey on changing commuting choices post-pandemic included over 400 middle and high-income groups in Delhi and surrounding NCR cities. The first results show public mood is changing.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Maharashtra Latest Update

Mumbai International Airport handles 191 flights since resumption of domestic air services

M​umbai International Airport has handled 191 scheduled flights, including 50 services on Thursday, catering to around 20,000 passengers since the resumption of domestic passenger air services this week.

All commercial passenger services were halted on March 25 when the government imposed a nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19. While the domestic routes have been reopened for flying with a curtailed schedule from May 25 (Monday), international services remain suspended.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Karnataka Latest Update

Karnataka reported 178 new cases, takes total to 2,711

Karnataka on Friday reported 178 new COVID-19 positive cases from 5 pm of 28 May to 12 noon today. The total positive cases stand at 2,711 including 1793 active cases, said sate health department.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Manipur Latest Update

3 more test positive for COVID-19 in Manipur, total count at 58

Three more persons tested positive for COVID-19 in Manipur, raising the total number of such cases in the state to 58, an official said. All three hail from Imphal West district, he said.

Manipur currently has 53 active coronavirus cases. Five patients have been discharged following their recovery.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Delhi Latest Update

ED official contracts COVID-19 infection in Delhi

A junior-rank officer of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has tested positive for coronavirus infection, officials said on Friday.

The official is an upper-division clerk who works at the establishment branch of the headquarters, they said, adding that he last came to office on 18 May and his COVID-19 test report came on Thursday.

He was on deputation to the investigative agency from a central paramilitary force, the officials said. The COVID-positive official has been admitted to hospital for treatment and an employee who was in his contact quarantined, they said.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Delhi Latest Update

Taking urgent steps for cremation of COVID-19 deceased, Delhi govt tells HC

The AAP government informed the Delhi High Court on Friday that it was taking urgent steps, including extending the timings of crematoriums, to tackle the issue of cremating those who have died due to COVID-19 and the piling up of bodies at mortuaries.

The Delhi government told the court that 28 such bodies were cremated on Thursday and the last rites of the remaining 35 will be performed by Saturday. Only those bodies will be retained where post mortem and investigations are to be carried out, it said.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Odisha Latest Update

Odisha reports 63 new COVID-19 cases, total rises to 1,723

Sixty-three more people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Odisha, taking the total in the state to 1,723, a Health Department official said here on Friday. Of the fresh cases, 61 had recently returned to the state from various parts of the country and were in different quarantine centres across districts, while two others were detected with the infection as a result of contact-tracing exercises, he said.

The new cases were reported from 15 districts. The maximum of 12 fresh cases were found in Khurda, followed by 11 in Jagatsinghpur, nine in Dhenkanal, seven in Nayagarh, six in Bolangir and four in Ganjan districts.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Delhi Latest Update

Over 17,000 cases of coronavirus in Delhi, toll nears 400

The total COVID-19 positive cases in Delhi stands at 17,386, including 1,106 cases that were reported yesterday. 7,846 people have recovered so far and 398 people have succumbed to COVID-19.

Coronavirus Outbreak in West Bengal Latest Update

CISF official posted at warship building GRSEL succumbs to COVID-19

A Central Industrial Security Force personnel posted at the GRSEL, a warship manufacturing facility in Kolkata, has succumbed to the novel coronavirus, officials said on Friday. They said head constable Susanta Kumar Ghosh, 58,  was a resident of Murshidabad district of West Bengal. This is the fourth death from coronavirus in the about 1.62 lakh personnel strong force and the second from this unit, a defence PSU located in Kolkata.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Assam Latest Update

30 new cases reported in Assam

📌Alert ~ 30 new cases of #COVID19+

16 Golaghat, 6 Karimganj, 2 Lakhimpur, 2 Cachar, 2 Hailakandi, 2 Karbi Anglong

↗️Total cases 910
↗️Recovered 103
↗️Active cases 800
↗️Deaths 04

Update 11:45 am / May 29 / Day's total as of now 30#AssamCovidCount pic.twitter.com/ihaxJV86S3

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) May 29, 2020

Coronavirus Outbreak in Maharashtra Latest Update

Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam slams BMC

Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam slammed BMC on Thursday for paying little attention to monsoon preparedness. He said only 20 percent cleaning work has been done, due to lack of safai karmacharis and the rains are just around the corner. He said that once the monsoons come, it will be natural lockdown for Mumbaikars

