#" the Youth Congress national general secretary added.

[smhoaxslayer]

Congressmen are using an edited image explaining why Rahul Gandhi will become PM.

A photo of an Auto-rickshaw is viral with a banner on it which praises Rahul Gandhi. The following quote is written on the banners - "देश जुमलों से नही चलेगा प्रधानमंत्री राहुल गांधी बनेगा.." Translation - The country will not run on false promises, Rahul Gandhi will become Prime Minister. Tweets Vijay Singh (Raju) Official Twitter Account of Vijay Singh Raju ! राष्ट्रीय सचिव - भारतीय युवा कांग्रेस ! सहप्रभारी- महाराष्ट्र युवा कांग्रेस ! https://twitter.com/VijaySinghINC/status/1615573799189245952 Kamleshwar Patel Official account of Kamleshwar Patel,MLA( पूर्व पंचायत एवं ग्रामीण विकास मंत्री ) an Indian politician and a member of the Indian National Congress party. https://twitter.com/mrkamleshwar/status/1615235769190449158 Amit Bhadauria Assembly Coordinator @RajivYuvaMitan | Former State secreatary @IYCChhattisgarh | Ex. National SocialMedia Co-ordinator, Indian Youth Congress @IYC https://twitter.com/AmitbhadauriaYC/status/1615184849018683393 Ankit Kumar Singh Journalist in @dainikBhaskar ex- @asianetnewshn @etvbharatHindi https://twitter.com/ankitku02393426/status/1615312639529484288 Hemant Ogale Public & Social worker, General Secretary @INCMaharashtra , #PhD research Scholar, Tweets are my personal view. https://twitter.com/hemantogale/status/1615323180813680643 Dinesh Kumar Founder@NaamKharabHai । Journalist । Political News Analyst l Social Worker & Thinker । View are Personal | RTs are not Endorsement https://twitter.com/DineshKumarLive/status/1614984098749231104 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DrChandanYadavINC/posts/pfbid02iaE4fW5w2rwbeiZyVswz7VRjMgChDYq3GKeS4aEXhYrCcMY1EiVFwiUxCPWCANGQl  

Truth

The Text on the banner is edited, it was rather against Rahul Gandhi. Although the edges of the banner are blur proving the image is edited, we also used forensics of the image. The earlier one has been erased and the viral one was written. The left one is viral now and the right one was viral before (although we can not confirm it's authenticity though) You can notice the red arrows showing the blurred black color on the edges of the banner plate which shows the image is not real. Further we used ELA (Error Level Analysis) of Image Forensics which clearly proves the text is added later. The contrast of the text (white color) on the image proves it.

Forensic Source  - Left | Right The other image was viral a day before https://twitter.com/DevrajDeora_/status/1614941568301174784?t=8sYae_Dvdg8BAeHDBPkWoA&s=08   Paper Cups https://www.arpanfp.com/ Read the full article

[patriotsnet]

Who Are The Republicans On The Senate Judiciary Committee

New Post has been published on https://www.patriotsnet.com/who-are-the-republicans-on-the-senate-judiciary-committee/

Who Are The Republicans On The Senate Judiciary Committee

Senate Judiciary Committee Advances Legislation To Provide Justice For Child Abuse Victims Aid In Suicide Prevention And Safeguard Children From Predators

Senate Judiciary Committee Approves Amy Coney Barrett Nomination For Full Vote

The Senate Judiciary Committee, today, advanced three pieces of legislation to help protect victims by allowing a two-year window for childhood sexual abuse survivors to pursue civil lawsuits, aiding in the prevention of youth and intellectually disabled suicides, and safeguarding children from predatory acts of adults in positions of authority, according to chairwoman Senator Lisa Baker . ;

As Trump Names His Next Supreme Court Nominee Focus Shifts Towards Senate

Trump plans to formally introduce his nominee at a 5 p.m. White House ceremony. Conservative activists hailed Trump’s selection, which surfaced on Friday night, while liberals voiced dismay.

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House Republicans Attack Blinken Over Handling Of Afghanistan Withdrawal

Secretary of State Tony Blinken is being lambasted by Republicans at the House Foreign Affairs Committee for the handling of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan and subsequent evacuation.

Michael McCaul, the ranking Republican on the committee, said: This, in my judgment, is not only disgraceful. It also dishonors the men and women who served our nation so bravely. Mr Secretary, the American people dont like to lose, especially not to the terrorists, but that is exactly what has happened. This has emboldened the Taliban and our adversaries.

To make matters worse, we abandoned Americans behind enemy lines, we left behind the interpreters who you, Mr Secretary, and the President, both promised to protect. I could summarize this in one word: Betrayal, McCaul added.

The America I know keeps its promises. The most important promise in our military is no man left behind, no one left behind. But you broke this promise.

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Illinois Sen Dick Durbin Taking Gavel Of The Powerful Senate Judiciary Committee

Illinois senior U.S. senator, Dick Durbin, will officially take the gavel as chairman of the powerful Senate Judiciary Committee as a result of a power-sharing agreement reached Wednesday between Democratic and Republican leaders in the evenly split chamber.

Democrats technically have majority control of the Senate due to Vice President Kamala Harris ability to cast tiebreaking votes. But organizing of the chamber had been delayed due to the insistence by the Senates GOP leader, Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, that the 60-vote filibuster rule be preserved in exchange for installing Democrats as committee chairs.

McConnell later dropped that demand when two Democrats said they supported keeping the filibuster.

Proud to announce that I will be taking over as Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee for the 117th Congress, Durbin said in a statement on Twitter. This moment in history demands much of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Im honored to lead my colleagues as we face these challenges.

Durbin, who is the No. 2 ranking Democrat in the chambers leadership, has served on the judiciary committee since 1997 and has seen the panels reach expanded to include issues such as civil and human rights. To accept the chairmans gavel, Durbin gave up a role on a top Senate appropriations subcommittee.

Feds: Chicago-area company bribed Amtrak official with Bruno Mars tickets, trips, steaks and cigars in $100 million Philadelphia train station renovation »

Trump Says He Wants To Box Biden On 9/11

The top two Senate Republican leaders were split Monday over the need for Congress to investigate secret Trump-era Justice Department subpoenas to two Democratic members of the House Intelligence Committee, both frequent critics of the former President.

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Uscp Warns Of ‘concerning Online Chatter’ Around ‘justice For J6’ Rally

The chief of US Capitol Police, Tom Manger, released a statement on the agencys security preparations for the September 18 Justice for J6 rally, which is being held in support of the insurrectionists who attacked the Capitol in January.

According to the statement, the USCP is aware of concerning online chatter in connection to the rally.

We are here to protect everyones First Amendment right to peacefully protest, Manger said. I urge anyone who is thinking about causing trouble to stay home. We will enforce the law and not tolerate violence.

U.S. Capitol Police

At a Guardian Live online discussion, Hillary Clinton was asked by the Guardians Jonathan Freedland whether she would have advised Joe Biden not to have gone ahead with the Afghan withdrawal if she had been in the administration.

In her reply, Clinton staunchly defended Biden, putting all the blame on Donald Trump, and the deal he made with the Taliban in Doha in February 2020.

I dont think he had that choice, she said. I think that it was way too far gone, and I respect the decision to leave. In effect, President Bidens hands were tied because the Taliban had made it very clear, there would be a ceasefire with respect to the American presence in Afghanistan, not only the military but also the civilian presence which was considerable.

Beginning Of The Committee

The Senate Judiciary Committee was created in the early 1800s in response to growing complexities in American government. The Senate established the body’s original standing committees, including the Senate Judiciary Committee, in a resolution adopted on December 10, 1816. The United States House of Representatives Committee on Judiciary had been established three years prior. The first chairman of the committee was Senator Dudley Chase of Vermont, who was appointed and served during the second session of the 14th Congress.

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Nominations For Attorney General

The following nominations were made for attorney general in the Obama and Trump administrations.

Confirmation process for nominees for attorney general Nominee Confirmed on March 10, 2021 70-30 Confirmed on February 14, 2019 54-45 Confirmed on February 8, 2017 52-47 Confirmed on April 23, 2015 56-43 Confirmed on February 2, 2009 75-21

The committee chairman in the 117th Congress is Dick Durbin .

Simone Biles And Other Olympians To Testify Before Senate Judiciary Committee

Republican senator says Judiciary Committee will investigate allegations of voting irregularities

Lauren Gambino

Olympian Simone Biles will testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday in an oversight hearing into the FBIs dereliction of duty in its failure to properly investigate the sexual abuse allegations against former USA Gymnastics national team doctor Larry Nassar.

Biles will be joined on the panel by McKayla Maroney, Maggie Nichols, and Aly Raisman. FBI director Christopher Wray and Department of Justice Inspector GeneralMichael Horowitzwill also testify.

Senate Judiciary Committee

BREAKING: Olympic and world champion gymnasts Simone Biles, McKayla Maroney, Maggie Nichols, and Aly Raisman to testify at Wednesday’s Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on the FBI’s dereliction of duty in the Nassar case.DOJ IG Horowitz and FBI Dir. Wray to also testify.

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Senate Committee On The Judiciary

The Senate Committee on the Judiciary provides oversight of the Department of Justice and the agencies under the Department’s jurisdiction, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Department of Homeland Security. It also plays an important role in the consideration of nominations and pending legislation. Any legislation related to civil liberty, constitutional amendments, immigration and naturalization, and a variety of other topics is referred to the Committee.

Prelogar Sails Through Nomination Hearing With Only Mild Republican Critiques

Elizabeth Prelogar, President Joe Bidens nominee to be solicitor general, sat through a swift nomination hearing on Tuesday afternoon. Appearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, she was met with strong praise from Democrats, limited pushback from Republicans, and few questions overall.

From Bidens inauguration on Jan. 20 until her nomination to the position of solicitor general on Aug. 11, Prelogar served as acting solicitor general. Due to a quirk in the Federal Vacancies Reform Act, she had to step down from her acting role while the Senate considers her nomination to hold the position on a permanent basis. The solicitor general represents the federal governments interests before the Supreme Court and is sometimes known as the 10th justice because of the influence that the job carries.

Two Republicans homed in on the solicitor generals office for reversing the governments legal position in a number of cases since the change in administrations. Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, quoted from a Bloomberg Law article that the Biden administration is on track to reverse the governments position in more cases before the Supreme Court than the Justice Department did during the first full high court term of Donald Trumps presidency. Grassley questioned Prelogar on whether continuing in a similar vein would pose challenges to the offices credibility.

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Confirmation Hearings For Supreme Court Nominees

See also: Supreme Court vacancy, 2017: An overview

The Senate Judiciary Committee held hearings on Neil Gorsuch‘s nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court from March 20-23, 2017. Gorsuch was President Donald Trump’s first nominee to the U.S. Supreme Court. Gorsuch was nominated on January 31, 2017, to succeed Justice Antonin Scalia, who died on February 13, 2016.

A confirmation hearing for Jeff Sessions, Donald Trump‘s nominee for United States Attorney General was held on January 10, 2017.

