Newsletter 18 March

Top 5 News

1- Latest updates on the COVID-19 crisis in India and other parts of the world
2- Coronavirus: Modi speaks to Saudi crown prince on COVID-19
3- Terror and violence as weapons destroys society: Indian PM
4- Rajya Sabha has taken up two bills in the post lunch session for discussion
5- British Issued advisory for UK nationals in India

National

Corona Virus Update: Still Under Phases II-ICMR

Coronavirus deaths in Europe have exceeded the toll in Asia for the first time, an AFP tally of official data showed Wednesday. By 1100 GMT, Europe counted at least 3,421 deaths, compared with 3,384 for Asia, where China was the initial epicentre of a pandemic

which has infected more than 194,000 people globally and killed 7,873. Italy has the most fatalities in Europe with 2,503.
Northern Railway: Train services to & from Delhi Sarai Rohilla-Pathankot (from March 18 to March 30), New Delhi-Firozpur Cantt (from March 20 to March 29), Jabalpur-Atari (from March 21 to April 1) will remain suspended as occupancy in these trains has come down.
Indian carriers may ground 150 planes; stare at quarterly loss on coronavirus impact: Report
All non-emergency leaves of paramilitary personnel should be “cancelled” in order to minimize the risk of contracting coronavirus during travel and they should get into “battle mode” to combat the pandemic by ensuring personal and public safety, according to a Govt order.
Coronavirus confirmed in all 50 U.S. states as world faces long-term turmoil.
Four Germany-returned passengers with ‘Home Quarantine’ stamp on hands de-boarded from train at Mumbai’s Bandra Terminus as co-passengers raise alarm: Official
Rahul Gandhi tweets amid the Coronavirus scare. ‘India is going to pay an extremely heavy price for our government’s inability to act decisively’.
Inmates in central prisons across Maharashtra start manufacturing masks to meet increasing demand for protective gear amid #coronavirus pandemic.
Health Ministry’s top officials: Roche Diagnostics, a private company got Food and Drug Administration (FDA) emergency approval for COVID19 tests, yesterday by Indian regulators. They have received license to conduct COVID19 Diagnostic test.
- BioMerieux Diagnostics, another private company, has also approached Drug Controller General of India (DCGI). It will take 7 days to get approved as officials are making assessment. Once approved, it can conduct the confirmatory test of COVID19
Indian Railways cancelled 85 trains.
West Bengal reports first positive case of coronavirus
Britain sets out emergency laws to tackle coronavirus outbreak.
France reports 27 more coronavirus deaths, raising total to 175.
- This takes the total to 175 or an increase of around 18%, as the country entered its first day of lockdown to try and contain the outbreak.
- The number of cases had risen to 7,730, up from 6,633 on Monday, which is a rise of 16.5% in 24 hours.
- Salomon said 699 people were in a serious condition, needing life support.
Goa Health Min Vishwajit Rane on a reported call made to Health Authorities by impersonating testing lab which notified of a positive COVID19 case in the state: Info was received by Dr Edwin of Goa Medical College but it’s a hoax news and people should not be doing it
- It’s wrong news. There’s absolutely no reason to panic. Final report hasn’t yet come, we’re waiting. All future info will be given only by Dr Utkarsh (state epidemiologist) as per protocol. We’re also trying to locate the number by which Dr Edwin received the call.
Man whose daughter was rescued from COVID-19-hit Italy lauds ‘father figure’ PM Narendra Modi
Bars and pubs will remain open in Kerala, albeit with precautionary measures.
Karnataka CM calls emergency cabinet meet on coronavirus
Maharashtra to open 7 more labs for coronavirus testing: Rajesh Tope, Health Min.
CSIR scientists developed hand-sanitizer without harmful chemicals
- rising cases of fake sanitizers in the market amid increasing demand for such products due to coronavirus scare, scientists in CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT) based in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, have developed a new hand-sanitizer. Dr. Sanjay Kumar, Director of IHBT stated that “The natural flavors, active tea constituents and alcohol content in this hand-sanitizer have been used as per the guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO). One of the special things is that chemicals like parabens, triclosan, synthetic fragrance and phthalates have not been used in this product.”
- No evidence of community outbreak of coronavirus in India so far: ICMR
- Cyber cops step up vigil against rumor-mongers
- A junior doctor tests positive in Lucknow
- All UP Govt school students of classes 1 to 8 to get promoted without exams
- All manufacturers/importers are directed to furnish info on surgical masks, gloves & sanitizers
- Indian industry welcomes UK Finance Minister Rishi Sunak’s coronavirus action plan
  - The Indian industry in the UK has welcomed the “unprecedented” rescue package unveiled by Britain’s Indian-origin Finance Minister Rishi Sunak to help businesses in Britain combat the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Sunak on Tuesday announced a whopping 330-billion pounds worth of rescue measures in the House of Commons, including easier to access loan facilities, liquidity assistance for businesses through the ongoing crisis period and a 12-month business rates holiday for the retail and hospitality sector.
Indian in Abroad infected with COVID-19-MEA
Hong Kong SAR
1
Islamic Republic of Iran
255
Italy
5
Kuwait
1
Rwanda
1
UAE
12
Sri Lanka
1