अगले हफ्ते कभी भी बारिश आ सकती है।
पूरे मई महीने में मुंबई के छोटे-बड़े नालों की सफाई होती है।ताकि बारिश का पानी शहर में ज्यादा देर न रुके।
इस बार मजदूरों के अभाव में नालों की सफ़ाई सिर्फ़ 20 फ़ीसदी हुई है।
अगर पहली बारिश जोर की हो गई तो नेचुरल लॉकडाउन के लिए तैयार रहिए।#Monsoon

— Sanjay Nirupam (@sanjaynirupam) May 29, 2020

Coronavirus Outbreak Latest Update

COVID-19 could cause $8.5 trillion loss in global output, UN chief Antonio Guterres warns

UN chief Antonio Guterres has warned that the Covid-19 pandemic will cause unimaginable devastation, usher in hunger and famine of historic proportions and lead to a loss of $8.5 trillion in global output — the sharpest contraction since the Great Depression — if nations did not respond with unity and solidarity.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Pakistan Latest Update

Coronavirus cases in Pakistan cross 64,000

Pakistan’’s coronavirus cases on Friday reached 64,028 with 2,636 new patients while the death toll climbed to 1,317 after 57 people lost their lives in the last 24 hours, the health ministry said.

The Ministry of National Health Services reported that 25,309 cases were diagnosed in Sindh, 22,964 in Punjab, 8,842 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 3,928 in Balochistan, 2,100 in Islamabad, 658 in Gilgit-Baltistan, and 227 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Maharashtra Latest Update

25 cops in Maharashtra succumbed to COVID-19 so far

The number of coronavirus cases among police personnel in Maharashtra rises to 2,211 after 116 cops test positive, ANI reports. Twenty-five cops in the state have died of the disease so far.

Coronavirus Outbreak in India Latest Update

494 domestic flights carrying 38,078 passengers operated in India on 28 May: Hardeep Singh Puri

A total of 494 domestic flights, carrying 38,078 passengers, were operated on Thursday, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday.

All scheduled passenger flights were suspended in India from March 25 to May 24 due to the coronavirus-induced lockdown. While domestic air services resumed on Monday, international passenger flights continue to remain suspended in the country.

Our airports are abuzz again.

Figures for domestic flights for 28th May 2020 till 2359 hrs.

Day 4
Departures 494 
38,078 passengers handled.
Arrivals 493 
38,389 passengers handled.

Total movements 987 with 76,467 passenger footfalls at airports.
Total number of flyers 38,078 pic.twitter.com/Uio5WvrAi1

— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) May 29, 2020

Coronavirus Outbreak in Madhya Pradesh Latest Update

Quarantine must for rail passengers with COVID-19 symptoms, says MP health minister

Considering the resumption of timetable-based train services from June 1, Madhya Pradesh Health Minister Narottam Mishra has said passengers who show symptoms of COVID-19 upon their arrival in the state will be quarantined for 14 days. Starting 1 June, the Railways plans to run 200 non-AC passenger trains daily as per timetable.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Meghalya Latest Update

One more test positive for COVID-19 in Meghalaya, total cases now at 21

A person who recently returned to Meghalaya from Haryana has tested positive for COVID-19, raising the number of active cases in the state to eight, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said.

All information about the patient, including his age and gender, have been withheld to protect privacy, a health department official said. Total cases : 21, Recovered : 12, deceased :1, active cases : 8, Sangma tweeted on Thursday night.

Meghalaya has reported 21 COVID-19 cases so far. One person succumbed to the disease, while 12 others have recovered.

Coronavirus Outbreak in India Latest Update

2 floors of Parliament Annexe building sealed after official tests positive for COVID-19

Rajya Sabha Secretariat official tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday, the fourth such case in the Parliament complex, sources told PTI.The director-level officer who attended work on 28 May was found positive for the infection along with his family members, they said.

Two floors of the Parliament’s Annexe building have been sealed, the sources added. This is the second case of an official posted in the building testing positive for the infection.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Uttar Pradesh​ Latest Update

Aditaynath holds meet with industrial association, signs MoUs to provide employment

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Adityanath Chief Minister Yogi Aditynanath holds a meeting with the Industrial Association and signs a Memorandum of Understanding to provide employment of migrant workers who have returned to the state amid the nationwide lockdown.

Chief Minister Yogi Aditynanath held a meeting with Industrial Association today and signed Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) for employment of migrant workers who have returned to the state amid #CoronavirusLockdown. pic.twitter.com/avHCrp4LkB

— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) May 29, 2020

Coronavirus Outbreak in Uttar Pradesh​ Latest Update

COVID-19 patients complain of inhuman conditions in UP, says report

A video showing coronavirus patients at a hospital in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj district complaining of inhuman conditions, has been rounding rounds on social media NDTV reports.