Biden Speaks On His Administration’s Response To Wildfires

Everyone in northern California knows the time of the year when you cant go outside, when the air will be filled with smoke and the sky will turn an apocalyptic shade of orange, Joe Biden said, speaking after the states governor.

These fires are a blinking code red for our nation. We know what we have to do and it starts with our firefighters putting their lives on the line in rugged and dangerous conditions, the president said, referring to his administrations efforts to raise firefighter pay.

The White House

Happening Now: President Biden delivers remarks on the Administrations response to recent wildfires, and how we can strengthen our resilience to climate change and extreme weather.

Entry-level federal wildland firefighters earn a base pay below $14 an hour, while the same job with Cal Fire, the state firefighting agency, pays around $26 an hour. The job is risky and physically exhausting, requiring extended time away from home.

US Forest Service records showed that only half of fire engines were fully staffed at the start of the season, putting additional pressure on crews responding to this years massive fires.

Maanvi Singh

In a poll released Monday by the UC Berkeleys Institute of Governmental Studies, co-sponsored by the Los Angeles Times, 75% of registered voters said they wanted to keep their right to remove a statewide official through a recall election.

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Judiciary Republicans Demand Second Hearing Information Following Revelations Of Atf Nominees Racist Comments About Colleagues

First, we have allegations that Mr. Chipman made racist statements about the abilities of African American ATF agents, the existence of which;allegations;have been confirmed by current and former ATF officials.;;

Second, these;allegations imply that an important field assignment in Mr. Chipmans career was one that he allegedly was both forced first to take and then to relinquish.;

Would A New Vaccination Mandate For Employers Affect Your Vax Status

Judiciary Committee

Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee are demanding a second hearing for David Chipman, President Bidens nominee to lead the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, amid reports that he made racist comments.

In a letter sent Thursday to committee Chairman Richard J. Durbin, Illinois Democrat, the senators pointed to a June news report claiming an anonymous ATF agent said Mr. Chipman made racially insensitive comments about Black agents being promoted in the Detroit Field Division.

Conservative outlet The Daily Caller News Foundation reported that in 2007 he said: Wow, there were an unusually large number of African American agents that passed the exam this time. They must have been cheating.

TOP STORIESTop U.S. general in Afghanistan contradicts Biden, told chain of command not to pull out

The senators brought up another article published Thursday by The Reload, which states two unnamed ATF agents, one current and one former agent, have corroborated the claim.

The conservative news outlet noted that it has not been able to verify the veracity of the allegation Chipman made racist remarks, only that the allegation exists.

The article also states agent Rick Vasquez said Mr. Chipman took a job as a special agent in Detroit because nobody else would and that an unnamed former agent said Mr. Chipman left because of the alleged comments.

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Senate Judiciary Committee Advances Legislation And Approves The Nomination Of New Victim Advocate

The Senate Judiciary Committee, chaired by Senator Lisa Baker , met today to consider the nomination of Suzanne V. Estrella, Esq., as Pennsylvanias Victim Advocate. In addition, the committee considered three pieces of legislation aimed at protecting the rights of children and crime victims, and safeguarding the Commonwealth from ransomware attacks.;

Years In Congress Minimum And Maximum Estimated Net Worth

Republicans on Senate Judiciary Committee send Barrett’s SCOTUS nomination to Senate floor

;

Source: OpenSecrets

Well leave it to someone else to explain how Perdue and Tillis got such a plum assignment as freshmen.

I think you can see for yourself who has spent some time in the 1% income bracket . And data from the Fedsuggests that about half of the top 1 percent of earners are also among the top 1 percent in the net worth category.

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Meet The Cabinet: Merrick Garland Is Bidens Pick For Attorney General

Garland testified before the panel last week about how he would lead the Justice Department if he is confirmed by the Senate, reassuring senators that he would protect the department’s independence and not allow politics to interfere with the job.

In comments before the vote, committee Chair Dick Durbin, D-Ill., said, “America will be better with this kind of person leading the Justice Department.”

Grassley said a moment later: “I plan to vote for him. I hope my trust is not misplaced.”

Other Republicans were harsher. Cruz claimed that Garland “refused to answer virtually anything” during his confirmation hearings an assertion that Durbin disputed.

Cornyn told reporters last week that Garland is “a straight shooter when it comes to questions of law.” He said “he’s had an incredible career” and “seems like a fundamentally decent human being.”

Other Republicans on the committee, including some possible 2024 presidential contenders, like Hawley, were less enthusiastic and expressed strong reservations.

Garland emphasized that if he is confirmed, he would “supervise the prosecution of white supremacists and others who stormed the Capitol on January 6 a heinous attack that sought to disrupt a cornerstone of our democracy: the peaceful transfer of power to a newly elected government.”

In response to a question from Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., Garland said he would not rule out investigating those who funded, organized, led and otherwise aided the attack on the Capitol.

Merrick Garland Nomination Limbo Encapsulates Complicated Situation

The Senate is still operating in a fraught liminal space, in which Democrats have control of the chamber but Republicans retain power over committees. Negotiations between Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell are dragging on a month into the 117th Congress, and complicating Cabinet confirmations.

Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, said Monday night he thought an organizing resolution might clear the floor the following day. And a few Republicans thought that was the plan Tuesday morning. But it never materialized.

Were making progress, and were getting close, Schumer told reporters Tuesday, not providing a timeline for when the Senate might act.

One signal that a deal may actually be close was Schumers announcement Tuesday afternoon of committee assignments for the Democratic Conference.

Among the highlights of those assignments: The two Georgia freshmen whose tandem wins tipped the chamber toward Democratic control were assigned to key panels: Jon Ossoff to Judiciary and Raphael Warnock to Agriculture.

They will also both serve on the Banking Committee and a handful of other panels.

Arizona Democrat , a retired Navy pilot and astronaut who won a special election in November, will serve on the Armed Services Committee, as well as on Energy and Natural Resources and on Environment and Public Works.

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[brajeshupadhyay]

Coronavirus Outbreak Highlights: 190 new COVID-19 cases recorded in Delhi today, total rises to 3,108; no deaths reported in past 24 hours

00:03 (IST)

Coronavirus in France Latest Updates

France reports 437 new deaths

France on Monday reported 437 more coronavirus deaths, taking the toll to \23,293 as per an official, reported AFP news agency .

23:32 (IST)

Coronavirus in Italy Latest Updates

Italy reports lowest number of COVID-19 cases since 10 March

Italy recorded 1,739 coronavirus cases on Monday, which is reportedly the lowest tally since 10 March, News18 reported. However, the toll from the COVID-19 pandemic rose by 333 against 260 the day before, the Civil Protection Agency said.

23:16 (IST)

Coronavirus in New York Latest Updates

New York scientists study COVID-19 genetic material to help track future outbreaks

"Scientists at New York City's health department have begun to analyze the novel coronavirus's genetic material to allow them to trace the origins of any future outbreaks in the coming months as they cautiously look to reopen the largely shuttered city," News18 reported.

23:07 (IST)

Coronavirus in Assam Latest Updates

Assam govt to give insurance of Rs 50 lakh to journalists covering COVID-19

Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal said, "Frontline journalists have been bravely covering COVID-19 against all odds, risking their lives and they are our real heroes. Our government will cover each one of them with a life insurance cover of Rs 50 lakh."

22:53 (IST)

Coronavirus in UK Latest Updates

UK COVID-19 toll crosses 21,000

AFP on Monday reported that the coronavirus toll in the UK rose by 360, taking the total number of casualties to 21,092.

22:48 (IST)

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates

Tamil Nadu govt returns 24,000 rapid testing kits after ICMR advisory

The Indian Express reported that the Tamil Nadu returned 24,000 rapid antibody testing kits after the ICMR asked state governments to stop using those sent bu two Chinese firms.

The Tamil Nadu government also cancelled all outstanding orders. Health Minister C Vijayabaskar was quoted as saying that the "state's recovery rate of 56.8 percent is the highest in the country and added that the mortality is only 1.2 percent".

22:37 (IST)

Coronavirus in Telangana Latest Updates

Two COVID-19 cases reported in Telangana 

Two people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Telangana on Monday, taking the total number of positive cases to 1,003.

On Monday, when the tests were conducted on 159 people, only two turned out to be positive. 16 people were discharged on Monday, the Telangana chief minister's office said.

22:30 (IST)

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

190 new COVID-19 cases reported in Delhi today

Reports said that 190 cases of coronavirus were reported in Delhi on Monday, taking the total number of cases in the National Capital to 3108. No deaths were reported on Monday.

22:10 (IST)

Coronavirus in Punjab latest Updates

Punjab reports eight new COVID-19 cases

Eight new COVID-19 cases were reported in Punjab on Monday, taking the total number of cases in the state to 330, the Punjab Department of Health said.

22:01 (IST)

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

West Bengal govt says COVID-19 patients to be mandatorily brought to hospitals

West Bengal health department on Monday clarified COVID-19 patients to be mandatorily brought to hospitals. Only primary/secondary contacts allowed home isolation. Earlier Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had announced in her press conference that positive patients could home quarantine.

21:45 (IST)

Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Updates

13 COVID-19 patients test negative in Kerala

The Kerala government said that 13 patients under treatment for COVID-19 tested negative on Monday. Of these, six patients are from Kannur district, four in Kozhikode district, and one each from Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam and Malappuram districts are those who recovered from the disease.

21:28 (IST)

Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Updates

Kerala reports 13 new cases today

Kerala on Monday reported 13 new COVID-19 cases. Of these, five have come back to the state from Tamil Nadu, one from abroad and the rest have got infected through primary contact. This includes one healthcare worker in Kottayam district.

"The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kerala is 481 and 123 patients are under treatment in different hospitals in the state," the statement added.

21:20 (IST)

Coronavirus in Madhya Pradesh Latest Updates

75 new COVID-19 cases reported in Madhya Pradesh

Reports said that 75 new cases of coronavirus were reported in Madhya Pradesh on Monday, taking the total to 2,165. The total toll stands at 110.

21:10 (IST)

Coronavirus in Jharkhand Latest Updates

Jharkhand reports 20 COVID-19 cases today

Reports said that 20 coronavirus cases were reported in Jharkhand on Monday. The total number of cases has now crossed the 100-mark, with a total of 103 cases in the state currently, India Today reported.

21:01 (IST)

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

522 new COVID-19 cases reported in Maharashtra today

The Maharashtra heath department on Monday said that 522 new cases were reported in the state on Monday, and 27 deaths were recorded.

The total number of COVID-19 cases in the state rises to 8,590, and the toll stands at 369. 94 patients were discharged today after making full recovery, 1,282 discharged till date.

20:50 (IST)

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Delhi containment zones rise to 99

The total number of containment zones in Delhi rose to 99 on Monday. The Pilanji area in New Delhi and parts were Mehrauli were added to the list. Earlier on Monday, two AAP volunteers distributing food in the area tested positive for COVID-19.