Coronavirus: Modi speaks to Saudi crown prince on COVID-19

PM discusses his proposal to organize a video conference of G-20 countries

PM Narendra Modi discussed the need for coordination and the drawing up of a strategy at the level of G20 group of developed and developing countries with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Tuesday to combat the onslaught of the Coronavirus pandemic that has so far claimed more than 7,000 lives worldwide.
According to an Indian foreign ministry statement, Modi had a telephone conversation with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia during which the two leaders discussed the COVID–19 pandemic.
Modi “emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to adequately address this global challenge, which has impacted not only the health and well-being of several hundred thousand people but also threatens to adversely affect the economy in many parts of the world,” the Indian statement said.
Modi and the Saudi crown prince “agreed that a similar exercise at the level of G20 leaders, under the aegis of Saudi Arabia as the Chair of G20, would be useful at a global scale, both for discussing specific measures to address the challenges posed by the global outbreak of COVID-19 and also to instill confidence in the global populace,” the statement said.
“The Prime Minister and the Crown Prince decided that their officials would remain in close contact in this regard,” the statement added.
Modi’s proposal for deliberations at the G-20 level was backed by Australian PM Scott Morrison over the weekend.
- On Mon, leaders of the G7 group of industrialized nations had held a video conference to discuss the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic that has now affected more than 180,000 people in 155 countries.

France has been pushing for a European response to the pandemic given that several European countries like Italy, France, Spain and Germany are among the hardest hit by the COVID-19 that was first detected in China in Dec.

British Issued advisory for UK nationals in India

The UK has advised British nationals in India that if they have symptoms of coronavirus they should self-isolate for seven days and contact the Government of India’s helpline in case their condition worsens.

UK’s Acting High Commissioner to India Jan Thompson, in a video posted on Twitter, also said the situation remains “fluid” and it is recommended that all British nationals should continue to monitor any advice on state-level restrictions and follow the instructions of local authorities in India.

Chennai: A very large crowd (as appeared in media) including Tamil Nadu’s Thowheed Jamath members continue their protest against CAA, NRC and NPR near Madras High Court.

Amid the Govt’s advisory about public gatherings that must not be more than 50 or even less.

Even in Shaheen Bagh protest is also going on since Dec 16 last year, in national capital, NE Delhi.

Terror and violence as weapons destroys society: Indian PM

PM Narendra Modi on Tuesday in an indirect jibe at Pakistan emphasized on how “making terror and violence weapons of politics and diplomacy” is destroying a nation while Bangladesh (born out of Pakistan) is scaling new heights.

“We are all witnessing that how, making terror and violence weapons of politics and diplomacy destroys a society and a nation.

The world is also watching where the supporters of terror and violence are currently placed and in what state they are, while Bangladesh is scaling new heights,” Mod said on Tuesday night in his video message after his visit to Dhaka was called off following Bangladesh’s decision to postpone Mar 17 event in the backdrop of outbreak of COVID-19.

The Prime Minister mentioned how a repressive and cruel regime, disregarding all democratic values, unleashed a reign of injustice on `Bangla Bhumi’ and devastated its people and recalled how Bangabandhu devoted every moment of his life towards bringing Bangladesh out of the phase of devastation and genocide and making it into a positive and progressive society. The Indian PM was participating in the centenary celebrations of the birth of ‘Jatir Pita’ Bangabandhu, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman through the video message. The message was also critical amid misgivings in sections of Bangladesh society over Citizenship Amendment Act.