"Are we animals?": #COVID19 patients on "inhuman conditions" at Uttar Pradesh hospital https://t.co/OtKuztQtEn pic.twitter.com/274x9WkSan

— NDTV (@ndtv) May 29, 2020

Coronavirus Outbreak in India​ Latest Update

‘Travel only when necessary,’ says Goyal after deaths on Shramik special trains

Union Minister Piyush Goyal appeals to people suffering from serious ailments, pregnant women, senior citizens and children below the age of 10 to travel in Shramik Express trains only when necessary. His appeal came after reports of deaths on special trains.

I appeal to people suffering from serious ailments, pregnant women & those above 65 years & below 10 years of age to travel only when necessary in Shramik Trains.

Railway Parivaar is committed to ensuring safety of all passengers. #SafeRailwayshttps://t.co/eRur29eKPH pic.twitter.com/imH7JMkYJn

— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) May 29, 2020

Coronavirus Outbreak in India​ Latest Update

Rupee rises 11 paise to 75.65 against US dollar in early trade

The rupee appreciated 11 paise to 75.65 against the US dollar in opening trade on Friday as foreign fund inflows and weak American currency boosted investor confidence.

Forex traders said investors are awaiting the country’s gross domestic product data for the January-March quarter, due later in the day, for further cues.

Rupee was trading in a range-bound manner as improving investor sentiment was offset by rising tensions between Washington and Beijing in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

The rupee opened at 75.71 at the interbank forex market and then gained further to 75.65, up 11 paise over its last close. It had settled at 75.76 against the US dollar on Thursday.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Rajasthan​ Latest Update

Rajasthan reports 91 new cases, takes total to 8,158

91 new COVID-19 positive cases have been reported in Rajasthan till 10:30 am on Friday, taking the total number of cases to 8,158. The state toll rose to 182 after 2 deaths were reported, according to the state health department, reports ANI.

91 new #COVID19 positive cases have been reported in Rajasthan till 10:30 AM today; taking the total number of cases to 8158. Death toll rises to 182 after 2 deaths were reported: State Health Department pic.twitter.com/YTgIXtkdFy

— ANI (@ANI) May 29, 2020

Coronavirus Outbreak in India​ Latest Update

UN chief appreciates India’s assistance to other countries during COVID-19 pandemic

UN chief Antonio Guterres has appreciated India’s assistance to other countries to combat the COVID-19 pandemic during a virtual conversation with Ambassador TS Tirumurti, India’s envoy to the world body, the Secretary General’s spokesman has said.

Tirumurti, who assumed charge as India’s Permanent Representative to the UN last week, presented his credentials virtually as telecommuting arrangements are in place at the UN headquarters due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Maharashtra​ Latest Update

99% of ICU beds in Mumbai are occupied, says BMC data

Amid rising Covid-19 cases in the city, almost all intensive care unit (ICU) beds available for Covid-19 treatment are occupied. As of May 28, of the 645 Covid Care ICU beds, 99% were occupied. A total of 65% of the 4,292 beds with oxygen support were occupied, while 72% of 373 ventilators were in use, data from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) showed, reports Hindustan Times.

Mumbai on Thursday reported 1,438 coronavirus cases and 38 deaths. The total number of cases now stands at 35,485, with 1,135 deaths.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Delhi​ Latest Update

Large crowds gather at Delhi-Gurugram border

People in large numbers are gathered at the Delhi-Gurugram border, as the Haryana government yesterday sealed borders with Delhi in the wake of increasing number coronavirus cases, reports ANI.

#WATCH: People in large numbers gather at Delhi-Gurugram border; Haryana Govt yesterday sealed borders with Delhi in wake of increasing number of #COVID19 cases pic.twitter.com/MgCbtOJPlw

— ANI (@ANI) May 29, 2020

Coronavirus Outbreak in China​ Latest Update

China reports five asymptomatic COVID-19 cases

China has reported five new asymptomatic COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of such infections to 409, while no new confirmed case was recorded in the country, health officials said on Friday.

No new suspected cases or deaths related to the disease were reported on Thursday, the National Health Commission said. Five new asymptomatic cases were reported in the country on Thursday, it said.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Maharashtra​ Latest Update

Cyber cops track down those behind Army deployment rumours in Mumbai

The Maharashtra police’s cyber wing has tracked down people who were responsible for spreading rumours on social media that the Indian Army would be deployed in coronavirus hotspots in Mumbai and Pune, officials said on Friday.