20:37 (IST)

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

113 new COVID-19 cases reported in UP over 24 hours

The Uttar Pradesh government on Monday said that 113 new patients have tested postive for COVID-19 since Sunday evening, taking the total number of positive cases to 1,986. 399 patients have been discharged till now.

20:25 (IST)

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Delhi Police detains 2,831 people for lockdown violations

  Over 100 cases were registered and 2,832 people briefly detained in Delhi on Monday for violating government orders on the ongoing lockdown to combat the novel coronavirus outbreak, PTI reported.

According to the data shared by the police, 101 cases were registered under section 188 (for disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) of the Indian Penal Code till 5 pm on Monday. 

20:18 (IST)

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

Adityanath govt brings back over 12,000 stranded migrants from Haryana

More than 12,000 labourers from Uttar Pradesh who were stranded in Haryana due to the lockdown imposed to curb the spread of coronavirus have been brought back to the state, PTI reported.

"Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has already issued directions that labourers belonging to UP, who are working in other states and have completed 14 days of quarantine, should be brought back," Additional Chief Secretary (Home and Information) Awanish Awasthi told reporters.

A total of 12,216 labourers were brought back from Haryana in 410 buses by Sunday evening, he added.

20:05 (IST)

Coronavirus in Bihar Latest Updates

19 more COVID-19 cases reported in Bihar

The Bihar principal health secretary on Monday said that 19 more coronavirus cases were reported in the state on Monday. The total number of cases in the state rose to 345.

19:59 (IST)

Coronavirus in Pune Latest Updates

Pune municipal corporation area to be containment zone till 3 May

Pune joint commissioner of police Ravindra Shisve on Monday extended the period of the order which declares the Pune Municipal Corporation area as a containment zone, till 3 May.

19:48 (IST)

Coronavirus in Chandigarh Latest Updates

Chandigarh admin advises on disposing used masks, gloves

The Chandigarh administration said that used masks and gloves generated from home quarantine or other households should be kept in paper bags for a minimum of 72 hours prior to their disposal as general waste.

"It is advisable to cut the masks prior to disposal to prevent reuse," the statement said.

19:39 (IST)

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

UP govt to conduct COVID-19 tests on people delivering goods

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday reportedly instructed senior government officers to ensure COVID-19 testing of people delivering goods to houses during lockdown. He has instructed for setting up of quarantine facilities and shelter home with bed capacity of 15,000 to 25,000 in each district

19:31 (IST)

Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates

Indian Youth Congress workers manufacture masks

The Indian Youth Congress workers on Monday manufactured masks at the IYC office. They have also turned the premises for distribution of ration to the needy, as well as cooking food for them, ANI reported.

We've set the target of making 1 cr masks. We also set-up roti machines which also gives jobs to ppl. Migrants labourers were going, we brought them here. We provide them pick&drop facilities, ration&salaries. Masks&soaps are being distributed among poor: President,Youth Congress pic.twitter.com/0KDDCb3iKJ

— ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2020

19:26 (IST)

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Mumbai's Dharavi reports 13 new COVID-19 cases today

Thirteen new cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Dharavi area of Mumbai on Monday, taking the total number of cases in the area to 288, including 14 deaththe BMC said.

19:22 (IST)

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

57-yr-old COVID-19 patient passes away in Kalaburgi

A 57-year-old man who had tested positive for coronavirus in Karnataka's Kalaburgi passed away on Monday, taking the toll to five in the district. The deceased was admitted to Gulbarga Institute of Medical Sciences with breathing problems, ANI reported.

19:14 (IST)

Coronavirus in Haryana Latest Updates

With five new cases, Haryana's case count climbs to 301.

  Haryana on Monday registered five new coronavirus cases, pushing the  total number of positive cases in the state to 301. A total of three fatalitie have been reported date, according to data released by the state health department.  Ambala, Jhajjar , Faridabad each reported one case while two persons tested positive in Sonepat.

  5 new #COVID19 positive cases have been reported in Haryana today; taking total number of positive #COVID19 cases to 301. Total 3 deaths reported till now: Health Department, Haryana pic.twitter.com/XNFBNOG8cc

— ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2020

19:02 (IST)

Coronavirus in Punjab Latest Updates

Punjab seeks releases of GST arrears

Flagging the fund crunch in the wake of the coronavirus lockdown, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh once again on Monday sought the release of GST arrears of over Rs 4,000 crore from the Centre, reports PTI. In a written submission to the Union government, the Punjab chief minister also demanded a grant due to meet the revenue deficit caused by the coronavirus outbreak.  In a letter, he urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to allow the opening of small shops, businesses and industries in all areas, except the containment zones, with full compliance of COVID prevention measures. 

  The Punjab CM made the submission as only nine CMs were selected to speak to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a video-conference on Monday.

18:57 (IST)

Coronavirus in Chandigarh Latest Updates

Four more test positive in Chandigarh

Four new COVID19 cases have been reported in Chandigarh on Monday, taking the total number of infections to 40, ANI quotes the Health Department, Chandigarh as saying.

  18:50 (IST)

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Three contacts of 70-year-old victim test positive in Latur

Three people tested positive for novel coronavirus on Monday in Latur district in Maharashtra, all of whom are contacts of a 70-year-old woman who died of the infection in Udgir on Saturday, PTI quotes Dr Girish Thakur, Dean, Vilasrao Deshmukh Government Medical and Science Institute as saying. 26 samples of the woman's contacts were sent for testing, three of which returned positive, he said.

  18:45 (IST)

Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates

With 52 new cases, total in Tamil Nadu crosses 1,900

52 new COVID19 cases were reported in Tamil Nadu on Monday, taking total number of cases to 1,937 in the state, said the state health department. 81 persons were also discharged after receiving treatment for the disease, taking the total number of recoveries to 1,101. No deaths were reported today and the toll stands at 24, it said.

Meanwhile, the Greater Chennai Corporation said that 47 cases had been detected in the city on Monday.

  52 new #COVID19 cases have been reported in Tamil Nadu today, taking total number of cases to 1,937 in the state: Tamil Nadu Health Department pic.twitter.com/2iyowSE0fu

— ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2020

18:34 (IST)

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

14 COVID-19 cases reported in UP's Gautam Buddh Nagar

The Gautam Buddh Nagar district surveillance officer said that 14 patients were found positive in the Uttar Pradesh district on Monday, of which six are health workers. Total positive patients till now are 129.

18:27 (IST)

Coronavirus in Odisha Latest Updates

Naveen Patnaik announces Rs 15 lakh assistance for journalists' families

The Odisha government said that Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has announced Rs 15 lakh 'compassionate assistance' to families of working journalists who may lose life to COVID-19 infection.

CM @Naveen_Odisha has announced ₹ 15 lakh compassionate assistance to families of working journalists who may lose life to #COVID19 infection. CM said journalists are dedicatedly working to raise awareness about the pandemic during this difficult times. #OdishaCares

— CMO Odisha (@CMO_Odisha) April 27, 2020

18:24 (IST)

Coronavirus in Uttarakhand Latest Updates

No new COVID-19 case reported in Uttarakhand today

The Uttarakhand health department said that no new COVID-19 case reported in the state on Monday. The total number of cases in the state stands at 51.

18:18 (IST)

Coronavirus in Odisha Latest Updates

Two more people test positive for COVID-19 in Odisha

Two more people on Monday tested positive for coronavirus in Odisha, taking the total cases in the state to 110. Reports said that one health worker in the Koraput district has also tested positive among the two new cases.

18:09 (IST)

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

India sees highest one-day rise in toll with 60 new deaths

India's total number of coronavirus cases rose to 28,380 on Monday, including 21,132 active cases, 6,362 cured/discharged/migrated and 886 deaths.

1,463 new cases and 60 deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours. This is the highest death toll reported in 24 hours.

18:00 (IST)

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

Mumbai Police head constable succumbs to COVID-19

Mumbai Police said that a 56-year-old head constable who had tested positive for coronavirus passed away on Monday. Head Constable Shivaji Sonawane was posted at the Kurla Traffic Division of Mumbai Police.

"Mumbai Police regrets to inform about the unfortunate demise of HC Shivaji Narayan Sonawane (56) from Kurla Traffic Division. HC Sonawane had been battling Coronavirus," the Mumbai Police said.

Mumbai Police regrets to inform about the unfortunate demise of HC Shivaji Narayan Sonawane (56) from Kurla Traffic Division. HC Sonawane had been battling Coronavirus. We pray for his soul to rest in peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Sonawane family.

— Mumbai Police (@MumbaiPolice) April 27, 2020

17:56 (IST)

Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates

Nine new COVID-19 cases reported in Karnataka

The Karnataka health department said that nine new cases of coronavirus have been reported in the state in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of cases to 512, including 19 deaths and 193 discharges. Number of active cases stands at 299.

17:45 (IST)

Coronavirus in Jharkhand Latest Updates

Jharkhand govt to not implement central guidelines on opening of shops

Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren on Monday said that the state government won't adhere to the Centre's guidelines as far as opening shops is concerned.

"We've decided not to implement the Central guidelines on the opening of shops, due to the rise in COVID-19 cases in Jharkhand. No shops will open in any areas of the state until 3 May. However, shops that were earlier allowed to open will remain functional," he said.

17:35 (IST)

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

13 new COVID-19 cases reported in Noida today

Reports said that 13 new COVID-19 cases were reported in Uttar Pradesh's Noida on Monday, taking the total number of cases to 128. As many as 79 patients have been discharged in Noida so far.

17:22 (IST)

Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates

West Bengal to allow home delivery of non-essential goods from 27 April

Reports said that the West Bengal government on Monday allowed the delivery of non-essential goods and services from 27 April.

"We will plan a relaxation in phases and according to zones till 21st May. We will share the red, orange and green zones with you all. We request the local people to ensure that they stay at home. We want to know the opinion of the Central government on home delivery and relaxation of norms," the state government was quoted as saying by India Today.

17:16 (IST)

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Centre says no payment made for faulty rapid antibody tests

"It needs to be stressed that ICMR hasn't made any payment whatsoever in respect to these supplies. Because of due process followed(not going for procurement with 100 percent advance amount), government doesn't stand to lose a single rupee," the Centre was quoted as saying by ANI.

Government of India releases fact sheet on Rapid Antibody tests. pic.twitter.com/DJ1JkTbMMg

— ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2020

17:08 (IST)

Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates

Kanika Kapoor to donate plasma after COVID-19 recovery

Singer Kanika Kapoor, who caught the coronavirus infection and recently recovered, is likely to be donating plasma for the treatment of COVID-19 patients, India Today reported.

Reports also also said that the Lucknow Police served a notice Kapoor in relation to an FIR filed against her for hiding her travel history

16:56 (IST)

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Sufficent availability of RT-PCR kits, says Centre

"At the level of ICMR, we have sufficient amount of kits as far as RT-PCR test is concerned. Not only are sufficient kits available, but we have also parallel ensured geographical adequacy," said Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health.

16:48 (IST)

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

ICMR recalls test kits by Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Zhuhai Livzon Diagnostics companies

After issuing a revised advisory on the rapid antibodu testing kits provided by Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Zhuhai Livzon Diagnostics, the ICMR asked state governments to return the kits to be sent back to the suppliers.