News from Rajya Sabha

RajyaSabha has taken up two bills in the post lunch session for discussion–

The National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Bill 2019

To provide for a medical education system that improves access to quality and affordable medical education, ensures availability of adequate and high quality medical professionals of Indian System of Medicine in all parts of the country; that promotes equitable and universal healthcare that encourages community health perspective and makes services of such medical professionals accessible to all the citizens; that promotes national health goals; that encourages such medical professionals to adopt latest medical research in their work and to contribute to research; that has an objective periodic and transparent assessment of medical institutions and facilitates maintenance of a medical register of Indian System of Medicine for India and enforces high ethical standards in all aspects of medical services; that is flexible to adapt to the changing needs and has an effective grievance redressal mechanism and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. [1]

The National Commission for Homoeopathy Medicine Bill 2019

to provide for a medical education system that improves access to quality and affordable medical education, ensures availability of adequate and high quality Homoeopathy medical professionals in all parts of the country; that promotes equitable and universal healthcare that encourages community health perspective and makes services of Homoeopathy medical professionals accessible to all the citizens; that promotes national health goals; that encourages Homoeopathy medical professionals to adopt latest medical research in their work and to contribute to research; that has an objective periodic and transparent assessment of medical institutions and facilitates maintenance of a Homoeopathy medical register for India and enforces high ethical standards in all aspects of medical services; that is flexible to adapt to the changing needs and has an effective grievance redressal mechanism and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. [2]

MoS Finance Anurag Thakur

As is true for world at large, India’s near-term macroeconomic outlook also vulnerable to disruption of trade with China & 2nd-round effects arising from expected slowdown in global growth.

However, latest available data on trade & indicators of domestic output don’t suggest any adverse impact on economy. Additionally, a positive impact on India’s economy may arise from decline in global oil prices triggered by outbreak of COVID19.

In order to address possibility of trade-induced adverse impact on economy, Govt’s constantly engaging with Expert Promotion Councils and trade bodies, particularly in

pharmaceutical, electronics and automobile sectors where supply chains are sourcing imports from China.

These agencies put in touch with Indian Missions abroad to secure and transport inventories available with existing suppliers. Indian Missions abroad have been asked to explore alternate sources of supply of raw material for supporting India’s domestic production.

With regards to domestic availability of fertilizers, impact of COVID19 seems to be negligible at juncture and situation of forthcoming fertilizer imports at various ports being observed closely.

Ministry of Home Affairs

MHA in written reply stated ‘assigned and pending cases with NIA for last 5 yrs and steps taken by govt to address issue of increasing pendency’: During last 5 yrs center has entrusted 229 cases to NIA investigation. 22 cases disposed off, 148 charge-sheets filed, 59 under investigation.

To reduce pendency of NIA cases the government has taken several steps which include designation of NIA special courts, trial of NIA cases on day to day basis, appointment of special public prosecutor and senior prosecutor.

‘Who are urban Naxalites and what legal action has been taken against them’: The phrase ‘Urban Naxalites’ is not used by MHA. However Govt’s national policy and action plan addresses left-wing extremism in all its manifestation including urban activities.

MoS Nityanad Rai, on whether Govt is considering putting new steel fences on borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh: Govt has decided to put fences with anti-cut, anti-climb, anti-rust features, wherever approval for new/ replacement fences are pending

Bhima Koregaon Commission has summoned Nationalist Congress Party Chief Sharad Pawar to appear before the Commission on 4th April.

The Commission is inquiring into the reasons which led to the 2018 Bhima Koregaon violence in Maharashtra.

Jammu and Kashmir: A terrorist hideout in Awantipora was destroyed in an operation conducted by police and security forces, today. Incriminating materials including IEDs (Improvised explosive devices) were recovered.

Pakistan violates ceasefire in Shahpur and Kirni sectors of Poonch district by initiating unprovoked ceasefire violation by small arms firing and intense shelling with mortars along LoC. Indian Army is retaliating.

Jammu & Kashmir: Section 144 (prohibiting assembly of more than 4 people in an area) has been imposed in Anantnag district, to avoid gathering of people in view of Coronavirus Pandemic.