Amid the lockdown, panic prevailed a few days ago after cyber miscreants widely circulated messages on social media platforms that the Army would be deployed in COVID-19- hit areas of Mumbai and Pune, the cities worst-hit by the infection in Maharashtra.

The state government quickly denied any such move, while cyber sleuths launched a probe to track down the source of such unfounded messages.

During the investigation, the cyber wing was able to track down people responsible for creating and spreading such fake messages, an official said. Stringent legal action will be taken against them, he said.

Coronavirus Outbreak in West Bengal​ Latest Update

Bengal minister tests positive for COVID-19

A minister in West Bengal has tested positive for COVID-19, making it the first such case in the Mamata Banerjee-led state cabinet, a well-placed source in the government said on Friday.

State Fire Services minister Sujit Bose has been advised to undergo home quarantine after his test results came out positive, the source said.

A domestic help at the minister’s residence was diagnosed with the disease, following which samples of Bose and his family members were sent for examination. The reports, which arrived on Thursday night, showed Bose and one of his family members have contracted the virus, the source added.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Kerala​ Latest Update

65-yr-old Gulf returnee succumbs to COVID-19 in Kerala; toll rises to 8

A 65-year old man died of COVID-19 at the Government Medical College Hospital here in the early hours on Friday, taking the toll due to the disease in Kerala to eight, officials said.

This is the second fatality in the last two days and the death toll in the state has risen to eight. A man hailing from Telangana, who reached Thiruvananthapuram from Rajasthan and tested positive, had succumbed to the virus on Thursday.

In the biggest single day spike, Kerala on Thursday had reported 84 COVID-19 cases taking the state’s infection count to 1,088.

Coronavirus Outbreak in India​ Latest Update

India now ninth worst-hit country 

India is now the ninth worst-hit country, according to the Johns Hopkins University tracker. According to the tracker, the country’s tally is 1.65 lakh and the toll is 4,706 as of Friday morning. The toll is more than that of China where 4,638 people have died so far.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Chhattisgarh​ Latest Update

Chhattisgarh CM holds talks with Amit Shah over lockdown

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel reiterated in talks held with Home Minister Amit Shah where he sought views from CMs on lockdown that borders of state shouldn’t be opened, requested to consider views of CMs on train/flight service and ease borrowing condition for states under economic package, reports ANI

Coronavirus Outbreak in India Latest Update

India reports 175 new deaths in past 24 hours

A total of 175 deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours, along with the highest spike of 7,466 new Covid-19 cases, according to the latest updated by the union health ministry.

Coronavirus Outbreak in India Latest Update

India reports highest single-day spike with 7,466 new cases 

According to the Union Health Ministry, with 7466 new Covid-19 cases in 24 hours, ​the total cases have reached 1,65,799. The total active cases are now at 89,987, with  71,105 patients have recovered and 4,706 have deaths.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Nagaland Latest Update

Agriculture key to reviving economy in Nagaland, says BJP minister

Days after the ruling PDA coalition, of which the BJP is a part, said it would focus on agriculture and allied sectors to lift the sagging economy of Nagaland, the state unit of the saffron party has begun distributing hybrid seeds of kharif crops among farmers.

Nagaland BJP chief and state minister Temjen Imna Along launched the distribution programme at the party’s state headquarters on Thursday in the presence of other leaders.

“The seeds, mostly of eggplant, bitter gourd, pumpkin, chiili, beans, cucumber and okra, will be distributed by the BJP district farmers’ wing. This is a small step by the party to make Nagaland a self-reliant state,” he said.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Himachal Pradesh Latest Update

Himachal reports 9 new cases, takes state total to 290

With 9 new positive cases for COVID-19 in Himachal Pradesh — five from Hamirpur and four from Kangra districts, total positive cases in the state rises to 290 including 208 active cases, said state health department, reports ANI.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Himachal Pradesh Latest Update

Kangra district reports 4 more cases

Four more people have tested positive for the novel coronavirus in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Of these, three had arrived from Maharashtra’s Thane and one from Delhi, Kangra Deputy Commissioner, Rakesh Prajapati told ANI.

Coronavirus Outbreak in West Bengal Latest Update

Bengal guv appeals to Mamata to be empathetic towards migrants

Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar on Friday appealed to Mamata Banerjee to be more emphathetic towards migrants wanting to return home. Banerjee has sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s intervention in the alleged “whimsical” functioning of the Railways in sending Shramik Special trains to West Bengal.