16:41 (IST)

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Centre says stigma around COVID-19 patients should be addressed 'intensively'

The Union health ministry said that the stigma around coronavirus patients should be addressed through "an intensive campaign".

"We've to understand that there is no risk of transmission from recovered patients. They, in fact, can be a potential source of healing for antibodies using plasma therapy. We should avoid spreading misinformation and panic. No community or area should be labelled for COVID-19 spread. In particular, healthcare and sanitary workers or police should not be targeted as they are there to help you," said Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health

16:31 (IST)

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

Centre says recovery rate rises to 22.17%

The Union health ministry said that 1,396 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the total confirmed cases to 27,892.

"20,835 people are under active medical supervision. 381 patients are found cured in past one day. Total number of cured people becomes 6,184. Recovery rate 22.17 percent," Lav Aggarwal said.

16:26 (IST)

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

No new COVID-19 cases in 85 districts for 14 days

"85 districts have not reported any new coronavirus cases in the last 14 days," said Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health.

16:16 (IST)

Coronavirus in India Latest Updates

16 districts across India are COVID-19 free for 28 days, says Centre

The Union health ministry on Monday said that 16 districts in the country, which earlier had cases of coronavirus, have not reported any fresh cases for the last 28 days.

"The three new districts which got added to this list are — Gondia in Maharashtra, Devangere in Karnataka and Lakhi Sarai in Bihar," said Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary,Health Department.

16:07 (IST)

Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates

1,068 private nursing homes are functional in Mumbai currently

Reports on Monday said that 1,068 private nursing homes were functional in Mumbai currently, out of the 1,416 total such facilities in the city. Because of the coronavirus scare, a lot of them had stopped operations.

Coronavirus Outbreak LATEST Updates: The Maharashtra heath department on Monday said that 522 new cases were reported in the state on Monday, and 27 deaths were recorded.

The total number of COVID-19 cases in the state rises to 8,590, and the toll stands at 369. 94 patients were discharged today after making full recovery, 1,282 discharged till date.

The total number of containment zones in Delhi rose to 99 on Monday. The Pilanji area in New Delhi and parts were Mehrauli were added to the list. Earlier on Monday, two AAP volunteers distributing food in the area tested positive for COVID-19.

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday reportedly instructed senior government officers to ensure COVID-19 testing of people delivering goods to houses during lockdown. He has instructed for setting up of quarantine facilities and shelter home with bed capacity of 15,000 to 25,000 in each district.

Thirteen new cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Dharavi area of Mumbai on Monday, taking the total number of cases in the area to 288, including 14 deaththe BMC said.

52 new COVID19 cases were reported in Tamil Nadu on Monday, taking total number of cases to 1,937 in the state, said the state health department. 81 persons were also discharged after receiving treatment for the disease, taking the total number of recoveries to 1,101. No deaths were reported today and the toll stands at 24, it said.

Meanwhile, the Greater Chennai Corporation said that 47 cases had been detected in the city on Monday.

Mumbai Police said that a 56-year-old head constable who had tested positive for coronavirus passed away on Monday. Head Constable Shivaji Sonawane was posted at the Kurla Traffic Division of Mumbai Police.

"Mumbai Police regrets to inform about the unfortunate demise of HC Shivaji Narayan Sonawane (56) from Kurla Traffic Division. HC Sonawane had been battling Coronavirus," the Mumbai Police said.

India's total number of coronavirus cases rose to 28,380 on Monday, including 21,132 active cases, 6,362 cured/discharged/migrated and 886 deaths.

1,463 new cases and 60 deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours. This is the highest death toll reported in 24 hours.

"It needs to be stressed that ICMR hasn't made any payment whatsoever in respect to these supplies. Because of due process followed(not going for procurement with 100 percent advance amount), government doesn't stand to lose a single rupee," the Centre was quoted as saying by ANI.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Monday issued a revised advisory to state governments regarding the rapid antibody blood tests. ICMR has written to them to stop using Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Zhuhai Livzon Diagnostics kits.

The Union health ministry said that 1,396 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the total confirmed cases to 27,892.

"20,835 people are under active medical supervision. 381 patients are found cured in past one day. Total number of cured people becomes 6,184. Recovery rate 22.17 percent," Lav Aggarwal said.

Mumbai mayor Kishori Pednekar was on Monday quoted as saying that 231 zones have been removed from the 'containment zones' list in the city, which is one of the worst-hit cities in the country.

"Our containment zones had risen to 1,036. There has been a significant drop in number of containment zones in Mumbai. 231 zones are out of the containment zone list after they didn't record a single COVID-19 positive patient for last 14 days," she said.

As many as 73,735 cases were registered by the Maharashtra Police so far for violating Centre's lockdown guidelines. Maharashtra continued to remain the worst COVID-hit state with over 8,000 confirmed cases and 342 deaths.

The State Health Department has said the mortality rate stood at 4.24 percent. On Monday, blood samples of four COVID-19 survivors have tested positive for antibodies. Their plasma will now be used to treat other patients.

Puducherry chief minister V Narayanasamy said that most of state CMs during video conferencing suggested Prime Minister Narendra Modi that a "cautious approach" must be taken on lockdown relaxation to curb further spread of coronavirus.

"Most of the CMs said the way in which cases are increasing, there should be a cautious approach and the prime minister should take a call on basis of observation of CMs. Most of the BJP-ruled states' CMs said that lockdown should be continued and economic activities be started slowly," said Narayanasamy.

Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik urged the Centre to initiate measures to kickstart the economy. He suggested that Niti Ayog should come up with transformative ideas to keep the economy moving as the COVID-19 crisis continued.

"Even if the national lockdown continues, economic activities within the states should be allowed," said Patnaik.

Eight more people tested positive for coronavirus in Karnataka on Monday, as per the state health department's midday report. This takes the total number of COVID-19 positive people in the state to 511.

The overall figure of 511 also includes 19 deaths. The recovery rate was at 38 percent after 188 COVID-19 patients were cured.

During the PM COVID-19 revie meet, Uttarakhand chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat said that business and trade activities should start in a phased manner, with focus on all precautionary measures. "We should look towards easing people’s life by turning the situation to normal. Economic revival is key to moving forward," Rawat said at the meeting.

He also said that Uttarakhand, which is a tourism and pilgrimage destination, has been greatly affected by the lockdown.

Home Minister Amit Shah, attending the video conferencing meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chief ministers, told all the states to be vigilant in enforcing the lockdown and to punish violators.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday tweeted that the state government will make all possible efforts to bring back stranded people stuck in different parts of the country due to lockdown.

As she attended the COVID-19 review meet with the Prime Minsister Narendra Modi on Monday, Mamata weeted, "I've instructed my officers to do the needful. Till the time I'm here, nobody from Bengal should feel helpless. I'm with you in these tough times."

The chief minister also said that the travel of stranded students in Kota has already been initiated.

The Reserve Bank of India on Monday announced a special liquidity facility for mutual funds of Rs 50,000 crores to tackle the crisis.

"With a view to easing liquidity pressures on mutual funds, it has been decided to open a special liquidity facility for mutual funds of Rs 50,000 crores," ANI quoted the central bank.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with chief ministers via video conference on Monday at 10 am on the way ahead in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

They are likely to aspects that could also focus on a graded exit from the ongoing lockdown imposed in view of COVID-19.

India registered 48 fresh COVID-19 deaths in the past 24 hours, thereby taking the toll to 872 across the nation on Sunday, according to the latest data released by the health ministry.

With 1,396 more individuals testing positive for the novel coronavirus, the total confirmed cases rose to 27,892. This figure also includes 20,835 active cases.

The recovery rate in India stood at 22.8 percent after 6,185 COVID-19 patients were cured of the virus.

With five more individuals testing positive for COVID-19 in Odisha, the total confirmed cases in the state reached 108, as per the information shared by State Health and Family Welfare department website on Monday.

All the fresh cases were reported in Balasore.

As many as 2,287 RT PCR tests were conducted in the past 24 hours and the total number of active cases in the state stood at 72 while the live of one patient was lost due to COVID-19.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with chief ministers via video conference on Monday morning on the way ahead in the fight against the novel coronavirus, amid indications that the discussions could also focus on a graded exit from the ongoing lockdown.

This will be the third video conference of the Prime Minister with the Chief Ministers after the spread of the COVID-19 in the country.

As India recorded its highest one-day rise of 1,975 coronavirus cases, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the country's fight against COVID-19 is "people-driven" and this is the only way to overcome the pandemic.

In his monthly 'Mann ki Baat' broadcast, Modi said the country is in the middle of a 'yudh' (war) and asserted people have to continue being careful and take precautions.

The countrywide death toll due to COVID-19 rose to 826 with 47 more fatalities being reported and the number of cases climbed to 26,917 on Sunday, according to the Union Health Ministry. A total of 5,914 people(21.96 percent) have recovered from the infection, it said.

State-wise figures

The total number of cases on Sunday went up by 1,975 since the ministry last updated its data on Saturday evening. The previous highest single-day jump of 1,752 was recorded on April 24.

According to the ministry, the highest number of confirmed cases in the country is from Maharashtra at 7,628. Other states where the cases have crossed one thousand are are Gujarat (3,071), Delhi (2,625), Rajasthan (2,083), Madhya Pradesh (2,096), Uttar Pradesh (1,843), Tamil Nadu(1,821) and Andhra Pradesh(1,097).

Representational image. AP

Of the 47 deaths reported since Saturday evening, 22 are from Maharashtra, eight in Rajasthan, seven from Madhya Pradesh, six Gujarat and one each from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Tamil Nadu.

Of the total 824 COVID-19 deaths, Maharashtra accounts for the highest number of 323 fatalities, followed by Gujarat (133), Madhya Pradesh (99), Delhi (54), Andhra Pradesh (31) and Rajasthan (33).

The death toll reached 27 in Uttar Pradesh, 26 in Telangana, 23 in Tamil Nadu, while Karnataka and West Bengal have reported 18 deaths each, the ministry said.

Punjab has registered 17 fatalities so far, Jammu and Kashmir six, Kerala four, while Jharkhand and Haryana have recorded three COVID-19 deaths each.

Bihar has reported two coronavirus deaths, while Meghalaya, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha and Assam have reported one fatality each, according to the ministry data.

Modi asks people to shun complacency

Amid indications that Modi's third round of video interaction with the chief ministers on Monday since the COVID-19 outbreak could also focus on a graded exit from the 40-day lockdown, the prime minister asked people to shun any complacency that they will not be infected by coronavirus. The nationwide lockdown is due to end on 3 May.

He reiterated his advice to people to maintain a distance of two yards from each other to keep healthy.

“Do gaz doori, bahut hai zaroori (Maintain a distance of two yards and keep yourself healthy)," he said.

"I urge you not to get overconfident. You should in your over-enthusiasm not think that if the coronavirus has not yet reached your city, village, street or office, it is not going to reach now. Never make such a mistake. The experience of the world tells us a lot in this regard," he said in his 30-minute address.