Political

Chhattisgarh: Congress leaders Phoolo Devi Netam and KTS Tulsi have been elected unopposed to Rajya Sabha from the State

Tulsi and Netam filed their nominations in the Assembly complex in the presence of Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, AICC”s Chhattisgarh in-charge P L Punia, state Congress president Mohan Markam and state ministers.

Netam (48), the state Congress women”s wing president, is a prominent tribal leader from the Bastar region.

She was the MLA from Keshkal (1998-2003) in the Bastar division and had unsuccessfully contested the 2014 Lok Sabha election from Kanker.

A noted SC lawyer, Tulsi was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 2014 when the Congress-led UPA was in power at the Centre.

He was appointed as Additional Solicitor General of India in 1990.

Congress leader Deepender Singh Hooda has been elected unopposed as Rajya Sabha MP from Haryana.

WB CM, Mamata Banerjee: It is wrong to say that a case of COVID-19 has been reported from Kolkata. It is the person who came from UK. I do not know how he was checked at the international airport.

State government employees will be leaving their offices an hour early from tomorrow to avoid crowding in public transport.

International

Pakistan’s prime minister has urged calm after its tally of coronavirus cases rose to 245 while Sri Lanka sealed itself off and shut its stock market on Wednesday, fueling fears that South Asian countries are struggling to stem the pandemic. The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the Indian subcontinent rose overnight to 482 as authorities across the region imposed travel restrictions to block the fast-spreading disease that has infected nearly 200,000 people worldwide and killed nearly 8,000 people.

Pakistan, World Bank in talks for $200 million loan

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Pakistan sharply rose to 247 on Wed, amidst conflicting statements by authorities on the nation’s first casualty due to the COVID-19 infection.

Cash-strapped Pakistan and the World Bank are in talks for up to $ 200 million in loans to enhance the capacity of resources-deficient 270 public hospitals and laboratories here in the country to control the spread of deadly coronavirus contagion, according to a media report on Wed.

The Sindh province is the worst-hit with 172 cases, followed by 26 in Punjab, 16 each in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, 5 in Gilgit-Baltistan and 2 in Islamabad, officials said.

Headed by the Planning Commission deputy chairman, a concept clearance committee approved the ‘Enhancing capacity for preparedness and mounting response to COVID-19’ project on Monday, the Express Tribune reported.

According to the paper, at this stage, Pakistani authorities expect at least USD 140 million in loan from the World Bank, which it wants to enhance to USD 200 million.

After approval of the concept, details of fresh lending and diversion of some of the already approved World Bank loan towards fighting the pandemic will be finalized this week, according to government officials.

“The Govt of Pakistan and the World Bank are discussing a financial assistance package of between USD 100-200 million to effectively respond to the COVID-19 crisis Pakistan is facing,” local World Bank office spokesperson Mariam Altaf said.

The National Disaster Risk Management Fund will also contribute about USD 50 million by readjusting its existing resources, which will take the overall package cost to USD 250 million.

PM Imran Khan already admitted on Tue that if the coronavirus spreads exponentially, Pakistan did not have the capacity and resources to contain the contagion.

Pakistan President Dr. Arif Alvi has said Pakistan and China believe in coexistence and non-interference and their relations are based on mutual trust and win-win cooperation.

China trip was very beneficial to show support & counter propaganda. We also need to get technical help from them for biggest health crisis Pakistan is going to face. Their experience is unique. Six hours of exhaustive meetings took place. Signed many MOUs for Fight Corona.

Coronavirus: ADB announces USD 6.5 bn package for developing member countries

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Wed announced a USD 6.5 billion package for its developing member countries to fight the coronavirus pandemic.

The initial package has been announced to address the immediate needs of developing member countries (DMCs) as they respond to the Covid-19 pandemic, ADB said in a statement.

Manila-headquartered ADB works towards sustainable development and poverty eradication in Asia and the Pacific region.

“This pandemic has become a major global crisis. It requires forceful action at national, regional, and global levels,” ADB President Masatsugu Asakawa said.

“With our developing member countries, we are formulating an aggressive set of actions to combat the pandemic; to protect the poor, the vulnerable, and wider populations across the region; and to ensure economies will rebound as swiftly as possible.”

“Based on close dialogue with our members and peer institutions, we are deploying this USD 6.5 billion rescue package to meet the immediate needs of our members,” he added.

Asawaka said ADB stands ready to provide further financial assistance and policy advice down the road whenever the situation warrants. KPM ABM