Coronavirus Outbreak in US Latest Update

Trump signs executive order targeting social media giants after Twitter fact-checking row

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at stripping social media giants like Twitter and Facebook of legal immunity for the content posted by third-party users. The order comes a day after Trump accused Twitter of election interference, after it added fact-check links to two of his tweets.

“Today I’m signing an executive order to protect and uphold the free speech and rights of the American people. Currently, social media giants, like Twitter, receive an unprecedented liability shield based on the theory that they’re a neutral platform – which they’re an editor with a viewpoint,” Trump told reporters after he signed an executive order on Thursday.

Coronavirus Outbreak in US Latest Update

US reports 1,297 deaths, takes total to over one lakh fatalities

The United States recorded 1,297 coronavirus deaths on Thursday, bringing its total to 1,01,573 since the global pandemic began. The country has also officially logged 1,720,613 cases of the virus, far more than any other nation.

Coronavirus Outbreak in West Bengal Latest Update

Several Shramik Special trains reach Bengal from other states, passengers to be quarantined

Several Shramik Special trains on Thursday arrived in West Bengal from different states, including Maharashtra and Gujarat, two of the most affected states with the COVID-19 disease, officials said.

Medical screening facilities for passengers detraining were set up at all the stations where the special trains had stoppages or at the terminal stations, state officials said.

The West Bengal government has set up quarantine facilities for passengers coming from the states which have been affected the most by the coronavirus pandemic.

Coronavirus Outbreak in US Latest Update

Trump feeling ‘absolutely great’ after taking hydroxychloroquine: White House

US President Donald Trump is feeling “absolutely great” after taking a two-week dose of antimalarial drug hydroxychloroquine and will take it again if he thinks he is exposed to the coronavirus, a top White House official has said.

Hydroxychloroquine sulfate was first synthesised in 1946 and is in a class of medications historically used to treat and prevent malaria. It is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to treat malaria, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, childhood arthritis, and other autoimmune diseases.

The drug is not FDA-approved for the treatment of COVID-19 but it has been identified as a possible treatment for the infection and the US government has requested its immediate availability.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Maharashtra Latest Update

Dharavi reports 36 new coronavirus cases, state tally rise to 1,675

The count of coronavirus cases in Dharavi in Mumbai rose to 1,675 on Thursday as 36 more people tested positive for the infection, an official of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said.

In good news, no death due to COVID-19 was reported in the slum-dominated area since Wednesday evening. The death toll in the area thus stands at 70.

Of the 36 new patients, five were residents of a municipal chawl locality in the area.

Coronavirus Outbreak in Assam Latest Update

Assam reports 24 new cases, state total at 880

24 new cases of COVID19 were reported in Assam on Thursday, taking the state total to 880 cases. There are 103 recovered patients, 770 active cases and 4 deaths registered so far.
 

📌Alert ~ 24 new cases of #COVID19+

11 Goalpara, 3 Nalbari, 3 Tinsukia, 2 Dibrugarh, 1 each from Kamrup, Nagaon, Karbi Anglong & Dhubri. 1 to ascertain

↗️Total cases 880
↗️Recovered 103
↗️Active cases 770
↗️Deaths 04

Update 11.55 pm/ May 28 / Day's total 97#AssamCovidCount pic.twitter.com/7qKwcfqRhy

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) May 28, 2020

Coronavirus Outbreak in Manipur Latest Update

Two special trains with 1,359 migrants arrive in Manipur

Two Shramik Special trains – one from Kerala and another from Gujarat – brought back 1,359 migrant workers to Manipur on Thursday, an official said. These people were stranded in the two states due to the nationwide lockdown imposed to combat COVID-19 pandemic.

Coronavirus Outbreak in India Latest Update

Directions issued to provide PPE kits to civic body staff at cremation sites

Directions have been issued to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) kits to civic staff working at cremation sites, authorities said on Thursday.

The heads of the standing committees of Delhi’s three municipal corporations — NDMC, SDMC, EDMC — in a joint statement said, in view of the coronavirus pandemic, instructions have been issued to streamline arrangements at crematoria and burial sites.

NDMC panel chief Jai Prakash, SDMC standing committee chairman Bhupender Gupta and EDMC panel head Sandeep Kapoor held a meeting on Thursday to discuss ways to combat the coronavirus outbreak, officials said.