Modi referred to a popular Hindi idiom 'Sawdhani hati, durghatna ghati' (accident happens when caution is lowered) to make his point.

Hailing states, emergency workers and civil society groups for their contribution in combating the pandemic, he said the resolve shown by the people of the country has led to the beginning of a transformation with businesses, offices, educational institutions, medical sector rapidly undergoing new changes. With the country under a lockdown since 24 March midnight, he said India's people-driven battle against the pandemic will be discussed when the world discusses the crisis later.

"India's fight against the coronavirus is people-driven in the truest sense of the term. Along with people, government and administration are fighting it as well... This is the only way we can win over the virus," he said.

The prime minister said wearing masks will now become a part of a civilised society and also exhorted people to stop spitting in public places, saying it was high time to get rid of this "bad habit" once and for all.

This will not only boost our basic hygiene standards but also help in preventing the spread of the coronavirus infection, he added.

Modi also greeted people on Akshaya-Tritiya and noted that the holy month of Ramzan had also begun.

"We should pray more than ever before so that prior to the celebration of Eid the world is rid of the coronavirus and we celebrate Eid with enthusiasm and gaiety like earlier times," Modi said, urging people to adhere to guidelines of local administration.

The prime minister hoped there may be some good news in the fight against the coronavirus during his next 'Mann ki Baat' episode, usually the last Sunday of every month. The last Sunday next month falls on 31 May and Eid is likely to fall on 25 May.

Senior BJP leader and Union minister Prakash Javadekar said the prime minister has asked people to remain steadfast in following the coronavirus guidelines and expressed confidence that the nation will follow the path shown by him.

'Graded' exit from lockdown may be discussed tomorrow

Sources in the union government indicated to PTI that besides discussing the way forward in dealing with the pandemic, the prime minister's discussion with chief ministers could also focus on a "graded" exit from the lockdown.

The Centre and the state governments have been giving gradual relaxation in various fields and sectors to boost economic activities as also to provide relief to the people.

But some states like Maharashtra are mulling extending the lockdown beyond 3 May in cities like Mumbai and Pune to ensure that coronavirus cases remain under control.

The Congress said it hopes the prime minister puts out a comprehensive and holistic plan as regards the exit strategy during his discussions with the chief ministers.

Congress spokesperson Manish Tewari said till the time there is no national plan to deal with disasters or pandemics, states cannot formulate plans to deal with issues post-lockdown.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh said that without aggressive testing facilities, India cannot conquer challenges posed by COVID-19.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi urged Modi to clear "bottlenecks" and ramp up testing.

Union health minister Harsh Vardhan said the situation in India is improving as hotspot districts (HSD) are moving towards being non-hotspot districts (NHSD).

Vardhan gave this assessment after he visited the Trauma Centre of AIIMS in Delhi to take stock of preparedness to overcome COVID-19 and visited various wards in the isolation facility for the infected patients, a statement from the ministry said.

On 15 April, the Centre had identified a total of 170 districts across the country as COVID-19 hotspots. The districts that have reported either a high number of coronavirus cases or where the rate of doubling time is low are termed as hotspots.

As many as 207 districts were also classified as non-hotspots whereas the remaining of the total 726 districts fall under the 'green zones' category, i.e., they haven't reported any coronavirus case for the last 28 days before April 15. Non-hotspot areas have also reported positive cases but the number remains limited.

Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba also had a detailed video conference with all the Chief Secretaries and DGPs of the States/UTs to review the preparedness for COVID-19 response.

With inputs from PTI

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Update: APC Condemns Attack On Oshiomhole’s Residence

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned Saturday evening’s attack on the Benin residence of the party’s National Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, by political thugs. The APC National Publicity Secretary, Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, who said though the APC National Chairman had called for calm after “the apparent attempt on his life”, appealed to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mohammad Adamu and other relevant security outfits to investigate the incident and prosecute the sponsors and attackers.

“In Edo state, just as in any other state, everyone must be free to go about their normal and legitimate activities without harassment, intimidation, threat to life and property. “It is clear that the sponsors of the attack are bent on causing crisis in the state in pursuit of their desperate and unpopular political interests. Human life is greater that anyone’s political ambition,” Issa-Onilu added.

Oshiomole Says Obaseki Behind Siege To His Home

Governor, police deny attack as APC, Omo-Agege seek probe. October 14, 2019 Precious Igbonmwelundu, Osagie Otabor, Benin, Bolaji Ogundele and Sanni Onogu, Abuja ALL Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman Adams Oshiomhole on Sunday accused the Edo State government of orchestrating Saturday’s siege to his Benin home. There is a frosty relationship between the party chair, who is the immediate past governor and his ‘godson’ — Governor Godwin Obaseki— ostensibly over the governor’s second term bid. Explaining the Saturday night ‘attack’ on the chairman’s home, Oshiomhole’s spokesman Simon Ebegbulem told The Nation on the telephone: “The National Chairman was in Benin on Saturday to attend a birthday party. While he was still at the party around 8pm, the state government sent thugs to his house. They were over 50 singing war songs. “They blocked the entrance of his gate until the security people there called those with him (Oshiomhole) to alert him about what was happening. That was how APC youths were swiftly alerted and they stormed the house with policemen. “The thugs fled when they saw the youth and policemen. We are wondering what thugs will be doing at the residence of the national chairman at that time of the night. “If the national chairman had arrived there without knowing, they would have attacked him. We are accusing the state government because the governor has been clamping down on all those opposed to him.” Ebegbulem claimed that the action at Oshiomhole’s home, was part of the resolution reached at the last Exco meeting that all opposing anti-Obaseki second term bid be attacked. But Governor Obaseki denied having anything to do with the attack. The governor’s spokesman Mr. Crusoe Osagie said: “It is a lie. There was no attack. Nothing happened in the area where Oshiomhole lives. “The Edo State government has said it has no knowledge of the purported attack on the person or residence of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole. We have no knowledge of the attack. We have also reached out to the police, and they affirmed that they do not know about such an attack.” Edo Police Commissioner San Mallam Abubakar also denied there was an attack. The police chief said some persons at the party chairman’s home planning a protest were dispersed. However, the APC and Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege condemned “the attack” and called on the police to investigate it. In a statement, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Lanre Issa-Onilu, said: “Although, the APC National Chairman has rightly called for calm after the apparent attempt on his life, we call on Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mohammad Adamu and other relevant security outfits to investigate the ugly incident and prosecute the sponsors and attackers. “In Edo State, just as in any other state, everyone must be free to go about their normal and legitimate activities without harassment, intimidation, threat to life and property. “It is clear that the sponsors of the attack are bent on causing crisis in the state in pursuit of their desperate and unpopular political interests. Human life is greater that anyone’s political ambition.” Senator Omo-Agege described the development as “callous, cowardly, inhumane and totally unacceptable that should be condemned by all.” A statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Yomi Odunuga, quoted the Deputy Senate President as noting that politics should not be allowed to degenerate “to a situation where violence becomes the language of activism by both politicians and their supporters, no matter how disgruntled such persons may be.” He said: “Such criminal attack, remains utterly condemnable and illegal. Whatever their grievances, they should learn to explore dialogue rather than resort to violence. “I call on the police to get to the root of the matter by prosecuting those involved in the act. It is my belief that the fine principles and ethos of democratic practice do have inbuilt mechanisms through which internal wrangling can be resolved without recourse to violence as it was the case in Edo State on Saturday. “I would like to call on the parties involved to explore those options that would strengthen the party as entrenched in the constitution of the APC as that is the best way to move the state and the nation to the Next Level in which all citizens are expected to reap the dividends of the trust they reposed in the government led by President Muhammadu Buhari”, he said. Omo-Agege urged parents to warn their wards against political violence, adding that the attack negated democratic principles. Source: https://thenationonlineng.net/obaseki-behind-siege-to-my-home-says-oshiomhole

Edo 2020: Adams Oshiomole’s Residence In Benin Attacked

….as police foils attempt by armed thugs

….Obaseki, deputy, SSG fingered

…we’re not aware of any attack… – EDSG

Some armed political thugs have reportedly attacked the Benin City residence of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Adams Oshiomhole.

Led by one Muktari Osagie and Ebo Stone, the thugs were seen chanting anti-Oshiomhole songs, declaring their motive without any form of restraint nor discretion.

The thugs were said to be supporters of Governor Godwin Obaseki, his Deputy, Philip Shaibu and the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie.

Igbere TV, however, gathered that the APC national chairman was not at home when the thugs arrived. He was said to be attending a friend’s occasion at a nearby residence.

The thugs said to be state-sponsored, remained at Oshiomhole’s residence, chanting various songs apparently awaiting to accost the national chairman upon his arrival.

“But for the swift intervention of a combined team of army and policemen, the thugs would have vandalized the building”, a source who pleaded anonymity told Igbere TV.

According to a police source, “Information spread to us and a combine team arrived the scene. We dislodged them and the situation was brought under control”.

We have no knowledge of alleged attack on Oshiomhole – Edo govt

The Edo State Government has said it has no knowledge of the attack on the the residence of the APC National Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole.

In a statement by Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Crusoe Osagie, the government said, “We have no knowledge of the attack. We have also reached out to the Police, and they affirmed that they do not know about such an attack.”

[brajeshupadhyay]

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Our government will cover each one of them with a life insurance cover of Rs 50 lakh." 22:53 (IST) Coronavirus in UK Latest Updates UK COVID-19 toll crosses 21,000 AFP on Monday reported that the coronavirus toll in the UK rose by 360, taking the total number of casualties to 21,092. 22:48 (IST) Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates Tamil Nadu govt returns 24,000 rapid testing kits after ICMR advisory The Indian Express reported that the Tamil Nadu returned 24,000 rapid antibody testing kits after the ICMR asked state governments to stop using those sent bu two Chinese firms. The Tamil Nadu government also cancelled all outstanding orders. Health Minister C Vijayabaskar was quoted as saying that the "state's recovery rate of 56.8 percent is the highest in the country and added that the mortality is only 1.2 percent". 22:37 (IST) Coronavirus in Telangana Latest Updates Two COVID-19 cases reported in Telangana  Two people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Telangana on Monday, taking the total number of positive cases to 1,003. On Monday, when the tests were conducted on 159 people, only two turned out to be positive. 16 people were discharged on Monday, the Telangana chief minister's office said. 22:30 (IST) Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates 190 new COVID-19 cases reported in Delhi today Reports said that 190 cases of coronavirus were reported in Delhi on Monday, taking the total number of cases in the National Capital to 3108. No deaths were reported on Monday. 22:10 (IST) Coronavirus in Punjab latest Updates Punjab reports eight new COVID-19 cases Eight new COVID-19 cases were reported in Punjab on Monday, taking the total number of cases in the state to 330, the Punjab Department of Health said. 22:01 (IST) Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates West Bengal govt says COVID-19 patients to be mandatorily brought to hospitals West Bengal health department on Monday clarified COVID-19 patients to be mandatorily brought to hospitals. Only primary/secondary contacts allowed home isolation. Earlier Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had announced in her press conference that positive patients could home quarantine. 21:45 (IST) Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Updates 13 COVID-19 patients test negative in Kerala The Kerala government said that 13 patients under treatment for COVID-19 tested negative on Monday. Of these, six patients are from Kannur district, four in Kozhikode district, and one each from Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam and Malappuram districts are those who recovered from the disease. 21:28 (IST) Coronavirus in Kerala Latest Updates Kerala reports 13 new cases today Kerala on Monday reported 13 new COVID-19 cases. Of these, five have come back to the state from Tamil Nadu, one from abroad and the rest have got infected through primary contact. This includes one healthcare worker in Kottayam district. "The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kerala is 481 and 123 patients are under treatment in different hospitals in the state," the statement added. 21:20 (IST) Coronavirus in Madhya Pradesh Latest Updates 75 new COVID-19 cases reported in Madhya Pradesh Reports said that 75 new cases of coronavirus were reported in Madhya Pradesh on Monday, taking the total to 2,165. The total toll stands at 110. 21:10 (IST) Coronavirus in Jharkhand Latest Updates Jharkhand reports 20 COVID-19 cases today Reports said that 20 coronavirus cases were reported in Jharkhand on Monday. The total number of cases has now crossed the 100-mark, with a total of 103 cases in the state currently, India Today reported. 21:01 (IST) Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates 522 new COVID-19 cases reported in Maharashtra today The Maharashtra heath department on Monday said that 522 new cases were reported in the state on Monday, and 27 deaths were recorded. The total number of COVID-19 cases in the state rises to 8,590, and the toll stands at 369. 94 patients were discharged today after making full recovery, 1,282 discharged till date. 20:50 (IST) Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates Delhi containment zones rise to 99 The total number of containment zones in Delhi rose to 99 on Monday. The Pilanji area in New Delhi and parts were Mehrauli were added to the list. Earlier on Monday, two AAP volunteers distributing food in the area tested positive for COVID-19. 20:37 (IST) Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates 113 new COVID-19 cases reported in UP over 24 hours The Uttar Pradesh government on Monday said that 113 new patients have tested postive for COVID-19 since Sunday evening, taking the total number of positive cases to 1,986. 399 patients have been discharged till now. 20:25 (IST) Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates Delhi Police detains 2,831 people for lockdown violations   Over 100 cases were registered and 2,832 people briefly detained in Delhi on Monday for violating government orders on the ongoing lockdown to combat the novel coronavirus outbreak, PTI reported. According to the data shared by the police, 101 cases were registered under section 188 (for disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) of the Indian Penal Code till 5 pm on Monday.  20:18 (IST) Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates Adityanath govt brings back over 12,000 stranded migrants from Haryana More than 12,000 labourers from Uttar Pradesh who were stranded in Haryana due to the lockdown imposed to curb the spread of coronavirus have been brought back to the state, PTI reported. "Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has already issued directions that labourers belonging to UP, who are working in other states and have completed 14 days of quarantine, should be brought back," Additional Chief Secretary (Home and Information) Awanish Awasthi told reporters. A total of 12,216 labourers were brought back from Haryana in 410 buses by Sunday evening, he added. 20:05 (IST) Coronavirus in Bihar Latest Updates 19 more COVID-19 cases reported in Bihar The Bihar principal health secretary on Monday said that 19 more coronavirus cases were reported in the state on Monday. The total number of cases in the state rose to 345. 19:59 (IST) Coronavirus in Pune Latest Updates Pune municipal corporation area to be containment zone till 3 May Pune joint commissioner of police Ravindra Shisve on Monday extended the period of the order which declares the Pune Municipal Corporation area as a containment zone, till 3 May. 19:48 (IST) Coronavirus in Chandigarh Latest Updates Chandigarh admin advises on disposing used masks, gloves The Chandigarh administration said that used masks and gloves generated from home quarantine or other households should be kept in paper bags for a minimum of 72 hours prior to their disposal as general waste. "It is advisable to cut the masks prior to disposal to prevent reuse," the statement said. 19:39 (IST) Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates UP govt to conduct COVID-19 tests on people delivering goods Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday reportedly instructed senior government officers to ensure COVID-19 testing of people delivering goods to houses during lockdown. He has instructed for setting up of quarantine facilities and shelter home with bed capacity of 15,000 to 25,000 in each district 19:31 (IST) Coronavirus in Delhi Latest Updates Indian Youth Congress workers manufacture masks The Indian Youth Congress workers on Monday manufactured masks at the IYC office. They have also turned the premises for distribution of ration to the needy, as well as cooking food for them, ANI reported. We've set the target of making 1 cr masks. We also set-up roti machines which also gives jobs to ppl. Migrants labourers were going, we brought them here. We provide them pick&drop facilities, ration&salaries. Masks&soaps are being distributed among poor: President,Youth Congress pic.twitter.com/0KDDCb3iKJ — ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2020 19:26 (IST) Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates Mumbai's Dharavi reports 13 new COVID-19 cases today Thirteen new cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Dharavi area of Mumbai on Monday, taking the total number of cases in the area to 288, including 14 deaththe BMC said. 19:22 (IST) Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates 57-yr-old COVID-19 patient passes away in Kalaburgi A 57-year-old man who had tested positive for coronavirus in Karnataka's Kalaburgi passed away on Monday, taking the toll to five in the district. The deceased was admitted to Gulbarga Institute of Medical Sciences with breathing problems, ANI reported. 19:14 (IST) Coronavirus in Haryana Latest Updates With five new cases, Haryana's case count climbs to 301.   Haryana on Monday registered five new coronavirus cases, pushing the  total number of positive cases in the state to 301. A total of three fatalitie have been reported date, according to data released by the state health department.  Ambala, Jhajjar , Faridabad each reported one case while two persons tested positive in Sonepat.   5 new #COVID19 positive cases have been reported in Haryana today; taking total number of positive #COVID19 cases to 301. Total 3 deaths reported till now: Health Department, Haryana pic.twitter.com/XNFBNOG8cc — ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2020 19:02 (IST) Coronavirus in Punjab Latest Updates Punjab seeks releases of GST arrears Flagging the fund crunch in the wake of the coronavirus lockdown, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh once again on Monday sought the release of GST arrears of over Rs 4,000 crore from the Centre, reports PTI. In a written submission to the Union government, the Punjab chief minister also demanded a grant due to meet the revenue deficit caused by the coronavirus outbreak.  In a letter, he urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to allow the opening of small shops, businesses and industries in all areas, except the containment zones, with full compliance of COVID prevention measures.    The Punjab CM made the submission as only nine CMs were selected to speak to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a video-conference on Monday. 18:57 (IST) Coronavirus in Chandigarh Latest Updates Four more test positive in Chandigarh Four new COVID19 cases have been reported in Chandigarh on Monday, taking the total number of infections to 40, ANI quotes the Health Department, Chandigarh as saying.   18:50 (IST) Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates Three contacts of 70-year-old victim test positive in Latur Three people tested positive for novel coronavirus on Monday in Latur district in Maharashtra, all of whom are contacts of a 70-year-old woman who died of the infection in Udgir on Saturday, PTI quotes Dr Girish Thakur, Dean, Vilasrao Deshmukh Government Medical and Science Institute as saying. 26 samples of the woman's contacts were sent for testing, three of which returned positive, he said.   18:45 (IST) Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu Latest Updates With 52 new cases, total in Tamil Nadu crosses 1,900 52 new COVID19 cases were reported in Tamil Nadu on Monday, taking total number of cases to 1,937 in the state, said the state health department. 81 persons were also discharged after receiving treatment for the disease, taking the total number of recoveries to 1,101. No deaths were reported today and the toll stands at 24, it said. Meanwhile, the Greater Chennai Corporation said that 47 cases had been detected in the city on Monday.   52 new #COVID19 cases have been reported in Tamil Nadu today, taking total number of cases to 1,937 in the state: Tamil Nadu Health Department pic.twitter.com/2iyowSE0fu — ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2020 18:34 (IST) Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates 14 COVID-19 cases reported in UP's Gautam Buddh Nagar The Gautam Buddh Nagar district surveillance officer said that 14 patients were found positive in the Uttar Pradesh district on Monday, of which six are health workers. Total positive patients till now are 129. 18:27 (IST) Coronavirus in Odisha Latest Updates Naveen Patnaik announces Rs 15 lakh assistance for journalists' families The Odisha government said that Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has announced Rs 15 lakh 'compassionate assistance' to families of working journalists who may lose life to COVID-19 infection. CM @Naveen_Odisha has announced ₹ 15 lakh compassionate assistance to families of working journalists who may lose life to #COVID19 infection. CM said journalists are dedicatedly working to raise awareness about the pandemic during this difficult times. #OdishaCares — CMO Odisha (@CMO_Odisha) April 27, 2020 18:24 (IST) Coronavirus in Uttarakhand Latest Updates No new COVID-19 case reported in Uttarakhand today The Uttarakhand health department said that no new COVID-19 case reported in the state on Monday. The total number of cases in the state stands at 51. 18:18 (IST) Coronavirus in Odisha Latest Updates Two more people test positive for COVID-19 in Odisha Two more people on Monday tested positive for coronavirus in Odisha, taking the total cases in the state to 110. Reports said that one health worker in the Koraput district has also tested positive among the two new cases. 18:09 (IST) Coronavirus in India Latest Updates India sees highest one-day rise in toll with 60 new deaths India's total number of coronavirus cases rose to 28,380 on Monday, including 21,132 active cases, 6,362 cured/discharged/migrated and 886 deaths. 1,463 new cases and 60 deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours. This is the highest death toll reported in 24 hours. 18:00 (IST) Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates Mumbai Police head constable succumbs to COVID-19 Mumbai Police said that a 56-year-old head constable who had tested positive for coronavirus passed away on Monday. Head Constable Shivaji Sonawane was posted at the Kurla Traffic Division of Mumbai Police. "Mumbai Police regrets to inform about the unfortunate demise of HC Shivaji Narayan Sonawane (56) from Kurla Traffic Division. HC Sonawane had been battling Coronavirus," the Mumbai Police said. Mumbai Police regrets to inform about the unfortunate demise of HC Shivaji Narayan Sonawane (56) from Kurla Traffic Division. HC Sonawane had been battling Coronavirus. We pray for his soul to rest in peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Sonawane family. — Mumbai Police (@MumbaiPolice) April 27, 2020 17:56 (IST) Coronavirus in Karnataka Latest Updates Nine new COVID-19 cases reported in Karnataka The Karnataka health department said that nine new cases of coronavirus have been reported in the state in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of cases to 512, including 19 deaths and 193 discharges. Number of active cases stands at 299. 17:45 (IST) Coronavirus in Jharkhand Latest Updates Jharkhand govt to not implement central guidelines on opening of shops Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren on Monday said that the state government won't adhere to the Centre's guidelines as far as opening shops is concerned. "We've decided not to implement the Central guidelines on the opening of shops, due to the rise in COVID-19 cases in Jharkhand. No shops will open in any areas of the state until 3 May. However, shops that were earlier allowed to open will remain functional," he said. 17:35 (IST) Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates 13 new COVID-19 cases reported in Noida today Reports said that 13 new COVID-19 cases were reported in Uttar Pradesh's Noida on Monday, taking the total number of cases to 128. As many as 79 patients have been discharged in Noida so far. 17:22 (IST) Coronavirus in West Bengal Latest Updates West Bengal to allow home delivery of non-essential goods from 27 April Reports said that the West Bengal government on Monday allowed the delivery of non-essential goods and services from 27 April. "We will plan a relaxation in phases and according to zones till 21st May. We will share the red, orange and green zones with you all. We request the local people to ensure that they stay at home. We want to know the opinion of the Central government on home delivery and relaxation of norms," the state government was quoted as saying by India Today. 17:16 (IST) Coronavirus in India Latest Updates Centre says no payment made for faulty rapid antibody tests "It needs to be stressed that ICMR hasn't made any payment whatsoever in respect to these supplies. Because of due process followed(not going for procurement with 100 percent advance amount), government doesn't stand to lose a single rupee," the Centre was quoted as saying by ANI. Government of India releases fact sheet on Rapid Antibody tests. pic.twitter.com/DJ1JkTbMMg — ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2020 17:08 (IST) Coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh Latest Updates Kanika Kapoor to donate plasma after COVID-19 recovery Singer Kanika Kapoor, who caught the coronavirus infection and recently recovered, is likely to be donating plasma for the treatment of COVID-19 patients, India Today reported. Reports also also said that the Lucknow Police served a notice Kapoor in relation to an FIR filed against her for hiding her travel history 16:56 (IST) Coronavirus in India Latest Updates Sufficent availability of RT-PCR kits, says Centre "At the level of ICMR, we have sufficient amount of kits as far as RT-PCR test is concerned. Not only are sufficient kits available, but we have also parallel ensured geographical adequacy," said Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health. 16:48 (IST) Coronavirus in India Latest Updates ICMR recalls test kits by Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Zhuhai Livzon Diagnostics companies After issuing a revised advisory on the rapid antibodu testing kits provided by Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Zhuhai Livzon Diagnostics, the ICMR asked state governments to return the kits to be sent back to the suppliers. 16:41 (IST) Coronavirus in India Latest Updates Centre says stigma around COVID-19 patients should be addressed 'intensively' The Union health ministry said that the stigma around coronavirus patients should be addressed through "an intensive campaign". "We've to understand that there is no risk of transmission from recovered patients. They, in fact, can be a potential source of healing for antibodies using plasma therapy. We should avoid spreading misinformation and panic. No community or area should be labelled for COVID-19 spread. In particular, healthcare and sanitary workers or police should not be targeted as they are there to help you," said Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health 16:31 (IST) Coronavirus in India Latest Updates Centre says recovery rate rises to 22.17% The Union health ministry said that 1,396 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the total confirmed cases to 27,892. "20,835 people are under active medical supervision. 381 patients are found cured in past one day. Total number of cured people becomes 6,184. Recovery rate 22.17 percent," Lav Aggarwal said. 16:26 (IST) Coronavirus in India Latest Updates No new COVID-19 cases in 85 districts for 14 days "85 districts have not reported any new coronavirus cases in the last 14 days," said Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health. 16:16 (IST) Coronavirus in India Latest Updates 16 districts across India are COVID-19 free for 28 days, says Centre The Union health ministry on Monday said that 16 districts in the country, which earlier had cases of coronavirus, have not reported any fresh cases for the last 28 days. "The three new districts which got added to this list are — Gondia in Maharashtra, Devangere in Karnataka and Lakhi Sarai in Bihar," said Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary,Health Department. 16:07 (IST) Coronavirus in Maharashtra Latest Updates 1,068 private nursing homes are functional in Mumbai currently Reports on Monday said that 1,068 private nursing homes were functional in Mumbai currently, out of the 1,416 total such facilities in the city. Because of the coronavirus scare, a lot of them had stopped operations. Coronavirus Outbreak LATEST Updates: The Maharashtra heath department on Monday said that 522 new cases were reported in the state on Monday, and 27 deaths were recorded. The total number of COVID-19 cases in the state rises to 8,590, and the toll stands at 369. 94 patients were discharged today after making full recovery, 1,282 discharged till date. The total number of containment zones in Delhi rose to 99 on Monday. The Pilanji area in New Delhi and parts were Mehrauli were added to the list. Earlier on Monday, two AAP volunteers distributing food in the area tested positive for COVID-19. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday reportedly instructed senior government officers to ensure COVID-19 testing of people delivering goods to houses during lockdown. He has instructed for setting up of quarantine facilities and shelter home with bed capacity of 15,000 to 25,000 in each district. Thirteen new cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Dharavi area of Mumbai on Monday, taking the total number of cases in the area to 288, including 14 deaththe BMC said. 52 new COVID19 cases were reported in Tamil Nadu on Monday, taking total number of cases to 1,937 in the state, said the state health department. 81 persons were also discharged after receiving treatment for the disease, taking the total number of recoveries to 1,101. No deaths were reported today and the toll stands at 24, it said. Meanwhile, the Greater Chennai Corporation said that 47 cases had been detected in the city on Monday. Mumbai Police said that a 56-year-old head constable who had tested positive for coronavirus passed away on Monday. Head Constable Shivaji Sonawane was posted at the Kurla Traffic Division of Mumbai Police. "Mumbai Police regrets to inform about the unfortunate demise of HC Shivaji Narayan Sonawane (56) from Kurla Traffic Division. HC Sonawane had been battling Coronavirus," the Mumbai Police said. India's total number of coronavirus cases rose to 28,380 on Monday, including 21,132 active cases, 6,362 cured/discharged/migrated and 886 deaths. 1,463 new cases and 60 deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours. This is the highest death toll reported in 24 hours. "It needs to be stressed that ICMR hasn't made any payment whatsoever in respect to these supplies. Because of due process followed(not going for procurement with 100 percent advance amount), government doesn't stand to lose a single rupee," the Centre was quoted as saying by ANI. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Monday issued a revised advisory to state governments regarding the rapid antibody blood tests. ICMR has written to them to stop using Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Zhuhai Livzon Diagnostics kits. The Union health ministry said that 1,396 new coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the total confirmed cases to 27,892. "20,835 people are under active medical supervision. 381 patients are found cured in past one day. Total number of cured people becomes 6,184. Recovery rate 22.17 percent," Lav Aggarwal said. Mumbai mayor Kishori Pednekar was on Monday quoted as saying that 231 zones have been removed from the 'containment zones' list in the city, which is one of the worst-hit cities in the country. "Our containment zones had risen to 1,036. There has been a significant drop in number of containment zones in Mumbai. 231 zones are out of the containment zone list after they didn't record a single COVID-19 positive patient for last 14 days," she said. As many as 73,735 cases were registered by the Maharashtra Police so far for violating Centre's lockdown guidelines. Maharashtra continued to remain the worst COVID-hit state with over 8,000 confirmed cases and 342 deaths. The State Health Department has said the mortality rate stood at 4.24 percent. On Monday, blood samples of four COVID-19 survivors have tested positive for antibodies. Their plasma will now be used to treat other patients. Puducherry chief minister V Narayanasamy said that most of state CMs during video conferencing suggested Prime Minister Narendra Modi that a "cautious approach" must be taken on lockdown relaxation to curb further spread of coronavirus. "Most of the CMs said the way in which cases are increasing, there should be a cautious approach and the prime minister should take a call on basis of observation of CMs. Most of the BJP-ruled states' CMs said that lockdown should be continued and economic activities be started slowly," said Narayanasamy. Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik urged the Centre to initiate measures to kickstart the economy. He suggested that Niti Ayog should come up with transformative ideas to keep the economy moving as the COVID-19 crisis continued. "Even if the national lockdown continues, economic activities within the states should be allowed," said Patnaik. Eight more people tested positive for coronavirus in Karnataka on Monday, as per the state health department's midday report. This takes the total number of COVID-19 positive people in the state to 511. The overall figure of 511 also includes 19 deaths. The recovery rate was at 38 percent after 188 COVID-19 patients were cured. During the PM COVID-19 revie meet, Uttarakhand chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat said that business and trade activities should start in a phased manner, with focus on all precautionary measures. "We should look towards easing people’s life by turning the situation to normal. Economic revival is key to moving forward," Rawat said at the meeting. He also said that Uttarakhand, which is a tourism and pilgrimage destination, has been greatly affected by the lockdown. Home Minister Amit Shah, attending the video conferencing meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chief ministers, told all the states to be vigilant in enforcing the lockdown and to punish violators. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday tweeted that the state government will make all possible efforts to bring back stranded people stuck in different parts of the country due to lockdown. As she attended the COVID-19 review meet with the Prime Minsister Narendra Modi on Monday, Mamata weeted, "I've instructed my officers to do the needful. Till the time I'm here, nobody from Bengal should feel helpless. I'm with you in these tough times." The chief minister also said that the travel of stranded students in Kota has already been initiated. The Reserve Bank of India on Monday announced a special liquidity facility for mutual funds of Rs 50,000 crores to tackle the crisis. "With a view to easing liquidity pressures on mutual funds, it has been decided to open a special liquidity facility for mutual funds of Rs 50,000 crores," ANI quoted the central bank. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with chief ministers via video conference on Monday at 10 am on the way ahead in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. They are likely to aspects that could also focus on a graded exit from the ongoing lockdown imposed in view of COVID-19. India registered 48 fresh COVID-19 deaths in the past 24 hours, thereby taking the toll to 872 across the nation on Sunday, according to the latest data released by the health ministry. With 1,396 more individuals testing positive for the novel coronavirus, the total confirmed cases rose to 27,892. This figure also includes 20,835 active cases. The recovery rate in India stood at 22.8 percent after 6,185 COVID-19 patients were cured of the virus. With five more individuals testing positive for COVID-19 in Odisha, the total confirmed cases in the state reached 108, as per the information shared by State Health and Family Welfare department website on Monday. All the fresh cases were reported in Balasore. As many as 2,287 RT PCR tests were conducted in the past 24 hours and the total number of active cases in the state stood at 72 while the live of one patient was lost due to COVID-19. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with chief ministers via video conference on Monday morning on the way ahead in the fight against the novel coronavirus, amid indications that the discussions could also focus on a graded exit from the ongoing lockdown. This will be the third video conference of the Prime Minister with the Chief Ministers after the spread of the COVID-19 in the country. As India recorded its highest one-day rise of 1,975 coronavirus cases, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the country's fight against COVID-19 is "people-driven" and this is the only way to overcome the pandemic. In his monthly 'Mann ki Baat' broadcast, Modi said the country is in the middle of a 'yudh' (war) and asserted people have to continue being careful and take precautions. The countrywide death toll due to COVID-19 rose to 826 with 47 more fatalities being reported and the number of cases climbed to 26,917 on Sunday, according to the Union Health Ministry. A total of 5,914 people(21.96 percent) have recovered from the infection, it said. State-wise figures The total number of cases on Sunday went up by 1,975 since the ministry last updated its data on Saturday evening. The previous highest single-day jump of 1,752 was recorded on April 24. According to the ministry, the highest number of confirmed cases in the country is from Maharashtra at 7,628. Other states where the cases have crossed one thousand are are Gujarat (3,071), Delhi (2,625), Rajasthan (2,083), Madhya Pradesh (2,096), Uttar Pradesh (1,843), Tamil Nadu(1,821) and Andhra Pradesh(1,097). Representational image. AP Of the 47 deaths reported since Saturday evening, 22 are from Maharashtra, eight in Rajasthan, seven from Madhya Pradesh, six Gujarat and one each from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Tamil Nadu. Of the total 824 COVID-19 deaths, Maharashtra accounts for the highest number of 323 fatalities, followed by Gujarat (133), Madhya Pradesh (99), Delhi (54), Andhra Pradesh (31) and Rajasthan (33). The death toll reached 27 in Uttar Pradesh, 26 in Telangana, 23 in Tamil Nadu, while Karnataka and West Bengal have reported 18 deaths each, the ministry said. Punjab has registered 17 fatalities so far, Jammu and Kashmir six, Kerala four, while Jharkhand and Haryana have recorded three COVID-19 deaths each. Bihar has reported two coronavirus deaths, while Meghalaya, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha and Assam have reported one fatality each, according to the ministry data. Modi asks people to shun complacency Amid indications that Modi's third round of video interaction with the chief ministers on Monday since the COVID-19 outbreak could also focus on a graded exit from the 40-day lockdown, the prime minister asked people to shun any complacency that they will not be infected by coronavirus. The nationwide lockdown is due to end on 3 May. He reiterated his advice to people to maintain a distance of two yards from each other to keep healthy. “Do gaz doori, bahut hai zaroori (Maintain a distance of two yards and keep yourself healthy)," he said. "I urge you not to get overconfident. You should in your over-enthusiasm not think that if the coronavirus has not yet reached your city, village, street or office, it is not going to reach now. Never make such a mistake. The experience of the world tells us a lot in this regard," he said in his 30-minute address. Modi referred to a popular Hindi idiom 'Sawdhani hati, durghatna ghati' (accident happens when caution is lowered) to make his point. Hailing states, emergency workers and civil society groups for their contribution in combating the pandemic, he said the resolve shown by the people of the country has led to the beginning of a transformation with businesses, offices, educational institutions, medical sector rapidly undergoing new changes. With the country under a lockdown since 24 March midnight, he said India's people-driven battle against the pandemic will be discussed when the world discusses the crisis later. "India's fight against the coronavirus is people-driven in the truest sense of the term. Along with people, government and administration are fighting it as well... This is the only way we can win over the virus," he said. The prime minister said wearing masks will now become a part of a civilised society and also exhorted people to stop spitting in public places, saying it was high time to get rid of this "bad habit" once and for all. This will not only boost our basic hygiene standards but also help in preventing the spread of the coronavirus infection, he added. Modi also greeted people on Akshaya-Tritiya and noted that the holy month of Ramzan had also begun. "We should pray more than ever before so that prior to the celebration of Eid the world is rid of the coronavirus and we celebrate Eid with enthusiasm and gaiety like earlier times," Modi said, urging people to adhere to guidelines of local administration. The prime minister hoped there may be some good news in the fight against the coronavirus during his next 'Mann ki Baat' episode, usually the last Sunday of every month. The last Sunday next month falls on 31 May and Eid is likely to fall on 25 May. Senior BJP leader and Union minister Prakash Javadekar said the prime minister has asked people to remain steadfast in following the coronavirus guidelines and expressed confidence that the nation will follow the path shown by him. 'Graded' exit from lockdown may be discussed tomorrow Sources in the union government indicated to PTI that besides discussing the way forward in dealing with the pandemic, the prime minister's discussion with chief ministers could also focus on a "graded" exit from the lockdown. The Centre and the state governments have been giving gradual relaxation in various fields and sectors to boost economic activities as also to provide relief to the people. But some states like Maharashtra are mulling extending the lockdown beyond 3 May in cities like Mumbai and Pune to ensure that coronavirus cases remain under control. The Congress said it hopes the prime minister puts out a comprehensive and holistic plan as regards the exit strategy during his discussions with the chief ministers. Congress spokesperson Manish Tewari said till the time there is no national plan to deal with disasters or pandemics, states cannot formulate plans to deal with issues post-lockdown. Former prime minister Manmohan Singh said that without aggressive testing facilities, India cannot conquer challenges posed by COVID-19. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi urged Modi to clear "bottlenecks" and ramp up testing. Union health minister Harsh Vardhan said the situation in India is improving as hotspot districts (HSD) are moving towards being non-hotspot districts (NHSD). Vardhan gave this assessment after he visited the Trauma Centre of AIIMS in Delhi to take stock of preparedness to overcome COVID-19 and visited various wards in the isolation facility for the infected patients, a statement from the ministry said. On 15 April, the Centre had identified a total of 170 districts across the country as COVID-19 hotspots. The districts that have reported either a high number of coronavirus cases or where the rate of doubling time is low are termed as hotspots. As many as 207 districts were also classified as non-hotspots whereas the remaining of the total 726 districts fall under the 'green zones' category, i.e., they haven't reported any coronavirus case for the last 28 days before April 15. Non-hotspot areas have also reported positive cases but the number remains limited. Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba also had a detailed video conference with all the Chief Secretaries and DGPs of the States/UTs to review the preparedness for COVID-19 response. With inputs from PTI

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The Resuscitation Of Ajaokuta Steel: Gov. Bello Assures Kogi Youths Of Collaboration With Natasha Akpoti

The governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello has assured the youths of Kogi State he will collaborate with Barrister Natasha Hadiza Akpoti to resuscitate the moribund Ajaokuta Steel Company, ASCL. The governor made this known on Sunday when he hosted the youths of Kogi State, under the auspices of Kogi Youth Congress, calling the governor to collaborate with Barrister Natasha Hadiza Akpoti in her battle to resuscitate Ajaokuta Steel.

Addressing the youth at banquet hall, government house Lokoja, the governor noted that the afternoon is likely to be remembered since the youths has chose to defy the status quo of watching from outside, hence take the bull by the horn and chose to participate rebuilding of the state.

“Today is another great day for this administration, because the youths has decided to take charge. Today, I am being challenged, I am being charged. Once you challenge me, criticize me, I will be at my best. I will not fail you all In Shaa Allah. “Barrister Natasha Hadiza Akpoti is my sister, a vibrant, energetic, courageous and a very beautiful lady. Unknown to her, I have always admired her tenacity.

“What Natasha stands for on Ajaokuta revival is what I stand for. From today, I have adopted her as my political daughter”, he said. The governor explains that Ajaokuta is a federal project capable of creating job for jobless youths of central geopolitical zone. He disclosed that he has met with President Muhammadu Buhari on the revival of Ajaokuta Steel, adding that efforts are already in place to resuscitate the moribund steel company. “With the political will, my efforts combined with Barrister Natasha Hadiza Akpoti, I am confident that Ajaokuta will be revived In Shaa Allah, most especially to bring the original builder.

Commending the efforts of the youths, he charged them to remain supportive and be patience with the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari and his administration simply because they took over on zero level. He explained they’ve passed the zero level, and assured the youths that before the end of the initial tenure of the administrations there would have been a tremendous change.

“The President has no oil well, no share in any of the oil companies, no foreign account, what the president is after is how to build a great nation, this is the path I am on. “Don’t just sit down at the comfort of your room and criticise, I took the challenge and the risk to come into the murky water and clean the system. “This is exactly the same thing Natasha is after. My brothers and sisters, I want more of this challenge, continue to bring it to my doorstep, you are simply asking me to do more,” he said. Speaking earlier, the president of the association, Comrade Samari Zakari said the group is pleased to be hosted by the governor.

In his words, “Barrister Natasha Hadiza Akpoti leads an inclusive all-stakeholders’ struggle and street action to get the federal government to earmark fund for the timely completion of the comatose Ajaokuta Steel Complex. “As a responsive youth pressure group, we have come to seek for your fatherly solidarity and empathy over her enduring sacrifice as well as her long-running struggle to help the state rescue the dying steel industry from the jaws of its unseen enemies,” he said.

Pointing out the rare qualities of Natasha, the president said, “Our amiable and humble Queen of Steel has begun to record modest recognition and laurels from quarters that are even outside the state and beyond the shores of our society and Nigeria in general. On the strength of her good name, a street in Abuja was recently named after her by the authorities of the FCT.

“On our own path, and as students and mentees of the Natasha Civil Society Movement for the Revival of Ajaokuta Steel Company, we strongly believe in the vision of your people-oriented leadership as well as the policy thrust of your government”, he said. Emphasising the strength in collaborating with Natasha, Samari noted that with the amiable Queen of Steel standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the governor on most of the issues surrounding the Ajaokuta Steel Company, the collective quest and push for the economic emancipation of the jobless youths would be resolved and realised withing the shortest possible time.

“Barrister Natasha, by her character and ideological persuasions is not a politician and has never been into partisan politics. Rather, she has been a pure activist of note. “Your excellency, it is against such rare sterling qualities and humanitarian credentials that we seek to make a special appeal to your Godly conscience to carry her along in your socio-economic policies, especially where and when it concerns the well-being of the youths and the sanity of the society.

“We want to also appeal that the she be given some political and economic paraphernalia so that she would be in good stead to contribute her Allah-ordained quota to the policy architecture of the government back home and that of the centre”, he said. Also speaking, the national Publicity Secretary of the union, Comrade Hamza Lamisi, noted that there is need for unity of purpose between the governor and Barrister Natasha Hadiza Akpoti centred on the revival of Ajaokuta Steel Company. “Your excellency, Mahatma Gandhi said and I quote “honest difference is often a healthy sign of progress”. May we disagree honestly but never let go the ultimate goal which is a functioning Ajaokuta steel company capable of saving us from joblessness, youth vices, insecurity and over-dependence on government.

“Barrister Natasha Hadiza Akpoti is an industrious social reformer whose resilient zeal for industrialization knows no bound. Your Excellency, you are a pragmatic leader with strong potentials capable of transforming this state into the best among committe of states. So if we fail to achieve the best and revive Ajaokuta steel in your era, history will not forgive you both of you. We appeal to you and Barrister Natasha to hold each other’s hands, walk side by side and take Kogi State and Nigeria to a glorious victory on Ajaokuta Steel”, he said.

In a way of appreciating the governor’s style of leadership, award of recognition for youth friendly policies and pragmatic leadership was presented to the governor by the group. Part of the governor’s delegation that received the youths include; the Speaker of Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mathew Kolawole, Special Adviser on Special Duty, Hon. Adaidu Akoh, and Senior Special Adviser Political Matters, Hon. Abdullahi Bello.